KL4CJFSB8HB2362382017 BUICK EncorePreferred II
2017 BUICK Encore was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 87 owner complaints include 28 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
Executive Summary
2017 BUICK Encore
2017 BUICK Encore was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 2 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 87 owner complaints include 28 reported injuries, indicating real-world safety incidents beyond normal wear.
- 2 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
- 28 injuries reported across 87 owner complaints
- 12 complaints involved a crash — unusually high incident rate
- Common owner-reported issues: check engine light, stalling, loss of power
- Complaint rate is accelerating — issues appear to be getting worse, not better
- Safety Systems is flagged in both recalls and owner complaints — double-confirmed failure pattern
87 owner complaints filed — top areas: Engine/Powertrain (46%), Safety Systems (16%), Other (9%). Common issues: check engine light, stalling, loss of power. 12 crashes reported.
Title Brand Check
Mined from auction damage fields and listing titles — not a DMV title history pull
No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.
Vehicle Specifications
Decoded from NHTSA vPIC database
- Make
- BUICK
- Model
- Encore
- Year
- 2017
- Trim / Series
- Preferred II
- Body Style
- Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
- Vehicle Type
- MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Drive Type
- AWD/All-Wheel Drive
- Fuel Type
- Gasoline
- Engine
- 4-cyl 1.4L
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Doors
- 4
- Manufacturer
- GENERAL MOTORS LLC
- Assembly
- BUPYEONG, SOUTH KOREA
- GVWR
- Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
- Base MSRP
- $26,865
Assembly Plant Quality
Plant: BUPYEONG, SOUTH KOREA
No specific quality data available for this plant. No documented recall or complaint concentrations on record.
Safety Intelligence
Composite analysis from NHTSA recall, complaint, and crash data
- ▸Airbag system recall
- ▸4 complaint(s) involved a fire
- ⚠2 recalls on same component: Safety Systems
- ⚠28 injuries reported in complaints
- ⚠Safety system appears in both official recalls and owner complaints
Lemon law eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service. Consult an attorney for actual eligibility.
The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.
Driver Assistance Features
ADAS equipment data from NHTSA vPIC database
Fuel Economy & Environment
EPA fuel economy data from fueleconomy.gov
Deferred Failure Risk
Components and defects approaching or past their known service milestones
Worn chain tensioners cause timing chain skip or snap — common on GM 5.3L/6.2L, Ford EcoBoost, VW/Audi EA888, BMW N47/N63. Listen for cold-start rattles.
Water pump failure causes rapid overheating. If the engine overheats even once, head gasket damage is likely — turning a $400 part into a $3,000+ repair.
Degraded transmission fluid destroys clutch packs and solenoids. CVT transmissions are especially sensitive — neglected fluid can result in a $4,000–$8,000 replacement.
On 4WD/AWD vehicles, neglected differential or transfer case fluid causes metal-on-metal wear. Replacement costs $1,500–$4,000.
Degraded coolant loses corrosion inhibitors and attacks aluminum engine components. Can cause head gasket failure and water pump corrosion.
Worn spark plugs cause misfires that can foul and crack catalytic converters. A $150 tune-up can prevent a $1,200 catalytic converter replacement.
Dirty or failing injectors cause rough idle, reduced fuel economy, and increased emissions. Cleaning costs $100–$200; replacement $800–$1,600.
NHTSA Safety Recalls
2 RECALLSNHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 2 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Average repair completion across 2 recalls is ~80%. Always ask the seller for dealer service records confirming each repair.
Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.
BUICK completes recalls at a fair rate (87%). If this vehicle has open recalls, follow up with a dealer — average remedy time is ~20 months.
Avg time to remedy open recall: ~20 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
SummaryGeneral Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2015-2017 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD, 3500 HD, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Sierra 2500 HD and 3500 HD, GMC Yukon, GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Cadillac Escalade ESV vehicles and 2014-2017 Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500, Trax, Caprice Police Pursuit Vehicle, GMC Sierra 1500, Buick Encore, and 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse, Chevrolet Spark EV and SS vehicles. In the affected vehicles, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.Read full details...
~20% chance this vehicle is still unrepaired
Low RiskSource: NHTSA published Takata completion data
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
SummaryGeneral Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2014-2016 Buick Lacrosse and Chevrolet Spark EV, Caprice PPV and SS vehicles, 2014-2017 Buick Encore and Chevrolet Corvette, Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles, 2015-2016 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Trax, Suburban and Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Yukon and Yukon XL vehicles, and 2015-2017 GMC Sierra HD 2500 and 3500 vehicles. While being previously remedied for recall 16V-651, the affected vehicles may not have received the complete software update necessary to remedy the recall condition. Without the update, certain driving conditions may cause the air bag sensing and diagnostic module (SDM) software to activate a diagnostic test. During this test, deployment of the frontal air bags and the seat belt pretensioners would not occur in the event of a crash.Read full details...
~20% chance this vehicle is still unrepaired
Low RiskSource: NHTSA published Takata completion data
Recall Intelligence
Detailed analysis of recall history and severity
⚠ One or more recalls have been open for over 5 years — may never have been repaired on this vehicle.
1 in 3 complaints involved an injury — significantly above average, indicating real-world safety incidents.
Complaint Intelligence
87 complaints analyzed across 9 system categories
⚠ Complaint rate is accelerating — issue may be getting worse
Owner Complaints
HIGH VOLUME87 safety complaints filed with NHTSA
There is a problem with the 2017 Buick Encore turbocharger. From speaking with the auto shop I took it to for a check they have seen many Buick Encore’s with the same turbocharger problems. He spoke to me about it prior to me dropping off the vehicle and then confirming the issue after inspecting the vehicle. The turbocharger inspection revealed a distinct structural crack at the wastegate flange, resulting in boost pressure loss. There is already a recall associated with this problem in other VIN’s with the same year and type of vehicle, recall needs to be expanded because this is a known and ongoing problem.
UNKNOWN. MY 2017 Buick Encore while parked in front of my home just blew up at 1 am. I have a video of this occuring. It was on the passengers side. My neighbor stated that he heard a loud bang and went outside. He said parts were flying off my car. I don't know how to send the video but I do have one when this occured. I have contacted Buick Corporate and now they are saying that they are sending my matter to the legal department. Buick corporate told me to have my vehicle towed to the Buick Dealer which I did because I wanted to know why that happened. I paid to have it towed and tomorrow I have to pay to have it towed back home until legal gets back in touch with me. The way that the vehicle exploded I am scared to even get back into the vehicle. I am so thankful that this occured at 1 am and my grandson was in bed This could have really hurt or killed someone. I thank God that I wasn't driving it. When the tow truck driver arrived he said oh your air bag exploded . I told him that I didn't know what caused it. The Buick dealer never inspected the vehicle. The Buick dealer stated that it was the tire that blew from his visual inspection.
