2021 Buick Encore Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2021 Buick Encore has an 'Average' reliability rating, with a significant number of complaints focused on engine and powertrain issues.
- Key areas of concern include potential turbocharger failures and other critical engine component wear, which can lead to substantial repair bills.
- Despite powertrain concerns, the Encore achieved excellent safety ratings, with a 5-star overall score from NHTSA.
- Fuel economy is respectable for its class, rated at 26 MPG combined.
2021 Buick Encore
The 2021 Buick Encore presents a mixed bag for used car shoppers. It offers a comfortable ride and strong safety scores, achieving a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA. However, its 'Average' reliability verdict, driven by a notable number of consumer complaints concerning the engine and powertrain, warrants careful consideration. Prospective buyers should prioritize thorough inspections of these vital systems.
Critical Failure Risk
Premature engine failure has been reported, sometimes requiring complete engine replacement. This can occur at higher mileages, but issues can manifest earlier.
Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$6,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
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
Drivers seeking a comfortable and safe compact SUV for city driving.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers who demand top-tier reliability and minimal risk of major mechanical failures.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2021 Buick Encore Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2021 Buick Encore.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic (S6)
- Drivetrain
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 3 reports
2. Powertrain
Usage: 2 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Exhaust System
Est. shop cost: $100 - $180
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FAQ
Is the 2021 Buick Encore reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2021 Buick Encore is 9.1/10. Reliability score is 9.1/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 9.
How practical is the 2021 Buick Encore for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is dragged down by its weaker day-to-day practicality signals. EPA combined economy is 26 MPG. Seating capacity is 5.
What is the overall score for the 2021 Buick Encore?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2021 Buick Encore is 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 4.7/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2021 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 - Inspect Exhaust System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 100,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $6,000+).
What engine is in the 2021 Buick Encore?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.
What transmission does the 2021 Buick Encore use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Buick Encore, transmission is Automatic (S6). The paired drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2021 Buick Encore?
EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2021 Buick Encore?
10 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2021 Buick Encore?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Buick Encore, seating capacity is 5.
What body style is the 2021 Buick Encore?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Buick Encore, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2021 Buick Encore use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2021 Buick Encore, drivetrain is AWD/All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic (S6).
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2021 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 2021 Buick Encore?
Top complaint category: engine (3 reports, 33.3% of complaints).