2015 Buick Encore

Routine

Owners filed 124 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 4 times.

Not among the Buick Encore years to avoid. Which Buick Encore years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
33,200 milesMedian miles at failure

80 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.

Most common 2015 Buick Encore problems

21 of the 124 complaints (17%) are about the engine.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Service Brakes · brakes20
201
Electrical System20
000
Steering19
010
Engine18
000
Air Bags · airbags16
203
Power Train · transmission4
100
Exterior Lighting · headlights4
000
Electronic Stability Control (esc) · stability control4
000
Structure › Body · body and frame3
001
Visibility/Wiper · wipers2
000

4 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Seat Belts › Pretensioner17V437000
Filed Jul 10, 201740,683 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Spark EV, Caprice PPV and SS vehicles, 2014-2017 Buick Encore and Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, 2015-2016 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Trax, Suburban and Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, and 2015-2017 GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 vehicles. While being previously remedied for recall 16V-651, the affected vehicles may not have received the complete software update necessary to remedy the recall condition. Without the update, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.

Risk. A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on August 4, 2017. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 17287.

Seat Belts › Pretensioner16V651000
Filed Sep 8, 20163,640,162 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles and 2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500, Trax, Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle, GMC Sierra 1500, Buick Encore, and 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Spark EV and SS vehicles. In the affected vehicles, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.

Risk. A failure of the front air bags or seat belt pretensioners to deploy in the event of a crash necessitating deployment increases the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will reflash the SDM software. Vehicles that have had a previous air bag deployment will have the SDM replaced. These repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall began on October 13, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 16007.

Equipment › Other › Labels15V162000
Filed Mar 20, 201519,831 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015 Buick Encore vehicles manufactured August 26, 2014, to February 9, 2015, and 2015 Chevrolet Trax vehicles manufactured October 13, 2014, to February 3, 2015. The affected vehicles have tire placards that do not provide the rim size information for the front or rear wheels. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims and Motor Home/Recreation Vehicle Trailer Load Carrying Capacity Information for Motor Vehicles with a GVWR of 4,536 kilograms (10,000 pounds) or less."

Risk. If the label is missing front and rear rim size information, the owner may replace the rims with ones that are an incorrect size, increasing the risk of crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and will send owners a corrected label, free of charge. The recall April 29, 2015. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, and Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 15166.

Steering › Electric Power Assist System15V146000
Filed Mar 13, 20152,295 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015 Buick Encore vehicles manufactured November 27, 2014, to February 24, 2015, and 2015 Chevrolet Trax vehicles manufactured November 18, 2014, to February 17, 2015. The steering column assembly housing may contact the power steering printed circuit board causing the circuit board to wear.

Risk. The circuit board wear may cause a sudden loss of electric power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and replace the steering column assembly, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 24, 2015. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 15168.

All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Jul 29, 2026OH

Weber road auto service replaced the engine using county PRC and out-of-pocket funds, and the newly installed used engine has an active engine oil cooler leak, creating an immediate vehicle fire and sudden engine stalling hazard. Also there’s a leak at the ac compressor, condenser and coupler valves. This was discovered by Buckeye Auto Service. No repairs have been made as first shop keeps brushing me off.

Power Train
Filed Jun 26, 2026IN

The turbo in my vehicle has a check engine light come on and than the engine does no act right. The repair shop that looked at car stated that the manufacture knows this is a known issue and they have not made a recall as several cars my year range has this going on. If this is a known issue why is there no recall. I worked had for my car and I can not afford the repair of a know issues with the turbo as it cost a lot and I should not have to cover this as it is apparent this is a manufacture defect that is known. It puts me as risk as the car is not preforming properly and it jumps and does not go properly when it has the issue arise. I will get hit for not going after I come to a stop and will not accelerate properly. This issue appeared 2 months after I purchased the car and I took it to a shop who told me he has tried to contact Buick to cover the repairs for others and gets no where. I think that the manufacture knows and will not repair something that is not the owners fault but there shafty part and they know this as it was a recall in other years of my vehicle.