Formal Consumer Complaint Statement — GM / Crivelli Buick I am filing a formal consumer complaint against Crivelli Chevrolet Buick GMC and General Motors/Buick regarding what I believe was discriminatory and unfair treatment in connection with a warranty-covered vehicle repair. The customer is [XXX] , owner of a 2017 Buick Encore. The vehicle was serviced by Crivelli Chevrolet Buick GMC in Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania, on or about May 20, 2026, for a turbocharger failure covered under GM Special Coverage Bulletin N232395330. The vehicle had recently passed Pennsylvania safety and emissions inspection on April 30, 2026. The turbo-related diagnostic code appeared on or about [XXX]. Crivelli completed the minimum turbocharger warranty repair but then informed the customer that additional intake/manifold-related repairs were needed and would not be covered. The customer disputed this because the additional failure appeared during the same repair sequence and appears directly related to the covered turbocharger failure. A written request was faxed asking Crivelli to review the invoice, compare the repair to GM’s covered parts list, and submit the related intake/manifold issue to GM for collateral coverage, goodwill review, or warranty consideration. Crivelli did not respond to the fax notice and did not return the customer’s calls. When the customer attempted to follow up with the service department, Scott from the service department refused to review the concern, refused to provide further service, and refused to contact GM regarding the related warranty issue. Based on the conduct, tone, refusal to review the documentation, refusal to escalate to GM, and refusal to provide equal service, I believe the customer was denied fair consumer service because of race.The customer is not asking for special treatment. The customer is asking for equal treatment, proper review of GM’s own warranty/special coverage bulletin, and fair handling of a related mechanical INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Will vehicle was parked in my driveway there was a loud like explosion. It just exploded. My passenger size of my vehicle is totalled. I do have a video of the car blowing up. I am so happy that it was late in the early mornings. I have grandkids that play here and one of them could have got hurt or killed.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of power and went into "LIMP Mode". Additionally, there was smoke coming from the rear of the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the issue but declined to service the vehicle because the vehicle had a salvage title. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the engine was running rough, and the vehicle experienced reduced power. The stabili-trak and the check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, where a diagnostic trouble code for a cylinder misfire was retrieved. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the cylinder #1 ignition coil and spark plug were replaced, but the failure persisted. The mechanic determined that the engine might need to be replaced; however, the mechanic did not specialize in engine diagnostic tests. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to GM Special Coverage Number: N232395330; however, the manufacturer informed the contact that the VIN was not included, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The failure mileage was approximately 44,000.
Rear passenger doors fail to engage internal lock when Child-Lock feature is on, door can still be opened from interior. Rear door locks fail to properly engage when locking and unlocking vehicle
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 MPH, the contact smelled smoke and became aware that the smoke was coming from under the hood. The failure reoccurred while driving the following day. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the turbocharger needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact received notification of Special Coverage: N232395330 (Turbocharger Replacement), and the manufacturer was contacted for reimbursement. A case was opened; however, the manufacturer later informed the contact that the reimbursement claim was denied because the vehicle was not repaired by a dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.
Wipers will not shut off.
4/2025-Engine coolant water outlet needed to be replaced 5/2025- Turbo boost replaced (under recall) 6/2025- Engine fan needed to be replaced 12/2025- There was active leaking in the engine oil cooler and lines- needed to be replaced Engine ventilation , engine oil weep along valve cover seals- needed to be replaced
I have went to the dealership for the past two years with this problem and they keep saying they are not getting any codes: when the air conditioner is on it’s pulling the power from the motor and makes it hard to go up hill. Hard To accelerate when going on to the freeway as well. The problem is only getting worse and worse.
The turbo charge is not providing adequate power. I was on the highway and the car began to chugging then accelerated on its own and all the lights on the dash came on then all went off like it was going to shut down. I put my hazards on and started to pull to the side of the highway. I gave it a moment for the car and for me because I was terrified, my kids were in the car and traffic was going steady around 70-75 miles per hour and I was scared as it began to shut down that I would be hit by traffic behind me before I could get over. It started driving again. It still drives but is hard to accelerate and even when stopped you can see the RPM rising. It’s as if the car never idles, it feels as though is constantly under load. I have had it looked at professionally at Midas but they will only say they think it is the turbo as there are no codes coming up. I have had it looked at by mechanics I know who have fixed other things that may cause similar issues and nothing has worked and they also believe it is the turbo. I’ve know other people with Buicks and they have had similar problems I’m confused as to why this 1.4 liter turbo has not been recalled.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the engine overheated, and there was smoke coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the temperature gauge indicated that the engine was hot. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was informed that the water outlet housing, the blower motor, A/C condenser, water pump, thermostat, thermostat housing, turbo charger, and the fan were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 60,189.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side seat belt failed to work as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The front driver’s side seat belt also failed to work as intended. The contact had to push the front seat all the way back to release the seat belt. The contact stated that the seat belt was too tight and pressed into her stomach. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact had become aware of the failure after the vehicle was purchased. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
While traveling at approximately 77 mph on the interstate, I was forced off the road by another vehicle, causing my car to collide with a cable barrier. The initial impact was to the front driver’s side corner, and the vehicle then scraped along the driver’s side against the barrier. Despite the high-speed impact, no airbags deployed. •Component or System That Failed: The frontal airbag system failed to deploy. •Safety Risk: The non-deployment of the airbags at this speed and impact angle posed a serious risk to my safety. The lack of airbag activation during a high-speed frontal crash greatly increased the likelihood of injury. •Has the Problem Been Reproduced or Confirmed by a Dealer or Independent Shop? No. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by a dealership or repair facility, and the issue has not been confirmed or diagnosed by a professional. •Has the Vehicle or Component Been Inspected by Manufacturer, Police, Insurance, or Others? No. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or any other party as of this report. •Warning Lamps, Messages, or Symptoms Before the Incident: No warning lights or messages were active before the crash. There were no known symptoms or alerts indicating a problem with the airbag system.
Steering wheel locked up, had to replace rack and pinion, locking up when turning, therefore needing a wheel alignment.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle hesitated with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power and then suddenly jerked forward. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the turbocharger was failing and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to Special Coverage Turbocharger Replacement: N232395330; however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.
First the car started to act odd, jumpy or you could tell there was issues with the turbo. On [XXX] car overheated??? Out of nowhere. Mileage 82049. No warnings, no lights. We had it towed to shop where we were told we need new turbo, new engine, power steering service, ac service. The total Cost was $6813.54. We had to take out 2 loans - 90 days same as cash then 145% interest as well as pay $243.54 in Cash. We were guaranteed the car was in great condition. We picked it up on 1/24/25. Then on [XXX] - Odometer reading 82509 - We pulled over on the side of the road to grab something from the trunk. Driver got back in car and all of a sudden the car just shut down saying overheated and smoke was coming out of the hood. Again, Absolutely no warning, no lights, no weird noises, nothing! We are now stuck in the middle of nowhere with our [XXX] granddaughter. Thank God a police man drove by. The next day we had to have it towed back to shop. Once back to the shop we were told that the engine or labor that they just put in our vehicle would not be covered by warranty. Nothing was fixed!!! I contacted the attorney general. We went to pick it up on 3/28/2025. Once they got involved the shop agreed to do all repairs for $1873.96. (pay $600 now and then post date 2 more checks). The owners said they looked over everything and nothing should be going wrong. It should be good as new. On [XXX] We were on our way to Puerto Penasco Mexico where we have a vacation home. About 20 miles into Mexico the car just stopped. Tons of Smoke from the tail pipe, Low oil pressure all of a sudden came on. I am attaching pics showing that the car was not showing overheated. So now my husband and i are stuck on the side of the road in Mexico with no cell phone service with a [XXX] car that we can not get fixed no matter how much money or time we put into it. When we finally got ahold of the shop they said they are washing their hands of it and do not want to see this car again. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.
