Engine And Engine Cooling Problems of Buick Encore - part 1

Buick Encore owners have reported 174 problems related to engine and engine cooling (under the engine and engine cooling category). The most recently reported issues are listed below. Also please check out the statistics and reliability analysis of Buick Encore based on all problems reported for the Encore.

1 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 03/13/2026

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.

See all problems of the 2017 Buick Encore 🔎.

2 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 02/20/2026

Defective "turbo charger" at 38,091 miles. The defective worn-out or damaged turbocharger was removed from the engine and a new one was installed at a cost of $1816. 00. This part should not wear out at 38,000 miles. My mechanic informed me that this is common in the Buick Encore vehicles to experience a defective "turbo charger" at low vehicle mileage.

See all problems of the 2020 Buick Encore 🔎.

3 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 02/18/2026

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the check engine warning light remained illuminated, with the odor of burning oil inside the cabin of the vehicle, before the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was taken to a dealer who diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the valve cover, intake manifold, and oxygen sensors were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 63,360.

See all problems of the 2019 Buick Encore 🔎.

4 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 02/16/2026

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.

5 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 01/12/2026

Turbo charger and catalytic convertor both failed at 50k miles. The 2017 and 2018 Buick Encores have a safety recall for turbochargers but the 2019 was not included in that recall despite it having the exact same engine and turbocharger.

6 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 01/09/2026

Driving down the road and car became sluggish to respond/accelerate and could barely operate at slow speeds or not be able to go. Thankfully at this time I was close to home and not on the highway but was leaving on a long trip with areas of no service and isolation and temps in the -20f could be a very dangerous situation. There were no warning lights on at all. But I own a code reader and hooked it up anyways and got code p0299. Took it to a small local repair shop and will include their report as a file because I don't understand all of it but this is a known issue/defect from the manufacturer with a technical bulletin out about it with a fix for it. Was never notified of this at purchase or since. Then took to the manufacturer dealership to try and get them to fix it but they won't and want more money than the small shop. Feel misled when headquarters said yea we should cover that move it to a dealership.

7 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 01/07/2026

Turbocharger gasket failed resulting in leaking coolant and overheating of engine. Damages resulted turbocharge replacement and replacement of water outlet in $4463. 43 repair bill.

8 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 01/04/2026

I was stopped at a traffic light and began moving forward to make a turn into traffic. As I activated my turn signal and started to proceed through the intersection, the vehicle suddenly stalled and shut off without warning, causing an immediate loss of power while the vehicle was in motion. Another vehicle was entering the intersection at the same time, creating a near-collision situation. I was forced to restart the vehicle in traffic. The incident occurred within less than 250 miles of purchasing the vehicle. The vehicle had recently received an oil change and inspection. No warning lights or messages were observed prior to the stall. This event created a serious safety risk.

See all problems of the 2016 Buick Encore 🔎.

9 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 12/30/2025

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.

10 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 12/24/2025

After filling up fuel vehicle starts and stalls out. This occurs while driving at stop signs. And also while driving loss of power. There is something wrong in the engine, timing belt, fuel, etc.

See all problems of the 2018 Buick Encore 🔎.

11 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 12/23/2025

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.

12 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 12/15/2025

On my way home in December 2025, my car started to sputter and make noises. All of a sudden the car started going about 10-15 miles. I almost go hit by several vehicles, because they had to put on brakes, I was trying to go up then down a hilly road. I finally was able to get to an auto advance shop, I had to tow the car to Honda then to Buick for a diagnostic test. It had been over a month and I can’t get information in writing what the diagnostic test results are. I’ve had to rent a vehicle for over a month, even though I have a lifetime warranty on my power train and motor. I have submitted all my service and repair paperwork to john miles Buick conyers georgia, the gm and service department, also I contacted GMC corporate office. I have been in a rental car for over a month that I can no longer afford. I don’t know where else to get results for my issue. Thank you, xxx. [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

13 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 11/14/2025

Brought my car to get an oil change and was told they could not do it as my oil filter housing unit is cracked and leaking oil they said to check for recalls as this is an issue with other vehicle same problem. Upon checking I was informed that Buick is not making this a recall item at this time. They put in enough oil for me to get home.

14 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 11/12/2025

SUV has ran hot and had it towed on 3 separate occasions when this happened. Had thermostat and water pump replaced. Not fixed. Coolant keeps running out if bottom of SUV. It is at dealership and blown head gasket and probably much worse. Apparently these models have something wrong with cooling system. The engine cost will be about what I owe on it. Buick needs to pay for another engine for my SUV. I have a warranty but they won’t honor the engine replacement and I’m out of a vehicle.

