2018 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
66
Complaints Reported
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Complaints by Component
ENGINE
15 complaints
Brought my car to get an oil change and was told they could not do it as my oil filter housing unit is cracked and leaking oil they said to check for recalls as this is an issue with other vehicle same problem. Upon checking i was informed that Buick is not making this a recall item at this time. They put in enough oil for me to get home.
Nov 14, 2025
COMPONENT FAILURE: THE ENGINE TIMING CHAIN. YES, IT IS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION. SAFETY RISK: VEHICLE HESITATED AND LOST POWER IN TRAFFIC, CAUSING MY VEHICLE TO AUTOMATICALLY SLOW DOWN WHERE I WAS NO LONGER DRIVING AT THE SPEED LIMIT. MY SAFETY AND OTHER DRIVERS AROUND ME WAS COMPROMISED AS THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED A MAJOR ACCIDENT SHOULD I HAVE BEEN REAR ENDED. I HAD IT TOWED TO LAMBERT BUICK, CUYAHOGA FALLS, OHIO. THEY DIAGNOSED A TIMING CHAIN MALFUNCTION WHICH WAS CONFIRMED BY DEALERSHIP DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. I WAS ADVISED NOT TO DRIVE VEHICLE DUE TO ENGINE DAMAGE POTENTIAL. I HAD IT TOWED BACK TO MY HOME AND HAVE NOT DRIVEN IT SINCE. VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED BY THE MANUFACTURER, POLICE, INSURANCE OR ANYONE ELSE. THERE WAS NO WARNING, MESSAGES OR ANY SYMPTOMS PRIOR TO THE ENGINE TIMING CHAIN ISSUE. A WARNING LIGHT ONLY CAME ON WHEN THE CAR HESITATED AND LOST POWER IN TRAFFIC.
Nov 11, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the timing chain, resulting in damage to the crankshaft. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 98,507.
Nov 10, 2025
Engine stalls, intake hose, power issues, multiple oil leaks
Aug 19, 2025
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds, the vehicle was shaking abnormally with the check engine and stabili-trak warning lights illuminated. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and turned off and restarted the vehicle and the warning lights were cleared, and the vehicle drove normally. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but was a recurring failure. The contact had taken the vehicle to an independent mechanic who diagnosed the vehicle and replaced the ignition coils and spark plugs; however, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 109,800.
May 30, 2025
+ 10 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
8 complaints
When crossing through an intersection at approximately 45mph, I was struck by another vehicle, speed unknown, who failed to stop at a stop sign. My vehicle was struck on the front passenger corner. My vehicle continued in a forward motion for several hundred feet. Both driver and front passenger wore seat belts, however the driver struck her head on steering wheel, loosing consciousness for several minutes. Side airbags deployed, however front air bags did not
Aug 23, 2025
A deer came out of nowhere and I hit it head on. It totaled the car. The airbag did not go off
Mar 20, 2025
My airbag light is on and malfunctioning. It will cost $200 for the diagnostic and no repair. To repair it will cost $873.19. I see there are more complaints in regarding this issue. To me this is a safety issue and concerns me as I drive my grandchildren in this car. I am told it is an actual sensor in the cushion of the seat. My vehicle is under 5 years old. Something has to be done.
Jan 10, 2023
previous airbag recall, but not including my VIN. However, my airbag light is on and malfunctioning. It will cost $200 to just diagnose the repair and no idea what the cost to fix this saftey issue on a car that is only 5 years old. Please help!