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 9, 2026SC

Transmission wouldn't shift out of 2nd gear and wouldnt shift into reverse. Has no power steering or power brakes

Air Bags
Filed May 11, 2026GA

The seatbelt systems light has come on in my 2015 Buick Encore.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Sep 15, 2025CO

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while depressing the accelerator, the vehicle hesitated before accelerating. The contact became aware of oil underneath the vehicle on the driveway, resulting in a complete loss of power. The vehicle leaked oil and lost the vehicle lost power twice. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact inspected the vehicle and determined that the mass air flow sensor had failed. The MAF sensor was replaced twice, the Oxygen sensors were replaced three times, and the turbocharger was replaced once. The failures persisted. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Engine
Filed Aug 10, 2025GA

Check engine light came onforP0299 code and heard that there's a lot of vehicles with turbos having this problem

Steering
Filed Jul 31, 2025138,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal. In addition, the steering wheel seized. The traction control warning light and the power steering warning light was illuminated, and the message to “Contact Dealer for Service” was displayed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that one of the wiring harnesses connected with the CPU had failed. The wiring harness in the CPU was replaced. After the repair, while driving 60 MPH, the failure reoccurred and the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended while depressing the accelerator pedal, and the steering wheel seized. The vehicle was driven to the dealer to be diagnosed; however, the vehicle remained at the dealer unrepaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V146000 (Steering). The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 138,000.

Engine
Filed Jan 28, 2025FL

Leaking oil from oil coolant pipe under car and timing chain or belt gasket blowing oil.i have seen on Google in 2016 a stop update on 2015 had issue with the s02ame problem.

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Nov 26, 2024OH

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal sound coming from underneath the vehicle, before the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to pull to the shoulder of the roadway, where the failure persisted. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed a failure with the catalytic converter. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Structure › Body
Filed Nov 20, 2024NY

The painting on my 2015 Buick Encore started peeling about 2 years ago and has continued to worsen, and I am concerned about the longevity and overall appearance of my vehicle. As a loyal customer, I expect the paint job to last for a reasonable amount of time, and I believe this issue should be addressed by the manufacturer. I would like to request that Buick fixes this issue free of charge. I understand that my vehicle is no longer under warranty. This is particularly concerning as the peeling paint is affecting the resale value of my car, and I would like to maintain its value as much as possible. I understand that paint issues can occur, and I appreciate that this is not necessarily a reflection on the overall quality of the vehicle. However, I am requesting that Buick take responsibility for this issue and repair the paint free of charge. I believe that the paint peeling issue is covered under the vehicle's warranty, and I hope that I am hopeful that Buick will make every effort to keep this cost to a minimum and to ensure that I am not left out of pocket for a problem that is beyond my control.

Steering
Filed Nov 2, 2024OH

While driving the dash signal came on stating that the power steering unit had gone off. The car was being driven without power steering. The message state to get serviced immediately. There was a recall for this problem but research states that my vin number did not show my car was part of this recall. WELL, IT IS HAVING THE SAME ISSUE AS OTHERS. Please advise as to how I can get this fixed by the dealership under a recall #15168/15U14600. There is only 18,000 miles on this car, YES eighteen thousand. This recall needs to include my vehicle. Please respond immediately.

Engine
Filed Aug 29, 202486,600 milesTX

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that the vehicle was sputtering and jerking while attempting to accelerate while driving at various speeds, and while the vehicle was idling. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the catalytic converter had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was informed about the failure and confirmed there were no recalls on the VIN. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 86,600.

Steering
Filed Aug 6, 2024108,172 milesPA

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine overheated. The contact stopped the vehicle and added coolant and drove to the residence. The contact stated that the next day while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel became abnormally stiff, making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle. Additionally, the radio and instrument panel became inoperable. The message "Check Power Steering Unit" was displayed. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V146000 (Steering). The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but confirmed that the VIN was not included in the recall. The failure mileage was 108,172.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 21, 2024MI

My check engine light came on so I took it to a repair shop. They put it on their Diagnostic System Check Computer and the code #PO299 came up. After further inspection and investigation, the failed part is the Turbocharger- A1140104N. This vehicle's, vin number, model year and mileage qualifies it for warranty replacement and labor for the faulty part. However, because it is a Buick and not a Chevy the dealership is not authorizing the repair, even though it is the exact same system and part that is being replaced in the Chevy models. Without this part functioning properly, it affects performance and the car's ability to accelerate when needed which makes it a hazard to drive if you should need to accelerate quickly.

Air Bags
Filed Jul 13, 2024WI

Tilt steering wheel usage is causing wires in steering culumb to break

Electrical System
Filed Apr 10, 2024GA

MY KEY GETS STUCK IN THE EGNITION, MY MACHANIC SAID IT IS SPECIFIC TO THIS MAKE AND MODEL CAR.

