2019 Buick Encore Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
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.
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.
Full Recall History →Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals.
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.
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 reportedUsage: 22 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 10 reports
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
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FAQ
Is the 2019 Buick Encore reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2019 Buick Encore is 6.7/10. Reliability score is 6.7/10. 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 7.4/10. Overall score is 7.4/10 (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.