Is the 2014 Buick Encore reliable?

It can be reliable with consistent maintenance, especially frequent oil service and quick attention to coolant leaks or warning lights. Like many small turbo vehicles, it’s less forgiving of neglected upkeep than a simple non-turbo engine.

What are the most common 2014 Buick Encore problems?

Commonly reported issues include oil leaks or oil consumption tied to PCV/valve cover components, cooling system leaks (thermostat housing/water outlet or water pump areas), rough or hesitant shifting from the 6-speed automatic, and occasional electrical/infotainment glitches.

Are maintenance costs high on a 2014 Buick Encore?

Costs are usually moderate for the class, but repairs can rise if turbo-related oil issues or cooling leaks go unresolved. Budgeting for more frequent oil changes and keeping up with fluids helps avoid expensive surprises.

What are the best years to buy for a used Buick Encore?

Many shoppers prefer later first-generation years after early production quirks were ironed out, but condition and maintenance history matter more than the badge year. A well-documented, well-maintained Encore is typically a better buy than a newer one with unknown service history.

What should I check before buying a used 2014 Buick Encore?

Look for oil leaks, ask about oil change frequency, verify the coolant level stays stable, and test-drive for smooth transmission shifts both cold and fully warmed up. Also scan for stored diagnostic codes and make sure all electronics, Bluetooth, and warning lights behave normally. For a deeper dive, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, capacities, and the recommended maintenance schedules to help you shop smarter and keep your Encore running strong.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

2014 Buick Encore Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

72/ 100

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C-

A comfortable urban commuter, but its core mechanical components present genuine reliability challenges that can be costly.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2014 Buick Encore?

The 2014 Buick Encore is a mixed bag: offering a quiet ride and practical size, but it comes with known powertrain vulnerabilities that demand a proactive approach to maintenance. While not a complete disaster, potential owners must understand its specific weaknesses to avoid costly surprises down the road, making it a purchase that requires careful consideration.

Biggest Strengths

Quiet and comfortable cabin for its class
Compact dimensions ideal for city driving and parking
Good fuel economy for an SUV

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2014 Buick Encore. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Engine (PCV System)major

Transmission (6-Speed Automatic)moderate

Cooling Systemmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

NHTSA Recalls

4 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

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.

AIR BAGS:FRONTAL

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.

What breaks on the 2014 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 reliability scores across nearby years of the Buick Encore. Click any year for its full report.

All Buick Encore years ranked →Buick Encore years to avoid →Buick Encore common problems →

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