Steering
Filed Feb 23, 2024NY

I was driving at 65 when the power assist on my steering stopped and i was forced off the road. The check engine light was on and the word STEERING appeared on the dash It duplicates the description in recall 15168 but there is no recall listed for my VIN number The dealer also stated the same issue regarding the VIN

Engine
Filed Feb 10, 2024MI

Massive coolant leak. Been happening on and off since I bought the car in nov2019. Taken to several shops and have had replacement done and it goes right back to leaking. This time the shop believes it's leaking into the engine itself.

Steering
Filed Jan 30, 202488,326 milesGA

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving 55 MPH, the steering wheel seized with the electronic power steering warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a gas station temporarily. The dealer was contacted and suggested the contact call the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The contact referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V146000 (Steering) as a possible solution; however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,326.

Steering
Filed Jan 8, 2024CA

While at a stoplight, my buick encore's power steering just stopped working. I was only able to turn the steering wheel with great effort. The car would not go in reverse, although when pressing on the accelerator in reverse, the engine would rev. Shifting from drive to reverse also caused the car to jolt. The car is available for inspection. This has happened previously in fall of 2021, and the same exact thing happened, but this time while I was driving through an intersection. I was unable to steer and ran into a curb. My safety and safety of others was put at risk because I could have hit another driver or pedestrian The car has been inspected by a Triple A approved mechanic twice (once in 2021 and once now), and they have not found any problems with the car. The power steering and traction lights came on on my dashboard.

Air Bags
Filed Nov 28, 2023ME

1. Both rear springs have broken within 1 year of each other. There were no accidents or any kind or off road driving. These are Expensive to fix. 2. Driver side airbag light is on. No idea why. Afraid to drive this vehicle.

Steering
Filed Nov 28, 2023ME

Power steering failed when driving. I had another passenger with me and when avoiding a pothole in the road, the car went crazy and it took all I could to control the vehicle and NOT crash into anyone or another car! I am having nightmares of what could have happened to me and my passenger. On the next day, I tried to start my vehicle and the steeling wheel was locked. I had it towed to VIP near me. They did a diagnosis on my vehicle and claim that I need a new steeling column and the circuit board. They did further research and found that the 2015 Buick Encores have had a recall on the steering. They then mentioned that there was nothing more they could do and they advised me NOT to drive the vehicle as it was UNSAFE. I then had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The dealer (Jacks Chevrolet) claims that my car's VIN isn't included in the recall. My question is if my vehicle demonstrates the same characteristics, WHY isn't it part of the recall? My car is UNSAFE to drive! Jack’s Chevrolet in Saco performed a diagnosis, and the issue was with the battery. From what the contact was told, the power steering is electric, and the battery had tested bad (bad cell). And they stated the power steering is working properly. The contact stated after one event of driving the vehicle after the repair, the vehicle is again demonstrating an unreasonable risk to safety. The steering wheel is locked, and the steering is uncontrolled.

Suspension
Filed Nov 11, 2023MO

It’s it’s firing and shaking, and I have kept up on the oil changes. It’s a lot of money

Engine
Filed Oct 13, 2023ME

It seems like the 2015 Buick Encores are having a lot of the same issues. I do not see a recall for any of these issues. 1. loss of power when trying to accelerate. This has almost caused an accident for me. I had plenty of time to pull out, but my car wouldn't speed up. Thankfully the car coming up noticed I was having issues and slowed down. This also may affect the performance and fuel efficiency of the vehicle. No warning lights came on. It eventually corrected itself and I was able to accelerate. This has been an ongoing issue. Nobody seems to know what is causing this or how to fix it. 2. I start my car and put it into gear, and it shakes like it wants to stall. I quickly put it back into park and wait a few minutes before putting it back into gear. It also does this while I am waiting at lights at intersections. That is very concerning because if i stall mid intersection this could cause and accident and or injury to me or other motorists. No lights appear when this happens. Again, nobody knows why it does this or how to correct it. 3. Back of my car stared chipping paint for no reason. There was no trauma to cause this to occur. Apparently, this is another common issue with this car. I've read that there have been lawsuits against the company for using paint similar to what this is doing. 3. I had to replace my engine under two years of having it. It was still under warranty at the time, but I hadn't had the car very long at all.

