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2014 Buick Encore Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis·4 Critical Recalls
2014 Buick Encore Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • Below-average reliability is the primary concern, driven by engine and electrical system issues.
  • A critical recall for the airbag system (16V651000/17V437000) requires verification of completion.
  • Expect potential repair costs associated with frequent engine and electrical system complaints.
  • Fuel economy is a strong point, with a combined EPA rating of 28 MPG.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2014 Buick Encore

The 2014 Buick Encore offers a compact SUV package with respectable fuel economy and top-tier safety ratings. However, potential buyers should be aware of its below-average reliability verdict. The vehicle has a notable number of recalls and a high volume of owner complaints, particularly concerning the engine and electrical systems. With 8 recalls and 92 complaints logged, careful inspection is paramount. The Encore achieved a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating strong performance in crash tests.

Critical Failure Risk

Oil leaks, particularly from the valve cover or oil pan, are reported. These can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,000-$2,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls8
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

92
Engine25
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

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

Reliability

7.9/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10
Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers prioritizing compact SUV practicality and good fuel economy.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2014 Buick Encore Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2014 Buick Encore.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
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: 25 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 12 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 - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Engine Air Filter

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

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

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

FAQ

Is the 2014 Buick Encore reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2014 Buick Encore is 7.9/10. Reliability score is 7.9/10. NHTSA recalls: 8. Owner complaints: 92.

How practical is the 2014 Buick Encore for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2014 Buick Encore?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2014 Buick Encore is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.9/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2014 Buick Encore?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Engine Air Filter at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine Oil Leaks (Valve Cover/Oil Pan) (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1,500).

What engine is in the 2014 Buick Encore?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2014 Buick Encore use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Buick Encore, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2014 Buick Encore?▾

EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2014 Buick Encore?▾

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

What body style is the 2014 Buick Encore?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Buick Encore, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2014 Buick Encore use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2014 Buick Encore, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2014 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 2014 Buick Encore?▾

Top complaint category: engine (25 reports, 27.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2014 Buick Encore?▾

This model year has 8 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2014 Buick Encore?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2014 Honda CR-V and 2014 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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