Dec 12, 2022
I HAVE BROUGHT MY NEW 2018 BUICK ENCORE VEHICLE INTO DELRAY BUICK DEALERSHIP, DELRAY BEACH, FL FOR NUMEROUS SERVICING TO ADDRESS CORRECTING/REPAIR/REPLACE THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG SWITCH AND OR ANY COMPONENTS IN THE SYSTEM EFFECTING THE DASH INDICATOR LIGHT WHICH SHOWS 100% OF THE TIME THAT THE PASSENGER AIRBAG IS OFF WHEN THERE IS IN FACT AN ADULT PASSENGER IN THE SEAT AND CONCERNINGLY IS A HAZARD TO THE PASSENGER IN THIS SEAT AND ALL PASSENGERS IN THE VEHICLE. DELRAY BUICK AND GM HAVE FAILED TO RESPOND TO INSPECT COMPONENTS AND CONTACTS THROUGH THIS SAFETY SYSTEM ITS MODULES, COMPONENTS AND CONNECTIONS TO CLEAR THIS COMPLAINT IN ANY WAY. THE TICKET NUMBERS FOR SERVICING ARE AS FOLLOWS: 2/11/20 INVOICE # 207656; 1/16/20 INVOICE # 206511; & 12/19/19 INVOICE # 204865. I ALSO CONTACTED GM CUSTOMER CARE (CASE # 9-5827839607) ON 02/20/20 SPOKE WITH ALONDRA (SENIOR ADVISOR) WITH NO RESOLUTION TO ADDRESS THIS SAFETY DEFECT TO ATTEMPT RESOLUTION. I AM CONCERNED THAT THIS IS A SAFETY DEFECT FOR MY VEHICLE THAT PLACES THE FRONT PASSENGER AND POSSIBLY ALL OCCUPANTS THAT THE ENTIRE AIRBAG SYSTEM IS DEFECTIVE AND THERE IS NO POSSIBILITY FOR RESOLUTION TTHROUGH THE DEALORSHIP OR GM THEMSELVES. I AM SEEKING THE HELP FROM YOUR ORGANIZATION TO INVESTIGATE THIS SAFETY DEFECT SO THAT MY VEHICLE AS WELL AS ALL OTHERS ARE PLACED IN SERVICE ON THE ROAD WITH ALL HIGHWAY SAFETY REQUIREMENTS AND STANDARDS IN PROPER REQUIRED OPERATING CONDITION.
Jul 21, 2020
+ 3 more complaints for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
6 complaints
All Wheel Drive System & All Wheel Drive Off Warnings 4 Different Times One Time lost the ability to Steer Once to Dealership can not duplicate & the lights are off so can't get codes they said. There is a recall for same issue on same vehicle for same year but says my VIN isn't included. Jan. 16 May 3 May 6 May 21 all of this year. Had warranty on car when started said only bumper to bumper would cover it. Car only had 48,839 miles when first happened. Still only has 51,852 miles.
May 22, 2024
My all 4 tires blew in the past years. It was due to defective tires that I was not aware of. It could have meant death or injury consequences for me and the passengers of the vehicle.
Jan 18, 2024
I WAS TOLD TO REACH OUT TO THIS SITE BECAUSE OF THE ISSUES I AM HAVING WITH MY VEHICLE. I HAVE BEEN IN A THE PROCESS OF TRYING TO GET MY 2018 BUICK BOUGHT BACK BY GM. IN JUNE 2019 THE BUICK DIED ON THE RAILROAD TRACKS IN ARCHIE, MO THEN 30-40 SECONDS LATER IT STARTED BACK UP ON IT'S OWN WITHOUT MY ASSISTANCE. I CALLED ON-STAR RIGHT AWAY AND ASKED IF A CODE WAS THROWN. NO CODE WAS THROWN. I DROVE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP. THEY FOUND THAT THE BATTERY WHICH WAS NOT EVEN A YEAR OLD BLEW UP INSIDE ITSELF. I BOUGHT THE BUICK 8.24.2018. THEY DEALERSHIP REPLACED THE BATTERY. IN JULY OF 2019 I WAS DRIVING ON 1-70 RIGHT BEFORE THE 291 EXIT AND THE CAR JOULTED (THE ONLY TIME IT HAS EVER DONE THAT) IT DIED AGAIN 30-40 SECONDS THE CAR CAME BACK ON. ONCE AGAIN I CALLED ON-STAR, NO CODES POPPED UP. I CALLED THE DEALERSHIP TO LET THEM KNOW I WAS BRINGING IT BACK BECAUSE OF THE ISSUE. I GOT ONTO 291 SOUTH RIGHT BEFORE EXIT 214 THE BUICK DIED AGAIN 30-40 SECONDS THE CAR STARTED BACK UP. I TOOK IT STRAIGHT TO THE DEALERSHIP. THEY HAD THE BUICK IN THE SHOP FOR A WEEK, THEY COULD NOT DUPLICATE WHAT WAS HAPPENING. THEY TOLD ME THAT IT HAS TO DO SEVERAL TIMES AND TO BRING IT BACK IF IT DOES IT A COUPLE MORE TIMES. IT DID AGAIN AFTER JULY 2019 WHEN I WAS DRIVING IT AROUND OLATHE IN TOWN. I DID NOT REPORT THIS TIME. IN MAY 2020 I HAD JUST GOT ONTO 435 FROM WORNALL @1715 BEFORE I COULD HIT ROE THE CAR DIED ON THE INTERSTATE AND STARTED BACK UP 30-40 SECONDS. THIS TIME I CALLED GM ITSELF, IF IT WAS NOT FOR LOCK DOWN. I WOULD HAVE DIED. GM HAS DENIED MY BUY BACK. THE DEALERSHIP KEEPS TELLING ME THERE ARE NO CODES BEING THROWN NOTHING WE CAN DO. I COULD HAVE BEEN INJURED OR KILLED. WHEN THE BUICK DOES THIS I HAVE NO CONTROL OVER THE STEERING WHEEL, PEDALS, OR ELECTRONICS IN THE CAR. I CAN NOT WARN ANYONE THAT IS BEHIND ME THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED. I AM SCARED TO EVEN GET IN THE BUICK. .