Steering
Filed Aug 17, 202360,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving 35 MPH and pulling into the driveway, the vehicle decelerated independently with the check engine warning light illuminated. Additionally, the "Power Steering Fault" message was displayed, and the steering wheel became firm. The contact was able to drive the vehicle to the residence and the vehicle shutoff and failed to restart. The contact was able to jumpstart the vehicle. The contact replaced the battery but the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be diagnosed, but no cause for the failure was found. The contact stated that the failure had persisted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and a case was filed. The contact was informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V146000 (Steering) and advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was 60,000. The VIN was not available.

Engine
Filed Jul 17, 2023OK

The turbocharger on my car is failing and had a verified check engine light code PO299. The car is a 2015 with low miles, only 53k. This is an obvious manufacturer defect/defective product with an estimated cost of $1500.00 to replace, according to an ASE independent auto shop I use for all my vehicles. The car is unfortunately not under any warranty anymore, to my knowledge. There is no recall on this part but online on Buick forums and other credible sites, you will find owners of the same exact car reporting independently, the same failing part issues. I am the second owner of this car and bought it used in 2021 from Carmax. Since then, I have spent $$$ to fix random necessary repairs that are defects of the car but not on recall. Recently, the ac went out and that was over $500 alone. Prior to that an 02 sensor and sparkplug went out, etc. I want GM to reimburse me for the repair cost of the failing turbocharger on this low mileage vehicle as it is without a doubt, a manufacturer defect needing repair to prevent the engine from failure and a total loss! I contacted a GM/Buick agent and formal complaint and request for reimbursement. I am now waiting for up to two days for a "senior agent," to contact me back and discuss further options, if any. Until then, I am without a car with two kids at home and this defect is unsafe and a financial burden to me and my family. This is a known issue on this vehicle model and should be covered under a recall from GM!

Steering
Filed Apr 12, 202350,000 milesVA

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the vehicle lost power steering assist and became firm. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The contact pulled over and turned off the vehicle. After restarting the vehicle, the vehicle started operating normally. The vehicle was not diagnosed. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was contacted, and the manufacturer stated that the VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V146000 (Steering). The failure mileage was 50,000.

Electrical System
Filed Mar 21, 2023IL

The cooling system malfunctions. Repaired six times in a year. Overheats. Coolant issues.

Engine
Filed Feb 4, 2023MN

The PVC valve was frozen and leaked oil everywhere. I was told by a mechanic at my dealership that it is a known issue. They want $3000 to install a heater unit.

Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Dec 29, 2022NY

My car started surging when I was sitting at a traffic light and as I was crossing abridge The check engine light came on - 2 codes - transmission module 0700 and module 0073

Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Turbo/Supercharger
Filed Dec 15, 202279,000 milesTX

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the engine revved and he was unable to shift the vehicle into the intended gear. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the turbocharger needed to be replaced. The contact referenced TSB Number: PIP5495H for the turbocharger. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The approximate failure mileage was 79,000.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 8, 2022WA

I've had my car for 3 years. I've always kept up with it's maintenance. My engine/head gasket are blown and I found out this is a common issue with this car. The airbags also dont recognize when there are passengers in the car. I started my car up one morning in September and all of my lights started flashing. I immediately turned it off and towed it to my mechanic to find out that it pretty much has everything wrong with it. My car is barely above 80k

Steering
Filed Jul 21, 2022MS

The car stopped having power steering and went into limp mode while I was turning into a school and then stalled.

Steering
Filed May 23, 2022IN

While driving, the check engine light came on, traction assist light and then the car lost power steering. Very scary.

Air Bags
Filed Apr 19, 2022OH

We have had problems with the air bags since the car was new. The SRS light would come on for a couple months then go off. It says it has a problem with the passenger presence module. Never had a recall but the dealer said that when we took it in for an oil change they updated the firmware on the air bag system. It never did work, it would sometimes work then not work. I took it back a few weeks ago and told them it still isn't right and I said since it is a safety issue they should cover it. They told me that since Ohio doesn't have auto inspections that they are not responsibile for taking care of it and I was looking at over 1000 to repair. That pissed me off so I took my car and left. I am taking it to a independent garage. I have had lots of problems eith this car and only have 42000 on it now. My last GM, next will be Toyota/

Service Brakes
Filed Mar 8, 202267,740 milesME

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH downhill during inclement weather, the vehicle experienced intermittent brake failure. The contact was unable to stop the vehicle and ran off the roadway to prevent a crash. The vehicle drove over a curb before coming to a stop. There was no injury sustained. The contact stated that the Traction Control warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was driven back to the residence where it remained unrepaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer had been notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 67,740.

