2013 Buick Encore Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2013 Buick Encore
- Has 6 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the electrical system:ignition.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2015 Buick Encore earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (1.4l turbo) (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2013 Buick Encore?
The 2013 Buick Encore offers a comfortable ride and upscale interior for its class, making it a decent choice for urban driving, but it's important to be aware of the persistent engine issues that can lead to significant repair costs. A thorough pre-purchase inspection and a robust maintenance history are absolutely critical to mitigate the elevated risks associated with its powertrain.
The 2013 Buick Encore can be a charming and comfortable compact SUV, but its prevalent engine issues demand a cautious approach. It’s not a 'set it and forget it' vehicle; expect to invest in preventative and reactive maintenance for its specific weak spots. Buy only with a meticulously documented service history an…
Best Model Years
2017+ models (after refresh and some engine revisions, though 1.4L issues persist) or later models with 1.3L turbo.
Years to Avoid
Early model years (2013-2016) are more susceptible to the documented 1.4L engine issues without significant updates.
Biggest Strengths
- Quiet and comfortable cabin
- Compact size for urban maneuverability
- Good fuel economy for a crossover
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2013 Buick Encore, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
The 1.4L Ecotec engine is prone to persistent oil leaks from the valve cover, timing chain cover, and front crankshaft seal, often exacerbated by PCV system failures causing excessive crankcase pressure. Turbocharger failures (wastegate…
Owners frequently report issues with the IntelliLink infotainment system freezing or lagging, climate control module failures, power window switch malfunctions, and intermittent sensor failures leading to warning lights.
The climate control fan motor (blower motor) is known to fail prematurely, producing grinding noises or completely ceasing operation. Issues with the blend door actuators are also observed, affecting temperature control.
2013 Buick Encore Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2013 Buick Encore most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, most issues are minor, such as early brake wear or infotainment glitches. Comprehensive service history is still vital.
Maintenance Zone
The notorious 1.4L engine's issues often begin to manifest, including initial oil leaks and PCV system problems. Suspension wear items may also need attention.
Elevated Risk Zone
Turbocharger issues become more prevalent, and existing engine leaks may worsen. Transmission solenoids could begin to act up. Major preventative maintenance is due.
High Risk Zone
This mileage brings increased risk of major engine overhaul due to compounding oil leak issues, potential transmission rebuilds, and comprehensive suspension component replacement.
2013 Buick Encore Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2013 Buick Encore on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-650
Moderate Repairs
$600-1,800 occasionally (e.g., major oil leak repair, blower motor)
How Long Does the 2013 Buick Encore Last?
Due to the 1.4L engine's known vulnerabilities, I'd generally recommend seeking lower mileage examples (under 60,000 miles) to delay the onset of common issues, or a higher mileage example (100,000+) only if all major engine repairs have been recently completed and documented.
What 2013 Buick Encore Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Exceptional quietness for its class, especially on the highway.
- Comfortable and supportive seats, even on longer drives.
- Upscale interior design and materials for a compact SUV.
- Nimble and easy to maneuver in tight urban environments.
Common Frustrations
- Noticeably underpowered, requiring heavy throttle for acceleration.
- Cramped rear legroom and limited cargo space for a crossover.
- Persistent and expensive engine oil leaks are a major frustration.
- IntelliLink infotainment system can be clunky, slow, or prone to freezing.
Who Should Buy the 2013 Buick Encore?
Best For
- City dwellers needing a small, easy-to-park vehicle.
- Buyers prioritizing a quiet, comfortable ride over performance.
- Individuals who perform their own basic maintenance and checks.
Not Ideal For
- Long-distance commuters seeking absolute peace of mind.
- Buyers on a strict, no-wiggle-room budget for unexpected repairs.
How the 2013 Buick Encore Compares to Rivals
The Encore offers a more premium interior and quieter ride than many direct competitors, but often falls short in long-term powertrain durability compared to Japanese rivals, aligning more with its mechanical sibling, the Chevy Trax.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Juke (worse CVT reliability, less refined)
- Fiat 500X (more complex electrical, questionable dealer network)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Trax (shares many components, similar issues)
- Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (less refined, lower quality interior)
NHTSA Recalls
6 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2016-2017 Buick Verano and 2016 Chevrolet Malibu as the electronic park lock lever may allow the ignition key to be removed without the transmission being in PARK. Also, certain 2013 Buick Encore, 2011 Buick Regal, 2013-2014 Buick Verano, 2011-2016 Chevrolet Cruze, 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox 2013-2015 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2011-2013 GMC Terrain vehicles may have been serviced with similar defective replacement electronic park lock levers. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."
AIR BAGS
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Buick Encore vehicles manufactured April 10, 2013, to May 8, 2013, and Chevrolet Spark vehicles manufactured December 30, 2012, to March 1, 2013. In the affected vehicles, an improper weld on the passenger side front air bag inflator may result in the air bag not deploying.
What breaks on the 2013 Buick Encore?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
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Buick Encore by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Buick Encore. Click any year for its full report.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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