2017 BUICK Encore Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
VIN Decoder
77
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
ENGINE
17 complaints
The turbo charge is not providing adequate power. I was on the highway and the car began to chugging then accelerated on its own and all the lights on the dash came on then all went off like it was going to shut down. I put my hazards on and started to pull to the side of the highway. I gave it a moment for the car and for me because I was terrified, my kids were in the car and traffic was going steady around 70-75 miles per hour and I was scared as it began to shut down that I would be hit by traffic behind me before I could get over. It started driving again. It still drives but is hard to accelerate and even when stopped you can see the RPM rising. It’s as if the car never idles, it feels as though is constantly under load. I have had it looked at professionally at Midas but they will only say they think it is the turbo as there are no codes coming up. I have had it looked at by mechanics I know who have fixed other things that may cause similar issues and nothing has worked and they also believe it is the turbo. I’ve know other people with Buicks and they have had similar problems I’m confused as to why this 1.4 liter turbo has not been recalled.
Aug 08, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
Mar 04, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message "Engine Power Reduced" was displayed on the instrument panel. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and the vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to Special Coverage: N232395330; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 88,881.
Feb 19, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power. In addition, the contact stated while the vehicle was at a stop light, the vehicle was idling roughly. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed turbo charger. The contact was informed that the turbo charger needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised that the repair was not covered under any special coverage or recalls. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
Feb 07, 2025
1. Valve cover gaskets been replaced in valve covers been replaced twice. 04/16/2024. 95113 miles 2. Air conditioning cooling leak and the fan motor would not shut off unless disconnecting the battery cable. 08/26/2024 at 100,254 miles 3. The turbocharger inline for the oil intake has been replaced . The car cannot completely carry a full carload without having no power to get up hills. I have no power once in a while if I'm alone driving just on a straight road or going uphills it seems like there's no gas getting to it I have good gas but it doesn't happen all the time. And I guess to where it will slow down from 55 to 35 pushing on the gas pedal with no power at all and then all the sudden it will go. Trying to explain this the best I can. 09/29/2024 at 101, 313 miles
Oct 25, 2024
+ 12 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
6 complaints
While traveling at approximately 77 mph on the interstate, I was forced off the road by another vehicle, causing my car to collide with a cable barrier. The initial impact was to the front driver’s side corner, and the vehicle then scraped along the driver’s side against the barrier. Despite the high-speed impact, no airbags deployed. •Component or System That Failed: The frontal airbag system failed to deploy. •Safety Risk: The non-deployment of the airbags at this speed and impact angle posed a serious risk to my safety. The lack of airbag activation during a high-speed frontal crash greatly increased the likelihood of injury. •Has the Problem Been Reproduced or Confirmed by a Dealer or Independent Shop? No. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by a dealership or repair facility, and the issue has not been confirmed or diagnosed by a professional. •Has the Vehicle or Component Been Inspected by Manufacturer, Police, Insurance, or Others? No. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or any other party as of this report. •Warning Lamps, Messages, or Symptoms Before the Incident: No warning lights or messages were active before the crash. There were no known symptoms or alerts indicating a problem with the airbag system.
Jul 09, 2025
Passenger airbag light on dash is lit. Has ben lit for about a month.
Feb 14, 2025
On 12/27/22 around 9:40pm my husband and I were traveling home on the 580 Altamont pass going towards Tracy. I was traveling next to the slow lane. My speed limit was at 65! There was 18 wheeler 53 footer on the right of me on the slow lane. The 18th wheeler with no signal began drifting his trailer in my lane hit my right side and proceeded to drag my 2017 Buick Encore all the way to the left slammed the truck up against the cement barrier. And rolled the back end of his trailer onto the hood of the right side of the car and he disconnected. Side air bags and front airbags did not deploy. Which cause injury to my front of my body and back and spine injuries to my body and to my husband as well.
Jan 10, 2023
Was rear ended by a suspect fleeing police, he hit me about 100 mph, pushed my car into the rear of the car in front of me. Air bags did not deploy.
Jun 03, 2021
I WAS AT A STANDSTILL WAITING ON TRAFFIC TO PASS TO MAKE A LEFT TURN. I WAS REAR ENDED AND IT CAUSED ME TO GO INTO SOMEONE'S YARD AND HIT THEIR CAR AS WELL. MY AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY DURING THIS ACCIDENT. THE IMPACT WAS ENOUGH TO SEND ME DOWN THE STREET INTO SOMEONE'S YARD BUT NOT ENOUGH TO DEPLOY MY AIRBAGS?
