2016 Buick Encore Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2016 Buick Encore
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal.
- Outscores the 2014 Buick Encore by 6 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine pcv system & intake manifold (major severity).
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.
The 2016 Buick Encore can be a decent value proposition for urban driving, but its well-documented engine vulnerabilities demand a cautious approach. It’s imperative to thoroughly inspect its service history and be prepared for potential, albeit manageable, engine-related repairs if you want this vehicle to serve yo…
Best Model Years
2018-2020 (post-facelift, some engine revisions)
Years to Avoid
2013-2016 (early models with more pronounced PCV/turbo issues)
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 tend to fail first on the 2016 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 integrated PCV valve in the intake manifold is prone to failure, leading to excessive oil consumption, oil leaks, and potential engine damage. The plastic manifold itself can also crack.
Common issues include wastegate actuator rattle and potential turbo oil line clogs, leading to premature turbocharger wear or failure.
Blend door actuators are known to fail, causing improper temperature control or noise. A/C compressor failures are also reported, particularly in warmer climates.
2016 Buick Encore Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2016 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 powertrain warranty or extended warranty. Focus on routine oil changes and tire rotations.
Maintenance Zone
The vehicle is likely out of its bumper-to-bumper warranty. Watch for initial signs of PCV system issues, A/C system concerns, and suspension wear.
Elevated Risk Zone
Key engine components like the turbocharger and PCV system are more susceptible to failure. Transmission longevity may also begin to be tested.
High Risk Zone
Beyond 120,000 miles, the Encore will likely require significant investment to keep it running smoothly, primarily due to the engine and potentially transmission components.
2016 Buick Encore Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2016 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
$600-1,800 occasionally
How Long Does the 2016 Buick Encore Last?
For best long-term reliability, consider an Encore with under 60,000 miles and a verifiable, meticulous service history; expect to start addressing age-related engine component wear shortly thereafter.
What 2016 Buick Encore Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Compact footprint makes it easy to park and maneuver in urban environments.
- Surprisingly quiet cabin for a vehicle in this class, offering a comfortable ride.
- Upscale interior design cues (for the segment) and comfortable seating.
- Good fuel economy for a small SUV, especially on the highway.
Common Frustrations
- Acceleration can feel sluggish, especially with a full load.
- Limited cargo space, especially with rear seats in use.
- Cheap interior plastics lead to rattles and squeaks over time.
- Engine issues (oil consumption, turbo problems) are a recurring financial worry.
Who Should Buy the 2016 Buick Encore?
Best For
- City dwellers needing a compact, easy-to-park SUV
- Drivers prioritizing a quiet, comfortable ride over performance
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking an entry-level luxury feel
Not Ideal For
- Buyers seeking maximum reliability and low-maintenance costs
- Those who frequently haul passengers or large cargo
How the 2016 Buick Encore Compares to Rivals
The Encore offers more refinement than its platform-mate, the Trax, but generally lags behind top Japanese competitors like the HR-V and CX-3 in terms of long-term mechanical reliability, particularly regarding its engine.
More Reliable Than
- Chevrolet Trax (due to Buick's slightly better interior)
- Fiat 500X (reliability and dealer network)
Comparable To
- Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
- Ford EcoSport
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 KeepScores across nearby years of the Buick Encore. Click any year for its full report.
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