Last updated: 2026-07-25

2019 Buick Encore
RELIABILITY SCORE: 76/100 (GOOD)

2019 Buick Encore Reliability Report

The 2019 Buick Encore scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 82 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

2

Complaints

82

Complaint Rate

8per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$466

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,150–$2,300

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity65/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs80/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact80/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity88/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

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

Top Issues to Watch

  • ENGINE (18)
  • POWER TRAIN (9)
  • AIR BAGS (9)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Refresh

2019 is 2 years after the 2017 refresh refresh.

  • Year 7 in the First generation (2013) (2013–2022).
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • 1st generation Encore (US).

What this means for buyers

Post-refresh years tend to be among the most refined — updates have been applied and early kinks worked out.

2013: First generation (2013) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2017: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

2019: This Model Year

2019 is 2 years after the 2017 refresh refresh.

Should You Buy the 2019 Buick Encore?

At 76/100, the 2019 Buick Encore lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2019 is 2 years after the 2017 refresh refresh.

Owners log 82 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 engine (18). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2020 Buick Encore, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2018 Buick Encore for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +Infrequent unscheduled repairs
  • +Low major repair risk (12%)
  • +Low recall count

Cons

  • ENGINE issues reported (18 complaints)
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Engine unexpectedly shutting off while driving, leading to a complete loss of... (9 complaints)

Compare 2019 Buick Encore With

Common Problem Categories

Safety

LOW RISK
  • 2 manufacturer recalls issued

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ENGINE (18)
  • POWER TRAIN (9)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

2

recalls on record

The 2019 Buick Encore carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

8

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 21.2

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

9

Crashes

1

Fires

9

Injuries

1

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

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

2019 Buick Encore Recall Details

2 recalls have been issued for the 2019 Buick Encore. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.

18V7740002018-11-01

AIR BAGS

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Buick Encore, Chevrolet Spark, Traverse, and Trax vehicles. The Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) on these vehicle may not have been turned off of "manufacturing mode," preventing the air bags from deploying in the event of a crash.

Consequence

If the air bags do not deploy in the event of a crash, it can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the SDM module to the correct mode, free of charge. The recall began November 6, 2018. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 and Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is 18365.

20V6680002020-10-29

POWER TRAIN

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.

Consequence

Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.

Remedy

GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2019 Buick Encore? Check its history first

Every 2019 Buick Encore has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2019 Buick Encore NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 5/5

Rollover risk: 19.8%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Advanced Belt Feature (Standard)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Curtain (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Pelvis/Torso (Driver, Front Passenger, Rear Seat)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (Not Available)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (Rear Seat)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Buick EncoreRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

4Maintenance rating: 4 out of 5

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

Est. Annual Maintenance

$466

vs $466 avg for subcompact SUVs

vs $652 avg for all vehicles

Repair Frequency

0.1

unscheduled repair visits per year

Severe Repair Probability

12%

chance of a major repair

Annual Cost Comparison

Encore
$466
Category Avg
$466
All Vehicles
$652

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

Buick Encore Resale Value

The Buick Encore is estimated to retain about 55.4% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.

This benchmark covers the Buick Encore model overall and is not specific to the 2019 model year.

Value Retained
55.4%

after 5 years

Depreciation
44.6%

over the same period

Listings Analyzed
187

U.S. used-car listings

Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.

Explore Buick Encore depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.com

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

26–28 MPG

Running cost: $2,600–$2,750/yr

Fuel + repair

24–26 city / 29–31 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2019 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Encore 1.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)263128$2,150
Encore 1.4L 4-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)253027$2,200
Encore AWD 1.4L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)253027$2,200
Encore AWD 1.4L 4-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic (S6)242926$2,300

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2019 Buick Encore.