Dec 03, 2020
AS FAR AS I CAN DETERMINE THERE IS NO RECALL CONCERNING TIRES ON 2018 ENCORES. YET AT ONLY 19,334 MILES ON MY ENCORE I HAD TO REPLACE A TIRE BECAUSE THE TIRE STORE COULD NOT GET THE TIRE REPAIRED. THEIR COMMENT WAS THAT THE PUNCTURE ON THE TREAD AREA WAS TOO LARGE TO ACCEPT A PATCH. THUS I SPENT $172.25 FOR AN EQUIVALENT NEW TIRE. IF BUICK IS NOT CAPABLE OF PROVIDING TIRES THAT WILL LAST PAST 19,000 MILES THEN THEY NEED TO DO A QUALITY CHECK. THE "FACTORY" TIRE I HAD TO REPLACE WAS A CONTINENTAL TIRE (P215/ 55R/ 18 RATED AT 94H. *TR
May 11, 2020
THE DRIVER'S SIDE BLIND SPOT INDICATOR (LOCATED ON THE SIDE MIRROR) IS MALFUNCTIONING AND GIVING FALSE AND ERRONEOUS INDICATIONS - BOTH FALSE POSITIVES AND FALSE NEGATIVES - THIS HAS OCCURRED EACH TIME I HAVE DRIVEN THE VEHICLE- ON THE FREEWAY, ON THE HIGHWAY, ON SIDE STREETS. IF DRIVERS DEPEND ON THIS EXTREMELY UNRELIABLE SAFETY FEATURE ACCIDENTS ARE HIGHLY LIKELY TO RESULT.
Jun 03, 2018
+ 1 more complaint for this component
POWER TRAIN
3 complaints
Turbo has gone out four times in less than a year. Car is unable to accelerate and goes way below speed limit on highway which puts me and my passengers in an unsafe position traveling on a high limit road. No. Only inspected by the auto repair places I have been. No warnings prior to the Turbo going out. Turbo goes out while going up hills or going at higher rates of speed.
Jan 18, 2024
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE STARTED TO SHAKE AND SHUDDER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING WHEEL TO CEASED AND THE VEHICLE LOSS MOTIVE POWER AND STALLED WITH THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE FAILED TO RESTART AND WAS TOWED TO MARK PORTER CHEVROLET BUICK GMC (42411 CHARLES CHANCEY DRIVE, POMEROY, OH 45769). AN UNKNOWN MODULE WAS REPLACED AND THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 7,132.
Jan 19, 2021
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 BUICK ENCORE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND UNOCCUPIED, IT INADVERTENTLY ROLLED AWAY AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER (NYE BUICK GMC, 1421 GENESEE ST, ONEIDA, NY 13421, (315) 363-2200) WHERE IT WAS AWAITING TO BE DIAGNOSED AND REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 5,200.
Aug 02, 2018
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
2 complaints
After filling up fuel vehicle starts and stalls out. This occurs while driving at stop signs. And also while driving loss of power. There is something wrong in the engine, timing belt, fuel, etc.
Jan 02, 2026
Turbo charger malfunction. Confirmed by dealership and had to be replaced. Stabilitrak malfunction. Car is stalling out at a red light or stop sign, and/or jerking hard. Stalled out in middle of an intersection with my children in the car. Ongoing problem.
