Buick Encore Common Problems & Reliability Guide
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Overview
The Buick Encore is a subcompact luxury SUV built on GM's Gamma II platform, sharing its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Trax. Sold in the US from 2013 through 2022, it was powered exclusively by turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder engines and offered front- or all-wheel drive. The Encore earned a loyal following for its upscale interior and city-friendly size, though owners have reported recurring issues with its turbocharged engine, oil consumption, and transmission.
Quick Summary
By Generation
Available Engines
Common OBD2 Codes
| Code | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| P0171 | Very Common | System too lean on the 1.4L turbo is frequently triggered by a faulty MAP sensor, vacuum leak from the turbo inlet hose, or a clogged fuel injector. Many Encore owners report this code appearing between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. |
| P0300 | Very Common | Random/multiple cylinder misfires are closely tied to the Encore's well-documented excessive oil consumption issue; oil-fouled spark plugs are a leading cause. Checking and replacing plugs is a common first step before investigating further. |
| P0301 | Very Common | Cylinder 1 misfire on the 1.4L turbo is often linked to oil-fouled spark plugs from excessive consumption or a failing ignition coil. Coil packs on this engine have a documented early failure rate. |
| P0106 | Common | Manifold absolute pressure sensor range/performance faults are common on the turbocharged 1.4L, often caused by a cracked or disconnected boost hose near the turbocharger inlet. Inspect all vacuum and boost plumbing before replacing the sensor. |
| P0420 | Common | Catalyst efficiency below threshold is reported on higher-mileage Encores, frequently preceded by extended periods of oil burning which can contaminate and prematurely age the catalytic converter. |
| P0442 | Common | Small EVAP system leak is a common code on the Encore, often caused by a deteriorating fuel cap seal or a cracked purge valve hose. Start diagnosis with a new OEM-equivalent fuel cap. |
| P0507 | Common | Idle control system RPM too high is occasionally set on the 1.4L when the electronic throttle body accumulates carbon buildup, a common issue on direct-injection engines that lack port-wash cleaning. |
| P0340 | Occasional | Camshaft position sensor circuit malfunction on Bank 1 has been reported on early Encores, sometimes caused by oil contamination of the sensor connector from valve cover gasket seepage. |
| P0234 | Occasional | Turbocharger overboost condition can appear on the 1.4L turbo if the wastegate actuator rod is stuck or if the turbo boost control solenoid is failing. This code can trigger reduced engine power mode. |
| P0741 | Occasional | Torque converter clutch circuit performance is reported on 6-speed automatic-equipped Encores, often felt as a shudder or hesitation at highway speeds before the code sets. A transmission fluid flush is a common first remedy. |
| P0562 | Occasional | System voltage low can appear on Encores with aging batteries, particularly in colder climates. The Encore's compact engine bay makes battery replacement slightly more involved than on larger vehicles. |
Known Problems
The 1.4L turbocharged engine in the Encore is widely reported to consume oil at an abnormal rate, sometimes requiring owners to add a quart or more between oil changes. GM issued a technical service bulletin (PIP5271) acknowledging the issue, attributing it to piston ring design on early engines. Owners should check oil levels every 1,000–2,000 miles and watch for blue smoke from the exhaust.
Typical mileage: 20,000–80,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe small turbocharger on the 1.4L engine is susceptible to premature failure, often linked to oil starvation caused by infrequent oil changes, oil sludge buildup in the turbo feed line, or the engine's own oil consumption problem. Symptoms include whining noises, loss of power, and excessive exhaust smoke. Replacing the turbocharger is a costly repair.
Typical mileage: 70,000–120,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairBecause the 1.4L engine uses gasoline direct injection (GDI), fuel is never sprayed across the intake valves, allowing oil vapors from the PCV system to build up as hard carbon deposits over time. This leads to rough idle, hesitation, and reduced power. The fix requires walnut blasting or manual scraping of the intake ports, a labor-intensive procedure.
Typical mileage: 50,000–100,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairMany Encore owners with the 6-speed automatic transmission report a shuddering or vibration at 40–50 mph, especially during light acceleration, as well as occasional hard or delayed shifts. The condition is often caused by degraded transmission fluid or a worn torque converter clutch. A fluid flush with fresh Dexron VI ATF resolves many cases, but persistent shudder may indicate a failing torque converter.
Typical mileage: 40,000–90,000 miles
The plastic valve cover on the 1.4L turbo engine is prone to developing oil leaks at the gasket, often visible as oily residue on the side of the engine or detectable by a burning oil smell. The leak can worsen if ignored and may contaminate the ignition coils or spark plug wells, leading to misfire codes. Replacement is a straightforward repair.
Typical mileage: 50,000–100,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairPremature A/C compressor failure has been reported across multiple model years of the Encore, often accompanied by a loud knocking or grinding noise when the A/C is engaged. In some cases, compressor debris contaminates the entire A/C system, requiring a full system flush in addition to compressor replacement. This issue is more prevalent in warmer climates with heavy A/C use.
Typical mileage: 40,000–80,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairEncore owners, particularly those with 2013–2016 models equipped with IntelliLink, report that the infotainment system can freeze, reboot spontaneously, or lose Bluetooth pairing. Some owners also report intermittent power window failures and door lock actuator issues. Software updates from a dealer often address infotainment problems, while power accessory issues typically require actuator replacement.
Shop parts for this repairRear wheel bearing wear has been reported earlier than expected on the Encore, especially on all-wheel-drive models. The typical symptom is a humming or grinding noise that changes pitch with vehicle speed or when turning. Bearings are not serviceable separately on this vehicle and require hub assembly replacement.
Typical mileage: 60,000–100,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairRecalls
Certain 2013–2014 Encores were recalled because a software error in the electric power steering module could cause an unexpected loss of power steering assist, increasing the risk of a crash. The remedy was a dealer reprogramming of the steering control module at no cost to owners.
On some 2013 Encores, the fuel pump control module could fail and cause the engine to stall without warning while driving. GM dealers replaced the fuel pump control module free of charge under this recall.
Certain 2013–2016 Encore models were included in the broad Takata airbag recall, where the passenger-side airbag inflator could rupture with excessive force, propelling metal fragments at occupants. Dealers replaced the inflator assembly as part of the nationwide remedy.
On some 2013–2017 Encores, the front brake hoses could crack over time and leak brake fluid, reducing braking effectiveness. GM dealers replaced the affected brake hoses at no cost to owners.
On certain 2020 Encore models, the rear outboard seat belt pretensioners may not activate correctly in a crash due to a wiring connector that could pull apart. Dealers inspected and repaired the connector assembly under this recall.