  • Inspect turbocharger for signs of failure or reduced power

  • Test brakes for locking or pulsing sensations at higher speeds

  • Check for control arm integrity, especially after pothole impacts

  • Verify electrical system functionality, including stop-start feature

  • Ensure airbag system is operational and sensors recognize occupants

  • Inspect for coolant leaks and engine overheating signs

  • Test for unintended acceleration or transmission slipping

  • Check for tire sidewall integrity and signs of dry rot

2019 Buick Encore Common Problems by Component

82 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

18
9
9
9
15
ENGINE (18)POWER TRAIN (9)AIR BAGS (9)ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8)ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (5)SERVICE BRAKES (5)SUSPENSION (4)Other (15)

ENGINE

18 complaints

Owners report that the 2019 Buick Encore frequently experiences turbocharger failures, often resulting in reduced power and difficulty maintaining speed, especially during highway merging or hill climbing. Complaints frequently mention illuminated check engine lights and diagnostic codes such as P0299, with some owners noting repeated issues even after repairs. Engine stalling and surging are also described, sometimes leading to unintended acceleration or loss of motive power. These issues are typically reported at mileages ranging from 13,000 to over 67,000 miles. While no crashes are documented, the loss of power and acceleration can pose safety risks, particularly in high-speed or remote driving conditions.

18 complaints total

POWER TRAIN

9 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Buick Encore frequently report issues with the power train, particularly involving stalling and transmission failures. Common symptoms include the vehicle stalling in traffic, failure to start, and the gear shift lever becoming stuck in park. Some complaints describe the car moving unexpectedly while parked, and one report involves a crash where the vehicle lost motive power and could not engage the brakes. These issues often occur around 39,000 to 77,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, with stalling in traffic and loss of control being reported, which could be critical for potential buyers to consider.

9 complaints total1 crash

AIR BAGS

9 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Buick Encore frequently report issues with airbag deployment, particularly during crashes, with five incidents involving crashes and seven injuries documented. Complaints often describe airbags failing to deploy upon impact, even in severe accidents, and some mention unexpected airbag warning lights or email alerts indicating a problem. Additionally, there are reports of airbag sensors not recognizing occupants in the passenger seat. These issues are noted across a range of mileages, from approximately 40,000 to 135,000 miles. Prospective buyers should be aware of the potential safety risks associated with these airbag malfunctions.

9 complaints total5 crashes7 injuries
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9 complaints)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

9 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Buick Encore frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the engine unexpectedly shutting off while driving, leading to a complete loss of control, lights, and steering. Some complaints indicate that the vehicle may restart itself without driver input, with incidents occurring both at high speeds and in-town driving. Additionally, owners describe problems with the stop-start feature, where the engine fails to restart after shutting off at stops, and in one instance, this left occupants temporarily trapped inside the vehicle. Another reported issue involves the windshield wipers operating intermittently without user control. These electrical failures, occurring as early as within one month of ownership, have led to at least one crash and two injuries, highlighting significant safety concerns for potential buyers.

9 complaints total1 crash2 injuries
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

8 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Buick Encore frequently report issues related to engine performance and unexpected vehicle behavior. Multiple complaints describe problems with the cooling system, including coolant leaks and overheating, leading to significant engine damage such as blown head gaskets. Some owners also experience sudden unintended acceleration, resulting in crashes, and a reported case of the vehicle catching fire while in operation. Additionally, there are reports of stereo volume inconsistencies and connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay. These issues often occur at varying mileages, with some occurring shortly after purchase. Safety implications include a crash and a fire, both of which are serious concerns for potential buyers of this model.

8 complaints total1 crash1 fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (5 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

5 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Buick Encore frequently report issues related to the turbocharger and engine components. Complaints often mention symptoms such as loss of power, engine jerking, and the illumination of the check engine light, with some instances of white smoke from the tailpipe and burning oil odors. These problems typically occur between approximately 63,000 and 123,000 miles. Safety implications include potential stalling and loss of power while driving, which can be concerning for highway travel. Buyers considering a used 2019 Buick Encore should be aware of these recurring issues, especially related to turbocharger failures and potential coolant intrusion into the engine.