Jun 29, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
2 complaints
The car experienced issues with the fan turning off when car was turned off. It caused the battery to die. The car was serviced at the dealership and the tech found that the fuse block overheated and melted, causing poor electrical connections. They replaced the damaged parts and repaired the wiring. This still did not explain the fan not turning off and after the fuse block repair, the cooling fan was still sticking on. After pushing the dealership to further look into the issue the mechanic determined the issue was inside the fan assembly (it was assembled in the wrong direction), so they replaced the cooling fan. The dealership stated that this was a manufacturing error. They said this could have caused an engine fire and there was absolutely no warnings - just a fan that was stuck on. This could have put me and my new baby at risk for an engine fire and could cause issue for other owners if there were more assembly errors. The car is available for inspection if needed. It was only inspected by technicians at the dealership.
Aug 21, 2025
Currently my vehicle has issue with dash board and instrument panel getting hot to the touch after driving for approximatly an hour also causing an odor. The heater/ac stays on continuesly never turns off and the heating up issue exists with either temperature.
May 11, 2022
SERVICE BRAKES
2 complaints
Have been experiencing brake malfunction on my 2018 Buick Encore with the brakes getting locked while driving. There were instances where the brakes would lock randomly and the vehicle would start slowing down during driving even with a foot on the gas pedal and I had to turn on the hazards lights to pull the vehicle on the side in order to avoid being rear ended. Took the vehicle to a GM dealership and initial diagnostics mentioned that the brake pedal position sensor was malfunctioning and would need a replacement. Agreed to replace that, but after this repair dealership claimed that there was a loose pivot in the brake pedal assembly causing the brake light to be on(Did not have this issue before taking the vehicle to dealership). Since the vehicle was not in a driving condition due to the brake light being "ON" all the time, as per the dealership suggestion I agreed to replacing the entire brake pedal assembly as well. However, the original issue was not resolved and the dealership is now recommending that replacing the master brake cylinder and brake booster might resolve the issue. The dealership has also mentioned that all these recommended repairs are from GM and my vehicle is still at the dealership.
Apr 29, 2024
I HAVE COMPLIN TO MY DEALER ABOUT MY CAR EXCELERATING WHEN I HIT THE BRAKES . THEY SAID THEY CAN FIND A PROBLEM , WELL IT HAPPEN AGAIN ON AUGUST 29 2019 AN IT CAUSE A ACCIDENT I WAS DRIVING ON A 6 LANE ROADWAY AROUND 330 IN THE AFTERNOON I WAS IN CRUISE CONTROL AT 45 MPH AN WHEN I WENT TO STOP THE CAR ACCELLERATED . I WAS NOT ABLE TO AVOID THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME
Sep 13, 2019
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
2 complaints
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light would illuminate as the average miles per gallon decreased. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the clamps for the turbo hoses were loose. The clamps and hoses were realigned and tightened. The contact stated that the failure recurred 2 months later. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the same diagnosis along with a red thread failure. The clamps were realigned and tightened again. The contact stated that the air filter hose was also loose. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 54,000.
Sep 29, 2021
The contact's sister owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle inadvertently loss motive power without warning. The vehicle would restart independently and resumed normal operation. The contact had taken the vehicle to a dealer to be diagnosed. The mechanic determined that the turbocharger assembly was defective. The vehicle was repaired. The contact was also informed that the antifreeze had been burning within the engine however, no additional repairs were performed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle was repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.
May 24, 2021
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the vehicle lost power. The Stabili-trak warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the failure however, where the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was taken to the same dealer and was diagnosed and determined that the brake sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred approximately 6 months later. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where an unknown code was cleared. The contact stated that a month after the code was cleared, the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,401.
Nov 17, 2025
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2018 Chevrolet Encore. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the transmission malfunctioned while in first gear, and the vehicle hesitated to accelerate from being stationary. Additionally, the message "Stabilizer" was displayed. The cause of the failure was not yetbeen determined. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The local dealer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 147,000.
Jun 23, 2025
STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
While driving, my car began to glitch out. The screens started turning on and off, the doors began locking and unlocking, and I lost my ability to steer, brake, and accelerate. It caused me to run a red light and I almost got into a severe accident. This issue has occurred several times, and during more recent occasions the car has turned off completely while driving. There were no warning lights or messages indicating that something was wrong with the car, but sometimes when I turn the car back on, it says “calibrating.” If Buick has sold cars that are capable of losing complete control, this should be investigated immediately.
May 17, 2025
STRUCTURE
1 complaint
2018 Buick Encore has large area of peeled paint on hood. There is also bubbling unde driver side door handle. I was told the hood issue was to to defective paint and primer. I was also told the repair would be well over one thousand dollars. The car has never been in an accident or had any modification done.