This car is not mine but someone somehow fraudulently registered it in my name. I got the VIN # from truth finder when I did a search on myself. Please help.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message "Engine Power Reduced" was displayed on the instrument panel. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and the vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to Special Coverage: N232395330; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 88,881.
Passenger airbag light on dash is lit. Has ben lit for about a month.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power. In addition, the contact stated while the vehicle was at a stop light, the vehicle was idling roughly. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed turbo charger. The contact was informed that the turbo charger needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised that the repair was not covered under any special coverage or recalls. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to properly accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable the determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.
I HAVE AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. WHEN I AM STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT ON AN INCLINE, THE CAR WILL SOMETIMES ROLL BACKWARDS WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE OR WHEN CHANGING MY FOOT TO THE GAS PEDAL TO MOVE FORWARD ONCE THE LIGHT CHANGES. THE MORE THE INCLINE; THE WORSE THE PROBLEM. This happens at a bus stop in a community with an incline and kids at a bus stop. This feeling is as I am driving a manual vehicle. It's not a good feeling knowing that there's children around and knowing that we want our children around for the future and something like this happens with a vehicle, the service department in the dealership cannot find what the problem is. This has happened to my car more than once. I have complained about it once and I am complaining about it again. I have low mi on my car and now, this has happened between the low miles of my car after purchasing up to miles. I have on it now .I've got 110,000 mi on my car and it still is not being repaired and is still happening. And it's bad. Once the car is paid off it turns into multiple problems with my car. Up
1. Valve cover gaskets been replaced in valve covers been replaced twice. 04/16/2024. 95113 miles 2. Air conditioning cooling leak and the fan motor would not shut off unless disconnecting the battery cable. 08/26/2024 at 100,254 miles 3. The turbocharger inline for the oil intake has been replaced . The car cannot completely carry a full carload without having no power to get up hills. I have no power once in a while if I'm alone driving just on a straight road or going uphills it seems like there's no gas getting to it I have good gas but it doesn't happen all the time. And I guess to where it will slow down from 55 to 35 pushing on the gas pedal with no power at all and then all the sudden it will go. Trying to explain this the best I can. 09/29/2024 at 101, 313 miles
Turbo has cracked like multiple other encores covered under a recall N232395330 id like to know why my car is not covered but the others are??
My vehicle just got diagnosed with a turbocharger issue, check engine light is on and cannot get inspected due to this fact. Due to repair costs, I will now be living with no vehicle for the foreseeable future. I understand this is a known issue for this type of vehicle and wanted to report it attached to my VIN
Turbo replaced under recall in March 2024 at local GMC dealership. June 2024 oil changed at independent service center and was informed that oil leak from turbo present. Vehicle brought back to dealership in June 2024 where vehicle was repaired for oil feed line being loose at the feed line. July 2024 car taken to independent mechanic and informed that a new turbo is needed. If turbo problem persists it will result in the vehicle shutting down while driving, violent shaking of the engine, and acceleration issues that could result in full engine failure if not resolved. The repairs done for the recall has not rectified the faulty turbo problem. The faulty turbos originally installed and being used for replacements are a safety hazard for any Buick Encore driver.
Engine, vehicle purchased end 2019. Several repairs, New Battery, some warranty repairs. March of 2022 PO131 - HO2s PO171 fuel trim lean PO300 engine misfire Evap system flow PO496 P1101 intake airflow UO401, 71 invalid data from the motor. Jun 2023 Need a New Engine 10k (Dealership) Sought out 2nd opinion 8k for New Engine Vehicle has been dead ever since. Repairs surpass what’s owed.
My check engine light came on in February 2024, vehicle mileage at the time was approximately 70,000 miles. My certified GM independent mechanic's diagnostic check revealed a DTC-P0299 code: faulty turbo charger. He advised repairs be made at a GM dealer under Special Coverage N-232395330 released in February 2024 by GM. My GM dealer (where I purchaser the vehicle) has also received the P0299 code and advised replacing the turbo charger. But since my VIN number is not a part of the Special Coverage, the cost of repairs would be my responsibility. I am requesting my vehicle's VIN be added to the Special Coverage and GM provide me the appropriate customer letter to cover all costs related my repair work.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while the front passenger's side seat was occupied, the seat belt chime reminder failed to engage while the front passenger's side seat belt was not buckled, and the message "Air Bag Off" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the front passenger's side seat presence module had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to NHTSA Campaign Numbers: 17V437000 (Air Bags, Seat Belts) and 16V651000 (Air Bags, Seat Belts); however, the VIN was not included. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 45,000.
See attached document for complaint
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 65 MPH, the vehicle suddenly stalled, with the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to be restarted. The contact was able to drive a short distance to the residence. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 176,000.
P215/55R18 94H M+S Nothing has happened yet, but we need to get all new tires! When we got these [XXX] they were 80,000 mile tires. The mileage on our car when installed was 33,231 and is now 74,434, so no where near 80,000 miles. There are cracks all around all 4 tires L Front the worst, on the sidewall by the tread! We have only been back to Sams once for rotation etc., because it is 20 miles away, so we do it locally at our Buick dealership, or the Les Schwab tire store every 3500 miles. Needless to say we will not be going back to Sams to get tires, ever again! I seriously have never seen tires so bad, and there isn't any recall on them. I know there are 5 complaints about these tires, at least the Goodyear Assurance MaxLife! One comment from a Sams in Kingston, NY was that, "that was the 19th one with the same problem". This was on the inner sidewall, and mine is on the outside, but I cannot see the inside, it probably looks the same! We hadn't noticed until the Dealership pointed it out when they serviced the car. SAMS, where we got them won't do anything, saying it is weather related cracking????? Seriously, I have never had a tire that looks like these do! As you can see from the photos attached, that there should have been enough tread to get us through the summer, but they are not SAFE! Just glad nothing has happened! INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Suspension problems rattle in front end.Found both front stabilizer links failed in test drive. Had to replace front stabilizer links on both sides in front.
