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2013 Buick Encore Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2013 Buick Encore Report

Overall Score

8.1/ 10
Our Verdict
Recommended

Key Takeaways

  • Prioritize inspection of the engine and powertrain systems due to frequent complaints.
  • Verify completion of all 7 safety recalls, particularly those concerning steering and airbags.
  • The 1.4L four-cylinder engine, while fuel-efficient, may exhibit reduced power, especially in cold weather.
  • Electrical system and vehicle speed control issues are also reported with some frequency.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2013 Buick Encore

The 2013 Buick Encore offers a compact SUV package with a focus on urban maneuverability and a comfortable ride. It boasts a strong safety score, earning 5 stars overall from NHTSA. However, potential buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict, driven by a notable number of engine and powertrain complaints. With 7 recalls issued, diligent pre-purchase inspection is essential.

Critical Failure Risk

Frequent complaints involve reduced engine power, often accompanied by warning lights. This is commonly linked to the throttle body sensor and can be exacerbated by cold weather. Issues include stalling and inability to accelerate.

Early detection can help you avoid a $200-$1,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls7
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

70
Engine21
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
28
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
33
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.4/ 10

Practicality

6.3/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a compact, maneuverable SUV with good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Drivers prioritizing long-term, trouble-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2013 Buick Encore Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2013 Buick Encore.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Automatic (S6)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
28

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 21 reports

2. Powertrain

Usage: 7 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection

Est. shop cost: $80 - $150

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
7 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2013 Buick Encore reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2013 Buick Encore is 8.4/10. Reliability score is 8.4/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 70.

How practical is the 2013 Buick Encore for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 6.3/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 532 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2013 Buick Encore is 8.1/10. Overall score is 8.1/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 6.3/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2013 Buick Encore?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake Inspection at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Throttle Body Assembly (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $300 • Max: $700).

What engine is in the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2013 Buick Encore use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Buick Encore, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

How many people fit in a 2013 Buick Encore?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Buick Encore, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Buick Encore, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2013 Buick Encore use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2013 Buick Encore, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

Top complaint category: engine (21 reports, 30% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2013 Buick Encore?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2013 Honda CR-V and 2013 Toyota RAV4.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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