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Buick Encore Reliability Grade

AOverall

Excellent reliability

EngineB+
TransmissionA

Grade a specific Buick Encore

Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.

The Buick Encore earns an A overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B+ for its engine and an A for its transmission. It ranks 1st of 10 subcompact SUVs we grade. The engine (B+) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 601 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2022 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.

Buick Encore reliability by year

Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.

Best years: 2013, 2014, 2020, 2021 and 2022

How long does the Buick Encore last?

150,000Estimated lifespan (miles)

A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.

Known Buick Encore problems

We track 2 known problem areas for the Buick Encore, including which model years they affect. They're in the full report, along with miles remaining and a deal score for the car you're looking at.

See Encore problems

Buick Encore vs. other subcompact SUVs

ModelEngineTrans.Overall
Subaru Crosstrek A A- A
Buick Encore B+ A A
Honda HR-V B+ B B
Nissan Kicks B+ B B
Hyundai Kona C- B- B-
Kia Soul F B- C+
Toyota C-HR B+ F C+
Jeep Compass C+ C+ C+
Kia Seltos F C D
Chevrolet Trailblazer C D D

Most reliable subcompact SUVs →

Own a Buick Encore?

Tell other buyers how yours has held up: mileage, engine, and any problems with what they cost to fix. It takes about a minute, and your first car earns a free full report.

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Buick Encore reliability FAQ

Is the Buick Encore reliable?

Excellent reliability. The Buick Encore earns an A overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B+ for its engine and an A for its transmission. It ranks 1st of 10 subcompact SUVs we grade. The engine (B+) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for oil-change records and have a mechanic check for leaks and oil consumption. Grades are based on 601 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2022 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.

How many miles will a Buick Encore last?

We estimate a well-maintained Buick Encore lasts around 150,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.

What are the best years for the Buick Encore?

Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable Buick Encore model years are 2013, 2014, 2020, 2021 and 2022.

What Buick Encore years should I avoid?

No Buick Encore model year stands out as a problem year in NHTSA owner complaints.

Is the Buick Encore transmission reliable?

GradeMyCar grades the Buick Encore transmission an A (excellent reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.

Is the Buick Encore engine reliable?

GradeMyCar grades the Buick Encore engine a B+ (above-average reliability).