2017 Buick Encore Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 2017 Buick Encore
- Has 2 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the air bags:frontal.
- Scores 7 points below the strongest nearby year — the 2019 Buick Encore earns a 85.
- The system most likely to surface first: engine turbocharger system (major severity).
Should You Buy the 2017 Buick Encore?
The 2017 Buick Encore offers a plush, quiet ride and respectable fuel economy in a compact package, making it a decent choice for urban dwellers. However, its 1.4L turbo engine introduces notable long-term reliability risks, particularly concerning the turbocharger itself, which demands diligent maintenance and careful pre-purchase inspection. Proceed with caution, as overlooking these potential failure points could lead to significant repair bills down the road.
While the 2017 Buick Encore offers compelling value and comfort, its 1.4L turbocharged engine carries well-documented reliability risks that can lead to costly repairs. A diligent maintenance history and a thorough pre-purchase inspection are non-negotiable if you're considering this vehicle. It's not a 'set it and…
Best Model Years
For the Encore, later models like 2018-2020 might have minor revisions but fundamentally carry the same engine risks. The 2017 is a decent option if you find a well-maintained example.
Years to Avoid
Avoid any model year of the 1.4L turbo engine without verifiable, meticulous maintenance records, especially regarding oil changes. Early production models (2013-2015) were particularly prone to some of these issues before minor revisions.
Biggest Strengths
- Smooth and quiet ride quality
- Maneuverable size for urban driving
- Good fuel efficiency for an SUV
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 2017 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 turbocharged engine is prone to turbocharger failure, often due to oil line coking, bearing issues, or wastegate problems. This can lead to reduced power, excessive oil consumption, and ultimately a failed turbo.
A common issue with the 1.4L engine involves the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve failing, which can lead to excessive oil consumption, engine misfires, and even damage to other engine components like the rear main seal or valv…
Owners frequently report minor electrical glitches, including intermittent infotainment screen freezes, Bluetooth connectivity issues, and occasional sensor-related warnings (e.g., tire pressure, check engine light without a clear cause).
2017 Buick Encore Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 2017 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. Focus should be on ensuring all routine maintenance has been performed, checking for any early electrical glitches or unusual noises, and ensuring consiste…
Maintenance & Inspection Zone
This mileage marks a critical point where factory warranties are expiring, and proactive maintenance becomes key. This is also when some of the turbocharger-related issues might begin to surface. Pay close attention to engine performance…
Elevated Risk Zone
Beyond 90,000 miles, the likelihood of significant repairs, especially for the turbocharger and other engine components, increases. Ensure the vehicle has a complete service history, including all major fluid changes. Budget for potentia…
High Risk Zone
At these higher mileages, the Encore is a gamble without meticulous maintenance records. Any prior turbocharger or PCV issues will likely have manifested. Be prepared for potentially significant engine or transmission overhauls, and budg…
2017 Buick Encore Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 2017 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., PCV, sensor, suspension)
How Long Does the 2017 Buick Encore Last?
Focus on examples with mileage below 60,000 miles if possible, ensuring any turbocharger-related issues would still be covered by an extended warranty or that the component has already been replaced.
What 2017 Buick Encore Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Quiet cabin and comfortable ride quality, even on rough roads.
- Compact size makes it easy to park and maneuver in city environments.
- Fuel-efficient for a small SUV, especially on the highway.
- Upscale interior feel and features for its price point.
Common Frustrations
- Engine can feel underpowered and sluggish, especially when merging or at highway speeds.
- Limited cargo space, particularly with the rear seats up.
- Frustrating infotainment system glitches and connectivity issues.
- Concerns over long-term reliability of the turbocharger and PCV system.
Who Should Buy the 2017 Buick Encore?
Best For
- City dwellers needing a compact, easy-to-park vehicle
- Singles or couples who rarely carry more than one passenger
- Drivers prioritizing a quiet, comfortable ride over performance
Not Ideal For
- Performance enthusiasts or those who need quick acceleration
- Families needing significant cargo or passenger space
How the 2017 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 reliability compared to Japanese rivals known for their bulletproof engines and transmissions.
More Reliable Than
- Nissan Juke (older models)
- Fiat 500X
- Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Comparable To
- Chevrolet Trax (mechanical twin)
- Hyundai Kona (early models)
- Mazda CX-3
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 2017 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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