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2019 Buick Encore Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Ethan Miller·2 Critical Recalls
2019 Buick Encore Report

Overall Score

7.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2019 Buick Encore has a 'Below Average' reliability rating, driven by frequent complaints about the engine and electrical systems.
  • A critical recall concerning the air bag system's potential failure to deploy in a crash requires verification of completion.
  • Top complaint categories include engine issues (stalling, turbo failures) and electrical system malfunctions.
  • The Encore earns strong NHTSA safety scores, including 5 stars for overall, frontal, and side crash tests.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2019 Buick Encore

The 2019 Buick Encore offers a compact SUV package with respectable fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined. Its safety ratings are strong, with 5-star overall, frontal, and side crash scores. However, a high number of complaints and a 'Below Average' reliability verdict signal potential ownership challenges. The most frequent issues reported involve the engine, electrical system, and air bags, with some recalls addressing critical safety components. Buyers should be aware of these potential pitfalls.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues with the engine stalling unexpectedly or surging forward. This can be related to fuel delivery, ignition system faults, or turbocharger problems.

Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$1,500 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls3
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

104
Engine22
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
27
MPG
City
25
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.7/ 10

Practicality

4.9/ 10

The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride in a small SUV.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2019 Buick Encore Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2019 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
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
27

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 22 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 10 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 System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Washer)

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 (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
3 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2019 Buick Encore reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Buick Encore is 7.7/10. Reliability score is 7.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 3. Owner complaints: 104.

How practical is the 2019 Buick Encore for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.9/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.

What is the overall score for the 2019 Buick Encore?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2019 Buick Encore is 7.7/10. Overall score is 7.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 4.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2019 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 System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (Coolant, Brake, Washer) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Turbocharger (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $800 • Max: $1,500).

What is the MSRP range for the 2019 Buick Encore?▾

Base MSRP is $25,800.

What engine is in the 2019 Buick Encore?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2019 Buick Encore use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Buick Encore, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2019 Buick Encore?▾

EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2019 Buick Encore?▾

8 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2019 Buick Encore?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Buick Encore, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2019 Buick Encore?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Buick Encore, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2019 Buick Encore use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2019 Buick Encore, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2019 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 2019 Buick Encore?▾

Top complaint category: engine (22 reports, 21.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2019 Buick Encore?▾

This model year has 3 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2019 Buick Encore?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2019 Honda HR-V and 2019 Mazda CX-3.

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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