Engine
Filed Dec 29, 2021WY

While driving, I received a call that routed through the Bluetooth hands-free system. Within seconds of receiving the call, the entire system seemed to blitz out and shut the car off completely. Luckily I was not going fast and was able to glide to the side. I lost almost all the ability to control the car. If this had been on the freeway it wouldn't have ended as well.

Electrical System
Filed Dec 29, 2021FL

Have had the car in the Buick dealership numerous times to get these things fixed. Each time was told it was fixed and I paid for parts and labor. 1. Engine Light keeps coming on. 2. traction light keeps coming on. 3. Power steering goes out 4. Press on gas and have to floor it in order to just crawl to a place to stop. 5 Hard jumps after stopping at a light Have had this in to Tasca Buick and each time they say they fixed it - then it happens less then 2 weeks later. Have told them this car is going to kill someone with the steering going out while driving. I have a 2015 beautiful Buick Encore in the drive that I cannot drive. I am 77 years old and can't just walk. I don't know what to do. I have tried taking it in to have it fixed and it keeps doing the same things. It is definitely available for inspection. This has happened numerous times since I have had the car. Not just on one date - numerous dates

Exterior Lighting
Filed Dec 17, 2021SC

The Body Control Module went out. I had it replaced. I do not know how long my back running light were out. I had brake and tag lights. There were no warning messages.

SteeringFire
Filed Dec 16, 202171,000 milesWI

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the power steering assist warning light illuminated and the steering wheel was locked. Additionally, a burning odor was detected, and the tachometer was inoperable while driving. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.

Air Bags
Filed Dec 13, 2021WI

Drivers airbag light stays on - immobilisation light stays on, car won't start. Both of these issues were addressed by TSB and complaints

Electrical System
Filed Oct 7, 202155,000 milesWA

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving the computer shut down without warning. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer who stated they were unable to duplicate the failure due to the computer shutting down. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified however, no further assistance was provided. The contact was concerned about being involved in a crash due to an unsafe vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.

Suspension › Rear › Axle › SpindleCrash1 injured
Filed Sep 8, 2021108,000 milesCA

The contact owns a 2015 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while their son was driving at approximately 30 mph when they suddenly heard a booming sound from underneath the body of the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle then suddenly gear towards the right and the driver had lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle then crashed into another nearby vehicle which caused the vehicle to flip upside down. The air bags did deploy. A police incident report was filed. There were injuries to their hands, shoulders and back that required medical attention. The vehicle was towed however had not been decided to be deemed totaled as of yet. The contact stated that when a family member who was a licensed contractor in welding examined the vehicle they noticed the axle may have not been welded with appropriate material due to noticing that the material welding axle itself had deteriorated and began to detach from the axle. The contact was concerned that the failure could have resulted in a fatality had the driver been driving at higher speeds. The dealer was not made aware of the failure. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 108,000.

Steering
Filed May 18, 202175,000 milesFL

The contact owns a 2015 BUICK ENCORE. The contact stated that whenever the vehicle was placed in reverse the vehicle felt as if the tires were dragging. When the steering wheel was being turned in any direction, the vehicle would show signs of hesitation before turning. The contact stated that the failures were related to TSB number: 10161933 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM), 10139246 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM AND STEERING), 18NA049. The contact had taken the vehicle to the local dealer who stated that the rear differential had failed and the failure was caused by the issues mentioned in the TSB’s mentioned above. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and opened a case. The approximate failure mileage was 75,000.

Service Brakes
Filed May 5, 202120,000 milesSC

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE STOPPED ON AN INCLINE, THE TRANSMISSION SLIPPED OUT OF GEAR AND ROLLED BACKWARDS AFTER RELEASING THE BRAKE PEDAL. THERE WAS NO WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO LOVE BUICK GMC (736 SATURN PKWY, COLUMBIA, SC 29212) AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS A KNOWN ISSUE HOWEVER, THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE VIN FOR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT YET REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 20,000.

Air Bags
Filed Mar 10, 2021NY

DRIVER AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON .THIS IS THE 4TH TIME I HAVE HAD THIS PROBLEM SINCE IPURCHASED THIS VEHICLE ON APRIL 2017. HAD IT SERVICED THE FIRST THREE TIMES BUT NOW THE WARRENTY IS OUT AND HERE I AM AGAIN WITH THE AIR BAG LIGHT ON. THIS HAS BEEN VERY FRUSTRATING AND SHOULD NOT BE HAPPENING SO OFTEN. NOW I AM LEFT HAVING TO PAY SOMEONE TO FIX THIS AGAIN !