5 complaints total
SERVICE BRAKES (5 complaints)

SERVICE BRAKES

5 complaints

Owners report several brake-related issues with the 2019 Buick Encore. Common symptoms include the brake pedal traveling to the floorboard, brakes locking up, and a hard-to-depress brake pedal, sometimes accompanied by a burning odor. These issues occur at varying mileages, with specific complaints noted at 3,000, 8,000, 23,600, and 63,000 miles. Some owners mention needing to pump the brakes for them to function properly or experiencing brake lock-up at speeds over 50 mph. Safety implications include potential loss of control due to brake failure or locking, though no crashes or fires are reported in the complaints. Used car buyers should be aware of these issues and consider inspecting the brake system thoroughly before purchase.

5 complaints total
SUSPENSION (4 complaints)

SUSPENSION

4 complaints

Owners report issues with the suspension system of the 2019 Buick Encore, particularly involving the lower control arm. Complaints frequently mention that the control arm can bend or break, especially after hitting a pothole, leading to significant damage such as the CV joint detaching from the transmission. Symptoms described include loud clunking noises and a heavy physical clunk when brakes are applied. These issues are noted at relatively low mileage, with one report at just 37,000 miles. Safety implications are evident as the failure of the control arm can lead to loss of vehicle control, and one owner highlights the need to tow the vehicle due to safety concerns. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these potential suspension issues and the associated repair costs.

4 complaints total
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3 complaints)

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL

3 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2019 Buick Encore report issues related to sudden acceleration and transmission performance. One complaint describes sudden acceleration occurring on three occasions with the vehicle having 34,000 miles. Another owner reports a crash incident where the vehicle unexpectedly accelerated while parking, leading to a collision with a building. Additionally, transmission-related symptoms such as whirring noises, skipping while driving, and failure to downshift after acceleration are noted. These issues suggest potential safety implications, particularly concerning sudden acceleration incidents.

3 complaints total1 crash
STEERING (2 complaints)

STEERING

2 complaints

Owners of the 2019 Buick Encore report issues with the power steering system, specifically describing instances where the power steering fails while driving, as noted in one complaint at approximately 45,500 miles. This failure is characterized by a sudden loss of steering assistance, requiring the driver to pull over and restart the vehicle to restore functionality. The power steering warning light is reported to illuminate during these incidents. No crashes or injuries are mentioned in the complaints, but the temporary loss of power steering could pose a safety risk. Prospective buyers should be aware of these symptoms and monitor for any warning lights or steering difficulties during test drives.

2 complaints total

When Do 2019 Buick Encore Problems Start?

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

13,000–67,000 milesTurbocharger failures
3,000–63,000 milesBrake system issues
37,000 milesControl arm failures

Best & Worst Buick Encore Years

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

Best Buick Encore Years to Buy

The best Buick Encore year is 2022 with a reliability score of 80/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2021 (80/100) and 2018 (80/100).

Buick Encore Years to Avoid

No Buick Encore years are statistical outliers in our data.

All model years score consistently well. The Buick Encore maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.

Buick Encore Reliability Score Trend

Buick Encore reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 79/100.

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

Buick Encore reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
201880/100Excellent
201976/100Good
202077/100Good
202180/100Excellent
202280/100Excellent

Buick Encore Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202280/1000Excellent08
202180/100+3Excellent09
202077/100+1Good219
2019(selected)76/100-4Good282
201880/100Excellent072

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2019 Buick Encore reliable?
The 2019 Buick Encore has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 76/100. It is reasonably reliable with 2 recalls and 82 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2019 Buick Encore?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2019 Buick Encore include: ENGINE (18 complaints), POWER TRAIN (9 complaints), AIR BAGS (9 complaints), ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (9 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2019 Buick Encore have?
The 2019 Buick Encore has 2 recalls on record. Recalls are safety or compliance fixes issued by the manufacturer and repaired at no cost at authorized dealerships.
Is the 2019 Buick Encore expensive to maintain?
The 2019 Buick Encore has estimated annual repair costs of $466/year, which matches the subcompact SUVs average. With a reliability score of 76/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2019 Buick Encore 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

1

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.

2

Repair Costs

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

3

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.

4

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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