Stop at inclined, stopping at stop sign, releasing foot off brake pedal, car rolls to the rear,
There is a known defect with the GM Ecotec engines, specifically the lack of retaining clip for the internal PCV valve, allowing it to become dislodged and drawn into the engine. Without the PCV valve, tremendous engine pressure is produced, leading to broken gaskets causing vacuum leaks, misfiring, severe vibration, and loss of power when accelerating (which can be a safety issue). Dorman produced a video outlining the issue and has re-engineered the part to prevent the issue from occurring: "Why GM 1.4L Ecotec engine intake manifold and valve covers repairs are often related" [XXX] This appears to be a fairly wide-spread issue with the GM Ecotec engines, and GM should perform a recall to replace these parts, and reimburse those who had to replace themselves. This also causes error codes requiring spark plugs to be replaced (they get fouled by oil) and the MAF Sensor. In troubleshooting, I also had to replace the distributor power bar and air intake hose. I have recipts for all parts, but file upload is not working on this site. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated when the vehicle was first started, the vehicle accelerated to approximately 10 MPH and then the vehicle shifted into LIMP Mode. The contact stated that the check engine and stabili-trak warning lights were illuminated. The contact had taken the vehicle to an Auto Parts store where DTC code: P2138 was retrieved. The failure was related to the accelerator position sensor. The contact was informed that the accelerator pedal needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 22,000.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving 45-50 MPH, the vehicle started overheating and the high engine temperature warning light illuminated. The contact was able to pull over and waited for the vehicle to cool down. Once the vehicle cooled down, the contact was able to operate the vehicle normally. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the water pump needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and the contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced again. The vehicle was not repaired because the warranty had expired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 80,000.
The contact owned a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that the vehicle was at a standstill in a traffic light, she saw smoke exiting from the hood of the vehicle. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact stated a bystander informed the vehicle was on fire. The contact was able to exit the vehicle safely before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. The contact stated no one was injured nor sought medical attention. The fire department was able to extinguish the fire. A police report was filed. The insurance company deemed the vehicle was a total loss. The vehicle was towed to a towing lot. The vehicle was not diagnosed. A dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 47,000.
I was sitting at the bank drive through about to leave when out of nowhere I got a warning sign on my dashboard that said service stabilitrak my engine light starts flashing and my stabilizer light came on. My suv acted like it lost power and I had problems getting it to go it was like my gas petal was stuck for a second. When the car shifted it self it started jerking.
Back in July 2022 I started receiving error messages of the stabilitrak system to get checked by OnStar. I took to Ed Martin Buick in Carmel, In they thought that it was from possibly pressing brake and pedal at same time and fixed code. Then about two weeks later I got the same error code, I took to Ray Skillman Northeast Buick they said it was a transmission manufacturing defect and had to do with Manifold which they fixed under power train warranty. Now February 2023 I have same issue Stabilitrak error message. I have to take back again to Ray Skillman Northeast Buick. This is an ongoing issue and should not be receiving same codes car only has 67,000 miles and should not be having transmission issues either.
On 12/27/22 around 9:40pm my husband and I were traveling home on the 580 Altamont pass going towards Tracy. I was traveling next to the slow lane. My speed limit was at 65! There was 18 wheeler 53 footer on the right of me on the slow lane. The 18th wheeler with no signal began drifting his trailer in my lane hit my right side and proceeded to drag my 2017 Buick Encore all the way to the left slammed the truck up against the cement barrier. And rolled the back end of his trailer onto the hood of the right side of the car and he disconnected. Side air bags and front airbags did not deploy. Which cause injury to my front of my body and back and spine injuries to my body and to my husband as well.
Bought a 2017 Buick Encore November 2020 less than 6 months into owning the car check engine light came on. Purge solenoid as well as the Camshaft and 1 other component had a leak brought it to dealership and it was covered under warranty for repairs. Fast forward about a year and a half there is another leak will be bringing back to dealership and paying out of pocket for leaks because of a rough idle, poor fuel economy, and another check engine light problem. Have also read articles about this particular cars not fairing well in the temperatures changes during the seasonal changes. Yet there is no recalls and no mention of Buick or GMC being held responsible for this recurring problem.
Vehicle check engine light (illuminated amber picture of an engine) came on. Vehicle started running rough. Difficulty keeping the vehicle running at idle. Engine running rough/poor acceleration. Drove vehicle to local service center and left for diagnosis and repair. Service center scanned computer for codes. Found the P.C.V. vacuum control in the valve cover had torn its diaphragm and the engine was running with 19" of vacuum in it, where it is normally at 2"- 3" of vacuum. Service center obtained and installed new dealer valve cover assembly with P.C.V. control valve and gasket. Service center said they have repaired three-four of these in past few weeks. Service center said recall may be forthcoming. Have documentation.
This car has front and back wheels differential issues. I bought this car last month and was on the highway when I heard loud clicking noises and tried to reverse and almost hit another driver. I took the car to 4 repair shops and was told to send it back to Carvana or Buick because of mechanical issues where Pep Boys decline to repair for they didn’t have the heavy equipment so I finally got the car towed for the fifth time to Faulkner Buick in Trevor’s PA where it’s currently at! Also I found out from Buick that they car had a major brakes and rotors problem that I didn’t did for as I stated I just bought this car last month and was not put 100 miles on it and I can’t afford to get it repaired! Carvana isn’t supportive of the above issues and I want my money back asap!
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while his daughter was driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light illuminated and the vehicle stalled inadvertently. The contact's daughter was unable to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic on three separate occasions where the turbo charger, the under-boost sensor, and spark plugs were replaced. However, the failure recurred several days after the repair. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring predominantly while driving 70-80 MPH. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000. THE CONSUMER STATED THE DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED AND ADVISED THE AFTER MARKET TURBO WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. AFTER THE TURBO WAS REPLACED, THE CATLYTIC CONVERTOR BECAME AN ISSUE. THE CONSUMER STATED THERE WAS A NEW DRAGGING NOISE.
Vehicle has been in and out of shop since Feb 2022 for 'limp mode' disabled due to faulty booster or something. Vehicles leave driver stranded unable to accelerate or maneuver vehicle to avoid a collision. I'm told this is a well known problem for both this vehicle and the chevy cruze although no recalls are out for this huge safety issue. Somebody is seriously going to get injured if driver is unable to move car to safety when it just dies on the highway or road. All documentation is available for the excessive repairs that don't resolve the issue the correction only last from 24 hours to 2 weeks before the light comes on again and car dies.
On numerous occasions, windshield wipers stop moving even though wipers are engaged to on, causing poor visibility for driving.
1.BOTH OF MY AIRBAGS ARE SHOWING OFF. WHEN A PASSENGER IS PRESENT ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE, THE PASSENGER AIRBAG STILL LIGHTS UP AS OFF. 2. IF THE AIRBAGS DO NOT DEPLOY IN AN ACCIDENT, DUE TO THE SENSOR THIS WILL BE VERY DANGEROUS. 3. VEHICLE HAS BEEN INSPECTED. 4.THE MANIFOLD AND INTAKE DID NOT WORK. THE CAR ONLY HAS 87,000 MILES ON IT. THE DATE OF NUMBER 4 IS 2/10/2022.
Unable to use radio/rearview camera putting at higher risk of crashing when backing out.
