Last updated: 2026-07-25

RELIABILITY SCORE: 79/100 (GOOD)

2023 Buick Encore GX Reliability Report

Name: 2023 Buick Encore GX
Brand: Buick

The 2023 Buick Encore GX scores 79/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 23 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Full Breakdown Compare Models

Recalls

Complaints

Complaint Rate

3.6per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

N/A

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity74/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs70/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact100/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity82/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
STEERING (4)
POWER TRAIN (3)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Final Year

2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2020-present).

Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
1st generation Encore GX (US).

What this means for buyers

Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.

2020: First generation (2020-present) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2023: This Model Year

2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2020-present).

2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Should You Buy the 2023 Buick Encore GX?

At 79/100, the 2023 Buick Encore GX lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 is the last model year of the First generation (2020-present).

Owners log 23 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (4). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2024 Buick Encore GX, which scored 2 points lower. See also the 2022 Buick Encore GX for an earlier comparison.

Pros

+Acceptable reliability score
+No recalls issued
+Below-average complaint rate for SUV

Cons

−ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: That the 2023 Buick Encore GX experiences several electrical system issues (4 complaints)
−STEERING issues reported (4 complaints)

Compare 2023 Buick Encore GX With

2023 Mazda CX-30

Reliability: 68/100

Good

2023 Hyundai Kona

Reliability: 66/100

Good

2023 Honda HR-V

Reliability: 73/100

Good

2023 Subaru Crosstrek

Reliability: 81/100

Excellent

2023 Nissan Kicks

Reliability: 80/100

Excellent

Common Problem Categories

Other

HIGH RISK

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)
STEERING (4)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

recalls on record

No recalls are on record for the 2023 Buick Encore GX — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

3.6

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 11.3

LowAvgHigh

Low

Safety Incidents

Crashes

Fires

Injuries

Deaths

★★★★★

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2023 Buick Encore GX? Check its history first

Every 2023 Buick Encore GX has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Accidents
Open Recalls
Title History
Odometer Rollback

2023 Buick Encore GX NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 18.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (N/A)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard/Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver/Roof)

View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Buick Encore GXRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3.5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Buick Encore GX.

Test shifter assembly for 'Shift to Park' error
Inspect for check engine light due to purge pump issues
Check for steering pull and vibrations at high speeds
Ensure doors and trunk align properly and close securely
Verify headlights do not dim or turn off unexpectedly
Test brakes for responsiveness and unusual grabbing

2023 Buick Encore GX Common Problems by Component

23 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4)STEERING (4)POWER TRAIN (3)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3)ENGINE (2)EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2)STRUCTURE (1)FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)Other (3)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

4 complaints

Owners report that the 2023 Buick Encore GX experiences several electrical system issues. Commonly described problems include the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly and failing to restart, particularly when the auto stop feature is engaged, leaving drivers stranded in traffic. Headlight malfunctions are also noted, with lights dimming or turning off unexpectedly, posing potential safety risks during nighttime driving. Additional complaints mention the center display malfunctioning, including the backup camera activating incorrectly and connectivity issues with USB-C devices. These issues appear to occur relatively early in the vehicle's life, with some owners experiencing problems within a few months of purchase. Safety implications involve potential loss of vehicle control and visibility, as reported by multiple owners.

4 complaints total

STEERING

4 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Buick Encore GX frequently report issues with the steering system, particularly a tendency for the vehicle to pull to the left or right, making it difficult to maintain control. Complaints often describe the steering wheel vibrating at high speeds and a rattling noise from the front end, especially when turning or driving over speed bumps. Several owners mention these issues occurring at various mileages, with some reports starting as early as around 8,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, with instances of reduced brake responsiveness and error messages related to power steering, which may affect vehicle control. These patterns suggest potential concerns for those considering purchasing a used model.

4 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

3 complaints

Owners report multiple issues related to the power train of the 2023 Buick Encore GX. Commonly described symptoms include mechanical noises and limited acceleration, with one owner unable to surpass 25 mph after a transmission failure. Another issue involves the shifter assembly, where the vehicle fails to recognize the Park position, preventing the car from being turned off or locked, first occurring around 21,000 miles. Additionally, some owners note that the vehicle struggles to maintain operation in hot conditions with the air conditioning on, leading to high idling and jerking. No safety implications such as crashes or loss of control are mentioned, but these issues may impact the vehicle's usability and convenience for potential buyers.

3 complaints total

UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

3 complaints

Owners report issues with the 2023 Buick Encore GX that include a purge pump failure at approximately 15,000 miles, leading to a persistent check engine light. Another owner identifies the absence of a mandatory Federal Safety Certification Label, discovered during a trade-in inspection, which renders the vehicle non-compliant with federal safety standards and unmarketable. Additionally, multiple owners describe problems with rear passenger doors and the trunk, noting that doors may open slightly during turns and that there are loud metal impact sounds and misalignment issues, which could impact passenger safety. These complaints suggest potential safety implications, as owners express concern about door security and alignment while the vehicle is in motion.