Jan 30, 2025
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact's husband noticed there was oil leaking onto the ground underneath the vehicle. The contact’s husband, who is a certified mechanic, diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the failure was caused by a leaking oil cooler pipe. The contact was informed that the oil cooler pipe needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. In addition, the contact stated that the leak was persistent. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact referenced GMC recall 43210; however, the contact was informed that the VIN was not associated with the recall. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 152,000.
Dec 30, 2024
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Stalling and shuts off. Low power when accelerating. Car has been so slow to take off that when merging into on coming traffic I have to move to shoulder & then try again to prevent an accident. Coughs, putt & squeaking sounds.Car shakes while in park or not in motion. Check engine light on.
Sep 18, 2024
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle lost motive power, power steering, and brake functionality. The vehicle began to shake, and the brakes and steering wheel became inoperable. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken back to the local dealer, where the mechanic test drove the vehicle but was unable to duplicate the failure. While driving, the fan failed to turn off. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer Orange Buick GMC (3883 W Colonial Dr, Orlando, FL 32808), where it was diagnosed that the coil and relay needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure recurred. The contact stated that while driving the vehicle failed to accelerate above 65 MPH. The brake pedal was depressed but the vehicle failed to respond. The vehicle was taken back to another local dealer, Gettel Chevrolet Buick GMC (1901 Tamiami Trl, Punta Gorda, FL 33950), where it was diagnosed that the fan, relay, and spark plugs needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and informed the contact about repairing the vehicle and the process for reimbursement. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000. The VIN was not available.
Aug 09, 2024
SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
When driving, the vehicle will stutter and make the car feel as though it’s bubbling, once you come to a stop, the vehicle will shut off. This is a huge safety concern considering I have children and if the vehicle just turns off and I shouldn’t be braked for a while I can get hit. I have almost been hit 4x since this has started because the car shuts off when attempting to brake or braking completely. After speaking to multiple mechanics over this car it seems to be a common issue for it.
Aug 05, 2023
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
While on the highway car suddenly had a brake and steering failure which resulted in injuries to myself. Zeigler and Buick are doing nothing to remedy situation and want to put myself and my family at risk
Jun 16, 2023
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
Pittering nosie started from under the hood a few days later the information pages glitches and gave 20+ options with the main menus in what looked like Arabic then a few days later the check engine light came on hooked up a code reader and the codes indicated fuel system issue but was able to clear code light remanded off and remote start quite working with remote and threw the app ran fine for about a month with no issue then light came back on on 01/31 and cleared itself in 7days and remote start began working again began running rough and had issues idling on the 2/22 and after getting gas on 2/23 would start but struggled for a few seconds and turned off 4times like it couldn't get fuel to maintain the start but was able to finally get it to start and was able to make it to work and seems to be running ok but still has the persistent Pittering sound
Feb 23, 2023
SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated that the rear passenger’s side seat belt was not retracting. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the seat belt needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the vehicle warranty had expired. There was no further assistance provided. The failure mileage was 17,846.
Jan 17, 2023
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, the message "Engine Power Reduced" was displayed and the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to continue driving; however, the vehicle would not exceed 25 MPH. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the accelerator pedal had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 41,000.
Jan 10, 2023
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
Feel like the car is loosing drive/power and not accelerating. I was driving and the engine light started flashing. No power to go up the hill, it could have gone backwards. Car does not accelerate made a whirring noise when it was turned off. Dangerous situation. Service Bulletin #N212338400
Jul 05, 2022
AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving 35 mph, she depressed the brake pedal but it failed to stop the vehicle, causing her to rear-end a truck. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The air bags did not deploy. The contact did not sustain any injuries nor sought medical attention. A police report was filed. The contact was able to continue driving to her destination. The contact called the local dealer and made them aware of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was taken to a collision center and had the front bumper repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.
Jun 30, 2022
POWER TRAIN,SEAT BELTS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
Stabilitrak warning comes on and car stalls out. Passenger seat belt doesn't clip person in correctly.
Jun 21, 2022
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
1 complaint
My vehicle would not start and I had no control over the computerized system.