Turbo failure on car caused lack of power to the vehicle when accelerating
Electrical System/Technical Issues with Intellink features. Vehicle will not come out of VALET Mode. Wifi shows several addresses of info I'm never used & I'm not using. The Cruise Control feature of vehicle Has Never worked since car was purchased Brand New off the lot. Warning signal constantly appears on dashboard in red for a second but unable to read it* too brief. The dealership has all the info. Part was already replaced. Has been reset many times over & reported then it starts back for no clear stated reason. Dealership will have best date info. Please assist.
The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while reversing, the brake assist warning light illuminated, and the brake pedal was depressed but failed to respond. After the warning light disappeared, the brake started to respond. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnosis however, the warning light was no longer illuminated. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated the failure persisted since the vehicle was purchased. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer however, the mechanic was still unable to diagnose the vehicle with the warning light illuminated. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.
Was rear ended by a suspect fleeing police, he hit me about 100 mph, pushed my car into the rear of the car in front of me. Air bags did not deploy.
I WAS AT A STANDSTILL WAITING ON TRAFFIC TO PASS TO MAKE A LEFT TURN. I WAS REAR ENDED AND IT CAUSED ME TO GO INTO SOMEONE'S YARD AND HIT THEIR CAR AS WELL. MY AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY DURING THIS ACCIDENT. THE IMPACT WAS ENOUGH TO SEND ME DOWN THE STREET INTO SOMEONE'S YARD BUT NOT ENOUGH TO DEPLOY MY AIRBAGS?
THE VEHICLE STARTED MAKING NOISES AND THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND SCREEN WENT OUT. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVABLE, BUT THE ENTIRE INSTRUMENT PANEL WAS OUT. RADIO STOPPED WORKING, MY SCREEN WENT DARK AND THE BACKUP CAMERA DIDN'T WORK. THE FIRST TIME THIS HAPPENED THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND THE SECOND IT OCCURRED WHILE BACKING OUT A PARKING SPOT.
THE STABLITRAK LIGHT CAME ON AND VEHICLE HAS A THROBBING COMING FROM REAR OF VEHICLE, TAKING VEHICLE INTO HAVE CHECKED AS WHEN YOU APPLY BRAKES IT IS FELT. THE THROBBING ALSO HAPPENS WHEN VEHICLE IS STATIONARY AND DEALER ADVISED NOT TO DRIVE
THE POWER STEERING WORKS INTERMITTENT. IN THE MORNING WHEN IT IS COLD THERE IS NO POWER STEERING FOR YOU PARK IT IN THE SUN AND LET THE INSIDE OF THE CAR HEAT UP IT WILL START WORKING. ALSO, WHEN IT IS COLD IF YOU LET IT RUN WITH THE HEATER GOING ON THE FLOOR IT WILL START WORKING AFTER SOME TIME. THE DEALER IS SAYING THE STEERING CONTROL MODULE IS BAD. I HAVE SEEN THAT BUICK HAS RECALLS FOR OTHER MODELS WITH THE SAME ISSUES.
EVERYTIME I PUT GAS IN IT DOESN'T WANT TO START BACK UP. AT A STOP SIGN AND RED LIGHT IT JERKS LIKE IT IS GOING TO DYE OUT. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COMES ON AND OFF. TOOK BACK TO THE DEALERSHIP ONLY TO HAVE IT START THE PROBLEM AGAIN THE NEXT DAY.
I WAS HEADING TO WORK AND NEEDED TO USE MY WINDSHIELD WIPERS WHEN THEY SIMPLY WOULD NOT TURN ON - NO SOUND FROM THE MOTOR OR ANYTHING. FOR MANY DAYS THIS HAS NOT WORKED, NOW GOING OVER A WEEK. NO INDICATOR LIGHTS THAT ANYTHING COULD BE WRONG EITHER. I NEED MY WIPERS! THE NEAREST DEALERSHIP COULDN'T EVEN GET ME IN FOR A WEEK (I GO TOMORROW). IF YOU SEARCH THIS ISSUE IT APPEARS TO BE A RECURRING THEME WITH BUICK AND GMC VEHICLES - ESSENTIALLY THE WIPER MOTOR JUST DECIDES TO DIE OUT OF NO WHERE. I BOUGHT THE CAR BRAND NEW..
MY DRIVER SIDE HEADLIGHT WILL NOT LIGHT UP ORANGE FOR A SIGNAL. THE DEALERSHIP BUT A NEW LIGHT ON THE ENCORE AND IT STILL DOESN'T WORK. NO ONE HAS ANY IDEA WHAT THE PROBLEM IS OR HOW TO FIX IT. THE LIGHT WORKS FINE EXCEPT THE TOP LIGHT THAT LOOKS LIKE AN UPSIDE DOWN CHECK MARK WILL NOT LIGHT UP ORANGE FOR THE SIGNAL.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS 2017 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT AND REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT BELTS FAILED TO LOCK SECURELY INTO THE BUCKLE. THE SEAT BELT WAS CLEANED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO BE DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,124.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2017 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING AT 28 MPH, SHE CRASHED INTO THE BACK OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. UPON IMPACT, THE DRIVER SEAT BELT DID NOT ENGAGE AND SHE HIT HER CHEST ON THE STEERING WHEEL; SHE ALSO HIT HER LEFT KNEE ON THE DASHBOARD. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED AT THE SCENE. THE CONTACT TOOK HIS WIFE TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM AND SHE WAS TREATED FOR BRUISES TO HER CHEST AND LEFT KNEE. THE OTHER DRIVER DID NOT SUSTAIN ANY INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED AND TOWED TO CLASSIC CHEVROLET CADILLAC (3855 EASTEX FWY, BEAUMONT, TX 77706). THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 29,000.*BF*JB
WE HIT 2 DEERS AT 70 MPH IT DAMAGED THE WHOLE FRONT PART OF OUR CAR . NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE 4 WAY FLASHERS CAME ON THE SEATBELTS LOCKED UP YET NO AIRBAGS. ALSO THIS IS THE FIRST AND ONLY TIME THE 4 WAY FLASHERS WORKED. THE CAR HAS BEEN FIXED AND NO 4 WAY FLASHERS AGAIN.
WHEN YOU WOULD START THE CAR THE WIPERS WOULD START BY THEMSELVES...NOW THE WIPERS STOPPED WORKING COMPLETELY..I DONT KNOW IF THERE'S WARRANTY ON THE CAR OR NOT
CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARD TO NO AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AFTER AN ACCIDENT. *AS *JS *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THE SEAT BELTS OPERATED AS DESIGNED. *JS CLAIM NUMBER XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX ('PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).'*JB
POOR ACCELERATION CAUSING INCREASE IN FORCE ON GAS PEDAL. HAPPENS AT RANDOM TIMES WHILE ON FLAT SURFACES, GOING UP HILL, AROUND CURVES WITH AC ON OR OFF. ONCE ACCELERATION KICKS IN, SPEED INCREASES CAUSING THE NEED FOR APPLYING THE BREAKS. REQUIRES ADDITIONAL SPACE WHEN PULLING OUT ON THE ROAD TO ENSURE ENOUGH TIME TO ACHIEVE PROPER SPEED. TOOK TO CERTIFIED DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE. TECH UNABLE TO DUPLICATE ISSUE AND SINCE NO CODES OR SERVICE LIGHT, THEY ARE UNABLE TO FIX THE ISSUE. PICKED UP THE CAR FROM DEALERSHIP. NEXT DAY ISSUE CONTINUES. CAR WOULD ALSO CONTINUE TO ACCELERATE WHEN FOOT REMOVED FROM PEDAL (ALMOST LIKE CRUISE CONTROL WAS ON), PRESSED ON BREAKS WHICH DID NOT MAKE A DIFFERENCE. HAD TO MOVE TO SIDE OF ROAD & CONTINUE TRY & STOP. MADE A SECOND APPOINTMENT TO RETURN CAR BACK TO DEALERSHIP. AFRAID OF TRANSPORTING PEOPLE IN VEHICLE DUE TO UNKNOWN/STICKING ACCELERATOR ISSUES.