15 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 11/10/2025

The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact was able to coast to the shoulder of the roadway, where the vehicle failed to restart. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the timing chain, resulting in damage to the crankshaft. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 98,507.

16 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2014 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 10/17/2025

The car only has 54700 I am orginal owner. Drivers seat does not work, catalytic converter, gm service bulletin #43210. Ask if your VIN is affected or if they’ve seen similar failures in 2014 models. This car is a lemon.

See all problems of the 2014 Buick Encore 🔎.

17 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 09/30/2025

My SUV dies while im driving it. The engine stalls the lights go off. Its very dangerous I had a semi truck behind me last night and my Encore basically became invisible. No lights no power, nothing. He almost hit me. Ive had this Encore to several mechanics and none of them knows what the problem is. There are no warning lights on and it does not show any codes when hooked up to a diagnostic machine. I have called Buick corp. And she told me to take it to a mechanic.

18 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 09/26/2025

Component failure: the engine timing chain. Yes, it is available for inspection. Safety risk: vehicle hesitated and lost power in traffic, causing my vehicle to automatically slow down where I was no longer driving at the speed limit. My safety and other drivers around me was compromised as this could have caused a major accident should I have been rear ended. I had it towed to lambert Buick, cuyahoga falls, ohio. They diagnosed a timing chain malfunction which was confirmed by dealership diagnostic testing. I was advised not to drive vehicle due to engine damage potential. I had it towed back to my home and have not driven it since. Vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance or anyone else. There was no warning, messages or any symptoms prior to the engine timing chain issue. A warning light only came on when the car hesitated and lost power in traffic.

19 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 09/10/2025

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.

20 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2018 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 09/04/2025

Was driving and lost complete power but came right back on itself. Car also makes a loud noise periodically when reversing and pressing the brake. Was told this was engine timing chain. Cooling fan periodically stays on draining the battery after car is turned off. None of these issues have been correct but told there is no recall to fix these issues.

21 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2014 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 09/03/2025

Coolant leak and cover gasket failure. Buick has been in the shop multiple times for coolant issues and leaks. Next step is for the shop to remove the entire front end to adequately repair. Constant issue and other complaint relay the same.

22 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 08/14/2025

Vehicle unable to hold coolant. Local shop says the coolant lines hold pressure and leak appears to be with manifold and turbo. Car has less than 35k miles. There is a recall for this turbo issue with 2017 and up models but why not for 2016, or any other years with same issue?.

23 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 08/11/2025

•on January 25th 2025 I paid approximately $3,383 for a turbocharger repair on my 2019 Buick Encore. This included a turbocharger oil return tube, turbocharger oil supply and re, intercooler, int. Man. & val. Cov. Kit, r&r inter cooler, r&r turbocharger, r&r intake manifold, and turbocharger assembly. Since that time, the same problem has recurred and I have returned the vehicle to the same location on four separate occasions without resolution. It is currently available for inspection. •August 11th, 2025: vehicle stalled in the middle of an intersection as I attempted to accelerate from a stop sign, placing me in immediate danger of collision. •I have had the check engine code read by another independent service center. •no one else has inspected the vehicle •the check engine light has come off and on since January when the problem began after visiting mavis discount tire in sinking spring for a routine oil change. There were no symptoms prior to this first failure that signaled the issue that resulted in the repair. Prior to the incident on August 11th there had been repeated symptoms of an issue even when the check engine light was off. These issues included overheating, smoking, lack of acceleration, and stalling.

24 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2015 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 08/10/2025

Check engine light came onforp0299 code and heard that there's a lot of vehicles with turbos having this problem.

See all problems of the 2015 Buick Encore 🔎.

25 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 07/25/2025

Turbocharger failures, which can result in reduced acceleration, power loss causing problems while trying to merge onto traffic and also in hill climbing. My understanding this is a common problem with the Buick Encore and has not been recalled. My garage said they have repaired a "ton" of these turbo in Buick Encores. Why no recall???.

26 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2021 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 07/21/2025

Took to the dealership. They stated my flex pipe had melted and the O2 sensors are stuck in the pipe need replacement as well. They have to replace flex pipe and everything leading to the 2nd O2 sensor. They stated there was no damage or tampering to the flex pipe. This should not have happened in this new of a vehicle. This is a dangerous and costly repair that falls on a faulty flex pipe and not covered by the warranty.

See all problems of the 2021 Buick Encore 🔎.

