Last updated: 2026-08-24

Buick Encore vs Cadillac XT4: Reliability Compared

More ReliableBuick Encore reliability comparison

Buick Encore

79
GoodReliability score: 79 out of 100, rated Good
VS
Cadillac XT4 reliability comparison

Cadillac XT4

72
GoodReliability score: 72 out of 100, rated Good

Choosing between the Buick Encore and the Cadillac XT4? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two compact suvs.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Buick Encore currently leads with an average score of 79/100 compared to 72/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Buick Encore and Cadillac XT4 Generations Compare?

As of 2026, the Cadillac XT4 is in its first generation, which began in 2019 and underwent a significant facelift in 2024. Being later in its generation cycle, the XT4 benefits from several years of production refinements, often leading to improved reliability as early platform issues tend to be resolved. The Buick Encore completed its first generation, which spanned from 2013 to 2022, with a notable refresh in 2017. This mature platform had ample time to address initial reliability concerns, generally making it a dependable choice by the end of its cycle. For buyers, the XT4's later-stage first generation and the Encore's established platform both suggest a focus on models with proven reliability records.

Verdict

The Buick Encore is more reliable than the Cadillac XT4, scoring 79/100 vs 72/100.

The Buick Encore outperforms the Cadillac XT4 in terms of reliability, with a higher average reliability score of 82/100 compared to the XT4's 72/100. The Encore has a significantly lower recall count, with only 4 recalls over 8 years versus the XT4's 12, and a lower owner complaint rate of 1.3 per 10,000 units sold compared to the XT4's 7. While both vehicles share common issues with their power trains and electrical systems, the Encore's lower estimated annual repair cost of $466 further solidifies its advantage in reliability. Overall, the Buick Encore is the more dependable choice in the compact SUV segment.

Key Differences

  1. 1Buick Encore has 8 fewer total recalls
  2. 2Buick Encore scores 7 points higher in reliability
  3. 3Buick Encore has 0.1 fewer complaints per 10k sold

Category Scoreboard

3Buick Encore
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0Cadillac XT4
Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Buick Encore vs Cadillac XT4: Which Is More Reliable?

Buick Encore vs Cadillac XT4 at-a-glance reliability comparison
MetricBuick EncoreCadillac XT4
Reliability Score79/10072/100
Years Tracked58
Total Recalls412
Complaints per 10k Sold6.97
Year Wins40

What Are the Common Problems With the Buick Encore and Cadillac XT4?

The Cadillac XT4 and Buick Encore present distinct problem profiles, with the XT4 having a total of 101 complaints and the Encore 190. The XT4's most significant issues are related to the electrical system and power train, while the Encore has a notably higher number of complaints regarding the engine and power train, with the latter involving two crash-linked incidents. Air bag issues are a critical concern for the Encore, with 19 complaints, 11 of which are crash-linked, highlighting a significant safety risk not mirrored in the XT4's profile. Both vehicles share similar concerns in the electrical system and service brakes, each with one crash-linked complaint, but the Encore's higher overall complaint volume and severe air bag issues suggest a more urgent need for attention in safety-related areas.

Buick Encore vs Cadillac XT4 common problem areas comparison
ComponentBuick EncoreCadillac XT4
POWER TRAIN1Very Low1Very Low
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM0.7Very Low1.3Low
ENGINE1.5Low0.3Very Low
SERVICE BRAKES0.4Very Low0.7Very Low
AIR BAGS0.7Very Low—None
UNKNOWN OR OTHER0.4Very Low0.3Very Low
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM0.1Very Low0.6Very Low
STEERING0.3Very Low0.1Very Low
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING0.3Very Low—None
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE—None0.3Very Low
EXTERIOR LIGHTING—None0.3Very Low
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL0.2Very Low—None
SUSPENSION0.1Very Low0.1Very Low
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)0.1Very Low—None
VISIBILITY/WIPER—None0.1Very Low

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

Which Is Cheaper to Maintain: Buick Encore or Cadillac XT4?

The Buick Encore, with an annual repair cost estimated at $466, shows a predictable expense for budget-conscious buyers. Its repair frequency is about 0.1 visits per year, indicating minimal disruptions. However, the 12% risk of a major repair suggests potential for significant unexpected costs. In contrast, specific cost data for the Cadillac XT4 is unavailable, making direct comparisons challenging. However, considering the Buick Encore's low repair frequency and known annual costs, it offers a clearer picture for those prioritizing cost predictability. Without explicit data for the XT4, the Encore emerges as the more reliable choice for maintaining a balanced budget over time.

How Does Buick Encore vs Cadillac XT4 Reliability Compare by Year?

Buick Encore vs Cadillac XT4 year-by-year reliability scores
YearBuick EncoreCadillac XT4Edge
202280/1000R / 8C72/1001R / 3CBuick Encore
202180/1000R / 9C71/1001R / 12CBuick Encore
202077/1002R / 19C68/1005R / 17CBuick Encore
201976/1002R / 82C70/1003R / 20CBuick Encore

Best years to cross-shop: The 2022 Buick Encore scored 80/100 and the 2022 Cadillac XT4 scored 72/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Buick Encore vs the Cadillac XT4?

If you prioritize reliability and low running costs, the Buick Encore is the better choice. With a reliability score of 82/100 and only 4 recalls, it offers a more dependable experience. The Encore also boasts fewer owner complaints at 1.3 per 10,000 sold and a minor repair risk of 12%. Additionally, independent repair cost estimates suggest an affordable annual repair cost of $466, making it an economical option for budget-conscious buyers. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the Cadillac XT4 for its brand prestige or specific features, be prepared for potential reliability challenges. With a lower reliability score of 72/100 and 12 recalls, it has more frequent issues in areas like the electrical system and power train. If you can tolerate a higher likelihood of issues and prioritize other aspects like luxury features or driving dynamics, the XT4 might still appeal to you. However, for peace of mind and cost-effectiveness, the Encore stands out as the more reliable choice.

Buick Encore vs Cadillac XT4: Common Questions

Is the Buick Encore more reliable than the Cadillac XT4?
Based on our data, the Buick Encore is more reliable with an average score of 79/100 compared to 72/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Buick Encore or the Cadillac XT4?
The Cadillac XT4 has more recalls (12) compared to the Buick Encore (4). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Buick Encore or the Cadillac XT4?
Adjusted for sales volume, the Buick Encore has a lower complaint rate at 6.9 per 10,000 vehicles sold versus 7 for the Cadillac XT4. Normalizing by sales gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Related Reliability Comparisons

Decided between Buick Encore and Cadillac XT4? Run a VIN check before you buy — uncover hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls.

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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 via vehicles.dev. 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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