Apr 28, 2021
+ 1 more complaint for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaints
I HAVE AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. WHEN I AM STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT ON AN INCLINE, THE CAR WILL SOMETIMES ROLL BACKWARDS WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE OR WHEN CHANGING MY FOOT TO THE GAS PEDAL TO MOVE FORWARD ONCE THE LIGHT CHANGES. THE MORE THE INCLINE; THE WORSE THE PROBLEM. This happens at a bus stop in a community with an incline and kids at a bus stop. This feeling is as I am driving a manual vehicle. It's not a good feeling knowing that there's children around and knowing that we want our children around for the future and something like this happens with a vehicle, the service department in the dealership cannot find what the problem is. This has happened to my car more than once. I have complained about it once and I am complaining about it again. I have low mi on my car and now, this has happened between the low miles of my car after purchasing up to miles. I have on it now .I've got 110,000 mi on my car and it still is not being repaired and is still happening. And it's bad. Once the car is paid off it turns into multiple problems with my car. Up
Oct 27, 2024
Stop at inclined, stopping at stop sign, releasing foot off brake pedal, car rolls to the rear,
Apr 16, 2024
This car has front and back wheels differential issues. I bought this car last month and was on the highway when I heard loud clicking noises and tried to reverse and almost hit another driver. I took the car to 4 repair shops and was told to send it back to Carvana or Buick because of mechanical issues where Pep Boys decline to repair for they didn’t have the heavy equipment so I finally got the car towed for the fifth time to Faulkner Buick in Trevor’s PA where it’s currently at! Also I found out from Buick that they car had a major brakes and rotors problem that I didn’t did for as I stated I just bought this car last month and was not put 100 miles on it and I can’t afford to get it repaired! Carvana isn’t supportive of the above issues and I want my money back asap!
Sep 15, 2022
Unable to use radio/rearview camera putting at higher risk of crashing when backing out.
Feb 01, 2022
VISIBILITY/WIPER
4 complaints
On numerous occasions, windshield wipers stop moving even though wipers are engaged to on, causing poor visibility for driving.
Apr 24, 2022
I WAS HEADING TO WORK AND NEEDED TO USE MY WINDSHIELD WIPERS WHEN THEY SIMPLY WOULD NOT TURN ON - NO SOUND FROM THE MOTOR OR ANYTHING. FOR MANY DAYS THIS HAS NOT WORKED, NOW GOING OVER A WEEK. NO INDICATOR LIGHTS THAT ANYTHING COULD BE WRONG EITHER. I NEED MY WIPERS! THE NEAREST DEALERSHIP COULDN'T EVEN GET ME IN FOR A WEEK (I GO TOMORROW). IF YOU SEARCH THIS ISSUE IT APPEARS TO BE A RECURRING THEME WITH BUICK AND GMC VEHICLES - ESSENTIALLY THE WIPER MOTOR JUST DECIDES TO DIE OUT OF NO WHERE. I BOUGHT THE CAR BRAND NEW..
Aug 24, 2020
WHEN YOU WOULD START THE CAR THE WIPERS WOULD START BY THEMSELVES...NOW THE WIPERS STOPPED WORKING COMPLETELY..I DONT KNOW IF THERE'S WARRANTY ON THE CAR OR NOT
Oct 15, 2019
THE WIPER BLADES FAILED TO WORK DURING A WET HEAVY SNOW FALL. THE WIPERS REMOVED THE SNOW VERY WELL ON THE UP STROKE BUT ON THE DOWN STROKE THE WIPERS PACKED THE SNOW ON THE COWLING UNTIL IT GOT TO A POINT THAT THE WIPERS COULD NOT COMPLETE THE CYCLE AND THEY WOULD STOP WORKING. I HAVE A VIDEO USING A BATH TOWEL TO SIMULATE SNOW AND HOW TO STOPPED THE BLADES FROM WORKING. THE VIDEO IS TOO LARGE TO SEND IT IN THE SPACE PROVIDED BUT I AM SURE IT WILL SEND VIA E MAIL. I ALSO HAVE NOTES WRITTEN IN REAL TIME ON ALL CONVERSATIONS WITH BUICK/GM AND TWO DEALERSHIPS. I ALSO HAVE A LETTER AND A CONDEMNING E MAIL FROM BUICK/GM AND THESE PUT ME OVER THE ALLOTTED CHARACTERS. *JS
Aug 03, 2018
SERVICE BRAKES
4 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while reversing, the brake assist warning light illuminated, and the brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond. After the warning light disappeared, the brake started to respond. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnosis however, the warning light was no longer illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated the failure persisted since the vehicle was purchased. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer however, the mechanic was still unable to diagnose the vehicle with the warning light illuminated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
Jun 30, 2021
I HAVE AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. WHEN I AM STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT ON AN INCLINE, THE CAR WILL SOMETIMES ROLL BACKWARDS WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE OR WHEN CHANGING MY FOOT TO THE GAS PEDAL TO MOVE FORWARD ONCE THE LIGHT CHANGES. THE MORE THE INCLINE; THE WORSE THE PROBLEM.