Air Bags
Filed Jan 10, 202193,000 milesNJ

MY PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG LIGHT COMES ON THE DASHBOARD TELLING ME THAT MY PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG IS OFF EVEN WITH SOMEONE SITTING IN THE SEAT. I TESTED IT WITH MY BOYFRIEND SITTING IN THE SEAT HOLDING OUR 40LB DOG. COMBINED, THEY WEIGH OVER 200LBS AND THEN LIGHT ON MY DASHBOARD STILL SAYS THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG IS OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT IN MOTION. IT WAS TURNED ON ASKED PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY. I TESTED IT WHILE DRIVING ON A PRIVATE ROAD AT 35MPH AND THE LIGHT STAYS ON WHILE THE CAR IS IN MOTION AND WHILE PARKED.

Service Brakes
Filed Jan 3, 2021MO

I HAD PURCHASED A 2015 BUICK ENCORE VEHICLE ON MARCH 03, 2020, THAT HAD A "NOT FOR SALE" YELLOW STICKER ON THE WINDSHIELD. I HAD NOTICE THAT THE VEHICLE MADE A THUMPING SOUND UNDER THE HOOD ON THE DRIVER SIDE WHEN RIDING ON THE HIGHWAY. I TOOK IT TO JOHNNY LONDOFF SERVICE DEPT., BUT WAS TOLD THAT NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH IT. IN ADDITION, TO NOTICING THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD ROLL BACKWARDS ON THE SMALLEST OF INCLINE. AS TIME WENT ON THE VEHICLE WOULD ROLL BACK, THEN ROLL FORWARD ON LEVELED GROUNDS WHEN I WOULD TAKE MY FOOT OFF OF THE BRAKE PEDAL. I TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO JOHNNY LONDOFF SERVICE DEPT., AND AGAIN WAS TOLD THAT NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. I TOOK IT TO TELLE TIRES AND AUTO CENTER AND FOUND THAT THE SUSPENSION WAS WORN OUT ON THE FRONT AND BACK OF THE VEHICLE, WITH STRUTS AND SPARK PLUGS NEEDED. THIS VEHICLE ROLLS BACK WHEN SITTING AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, AT, IN LINE AT A FAST FOOD DRIVE THROUGH, AND JUST EVERYDAY DRIVING. JOHNNY LONDOFF SHOULD HAVE FIXED THE DAMAGES AND/OR REPAIRS NEEDED BEFORE SELLING ME THE VEHICLE. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND BUYING A VEHICLE OR DOING BUSINESS WITH THEM. *JS

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Nov 27, 202070,000 milesSC

A CAR PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF MY WIFE. SHE STRUCK THE OTHER VEHICLE IN THE DRIVER'S DOOR. THE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEATBELT DID NOT LOCK. THIS CAUSED HER INJURIES. THERE HAS BEEN A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM. IT DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. THE ACCIDENT OCCURRED IN A 35 MPH ZONE AND ON A 4 LANE ROAD.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 10, 202051,000 milesMI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2015 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS DAUGHTER WAS PULLING OUT OF A PARKING SPACE, THE POWER STEERING FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AND REGAINED NORMAL POWER STEERING FUNCTIONALITY. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE AT A STOP LIGHT, THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY SHIFTED IN REVERSE. THE CONTACT SHIFTED THE VEHICLE TO PARK AND THE VEHICLE THEN RETURNED TO NORMAL OPERATION. THE CONTACT STATED THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FLASHED WITH RANDOM MESSAGES, SOME IN DIFFERENT LANGUAGES. THE VEHICLE HAS FAILED TO START DUE TO THE BATTERY POWER BEING TO LOW DESPITE THE BATTERY BEING NEW WHEN PLACED IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BATTERY WAS REPLACED TWICE BUT FAILED WITHIN A COUPLE OF WEEKS AFTER INSTALLATION. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DENOOYER CHEVROLET (5800 STADIUM DR, KALAMAZOO, MI 49009; (269) 389-0733) WHO WAS UNABLE TO RETRIEVE A FAULT CODE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 51,000.

Complaints 1-50 of 124, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2015
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20228000Routine
20219000Routine
202019200Routine
201988221Fatalities reported
201874000Routine
201790240Routine
201680210Routine
2015 — this page124420Routine
201460400Routine
201352600Routine

Compare every Encore year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Jul 10, 2017. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.