What are the most common problems with the 2022 Buick Encore?

Zero recalls issued, suggesting no widespread safety defects requiring manufacturer intervention.

How many recalls does the 2022 Buick Encore have?

The 2022 Buick Encore currently has 0 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2022 Buick Encore a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Zero recalls issued, suggesting no widespread safety defects requiring manufacturer intervention. Owner complaints highlight concerns with **airbags** (non-deployment in a totaled vehicle), **seat belts** (fraying), and **powertrain** issues (loss of power, lunging). The **powertrain** system, particularly the Engine Control Module, is a focus of complaints, with some owners reporting recurring issues and strong odors. Safety is a strong point with a 5-star overall NHTSA rating, but specific component failures in complaints warrant attention. Combined fuel economy is rated at 26 MPG, contributing to reasonable running costs for the class. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2022 Buick Encore?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2022 Buick Encore.

2022 Buick Encore Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Zero recalls issued, suggesting no widespread safety defects requiring manufacturer intervention.
Owner complaints highlight concerns with airbags (non-deployment in a totaled vehicle), seat belts (fraying), and powertrain issues (loss of power, lunging).
The powertrain system, particularly the Engine Control Module, is a focus of complaints, with some owners reporting recurring issues and strong odors.
Safety is a strong point with a 5-star overall NHTSA rating, but specific component failures in complaints warrant attention.

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Overview

2022 Buick Encore

The 2022 Buick Encore offers a compact SUV package with respectable fuel economy and a comfortable ride, aiming for urban practicality. It achieved top marks in NHTSA crash tests, scoring 5 stars overall. However, its reliability record, while not marred by recalls, shows a pattern of owner-reported issues. The 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power for daily driving, and the available All-Wheel Drive enhances traction. Fuel economy is a strong suit, with a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG. Despite its safety scores, a closer look at owner complaints reveals potential concerns regarding critical safety systems and powertrain performance.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate issues with the Engine Control Module (ECM) leading to loss of power, vehicle lunging, and strong odors. Recurrence after repair suggests potential complexity in diagnosis or component quality.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Recall Campaigns0

Service Bulletins63

Campaign counts apply to this model year, not your VIN's repair status. Check your VIN with NHTSA.

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

Power Train2

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

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

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Drivers seeking a comfortable and maneuverable compact SUV for city driving.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers prioritizing bulletproof reliability and minimal repair concerns.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Buick Encore Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Seating Capacity: 5
Transmission: Automatic
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 26

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Most Common Issues

1. Powertrain

Most reported

Usage: 2 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 1 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 - Cabin Air Filter Replacement

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 (5 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

Full safety recall details

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FAQ

Is the 2022 Buick Encore reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Buick Encore is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 11.

How practical is the 2022 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 2022 Buick Encore?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Buick Encore is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 4.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 Buick Encore?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Cabin Air Filter Replacement at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Powertrain Control Module (PCM) (typical at 80,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).

What engine is in the 2022 Buick Encore?

Engine specs list 4 • 1.4.

What transmission does the 2022 Buick Encore use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Buick Encore, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2022 Buick Encore?

EPA combined estimate is 26 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 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 2022 Buick Encore?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Buick Encore, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2022 Buick Encore?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Buick Encore, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2022 Buick Encore use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Buick Encore, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2022 Buick Encore?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common power train problems on the 2022 Buick Encore?

Top complaint category: power train (2 reports, 18.2% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2022 Buick Encore?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2022 Honda HR-V and 2022 Mazda CX-30.