May 25, 2019
REAR BRAKES GROAN FOR FIRST FEW APPLICATIONS IN WET AND DAMP WEATHER. DEALER APPLIED A GM TSB BUT PROBLEM STILL REMAINS. GM SAYS NOTHING MORE CAN BE DONE.
Jan 22, 2018
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 BUICK ENCORE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE BRAKED ON ITS OWN AND THE STABILITY TRACK WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (GAINESVILLE BUICK GMC, 2101 NORTH MAIN STREET, GAINESVILLE, FL, 352-372-2583) WHERE A ROAD TEST WAS PERFORMED. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THERE WAS AN ISSUE THAT NEEDED TO BE INVESTIGATED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,200.
Sep 06, 2017
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
3 complaints
I have went to the dealership for the past two years with this problem and they keep saying they are not getting any codes: when the air conditioner is on it’s pulling the power from the motor and makes it hard to go up hill. Hard To accelerate when going on to the freeway as well. The problem is only getting worse and worse.
Sep 17, 2025
Turbo replaced under recall in March 2024 at local GMC dealership. June 2024 oil changed at independent service center and was informed that oil leak from turbo present. Vehicle brought back to dealership in June 2024 where vehicle was repaired for oil feed line being loose at the feed line. July 2024 car taken to independent mechanic and informed that a new turbo is needed. If turbo problem persists it will result in the vehicle shutting down while driving, violent shaking of the engine, and acceleration issues that could result in full engine failure if not resolved. The repairs done for the recall has not rectified the faulty turbo problem. The faulty turbos originally installed and being used for replacements are a safety hazard for any Buick Encore driver.
Jul 30, 2024
THE 2017 BUICK ENCORE WOULD BLOW OUT A LARGE AMOUNT OF WHITE SMOKE AND DIE IN COLDER WEATHER ANYTIME YOU STEP OFF THE GAS PEDAL. IT DID RE-START, HOWEVER WOULD DIE SEVERAL TIME IMMEDIATELY UNTIL IT STOP SMOKING. ONCE IT HESITATED AT HIGHWAY SPEED WHEN I LET OFF THE GAS DUE TO TRAFFIC AND ALMOST DIED. THE DEALERSHIP STATED THAT THE CAR COMPUTER SHOWED NO PROBLEMS AND NOTHING COULD BE DONE. THEY ADMITTED IT SHOULD HAVE RECORDED THE PROBLEM I HAD, BUT DID NOT. BUT THE COMPUTER WAS STILL TRUSTWORTHY TO ADVISE IF THE CAR HAD A PROBLEM. I HAS TWO NEAR COLLISIONS DUE TO THE CARE PROBLEMS JUST A FEW WEEKS PRIOR TO TAKING IT IN. I WAS ADVISED THAT IT WAS NOT POSSIBLE TO OBTAIN A PRINT OUT OF THE WHAT THE INSPECTED BECAUSE IT WAS IN THE COMPUTER AND NON-PRINTABLE. I FEEL THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO CAR, NOT KNOWING IF THE ENGINE WILL JUST STOP, AND NOT ABLE TO FIND OUT WHY IT STOP IN THE BEGINNING. THE DEALERSHIP ADVISED I MAY NEED TO WAIT TILL NEST WINTER TO CHECK IT AGAIN. THE FACT IT ALMOST CAUSE AN ACCIDENT WAS NOT IMPORTANT.
Mar 13, 2019
STEERING
3 complaints
Steering wheel locked up, had to replace rack and pinion, locking up when turning, therefore needing a wheel alignment.
May 22, 2025
THE POWER STEERING WORKS INTERMITTENT. IN THE MORNING WHEN IT IS COLD THERE IS NO POWER STEERING FOR YOU PARK IT IN THE SUN AND LET THE INSIDE OF THE CAR HEAT UP IT WILL START WORKING. ALSO, WHEN IT IS COLD IF YOU LET IT RUN WITH THE HEATER GOING ON THE FLOOR IT WILL START WORKING AFTER SOME TIME. THE DEALER IS SAYING THE STEERING CONTROL MODULE IS BAD. I HAVE SEEN THAT BUICK HAS RECALLS FOR OTHER MODELS WITH THE SAME ISSUES.
