2014 Buick Encore Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2014 Buick Encore
- Has 4 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal.
- Scores 6 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2015 Buick Encore earns a 78.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine (pcv system) (major severity).
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.
The 2014 Buick Encore offers enticing features for its price, but its known powertrain issues (specifically the 1.4L engine's PCV system and the 6-speed automatic transmission) make it a 'Proceed with Caution' vehicle. Buyers must be prepared for potential repair costs and diligently follow a preventative maintenanc…
Best Model Years
2017+ (after powertrain revisions and facelift)
Years to Avoid
2013-2016 (early production years with common powertrain issues)
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 tend to fail first on the 2014 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 turbo engine's PCV valve, integrated into the plastic valve cover, frequently fails. This leads to excessive crankcase vacuum, potential oil leaks (often from the rear main seal), turbocharger damage, and even engine misfires. I…
The GM 6T40/6T45 automatic transmission can develop issues like hard shifts, delayed engagement, solenoid failures, and torque converter shudder. While some are minor, others necessitate costly rebuilds or replacements, especially if flu…
Plastic components within the cooling system, such as the thermostat housing and water pump, are prone to cracking and developing leaks. Coolant leaks can lead to engine overheating if not caught early, potentially causing more severe en…
2014 Buick Encore Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2014 Buick Encore most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Encore is typically still under factory warranty or just outside, and most major issues haven't manifested. Regular maintenance is key here.
Maintenance Zone
This mileage marks the beginning of potential issues. The problematic PCV valve system in the 1.4L engine often begins to show symptoms around this range, requiring proactive attention.
Elevated Risk Zone
Many of the Encore's known vulnerabilities, particularly with the engine and transmission, are likely to surface or worsen at this stage. Deferred maintenance will accelerate wear.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 100k, the Encore becomes a higher-risk proposition without extensive documented maintenance. Major powertrain repairs become increasingly likely, potentially making the car uneconomical to repair.
2014 Buick Encore Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2014 Buick Encore on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$450-700
Moderate Repairs
$800-1,500 occasionally (e.g., PCV system, thermostat, transmission solenoids)
How Long Does the 2014 Buick Encore Last?
Ideal candidates will have detailed service records, especially concerning the PCV valve and transmission fluid changes. Aim for models under 70,000 miles to minimize exposure to major powertrain issues and budget for preventative maintenance soon after purchase.
What 2014 Buick Encore Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Smooth and quiet ride quality for its class.
- Compact size makes it extremely easy to maneuver and park in urban settings.
- Upscale interior design and materials for a subcompact SUV.
- Good fuel efficiency from the small turbocharged engine.
Common Frustrations
- Engine can feel underpowered, especially when merging or at highway speeds.
- Infotainment system can be slow or prone to glitches.
- Limited cargo space, particularly with rear seats up.
- Notorious for PCV system and associated oil leak problems.
Who Should Buy the 2014 Buick Encore?
Best For
- City dwellers needing a compact, comfortable daily driver.
- Individuals who prioritize a quiet ride and an upscale interior feel on a budget.
- Drivers willing to commit to proactive and specific maintenance schedules.
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking a completely trouble-free, low-maintenance vehicle.
- Anyone who neglects routine maintenance or pushes service intervals.
How the 2014 Buick Encore Compares to Rivals
The Encore offers a quieter, more premium feel than many direct competitors, but often sacrifices long-term powertrain reliability compared to rivals from Honda or Mazda.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Juke (earlier CVT issues)
- Fiat 500X (some electrical/transmission issues)
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Trax (same platform and powertrain)
- Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (lackluster performance, some minor issues)
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 KeepScores across nearby years of the Buick Encore. Click any year for its full report.
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