Buick Encore ReliabilityAll Years Ranked (2013–2025)
Side-by-side reliability scores, risk levels, and owner-cost projections for every Buick Encore we've analyzed. Identify the best years to buy, the ones to avoid, and the problems that follow the Encore across generations.
Average Score
80/100
Best Year
2024 Buick Encore
Score 88
Weakest Year
2013 Buick Encore
Score 72
Every Buick Encore Ranked
Sorted by reliability score. Each link opens the full year-specific report.
A fresh, comfortable compact SUV offering solid predicted reliability, but keep an eye on early tech hiccups.
Top risks: Infotainment & Electrical Systems · 1.2L/1.3L Turbo Engine · Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
A practical, no-frills crossover that delivers reliable daily transportation without significant drama.
Top risks: HVAC System · Infotainment/Electrical · Engine Accessory Components
A reliable, comfortable, and surprisingly upscale subcompact SUV that proves to be a smart, low-risk used vehicle purchase.
Top risks: Engine (Turbocharger & PCV) · Infotainment System · Front Suspension Components
A refined, mature subcompact SUV that proves its reliability through simplicity, but demands attention to its specific engine vulnerabilities.
Top risks: Engine PCV System · Turbocharger / Oil Lines · Infotainment System
A dependable urban cruiser that demands proactive engine maintenance to truly shine.
Top risks: 1.4L Turbo Engine (LE2) · Electrical / Infotainment · Suspension Components
A reliable, no-frills subcompact SUV that excels in practical urban driving, provided its specific engine characteristics are understood.
Top risks: Engine (PCV System/Turbocharger) · Electrical System · Suspension Components
A comfortable compact SUV, but the 1.4L engine's Achilles' heel demands vigilant maintenance.
Top risks: Engine (1.4L Turbo) · Cooling System · Electrical/Sensors
A comfortable subcompact SUV that requires careful attention to its turbocharged engine to avoid costly repairs.
Top risks: Engine PCV System & Intake Manifold · Turbocharger & Associated Components · HVAC Actuators & A/C System
A comfortable compact SUV with a potentially costly Achilles' heel in its turbocharged engine.
Top risks: Engine Turbocharger System · PCV Valve System · Electrical / Infotainment
A comfortable compact SUV with a few persistent mechanical Achilles' heels requiring a vigilant eye from its owner.
Top risks: Engine (1.4L Turbo) · Transmission (6-Speed Auto) · Electrical System
A stylish new compact SUV with unknown long-term reliability; best for those who appreciate new tech and plan to use the warranty.
Top risks: Infotainment & Electrical Software · 1.2L Turbo Engine Longevity · CVT Transmission Integration
A comfortable compact SUV with a potentially costly Achilles' heel in its engine.
Top risks: Engine (1.4L Turbo) · Electrical System · HVAC System
A comfortable urban commuter, but its core mechanical components present genuine reliability challenges that can be costly.
Top risks: Engine (PCV System) · Transmission (6-Speed Automatic) · Cooling System
Problems That Follow the Encore Across Generations
Issues that appear in the top-3 risks across multiple model years — the cost of ownership you can actually predict.
Engine (1.4L Turbo)
Appears in 3 model years · 23% of generations
Electrical System
Appears in 3 model years · 23% of generations
HVAC System
Appears in 2 model years · 15% of generations
Cooling System
Appears in 2 model years · 15% of generations
Electrical / Infotainment
Appears in 2 model years · 15% of generations
Infotainment System
Appears in 2 model years · 15% of generations
Suspension Components
Appears in 2 model years · 15% of generations