Dec 16, 2020
THE LOCKING LEVER FOR THE TILT/TELESCOPIC STEERING COLUMN WILL NOT STAY LOCKED THE LEVER FALLS OUT OF THE LOCKED POSITION AND THE COLUMN COLLAPSES WHILE DRIVING I REPORTED THIS TO MY SERVICING DEALERSHIP OVER TWO WEEKS AGO AND HAVE NO INDICATION THEY HAVE ORDERED A REPLACEMENT PART
Apr 26, 2019
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
3 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while the front passenger's side seat was occupied, the seat belt chime reminder failed to engage while the front passenger's side seat belt was not buckled, and the message "Air Bag Off" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the front passenger's side seat presence module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 17V437000 (Air Bags, Seat Belts) and 16V651000 (Air Bags, Seat Belts); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
May 28, 2024
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING AT 28 MPH, SHE CRASHED INTO THE BACK OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. UPON IMPACT, THE DRIVER SEAT BELT DID NOT ENGAGE AND SHE HIT HER CHEST ON THE STEERING WHEEL; SHE ALSO HIT HER LEFT KNEE ON THE DASHBOARD. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AT THE SCENE. THE CONTACT TOOK HIS WIFE TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM AND SHE WAS TREATED FOR BRUISES TO HER CHEST AND LEFT KNEE. THE OTHER DRIVER DID NOT SUSTAIN ANY INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND TOWED TO CLASSIC CHEVROLET CADILLAC (3855 EASTEX FWY, BEAUMONT, TX 77706). THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,000.*BF*JB
Mar 02, 2020
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DISTRACTED BY AN INSECT ON THE WINDSHIELD, THE VEHICLE REAR ENDED A 2019 GMC ARCADIA. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELTS FAILED TO RESTRAIN THE CONTACT AND HIS HEAD STRUCK THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HIS HEAD AND MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS PROVIDED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. IN ADDITION, THERE WAS SMOKE EMERGING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO KELLY BUICK (585 STATE AVE, EMMAUS, PA 18049 (610) 364-5957) WHERE IT WAS RECOMMENDED TO CONTACT ON STAR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED WHO PROVIDED CASE NUMBER 923908 HOWEVER, NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
Aug 07, 2019
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the engine overheated, and there was smoke coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the temperature gauge indicated that the engine was hot. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was informed that the water outlet housing, the blower motor, A/C condenser, water pump, thermostat, thermostat housing, turbo charger, and the fan were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 60,189.
Jul 22, 2025
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while his daughter was driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated and the vehicle stalled inadvertently. The contact's daughter was unable to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic on three separate occasions where the turbo charger, the under-boost sensor, and spark plugs were replaced. However, the failure recurred several days after the repair. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring predominantly while driving 70-80 MPH. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED AND ADVISED THE AFTER MARKET TURBO WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. AFTER THE TURBO WAS REPLACED, THE CATLYTIC CONVERTOR BECAME AN ISSUE. THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A NEW DRAGGING NOISE.
May 06, 2022
SEAT BELTS
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side seat belt failed to work as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The front driver’s side seat belt also failed to work as intended. The contact had to push the front seat all the way back to release the seat belt. The contact stated that the seat belt was too tight and pressed into her stomach. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact had become aware of the failure after the vehicle was purchased. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
Jul 21, 2025
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2017 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT AND REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELTS FAILED TO LOCK SECURELY INTO THE BUCKLE. THE SEAT BELT WAS CLEANED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,124.
Apr 08, 2020
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
Engine, vehicle purchased end 2019. Several repairs, New Battery, some warranty repairs. March of 2022 PO131 - HO2s PO171 fuel trim lean PO300 engine misfire Evap system flow PO496 P1101 intake airflow UO401, 71 invalid data from the motor. Jun 2023 Need a New Engine 10k (Dealership) Sought out 2nd opinion 8k for New Engine Vehicle has been dead ever since. Repairs surpass what’s owed.
Jul 04, 2024
APRX 6AM TUESDAY JULY 18, 2017, APRX 5:45 AM, WITH NO KEY FOB IN MY WIFE'S OR MY POSSESSION AND NO ONE WITHIN 30 FEET OF THE CARE PARKED IN THE GARAGE, THE 2017 BUICK ENCORE STARTED ON ITS OWN. THE CAR WAS STATIONARY AND PARKED IN THE GARAGE SINCE APRX 7:00 PM MONDAY EVENING THE 17TH. HEARING A NOISE IN THE GARAGE, I WENT THERE AND FOUND THE CARD ENGINE RUNNING. THE GARAGE DOOR WAS CLOSED, AND NO ONE COULD HAVE ENTERED THE GARAGE. WE ARE TAKING THE CAR TO PLACE OF PURCHASE, KLICK LEWIS BUICK CHEV, PALMYRA, PA TO DETERMINE WHAT THEY WILL DO TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. CHECKED RECALL AND FOUND NOTHING. SINCE THIS SELF STARTING COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE OTHER DAMAGE INCLUDING CARBON MONOXIDE IN A CLOSED AREA (DON'T KNOW IF IT WOULD HAVE SHUT OFF AFTER A SET SHORT TIME ON ITS OWN) THOUGHT IT SHOULD BE REPORTED AND A NOTICE SENT OUT TO ALL ENCORE OWNERS WARNING THEM OF THIS ISSUE. THANK YOU. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).'*JB
Jul 19, 2017
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated when the vehicle was first started, the vehicle accelerated to approximately 10 MPH and then the vehicle shifted into LIMP Mode. The contact stated that the check engine and stabili-trak warning lights were illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an Auto Parts store where DTC code: P2138 was retrieved. The failure was related to the accelerator position sensor. The contact was informed that the accelerator pedal needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000.