Jun 10, 2022
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
Twice I was driving my car going about 35-45 mikes an hour. My car started to shake along with a loud humming sound. I lost my power steering and brakes. The over drive light was flashing both on the right under radio and on the dash. The RPMs started racing as well one time for sure. I was able to get to the side of the road and hit the emergency brake at the same time put it into park. I was so scared. I waited a few minutes turned it back on and drove around a parking lot before I ventured home.The second time I was close to home and drove it home 10 miles an hour. Since then I am extremely scared to drive my car. Being a nurse I NEED MY CAR. I took it to Sterling Buick in Venice. They ran a diagnostic test and it showed nothing. They drove it and of course it did not do it. There suggestion was for me to trade it in. They charged me and sent me on my way. They fixed something with my AC. When I droved the car days later my fiance called to tell me that there was something now leaking from the bottom of my car and took pictures of the brown pink color fluid dripping from undermeath the car. I called Buick. They suggested they would give me On Star for 6 months!!! REALLY!!! I they want to beable to find me in a ditch. I can not in good concious trade that car in knowing what has happened. If someone does not have the hinsight to beable to stop it they can be killled or kill someone else! The first time it happened I had my kids in the car and they were screaming. The second time I had 2 friends with me.
Aug 28, 2021
POWER TRAIN,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
The contact's girlfriend owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated while his girlfriend was driving 35 mph, the vehicle inadvertently shifted to neutral and all the door latches unlocked independently. The contact stated that there was no warning light illuminated. The driver continued driving to her destination. The contact stated he also experienced the same failure while driving up a hill. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer however, the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The contact also took the vehicle to O'Meara Buick GMC (2000 W. 104th Ave, Thornton, CO 80234, (720) 712-0951) and the mechanic was unable to duplicate the failure. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 800.
Jul 26, 2021
POWER TRAIN,ENGINE
1 complaint
WITH ESTIMATING MY MONTHS OVER A SPAN OF 4 MONTHS I HAD MY TURBO CHARGER REPLACEDBECAUSE IT HAD GONE BAD. I WAS OUT OF TOWN THE LIGHT CAME ON. AND WHEN I RETURN I TOOK IT TO THE SHOP THEY DIAGNOSE IT AND SAID IT WAS A TURBO CHARGER. I HAD AN EXTENDED WARRANTY ON THE CAR SO THEY REPLACE THE TURBO CHARGER WITH NO PROBLEMS GIVE ME A RENTAL WITH NO PROBLEMS EVERYTHING WAS COVERED.. AND A MONTH AND A HALF LATER MY ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND I REPLACED THE PURGE VALVE ANOTHER MONTH OR SO LATER THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME BACK ON AND IT WAS A TURBO CHARGER GONE BAD AGAIN. IT TOOK ABOUT WEEK TO FIND OUT WHY THE TURBO CHARGE WENT BAD. THEY FINALLY SAID IT HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE RETURN AND SUPPLY LINE LIKE THERE WAS NO LUBRICATION COMING THROUGH A HOSE TTHAT RUNS TO THE TURBO CHARGE. THIS IS THE ONLY PLACE THAT I'VE HAD MY OIL CHANGE SINCE I BOUGHT THE CAR FROM KING CADILLAC BUICK GMC. I WENT ONE OTHER PLACE ONE OTHER TIME AND THAT WAS IT.I WONDER WHY THEY DID NOT CHECK THE SUPPLY LINE WHEN THEY CHANGE THE TURBOCHARGER THE FIRST TIME IS THAT NOT A PART OF CHANGING THE TURBO CHARGE. I WAS TOLD THAT THEY HAVE SEEN THIS ISSUE BEFORE BUT NOT A LOT.WHEN THIS FIRST HAPPENED I WAS ON INTERSTATE 40 ON MY WAY TO WAS TO SALEM NORTH CAROLINA. AND I NOTICED A DECLINE WHEN I WENT TO CELEBRATE ON THE GAS. WHEN IT HAPPENED THE SECOND TIME I WAS RIDING TO CHURCH HERE IN MY HOMETOWN AND THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND JUST RIDING AROUND HELL IS AS IF THE CAR DID NOT WANT TO GO LIKE I WOULD GIVE IT TO GAS AND IT WOULD HESITATE OR NOT WANT TO DRIVE.