STARTED STALLING AT IDLE, THEN JUST SHUTTERED AND STALLED WHILE MOVING, 28882.MOLES. HAD CRANK, AIR WOULD RUN BUT WOULD NOT RESTART. DEALER HAD IT FOR A WEEK AND TOLD ME WAS BATTERY. WEIRD BECAUSE IT HAD CRANK BUT WOULDNT START. HAD IT BACK AND IMMEDIATELY NOTICE DID NOT ACCELERATE RIGHT, VERY HESITANT AND AT IDLE NEARLY STALLED, FELT LIKE WAS "MISSING". A FEW DAYS LATER IT STALLED TWICE WHILE AT A STOP LIGHT ON BUSY STREET RIGHT IN FRONT OF DEALERSHIP! IT STALLED AGAIN 2 DAYS LATER SO BACK TO DEALERSHIP. NO CODES OF COURSE. THEY SAID DROVE IT FOR MILES AND COULDN'T DUPLICATE. THEY ACTUALLY DROVE IT FOR 9 MILES! GAVE ME LOANER AND WILL KEEP IT OVER WEEKEND. AFRAID SOMEONE IS GONNA RUN INTO BACK AT A LIGHT WHEN IT STALLS. SOMETHING IS WRONG AND NOONE CAN FIGURE IT OUT.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DISTRACTED BY AN INSECT ON THE WINDSHIELD, THE VEHICLE REAR ENDED A 2019 GMC ARCADIA. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND THE SEAT BELTS FAILED TO RESTRAIN THE CONTACT AND HIS HEAD STRUCK THE STEERING WHEEL. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HIS HEAD AND MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS PROVIDED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. IN ADDITION, THERE WAS SMOKE EMERGING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO KELLY BUICK (585 STATE AVE, EMMAUS, PA 18049 (610) 364-5957) WHERE IT WAS RECOMMENDED TO CONTACT ON STAR. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED WHO PROVIDED CASE NUMBER 923908 HOWEVER, NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
I HAVE AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. WHEN I AM STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT ON AN INCLINE, THE CAR WILL SOMETIMES ROLL BACKWARDS WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE OR WHEN CHANGING MY FOOT TO THE GAS PEDAL TO MOVE FORWARD ONCE THE LIGHT CHANGES. THE MORE THE INCLINE; THE WORSE THE PROBLEM.
THE LOCKING LEVER FOR THE TILT/TELESCOPIC STEERING COLUMN WILL NOT STAY LOCKED THE LEVER FALLS OUT OF THE LOCKED POSITION AND THE COLUMN COLLAPSES WHILE DRIVING I REPORTED THIS TO MY SERVICING DEALERSHIP OVER TWO WEEKS AGO AND HAVE NO INDICATION THEY HAVE ORDERED A REPLACEMENT PART
MY 2017 ENCORE BURST INTO FLAMES. I ARRIVED TO WORK AFTER LUNCH, I PARKED AND TURNED OFF THE IGNITION AND I SEE SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD OF MY CAR. I PAUSED JUST A MOMENT TO SEE IF IT WAS GOING TO STOP BUT IT GOT WORSE VERY FAST. I GRABBED MY PURSE AND JUMPED OUT OF THE CAR AS THE FRONT END CLOSEST TO THE WINDSHIELD WAS BECOMING ENGULFED IN FLAMES. I IMMEDIATELY CALLED 911 BUT BY THE TIME THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED, IT WAS TOO LATE TO SAVE THE CAR.
THIS VEHICLE HAD LESS THAN 8,000 MILES ON IT AND HAD ONLY BEEN SERVICED ONE TIME BY THE DEALER (OIL CHANGE IN MAY 2018) THE ENGINE CAUGHT ON FIRE AND CONSUMED THE ENTIRE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER WAS IN THE DRIVE THROUGH LANE OF A KFC RESTAURANT WHEN THE CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE. 03 MY 89 YEAR OLD MOTHER-IN-LAW WAS DRAGGED FROM THE CAR TO SAFETY BY 2 BYSTANDERS BUT COULD HAVE VERY EASILY BEEN KILLED. HAVE THERE BEEN ENGINE FIRE ISSUES WITH THIS VEHICLE? A CAR WITH LOW MILES THAT WAS SERVICED BY THE DEALER SHOULD NOT SPONTANEOUSLY ERUPT INTO A FIREBALL.
THE 2017 BUICK ENCORE WOULD BLOW OUT A LARGE AMOUNT OF WHITE SMOKE AND DIE IN COLDER WEATHER ANYTIME YOU STEP OFF THE GAS PEDAL. IT DID RE-START, HOWEVER WOULD DIE SEVERAL TIME IMMEDIATELY UNTIL IT STOP SMOKING. ONCE IT HESITATED AT HIGHWAY SPEED WHEN I LET OFF THE GAS DUE TO TRAFFIC AND ALMOST DIED. THE DEALERSHIP STATED THAT THE CAR COMPUTER SHOWED NO PROBLEMS AND NOTHING COULD BE DONE. THEY ADMITTED IT SHOULD HAVE RECORDED THE PROBLEM I HAD, BUT DID NOT. BUT THE COMPUTER WAS STILL TRUSTWORTHY TO ADVISE IF THE CAR HAD A PROBLEM. I HAS TWO NEAR COLLISIONS DUE TO THE CARE PROBLEMS JUST A FEW WEEKS PRIOR TO TAKING IT IN. I WAS ADVISED THAT IT WAS NOT POSSIBLE TO OBTAIN A PRINT OUT OF THE WHAT THE INSPECTED BECAUSE IT WAS IN THE COMPUTER AND NON-PRINTABLE. I FEEL THE VEHICLE IS UNSAFE TO CAR, NOT KNOWING IF THE ENGINE WILL JUST STOP, AND NOT ABLE TO FIND OUT WHY IT STOP IN THE BEGINNING. THE DEALERSHIP ADVISED I MAY NEED TO WAIT TILL NEST WINTER TO CHECK IT AGAIN. THE FACT IT ALMOST CAUSE AN ACCIDENT WAS NOT IMPORTANT.