Sep 11, 2023
I was sitting at the bank drive through about to leave when out of nowhere I got a warning sign on my dashboard that said service stabilitrak my engine light starts flashing and my stabilizer light came on. My suv acted like it lost power and I had problems getting it to go it was like my gas petal was stuck for a second. When the car shifted it self it started jerking.
Jun 27, 2023
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle hesitated with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power and then suddenly jerked forward. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the turbocharger was failing and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to Special Coverage Turbocharger Replacement: N232395330; however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
May 07, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
First the car started to act odd, jumpy or you could tell there was issues with the turbo. On [XXX] car overheated??? Out of nowhere. Mileage 82049. No warnings, no lights. We had it towed to shop where we were told we need new turbo, new engine, power steering service, ac service. The total Cost was $6813.54. We had to take out 2 loans - 90 days same as cash then 145% interest as well as pay $243.54 in Cash. We were guaranteed the car was in great condition. We picked it up on 1/24/25. Then on [XXX] - Odometer reading 82509 - We pulled over on the side of the road to grab something from the trunk. Driver got back in car and all of a sudden the car just shut down saying overheated and smoke was coming out of the hood. Again, Absolutely no warning, no lights, no weird noises, nothing! We are now stuck in the middle of nowhere with our [XXX] granddaughter. Thank God a police man drove by. The next day we had to have it towed back to shop. Once back to the shop we were told that the engine or labor that they just put in our vehicle would not be covered by warranty. Nothing was fixed!!! I contacted the attorney general. We went to pick it up on 3/28/2025. Once they got involved the shop agreed to do all repairs for $1873.96. (pay $600 now and then post date 2 more checks). The owners said they looked over everything and nothing should be going wrong. It should be good as new. On [XXX] We were on our way to Puerto Penasco Mexico where we have a vacation home. About 20 miles into Mexico the car just stopped. Tons of Smoke from the tail pipe, Low oil pressure all of a sudden came on. I am attaching pics showing that the car was not showing overheated. So now my husband and i are stuck on the side of the road in Mexico with no cell phone service with a [XXX] car that we can not get fixed no matter how much money or time we put into it. When we finally got ahold of the shop they said they are washing their hands of it and do not want to see this car again. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Apr 03, 2025
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
This car is not mine but someone somehow fraudulently registered it in my name. I got the VIN # from truth finder when I did a search on myself. Please help.
Feb 24, 2025
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to properly accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable the determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.
Oct 29, 2024
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
See attached document for complaint
Apr 30, 2024
TIRES
1 complaint
P215/55R18 94H M+S Nothing has happened yet, but we need to get all new tires! When we got these [XXX] they were 80,000 mile tires. The mileage on our car when installed was 33,231 and is now 74,434, so no where near 80,000 miles. There are cracks all around all 4 tires L Front the worst, on the sidewall by the tread! We have only been back to Sams once for rotation etc., because it is 20 miles away, so we do it locally at our Buick dealership, or the Les Schwab tire store every 3500 miles. Needless to say we will not be going back to Sams to get tires, ever again! I seriously have never seen tires so bad, and there isn't any recall on them. I know there are 5 complaints about these tires, at least the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife! One comment from a Sams in Kingston, NY was that, "that was the 19th one with the same problem". This was on the inner sidewall, and mine is on the outside, but I cannot see the inside, it probably looks the same! We hadn't noticed until the Dealership pointed it out when they serviced the car. SAMS, where we got them won't do anything, saying it is weather related cracking????? Seriously, I have never had a tire that looks like these do! As you can see from the photos attached, that there should have been enough tread to get us through the summer, but they are not SAFE! Just glad nothing has happened! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Apr 22, 2024
SUSPENSION
1 complaint
Suspension problems rattle in front end.Found both front stabilizer links failed in test drive. Had to replace front stabilizer links on both sides in front.
Apr 16, 2024
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
Back in July 2022 I started receiving error messages of the stabilitrak system to get checked by OnStar. I took to Ed Martin Buick in Carmel, In they thought that it was from possibly pressing brake and pedal at same time and fixed code. Then about two weeks later I got the same error code, I took to Ray Skillman Northeast Buick they said it was a transmission manufacturing defect and had to do with Manifold which they fixed under power train warranty. Now February 2023 I have same issue Stabilitrak error message. I have to take back again to Ray Skillman Northeast Buick. This is an ongoing issue and should not be receiving same codes car only has 67,000 miles and should not be having transmission issues either.