3 complaints total

ENGINE (2 complaints)

ENGINE

2 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Buick Encore GX report two distinct engine-related issues. One complaint describes a reduced engine power warning light, attributed to a problem with the turbo compressor related to air and fuel mixture, with the issue persisting for nearly two months while awaiting parts. Another report involves unintended acceleration when shifting from Park to Drive, leading to a crash with significant injuries to three occupants and the vehicle being declared a total loss at approximately 18,000 miles. Safety implications are evident in the latter case, with a violent acceleration resulting in a collision with trees and a concrete object. These complaints suggest potential concerns with engine performance and control, particularly at higher mileages.

2 complaints total3 injuries

EXTERIOR LIGHTING (2 complaints)

EXTERIOR LIGHTING

2 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Buick Encore GX report issues primarily related to interior chrome trim and exterior lighting. Complaints frequently mention that the chrome trim on the dashboard reflects sunlight, causing glare that can temporarily blind the driver, particularly between noon and 2 PM. Another reported issue involves the vehicle's high beams activating randomly without driver input, posing a potential safety risk. These issues are noted without specific mileage details, but the lighting malfunction is described as occurring intermittently, approximately 40% of the time. Safety concerns are highlighted, particularly regarding the unwanted activation of high beams and visibility impairment due to glare.

2 complaints total

STRUCTURE (1 complaints)

STRUCTURE

1 complaint

2026-04-28

Three nuts snapped, which secure the front muffler to the length of the exhaust system. The engine side of the exhaust pipe became disconnected and dragged along road, which occurred while driving the vehicle on a residential road. Steering was not impacted, however the pipe would have eventually come completely free, without driving directly to an auto-body repair shop.

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1 complaints)

FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM

1 complaint

2026-02-09

the evaporative emissions purge pump or an ECM calibration fault code P0521

SEAT BELTS (1 complaints)

SEAT BELTS

1 complaint

2025-03-27

No accident just a concern. On my Buick the clasp for the front set belts are buried between the seat and center console. Making the fastening and unfasting very difficult. The further the seat is forward the more difficult it is. I guess my concern is this over sight may hamper the use of them or possibly cause entrapment during a stressful situation. Thankyou, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

1 complaint

2023-07-10

The contact owns a 2023 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to immediately accelerate. On several occasions while depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle abruptly accelerated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The contact stated that the failure only occurred while the air condition was activated. The local dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 18,000.

When Do 2023 Buick Encore GX Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

21,000 milesShifter assembly failure

15,000 milesPurge pump failure

8,000–14,000 milesBrake and steering issues

Best & Worst Buick Encore GX Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Buick Encore GX Years to Buy

Based on reliability index score

The best Buick Encore GX year is 2026 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2025 (79/100) and 2023 (79/100).

Top Pick

Excellent

2026

0Recalls

1Complaints

Good

2025

0Recalls

14Complaints

Good

2023

(Current Model)

0Recalls

23Complaints

Buick Encore GX Years to Avoid

The worst Buick Encore GX year is 2020 with a score of 70/100, primarily due to power train (16) issues.

Good

2020

2Recalls

66Complaints

See full Buick Encore GX years-to-avoid analysis

Buick Encore GX Reliability Score Trend

Buick Encore GX reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 79/100 compared to 73/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Buick Encore GX reliability scores by year
Year	Score	Rating
2020	70/100	Good
2021	74/100	Good
2022	74/100	Good
2023	79/100	Good
2024	77/100	Good
2025	79/100	Good
2026	82/100	Excellent

Buick Encore GX Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
Year	Score	vs Prior Year	Rating	Recalls	Complaints
2026	82/100	+3	Excellent	0	1
2025	79/100	+2	Good	0	14
2024	77/100	-2	Good	1	27
2023(selected)	79/100	+5	Good	0	23
2022	74/100	0	Good	1	29
2021	74/100	+4	Good	2	50
2020	70/100	—	Good	2	66

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2023 Buick Encore GX reliable?

The 2023 Buick Encore GX has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 79/100. It is reasonably reliable with 0 recalls and 23 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.

What are the most common problems with the 2023 Buick Encore GX?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Buick Encore GX include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (4 complaints), STEERING (4 complaints), POWER TRAIN (3 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (3 complaints), ENGINE (2 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.

How many recalls does the 2023 Buick Encore GX have?

The 2023 Buick Encore GX has no recalls on record, which is a positive indicator.

Is the 2023 Buick Encore GX expensive to maintain?

The 2023 Buick Encore GX should have average maintenance costs for its class. With a reliability score of 79/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2023 Buick Encore GX without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

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Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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