27 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 06/27/2025

The contact owns a 2019 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while her daughter was driving approximately 55 mph, the vehicle was shaking and jerking abnormally. The contact stated her daughter reported there were several unknown warning lights illuminated on the instrument cluster. The driver exited the highway and pulled over and turned off the vehicle. The contact had the vehicle towed to a dealer. The dealer diagnosed the vehicle and determined that there was coolant intrusion into the cylinders, and the engine needed to be disassembled. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000.

28 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 06/06/2025

I believe my turbocharge is malfunctioning. The check engine light is on with code p0299. My vehicle is struggling to accelerate properly putting us in a few close calls while driving. Yes it is available for inspection - I've seen one mechanic on 6/13/25 - scheduled a follow up with a different one on 6/20/25 and have an appointment scheduled with gm on 7/1/25 should it go that far. I cannot pull out in front of vehicles even with double the normal amount of space confidently due to my lack of acceleration putting my family - pregnant wife and 1 year old at risk. We floor the gas pedal to try and get what should be normal acceleration but sometime it responds normally which has put us at risk of hitting vehicles in front of us. Yes - it has been inspected and we're getting more opinions. First appeared early June but no other warnings.

29 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 05/28/2025

They sold me a car and 2 days later the check engine light came on I fixed it then a second time it came on I fixed again then a third time it came on I fixed it again now this is the 4th time that this light has come on and I called up there they tell me well we can see about putting you in another car. I go up there today and they tell me well the loan place you chose won’t do it because what’s on my credit so I ask if they can fix it for free because I can’t afford to pay 500$ 9’ car note and 500$ for car insurance they said it’s nothing they could do to help me I asked for a manger chelsea , she walked passed me 3 times and one of the times was to go smoke a cigarette didn’t even try to aknowlege me until I called my salesmen veronica too say she walked passed me 3 times and didn’t say anything I don’t appreciate im working hard to try and pay for this car and. I felt as if no one cares I feel as if I was sold a lemon and they continue to say well we didn’t sale you a lemon how would you know if it’s a lemon or not prior to buying know one knows that.

30 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 05/11/2025

I am CO-owner of the vehicle. My daughter was driving the SUV when the check engine light came on. There was no warning whatsoever, and the turbocharger has gone bad . Prior to the light eliminating there was nothing wrong with the SUV. I was driving the SUV when the check engine light came on. I also own another 2020 Buick Encore where this also happened. I was driving the vehicle when the check engine light came on with no prior warning and it was a failed turbocharger. There is something wrong with these vehicles .

31 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2017 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 05/03/2025

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.

32 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2020 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 04/24/2025

On 4/24/25 I noticed a pungent odor (like rotten eggs). The odor is worse today. I did research and it appears there may be a problem and or leak with the catalytic converter. The emissions are making me and my kids feel sick, nauseous, headache, irritated eyes, etc.

33 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2016 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 04/19/2025

Add my car to your recall. Past recalls on these vehicles for oil leaking, which can cause a fire.

34 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2019 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 04/08/2025

I have been calling autonations for months now since my car started driving funny. I was first told it was a head gasket that needed replacement however using my VIN number the engine that’s currently inside the vehicle is not the one that matches with what pulls up using the VIN number. Than the antifreeze leaks out, the oil leaks out and one day the car started smoking on the freeway with my children and I inside. It just stopped and haven’t been working ever since. I literally just got messed out of money because I purchased this vehicle a year ago not knowing it was a recall and this is one of the recalls now I am completely screwed over without a car and my money!! now I’m being told I have to pay because this car was sold to me already over the mileage limit to be fixed for free!!.

35 Engine And Engine Cooling problem of the 2014 Buick Encore

Failure Date: 04/01/2025

On March 18 , 2025 I purchased a 2014 Buick Encore with an implied warranty, the vehicle had 128,644 miles on the odometer. At the time of purchase the check light was not on and the vehicle had no visible or audible mechanical issues. Not 14 days after purchase there was a strong odor of burning oil due to an oil leak dripping into the splash shield. A certified mechanic advised me that the problem was a very common issue with the 2014 Buick Encore and the oil cooler associated with the turbo charger needed to be replaced. This issue is so common that the NHTSA issued a gm part failure warning for the 2017 model and instructed gm to reimburse all vehicle owners to replace the part (n232395330). This issue clearly a problem that needs to be addressed with the 2014 model as well. My mechanic said that auto dealers are cleaning the splash pad prior to selling the vehicle so that the burning oil smell is not noticeable until 14 days or so after purchase. The repairs cost me $1148. 00 just weeks after purchasing the vehicle. This problem of dealers covering up the problem and faulty gm parts needs to be addressed. I believe my vehicle falls under the previous gm parts needs failure warning and I should be reimbursed the cost of the repairs in the amount of $1148. 00.



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