2018 Buick Encore Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The engine is the most frequently cited issue, with 24 complaints detailing power loss and stalling.
- Service brakes are another area of concern, accounting for 10.5% of owner complaints.
- Despite 95 total complaints, the 2018 Encore has zero recalls, suggesting issues may be addressed via TSBs rather than formal campaigns.
- Safety is a strong suit, with a 5-star overall NHTSA rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side crash tests.
2018 Buick Encore
Critical Failure Risk
Owners report significant engine power loss, sometimes leading to stalling. This can be related to turbocharger issues or other engine control system faults.
Early detection can help you avoid a $500-$2,500 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Drivers seeking a comfortable and quiet subcompact SUV for city driving.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Drivers who demand top-tier reliability and minimal unexpected repair costs.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Buick Encore Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Buick Encore.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- Front-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 28
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 24 reports
2. Braking System
Usage: 10 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Buick Encore reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Buick Encore is 8.5/10. Reliability score is 8.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 95.
How practical is the 2018 Buick Encore for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.7/10. EPA combined economy is 28 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Buick Encore?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Buick Encore is 8.0/10. Overall score is 8.0/10 (Strong). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 55,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,000).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Buick Encore?
Base MSRP is $30,600.
What engine is in the 2018 Buick Encore?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.
What transmission does the 2018 Buick Encore use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick Encore, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Buick Encore?
EPA combined estimate is 28 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Buick Encore?
10 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Buick Encore?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick Encore, seating capacity is 5.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Buick Encore use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick Encore, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 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 2018 Buick Encore?
Top complaint category: engine (24 reports, 25.3% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Buick Encore?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Honda HR-V and 2018 Mazda CX-3.