REAR SEATBELT WOULD NOT RETRACT. ALL INSTRUMENTS STOPPED WORKING MOMENTARILY WHILE DRIVING.
DON'T EXCEL UNSAFE BELTS NEED TO BE INSPECTED.
5 MONTH AFTER I HAD BOUGHT THE CAR I WAS GOING 35 MPH DOWN A REGULAR STREET WHEN THE CAR STOP THEN WHEN I WANT TO MOVE AGAIN THE ACCELERATOR BUT THEN THE CAR CAME TO A COMPLETE STOP WHERE THE ENGINE HAD SMOKE COMING OUT OF IT. THE DEALER SAID THAT THERE WAS A BIG HOLE IN THE ENGINE. AFTER THEY REPAIR IT NO MORE THAN TWO WEEKS LATER I WAS GOING DOWN A ROAD WHERE THE CAR JUST TURNED OFF AND IT DID NOT EVEN LET ME MOVE OUT OF THE ROAD WAY. AND NOW 3 WEEKS AGO I WAS GOING DOWN A STREET GOING 45 MPH WHEN THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME STOPPED ALL OF A SUDDEN AND I HIT MY BRAKE SO HARD BUT THEY HAD NOT RESPONDED WHICH LED ME TO CRASH IN FRONT OF THE PERSON IN FRONT OF ME. LUCKILY NEITHER OF US WERE INJURED BUT NOW FOR SURE I KNOW I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING ANY OF GENERAL MOTORS CARS WHETHER IS BE BUICK OR GMC.
THIS VEHICLE HAS A KEYLESS IGNITION SYSTEM. TWICE MY WIFE ACCIDENTALLY TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE, ONCE AT A STOP, THE OTHER TIME ON A FREEWAY AT 70 MPH. SHE WAS UNAWARE THE VEHICLE COULD BE STARTED IN NEUTRAL THINKING SHE NEEDED TO BE IN PARK. THE VEHICLE CONTINUED COASTING ALLOWING HER TO MOVE TO THE SIDE OF THE FREEWAY. THERE SHE WAS ABLE TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK, PRESS ON THE BRAKE AND RESTART THE CAR. SHE DID NOT REALIZE THE VEHICLE ENGINE WAS OFF UNTIL SHE.PRESSED ON THE GAS TO MAINTAIN SPEED. SHE PANICKED AND TURNED TO ME AS AN ENGINEER WITH 40 YEARS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY. I KEPT HER CALM AND INSTRUCTED HER WHAT TO DO. ONLY WHEN WE WERE ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD DID WE DETERMINE SHE HAD ACCIDENTALLY TURNED OFF THE ENGINE WHEN TUNING THE RADIO. WITH NO WARNING OR INDICATION THE ENGINE WAS OFF THE RESULTS COULD HAVE BEEN CATASTROPHIC. HER COLLEAGUE AT WORK ALSO DID THIS IN HIS LEXUS. THE PROXIMITY OF THE START\STOP BUTTON TO OTHER SIMILAR CONTROLS APPEARS TO BE A FACTOR IN THESE INCIDENTS. NO WARNING FROM THE VEHICLE NOT NOTICE FROM THE MANUFACTURER OF THE SALES DEALERSHIP OF THIS POSSIBILITY AND WHAT TO DO DOES NOT PREPARE THE DRIVER FOR WHEN THIS OCCU.
I HAD JUST LEASED THIS CAR, DROVE LESS THAN 2 MILES FROM HOME WHEN MY BRAKES FAILED. I APPLIED BRAKES TO STOP, BUT THE CAR WOULD NOT STOP, IT SLOWED TO 14 MPH - KEPT MOVING UNTIL I SLAMMED INTO TRUCK APPROX 3-400' AHEAD OF ME, HAD PLENTY OF ROOM TO STOP. PRETENSIONER FAILED - DRIVER SEATBELT COLLAPSED AROUND ME WHILE LOCKED IN PLACE THE SECOND I SLAMMED ON BRAKE. DRIVER SEATBELT WAS ON PASSENGER SIDE - VISA-VERSA - GM REP SAW THE SEATBELTS AT MY HOME - I SHOWED THEM TO HIM. HE TOLD ME WHICH BELT BELONGS ON WHICH SIDE AND I TOLD HIM THEY WERE ON THE OPPOSITE SIDES. HE PICKED EACH UP AND SHOWED ME THE 'R-L' ON THE END OF THE BELT AND THE "R" WAS THE COLLAPSED BELT. THE GM REP SAID THE 'INTACT' BELT WOULD HAVE BRUISED THE PERSON, IT DID, MY PASSENGER. THIS CAN BE VERIFIED BY MY PASSENGER. AIRBAG SENSOR DISPENSED GAS DURING SAME ACCIDENT-AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY. THE CAR HAD OVER $10K DAMAGE, FIXED - GM REP CHECKED CAR BECAUSE I CONTINUALLY SAYING THE BRAKES AND SEATBELT FAILED TO ANYONE AT WEST POINT THAT WOULD LISTEN. AFTER CHECKING CAR HE STATED NOTHING WAS WRONG. DIFFERENT DEALERSHIP DIAGNOSTIC EQUIP SHOWED AIRBAG WAS FIXED BUT SEATBELT NEVER RECALLED, THEN THE STORY CHANGED THAT IT WAS. THE DIAGNOSTIC INFO PRINTOUT SHOWED WHERE I 'BRAKED' BUT THEN NO INFO RECORDED ANYWHERE. MY PASSENGERS SEATBELT WORKED, I WAS THROWN INTO STEERING WHEEL AND WAS INJURED. I HAVE BEEN IN CONTACT WITH GM CEO WITH LETTERS AND THE CLAIMS DEPT WHO TELL ME THEY CAN'T HELP ME. IF MY LEASE WASN'T RECALLED AND I APPARENTLY HAD THE ABOVE ISSUES, THEY SHOULD HAVE FIXED THEM BEFORE MY RECEIVING IT. THEY WOULD NOT EVEN SPEAK TO MY PASSENGER, OFFICER AT ACCIDENT, TOW TRUCK DRIVER WHO SAW THE SEATBELT HANGING OUT MY DOOR AT THE SCENE. I AM STILL BEING TREATED AND ONLY WANT FAIRNESS AND A DIFFERENT CAR. THIS ONE HAS HAD SO MANY LITTLE PROBLEMS AND ODDITIES BESIDES WHAT I AM DISCUSSING.