Feb 05, 2023
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
Vehicle has been in and out of shop since Feb 2022 for 'limp mode' disabled due to faulty booster or something. Vehicles leave driver stranded unable to accelerate or maneuver vehicle to avoid a collision. I'm told this is a well known problem for both this vehicle and the chevy cruze although no recalls are out for this huge safety issue. Somebody is seriously going to get injured if driver is unable to move car to safety when it just dies on the highway or road. All documentation is available for the excessive repairs that don't resolve the issue the correction only last from 24 hours to 2 weeks before the light comes on again and car dies.
May 06, 2022
AIR BAGS,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
1.BOTH OF MY AIRBAGS ARE SHOWING OFF. WHEN A PASSENGER IS PRESENT ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE, THE PASSENGER AIRBAG STILL LIGHTS UP AS OFF. 2. IF THE AIRBAGS DO NOT DEPLOY IN AN ACCIDENT, DUE TO THE SENSOR THIS WILL BE VERY DANGEROUS. 3. VEHICLE HAS BEEN INSPECTED. 4.THE MANIFOLD AND INTAKE DID NOT WORK. THE CAR ONLY HAS 87,000 MILES ON IT. THE DATE OF NUMBER 4 IS 2/10/2022.
Feb 10, 2022
POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
Turbo failure on car caused lack of power to the vehicle when accelerating
Sep 20, 2021
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE,LANE DEPARTURE
1 complaint
Electrical System/Technical Issues with Intellink features. Vehicle will not come out of VALET Mode. Wifi shows several addresses of info I'm never used & I'm not using. The Cruise Control feature of vehicle Has Never worked since car was purchased Brand New off the lot. Warning signal constantly appears on dashboard in red for a second but unable to read it* too brief. The dealership has all the info. Part was already replaced. Has been reset many times over & reported then it starts back for no clear stated reason. Dealership will have best date info. Please assist.
Aug 09, 2021
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
THE VEHICLE STARTED MAKING NOISES AND THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND SCREEN WENT OUT. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVABLE, BUT THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS OUT. RADIO STOPPED WORKING, MY SCREEN WENT DARK AND THE BACKUP CAMERA DIDN'T WORK. THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND THE SECOND IT OCCURRED WHILE BACKING OUT A PARKING SPOT.
Dec 26, 2020
SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
THE STABLITRAK LIGHT CAME ON AND VEHICLE HAS A THROBBING COMING FROM REAR OF VEHICLE, TAKING VEHICLE INTO HAVE CHECKED AS WHEN YOU APPLY BRAKES IT IS FELT. THE THROBBING ALSO HAPPENS WHEN VEHICLE IS STATIONARY AND DEALER ADVISED NOT TO DRIVE
Dec 24, 2020
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
EVERYTIME I PUT GAS IN IT DOESN'T WANT TO START BACK UP. AT A STOP SIGN AND RED LIGHT IT JERKS LIKE IT IS GOING TO DYE OUT. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AND OFF. TOOK BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ONLY TO HAVE IT START THE PROBLEM AGAIN THE NEXT DAY.
Oct 20, 2020
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
MY DRIVER SIDE HEADLIGHT WILL NOT LIGHT UP ORANGE FOR A SIGNAL. THE DEALERSHIP BUT A NEW LIGHT ON THE ENCORE AND IT STILL DOESN'T WORK. NO ONE HAS ANY IDEA WHAT THE PROBLEM IS OR HOW TO FIX IT. THE LIGHT WORKS FINE EXCEPT THE TOP LIGHT THAT LOOKS LIKE AN UPSIDE DOWN CHECK MARK WILL NOT LIGHT UP ORANGE FOR THE SIGNAL.
Jul 09, 2020
AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
WE HIT 2 DEERS AT 70 MPH IT DAMAGED THE WHOLE FRONT PART OF OUR CAR . NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE 4 WAY FLASHERS CAME ON THE SEATBELTS LOCKED UP YET NO AIRBAGS. ALSO THIS IS THE FIRST AND ONLY TIME THE 4 WAY FLASHERS WORKED. THE CAR HAS BEEN FIXED AND NO 4 WAY FLASHERS AGAIN.
