Is the 2016 Buick Encore reliable?

It can be a dependable small SUV with consistent maintenance, but it’s not a “set it and forget it” vehicle. The turbocharged 1.4L and cooling/PCV components are the main areas to watch as mileage increases.

What are the most common 2016 Buick Encore problems?

Common issues include oil leaks or drivability concerns linked to the turbo/PCV system, coolant leaks from housings or hoses, misfires from plugs/coils, and occasional infotainment or sensor glitches.

Are maintenance costs high for a 2016 Buick Encore?

Costs are typically moderate for the class, but turbo-related repairs and cooling system leaks can raise ownership costs if deferred. Staying ahead on oil changes and cooling-system inspections helps keep expenses predictable.

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

Many shoppers focus on later first-generation models with strong service history and fewer repeated repairs. Regardless of year, prioritize documented maintenance, completed recalls, and a clean inspection over mileage alone.

What should I check before buying a used 2016 Buick Encore?

Look for oil leaks around the engine/turbo area, verify there’s no coolant smell or low coolant history, test for smooth acceleration without misfires, scan for stored codes, and confirm the transmission shifts cleanly. Also test all infotainment functions and, if AWD, listen for unusual noises during tight turns. Get a complete owner’s guide with full specs, trim details, and maintenance schedules to make confident decisions about buying, owning, and maintaining a 2016 Buick Encore.

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

2016 Buick Encore Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict

78/ 100

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A comfortable subcompact SUV that requires careful attention to its turbocharged engine to avoid costly repairs.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Should You Buy the 2016 Buick Encore?

The 2016 Buick Encore is a compact crossover that offers reasonable comfort and fuel economy, but its long-term reliability is overshadowed by known issues with its 1.4L turbo engine. While overall a decent package for urban dwellers, potential owners must be vigilant about engine maintenance to mitigate common failures and avoid significant repair costs.

Biggest Strengths

Compact size with good maneuverability
Generally quiet and comfortable ride for its class
Robust electrical system apart from specific component failures

Top Risk Areas

The systems that break first on the 2016 Buick Encore. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Engine PCV System & Intake Manifoldmajor

Turbocharger & Associated Componentsmajor

HVAC Actuators & A/C Systemmoderate

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

NHTSA Recalls

2 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 2016 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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Frequently Asked Questions

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