THE WIPER BLADES FAILED TO WORK DURING A WET HEAVY SNOW FALL. THE WIPERS REMOVED THE SNOW VERY WELL ON THE UP STROKE BUT ON THE DOWN STROKE THE WIPERS PACKED THE SNOW ON THE COWLING UNTIL IT GOT TO A POINT THAT THE WIPERS COULD NOT COMPLETE THE CYCLE AND THEY WOULD STOP WORKING. I HAVE A VIDEO USING A BATH TOWEL TO SIMULATE SNOW AND HOW TO STOPPED THE BLADES FROM WORKING. THE VIDEO IS TOO LARGE TO SEND IT IN THE SPACE PROVIDED BUT I AM SURE IT WILL SEND VIA E MAIL. I ALSO HAVE NOTES WRITTEN IN REAL TIME ON ALL CONVERSATIONS WITH BUICK/GM AND TWO DEALERSHIPS. I ALSO HAVE A LETTER AND A CONDEMNING E MAIL FROM BUICK/GM AND THESE PUT ME OVER THE ALLOTTED CHARACTERS. *JS
CAR WAS PARKED ON LEVEL GROUND OUTSIDE HOME. ATV ACCIDENTALLY RAN INTO REAR BUMPER OF CAR (HAD MOVED APPROXIMATELY 10 FEET). CAR ROLLED AWAY AND ENDED UP ROLLING DOWN A SMALL HILL, JUMPING A DITCH AND RESTING ON ANOTHER HILL. CAR MOVED APPROXIMATELY 300 FEET PRIOR TO COMING TO A STOP. WHEELS WERE NOTED TO BE TURNING AND ROLLING NORMALLY AND CAR HAD MINIMAL RESISTANCE TO MOVING. CAR WAS IN PARK WITH SECURE BREAK WHEN WE ARRIVED AT CAR.
I WAS DROPPING MY KIDS TO SCHOOL. I WAS IN LINE OF DROP OFF. I STOPPED MY CAR PUT MY CAR IN PARK AND REMOVED MY FOOT FROM BRAKE. SUDDENLY I NOTICED THAT MY CAR WAS MOVING JUST LIKE IN THE SPEED OF NEUTAL. I PUSHED THE BRAKES HARD BECAUSE MY CAR WAS ABOUT TO HIT THE CAR INFRONT OF ME. I CHECKED THE THE SHIFT WAS STILL IN THE PARK. SO IN SHORT, CAR WAS STILL MOVING WHEN IN PARK. SCARRY!!!!
REAR BRAKES GROAN FOR FIRST FEW APPLICATIONS IN WET AND DAMP WEATHER. DEALER APPLIED A GM TSB BUT PROBLEM STILL REMAINS. GM SAYS NOTHING MORE CAN BE DONE.
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2017 BUICK ENCORE. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE BRAKED ON ITS OWN AND THE STABILITY TRACK WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER (GAINESVILLE BUICK GMC, 2101 NORTH MAIN STREET, GAINESVILLE, FL, 352-372-2583) WHERE A ROAD TEST WAS PERFORMED. THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND ACKNOWLEDGED THAT THERE WAS AN ISSUE THAT NEEDED TO BE INVESTIGATED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1,200.
APRX 6AM TUESDAY JULY 18, 2017, APRX 5:45 AM, WITH NO KEY FOB IN MY WIFE'S OR MY POSSESSION AND NO ONE WITHIN 30 FEET OF THE CARE PARKED IN THE GARAGE, THE 2017 BUICK ENCORE STARTED ON ITS OWN. THE CAR WAS STATIONARY AND PARKED IN THE GARAGE SINCE APRX 7:00 PM MONDAY EVENING THE 17TH. HEARING A NOISE IN THE GARAGE, I WENT THERE AND FOUND THE CARD ENGINE RUNNING. THE GARAGE DOOR WAS CLOSED, AND NO ONE COULD HAVE ENTERED THE GARAGE. WE ARE TAKING THE CAR TO PLACE OF PURCHASE, KLICK LEWIS BUICK CHEV, PALMYRA, PA TO DETERMINE WHAT THEY WILL DO TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM. CHECKED RECALL AND FOUND NOTHING. SINCE THIS SELF STARTING COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE OTHER DAMAGE INCLUDING CARBON MONOXIDE IN A CLOSED AREA (DON'T KNOW IF IT WOULD HAVE SHUT OFF AFTER A SET SHORT TIME ON ITS OWN) THOUGHT IT SHOULD BE REPORTED AND A NOTICE SENT OUT TO ALL ENCORE OWNERS WARNING THEM OF THIS ISSUE. THANK YOU. [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).'*JB
Complaint & Reliability Timeline
Annual complaints (blue) vs. composite reliability score (amber) — recall years marked in red
The blue line shows 87 total NHTSA complaints filed over 10 years, with the worst year being 2024 (15 complaints).
The amber reliability line averaged 90/100 across the vehicle's life — relatively stable, with the lowest point of 78/100 in 2023.
The recall (red dashed line) were issued in the same year or before complaints peaked, suggesting the manufacturer identified and acted on the defect relatively quickly.
Red dots on the amber line flag 6 years (2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2023, 2025) where complaints included crash events — these are the highest-severity incidents in the dataset.
Legal & Regulatory Actions
Known class action lawsuits, settlements, and manufacturer extended warranty programs
5-Year Ownership Cost Estimate
Based on EPA fuel data, standard depreciation, and US average insurance/maintenance costs
Estimates use EPA fuel economy data, AAA 2024 national averages for insurance and maintenance, and a standard depreciation curve. Actual costs vary by location, driving habits, and vehicle condition.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Estimated based on EPA fuel data, risk-adjusted maintenance, and depreciation
Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $44,557 (~$743/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.
Estimated Market Value
Depreciation-based estimate from original MSRP
Based on original MSRP of $26,865 with suv depreciation curve. Range reflects ±15% market variance. Actual value depends on condition, options, and local demand.
Negotiation Ammunition
Use these data-backed findings to negotiate the price down
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist
Tailored for the 2017 BUICK Encore — specific failure modes your mechanic must check, not a generic list
Recall Probability Forecast
Estimated likelihood of a new recall in the next 18 months based on NHTSA signals
20% estimated recall probability — some indicators present but not alarming.
- ▸Accelerating complaint rate — increasing pressure on NHTSA to act
Maintenance Schedule
OEM-specified service intervals for this vehicle
Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.
Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.
Auction History
Public sale records from Copart, IAAI, and auction aggregators
Searching Public Auction Records
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Insurance Cost Estimate
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Complete Data Table
All decoded fields in a single flattened view
Vehicle Identity
| VIN | KL4CJFSB8HB236238 |
| Model Year | 2017 |
| Make | BUICK |
| Model | Encore |
| Trim | Preferred II |
| Vehicle Type | MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV) |
Body & Configuration
| Body Style | Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV] |
| Doors | 4 |
| Seat Rows | 5 |
| Drive Type | AWD/All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Transmission | Automatic |
Engine
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Displacement (L) | 1.4 |
Manufacturer
| Manufacturer | GENERAL MOTORS LLC |
| Assembly City | BUPYEONG |
| Assembly Country | SOUTH KOREA |
VIN Structure
| WMI (Chars 1–3) | KL4 |
| Check Digit (Char 9) | 8 |
| Model Year Code (Char 10) | H |
| Plant Code (Char 11) | B |
| Sequence (Chars 12–17) | 236238 |
Safety Data
| NHTSA Recall Count | 2 |
| NHTSA Complaint Count | 87 |
VIN Structure Decode
ISO 3779 character-by-character breakdown of this Vehicle Identification Number
Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 6/28/2026, 10:12:51 AM.