Jan 25, 2021
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
SINCE I BOUGHT THIS CAR IN 04/2018 I HAD MANY PROBLEMS PROBLEMS AS THE ENGINE SENSOR HAD TO BE REPLACED, HEADLIGHTS GOING OUT WHEN I WAS DRIVING, THEY COULD NOT REPRODUCE THE PROBLEM AT THE DEALERSHIP , NOW THE BACK WHEEL DRIVER MODULE IS BAD,IT WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED ,AND FINALLY I ALMOST COULD NOT DRIVE IN THE HIGHWAY ON 04/25/2020, I WAS VERY AFRAID THAT I WAS GOING TO BE IN AN ACCIDENT WHEN THE POWER STEERING WHEEL LOCKED, ABS, BRAKE LIGHTS AND TRACTION LIGHT WERE ALL ON IN THE PANEL AND SO A WARNING SIGNAL.THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION.I WAS IN RT 206 IN NJ, AFTER CHESTER.025/2020. I HAD TO STOP BY A MARKET.THE CAR WAS TAKEN TO A SHOP IN NEWTON AND IT WILL BE TOWED TO MCGUIRE DELEARSHIP IN NEWTO FOR REPAIR. I AM VERY SCARED OF DRIVING THIS CAR AND I NEED A SAFE CAR TO GO TO WORK EVERYDAY!!!
Apr 26, 2020
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaint
THIS TOOK PLACE ON PRIVATE PROPERTY IN THE PARKING LOT OF A COMMERCIAL BUILDING. THE VEHICLE WAS IN MOTION GOING FORWARD. IT WAS DECELERATING HEAD-IN INTO A PARKING SPOT. THE BRAKING ACTION WAS ENGAGED. THE VEHICLE HAD SLOWED TO ABOUT 5 MPH. MY RIGHT FOOT WAS ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE BRAKING WAS ENGAGED. I THEN HEARD THE SOUND OF THE ENGINE REVVING AT A VERY HIGH RATE. THERE WAS A HIGH WHINING SOUND. I LOST BRAKING AS MY RIGHT FOOT DEPRESSED THE PEDAL ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. THE CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED FORWARD AT AN INCREASED SPEED. IT JUMPED THE SIDEWALK CURB, CROSSED THE CONCRETE SIDEWALK, AND SLAMMED INTO A CINDER BLOCK WALL COLUMN ON THE SIDE OF A BUILDING. THE VEHICLE FELT LIKE IT EXPERIENCED SUDDEN UNINTENDED ACCELERATION.
Feb 11, 2020
POWER TRAIN,WHEELS,ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
1 complaint
8/14-CAR WAS LACKING POWER, SERVICE MANAGER WAS ABLE TO DUPLICATE ISSUE ON ROAD TEST . 8/24-CAR SERVICE FOR ROUGH IDLE AND LACK OF POWER, SERVICE STABILITRAK LIGHT ON AND CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON WITH AN ERROR CODE OF P0171. IN SEPTEMBER, CAR STARTED TO SHAKE WHILE IN PARK BUT NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, DEALER ADVISE UNABLE TO DO ANY REPAIRS UNLESS CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON. 11/27- CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ON AGAIN FOR SAME CODE, P0171. VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY IN SHOP. VEHICLE HAS HAD THE SAME ISSUES DEC 2018 AND AT THE TIME OF PURCHASE. GM DEALERS ARE NOT ABLE TO FIX TURBO ISSUE AND P0171 ISSUES. MY VEHICLE IS NOT OPERATING AS DESIGNED AND IT IS A SAFETY ISSUE.
Nov 29, 2019
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES,ENGINE
1 complaint
WHEN IT RAINS MOST IF THE TIME THE VEHICLE ONSTAR SETS OFF ALERTS FOR MY ANTILOCK BRAKES AND STABILITY TO BE CHECKED. DEALER SAID IT IS NORMAL AND NOT CONCERNING BUT CHECKED AT THE 1 YEAR INSPECTION FOR ME. NPF. A MONTH LATER A RAINY DAY, ALERTS, AND THE VEHICLE WOULDN'T START. ALL THE LIGHTS CAME ON, 'PRESS BRAKE TO START' APPEARED BUT PRESSING BREAK DID NOT START IT. AFTER AN HOUR OF TRYING VARIOUS 'TRICKS' IT STARTED WITH THE REMOTE STARTER. A WEEK LATER SAME THING. RAIN, ALERTS, AND NO START. THIS TIME 2 HOURS OF TRYING VARIOUS TRICKS- (EMERGENCY BREAK ON OFF/ PARK PUSHED ALL THE WAY UP, WHEELS FORWARD, REMOTE START ATTEMPTS, ONSTAR DIAGNOSTICS ETC) I HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED. THE MECHANIC FROM AAA TRIED AND NOTHING, WE TOWED AN HOUR BACK TO DEALERSHIP AND HE TRIED ONCE MORE, NOTHING. NEXT MORNING THE DEALERSHIP REPORTED NPF. I AM PICKING IT UP TOMORROW BUT EXPECT TO REPORT THIS HAPPENING AGAIN SOON.
