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2022 Buick Encore Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson
2022 Buick Encore Report

Overall Score

7.9/ 10
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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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
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

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

11
Power Train2
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
26
MPG
City
23
MPG
Highway
30
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

9.0/ 10

Practicality

4.7/ 10

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

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 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
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
26

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

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

FAQ

Is the 2022 Buick Encore reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Buick Encore is 9.0/10. Reliability score is 9.0/10. 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 7.9/10. Overall score is 7.9/10 (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.

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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