The Buick Encore (first generation) is a premium subcompact crossover SUV built on General Motors' Gamma II platform, sharing its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Trax and Opel/Vauxhall Mokka. Introduced for the 2013 model year, it became a massive sales success, effectively popularizing the premium subcompact SUV segment in North America. Praised for its maneuverability, elevated driving position, and exceptionally quiet cabin (thanks to Buick's 'QuietTuning' acoustic laminated glass and active noise cancellation), the Encore is an excellent urban commuter. However, its long-term reputation is heavily marred by the reliability issues of its base 1.4L turbocharged engine, particularly in the early production years (2013-2016).
The Buick Encore is a comfortable, quiet, and well-packaged urban crossover, but it requires extreme caution on the used market. Early models (2013-2016) are plagued by the 1.4L LUV engine's inherent design flaws, specifically regarding the PCV system and cooling components. If you are considering an Encore, strongly prioritize the 2017-2019 models equipped with the upgraded 1.4L LE2 engine (153 hp), which resolves many of the earlier mechanical headaches and offers a vastly improved interior. Avoid early models without a meticulous service history.
Mechanical reliability is the primary concern for the Buick Encore, particularly for models equipped with the base 1.4L LUV engine. According to NHTSA data (2011-2015 context), the engine is the most complained-about component, with 81 official complaints. The PCV Valve Flaw: The most notorious issue is the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system. The PCV valve is integrated into the plastic valve cover, and a check valve is located inside the intake manifold. The intake manifold check valve frequently fails (disappears), forcing boost pressure into the crankcase. This ruptures the diaphra
The Encore's electronics and interior have generated a moderate amount of frustration. NHTSA data shows 40 complaints related to the electrical system and 21 for airbags. Infotainment & Electrical: Early models (2013-2015) frequently suffer from the infotainment screen going completely blank or freezing, an issue partially addressed by a 2014 recall (14V417000) but still prevalent as a hardware failure. Parasitic battery drains are also reported, often linked to the radio or Bluetooth modules failing to go to sleep. Airbags: The high number of airbag complaints (21) is directly correlated with
Because of the fragile nature of the 1.4L LUV engine, a strict maintenance history is non-negotiable. The turbocharger requires clean oil to survive; oil changes should be performed every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) rather than relying on the vehicle's overly optimistic oil life monitor. If a rapport_historique (history report) is available, it must be analyzed with extreme scrutiny. - Check for Odometer Rollbacks: Explicitly verify if `compteur_retourne=true` is flagged, as subcompact SUVs are sometimes used as fleet or rental vehicles before being sold privately. - Service Records: Look specifica
| Oil change | £70 – 130 |
| Complete brakes | £280 – 550 |
| Estimated annual budget | £450 – 950 |
Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.