Oct 19, 2019
POWER TRAIN,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
POOR ACCELERATION CAUSING INCREASE IN FORCE ON GAS PEDAL. HAPPENS AT RANDOM TIMES WHILE ON FLAT SURFACES, GOING UP HILL, AROUND CURVES WITH AC ON OR OFF. ONCE ACCELERATION KICKS IN, SPEED INCREASES CAUSING THE NEED FOR APPLYING THE BREAKS. REQUIRES ADDITIONAL SPACE WHEN PULLING OUT ON THE ROAD TO ENSURE ENOUGH TIME TO ACHIEVE PROPER SPEED. TOOK TO CERTIFIED DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE. TECH UNABLE TO DUPLICATE ISSUE AND SINCE NO CODES OR SERVICE LIGHT, THEY ARE UNABLE TO FIX THE ISSUE. PICKED UP THE CAR FROM DEALERSHIP. NEXT DAY ISSUE CONTINUES. CAR WOULD ALSO CONTINUE TO ACCELERATE WHEN FOOT REMOVED FROM PEDAL (ALMOST LIKE CRUISE CONTROL WAS ON), PRESSED ON BREAKS WHICH DID NOT MAKE A DIFFERENCE. HAD TO MOVE TO SIDE OF ROAD & CONTINUE TRY & STOP. MADE A SECOND APPOINTMENT TO RETURN CAR BACK TO DEALERSHIP. AFRAID OF TRANSPORTING PEOPLE IN VEHICLE DUE TO UNKNOWN/STICKING ACCELERATOR ISSUES.
Aug 19, 2019
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
REAR SEATBELT WOULD NOT RETRACT. ALL INSTRUMENTS STOPPED WORKING MOMENTARILY WHILE DRIVING.
Mar 05, 2019
SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
DON'T EXCEL UNSAFE BELTS NEED TO BE INSPECTED.
Sep 24, 2018
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
5 MONTH AFTER I HAD BOUGHT THE CAR I WAS GOING 35 MPH DOWN A REGULAR STREET WHEN THE CAR STOP THEN WHEN I WANT TO MOVE AGAIN THE ACCELERATOR BUT THEN THE CAR CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP WHERE THE ENGINE HAD SMOKE COMING OUT OF IT. THE DEALER SAID THAT THERE WAS A BIG HOLE IN THE ENGINE. AFTER THEY REPAIR IT NO MORE THAN TWO WEEKS LATER I WAS GOING DOWN A ROAD WHERE THE CAR JUST TURNED OFF AND IT DID NOT EVEN LET ME MOVE OUT OF THE ROAD WAY. AND NOW 3 WEEKS AGO I WAS GOING DOWN A STREET GOING 45 MPH WHEN THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME STOPPED ALL OF A SUDDEN AND I HIT MY BRAKE SO HARD BUT THEY HAD NOT RESPONDED WHICH LED ME TO CRASH IN FRONT OF THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME. LUCKILY NEITHER OF US WERE INJURED BUT NOW FOR SURE I KNOW I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING ANY OF GENERAL MOTORS CARS WHETHER IS BE BUICK OR GMC.
Sep 14, 2018
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,ENGINE
1 complaint
THIS VEHICLE HAS A KEYLESS IGNITION SYSTEM. TWICE MY WIFE ACCIDENTALLY TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE, ONCE AT A STOP, THE OTHER TIME ON A FREEWAY AT 70 MPH. SHE WAS UNAWARE THE VEHICLE COULD BE STARTED IN NEUTRAL THINKING SHE NEEDED TO BE IN PARK. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED COASTING ALLOWING HER TO MOVE TO THE SIDE OF THE FREEWAY. THERE SHE WAS ABLE TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK, PRESS ON THE BRAKE AND RESTART THE CAR. SHE DID NOT REALIZE THE VEHICLE ENGINE WAS OFF UNTIL SHE.PRESSED ON THE GAS TO MAINTAIN SPEED. SHE PANICKED AND TURNED TO ME AS AN ENGINEER WITH 40 YEARS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY. I KEPT HER CALM AND INSTRUCTED HER WHAT TO DO. ONLY WHEN WE WERE ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD DID WE DETERMINE SHE HAD ACCIDENTALLY TURNED OFF THE ENGINE WHEN TUNING THE RADIO. WITH NO WARNING OR INDICATION THE ENGINE WAS OFF THE RESULTS COULD HAVE BEEN CATASTROPHIC. HER COLLEAGUE AT WORK ALSO DID THIS IN HIS LEXUS. THE PROXIMITY OF THE START\STOP BUTTON TO OTHER SIMILAR CONTROLS APPEARS TO BE A FACTOR IN THESE INCIDENTS. NO WARNING FROM THE VEHICLE NOT NOTICE FROM THE MANUFACTURER OF THE SALES DEALERSHIP OF THIS POSSIBILITY AND WHAT TO DO DOES NOT PREPARE THE DRIVER FOR WHEN THIS OCCU.