Nov 07, 2019
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
AFTER I BOUGHT THIS CAR 1 YEAR AND A HALF AGO I HAD 2 ENGINE PROBLEMS FIXED ALREADY. NOW, I HAVE BEEN EXPERIMENTING 4 TIMES A TOTAL LACK OF HEADLIGHT AND PANEL LIGHTS WHILE I AM DRIVING. IT LASTS SECONDS, THE IDIOT LIGHTS COME BACK WHILE I AM DRIVING. I WAS VERY SCARED BECAUSE IN ONE OF THESE TIMES I WAS DRIVING AT NIGHT IN A BUSY HIGHWAY AND IT WAS RAINING HEAVILY, I COULD NOT SEE ANYTHING .I TOOK IT TO MCGUIRE TWICE FOR THIS PROBLEM AND THEY CAN NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG.
Sep 24, 2019
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaint
DURING FIRST SNOW OF THE SEASON HERE IN PA, HAD A WET/HEAVY SNOW. SNOW WAS REMOVED FROM WINDSHIELD, BUT NOT THE GULLY BELOW WIPERS. NO BIGGIE, THIS IS HOW WE'VE DONE IT ON EVERY CAR SINCE I WAS A KID, CLEANING OUT THE GULLY WHEN WIPERS CANNOT GO DOWN ALL THE WAY. AS I WAS DRIVING AND SNOW WAS COMING DOWN, SOME FROM ABOVE THE WINDSHIELD CAME DOWN AND ADDED TO WHAT WAS IN THE GULLY. THE WIPERS STOPPED WORKING! IMAGINE MY SURPRISE, THE WIPERS CAME TO A STOP AND WERE NOT MOVING. I COULD NOT SEE IF BLIZZARD LIKE CONDITIONS, PULLED OVER WHEN I COULD, AND STARTED SCRAPING OUT THE GULLY. WIPERS WERE FREAKING OUT DOING A SPASTIC SHORT SPURT AND WOULD NOT CLEAR. RE-STARTED CAR, AND DID THE SAME THING. HAD TO GET EVERY PIECE OF WET PACKED SNOW FROM AREA OF THE GULLY (UNDER WIPERS) AND RE-START CAR FOR WIPERS TO FUNCTION NORMALLY AGAIN. AGAIN, DRIVING, COMING TO A STOP TO MAKE A TURN, AND SNOW ABOVE THE WINDSHIELD THAT HAD ACCUMULATED IN THE HEAVY SNOW, FELL DOWN TO THE WIPER GULLY AND MADE WIPERS STOP COMPLETELY. IT SEEMS THE DESIGN OF THE WIPER MOTOR DOESN'T JUST STOP WHERE IT HAS TO STOP AND THEN KEEP WORKING, AS WITH 99.9 PERCENT OF OTHER CARS MADE IN THE LAST 50 YEARS, IF IT CANNOT RETURN TO COMPLETE HOME, IT JUST STOPS WORKING. NO CAR I'VE EVER OWNED HAS DONE ANYTHING LIKE THIS. TO MAKE MATTERS WORSE, THE WIPERS WERE STILL TRYING EVEN AFTER BEING TURNED OFF AND WAS PINCHING MY HAND AND FINGERS BETWEEN THE HOOD AND WIPER ARMS. AS THEY TRIED TO GET OUT OF THEIR SPASTIC MODE. IT WAS SO BAD, I TOOK A BATH ON TRADING IN THIS CAR FOR A CAR THAT IS KNOWN NOT TO HAVE THAT HAPPEN. AN AWD CAR THAT CANNOT DRIVE IN THE SNOW DUE TO A SERIOUS WIPER MALFUNCTION SHOULD NOT BE SOLD IN THE USA.
Nov 25, 2018
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
1 complaint
EVERY TIME IT RAINS I AM UNABLE TO GET ANY GAS DUE TO WATER SETTING ON THE PORT IN WHICH I PLACE GAS NOZZLE IN TO FILL TANK. VERY NERVOUS ABOUT THE SITUATION DUE TO HOW COSTLY IT COULD BE TO FIX DUE TO SUCH A POOR DESIGN
Jun 10, 2018
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 2018 BUICK Encore have?
The 2018 BUICK Encore currently has 66 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 2018 BUICK Encore?
The most common problems reported for the 2018 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 2018 BUICK Encore problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 2018 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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