Sep 14, 2018
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
I HAD JUST LEASED THIS CAR, DROVE LESS THAN 2 MILES FROM HOME WHEN MY BRAKES FAILED. I APPLIED BRAKES TO STOP, BUT THE CAR WOULD NOT STOP, IT SLOWED TO 14 MPH - KEPT MOVING UNTIL I SLAMMED INTO TRUCK APPROX 3-400' AHEAD OF ME, HAD PLENTY OF ROOM TO STOP. PRETENSIONER FAILED - DRIVER SEATBELT COLLAPSED AROUND ME WHILE LOCKED IN PLACE THE SECOND I SLAMMED ON BRAKE. DRIVER SEATBELT WAS ON PASSENGER SIDE - VISA-VERSA - GM REP SAW THE SEATBELTS AT MY HOME - I SHOWED THEM TO HIM. HE TOLD ME WHICH BELT BELONGS ON WHICH SIDE AND I TOLD HIM THEY WERE ON THE OPPOSITE SIDES. HE PICKED EACH UP AND SHOWED ME THE 'R-L' ON THE END OF THE BELT AND THE "R" WAS THE COLLAPSED BELT. THE GM REP SAID THE 'INTACT' BELT WOULD HAVE BRUISED THE PERSON, IT DID, MY PASSENGER. THIS CAN BE VERIFIED BY MY PASSENGER. AIRBAG SENSOR DISPENSED GAS DURING SAME ACCIDENT-AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CAR HAD OVER $10K DAMAGE, FIXED - GM REP CHECKED CAR BECAUSE I CONTINUALLY SAYING THE BRAKES AND SEATBELT FAILED TO ANYONE AT WEST POINT THAT WOULD LISTEN. AFTER CHECKING CAR HE STATED NOTHING WAS WRONG. DIFFERENT DEALERSHIP DIAGNOSTIC EQUIP SHOWED AIRBAG WAS FIXED BUT SEATBELT NEVER RECALLED, THEN THE STORY CHANGED THAT IT WAS. THE DIAGNOSTIC INFO PRINTOUT SHOWED WHERE I 'BRAKED' BUT THEN NO INFO RECORDED ANYWHERE. MY PASSENGERS SEATBELT WORKED, I WAS THROWN INTO STEERING WHEEL AND WAS INJURED. I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH GM CEO WITH LETTERS AND THE CLAIMS DEPT WHO TELL ME THEY CAN'T HELP ME. IF MY LEASE WASN'T RECALLED AND I APPARENTLY HAD THE ABOVE ISSUES, THEY SHOULD HAVE FIXED THEM BEFORE MY RECEIVING IT. THEY WOULD NOT EVEN SPEAK TO MY PASSENGER, OFFICER AT ACCIDENT, TOW TRUCK DRIVER WHO SAW THE SEATBELT HANGING OUT MY DOOR AT THE SCENE. I AM STILL BEING TREATED AND ONLY WANT FAIRNESS AND A DIFFERENT CAR. THIS ONE HAS HAD SO MANY LITTLE PROBLEMS AND ODDITIES BESIDES WHAT I AM DISCUSSING.
Sep 10, 2018
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
CAR WAS PARKED ON LEVEL GROUND OUTSIDE HOME. ATV ACCIDENTALLY RAN INTO REAR BUMPER OF CAR (HAD MOVED APPROXIMATELY 10 FEET). CAR ROLLED AWAY AND ENDED UP ROLLING DOWN A SMALL HILL, JUMPING A DITCH AND RESTING ON ANOTHER HILL. CAR MOVED APPROXIMATELY 300 FEET PRIOR TO COMING TO A STOP. WHEELS WERE NOTED TO BE TURNING AND ROLLING NORMALLY AND CAR HAD MINIMAL RESISTANCE TO MOVING. CAR WAS IN PARK WITH SECURE BREAK WHEN WE ARRIVED AT CAR.
Mar 06, 2018
POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
I WAS DROPPING MY KIDS TO SCHOOL. I WAS IN LINE OF DROP OFF. I STOPPED MY CAR PUT MY CAR IN PARK AND REMOVED MY FOOT FROM BRAKE. SUDDENLY I NOTICED THAT MY CAR WAS MOVING JUST LIKE IN THE SPEED OF NEUTAL. I PUSHED THE BRAKES HARD BECAUSE MY CAR WAS ABOUT TO HIT THE CAR INFRONT OF ME. I CHECKED THE THE SHIFT WAS STILL IN THE PARK. SO IN SHORT, CAR WAS STILL MOVING WHEN IN PARK. SCARRY!!!!
Jan 26, 2018
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2017 BUICK Encore have?
The 2017 BUICK Encore currently has 77 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 2017 BUICK Encore?
The most common problems reported for the 2017 BUICK Encore are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 2017 BUICK Encore problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2017 BUICK Encore comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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