2018 Buick Encore: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own

Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data

One of the stronger Encore years: far fewer severe problems, with the 1.4L turbo the main long-term watch-item. Quiet cabin, easy size and low running costs make it a solid value used buy at moderate mileage. 4 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2018 Buick Encore ranged from $22,990 to $30,600 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).

6/10

Strong track record

Sources (5)

carparts.comhttps://www.carparts.com/blog/buick-encore-reliability-and-common-problems/
rerev.comhttps://rerev.com/articles/buick-encore-years-to-avoid/
pauletteauto.comhttps://www.pauletteauto.com/buick-encore-years-to-avoid/
samarins.comhttps://www.samarins.com/reviews/buick-encore.html
repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/buick/encore

Known issues

1.4L turbocharger failure and loss of power: the turbo can fail around 90,000 miles, setting an underboost code (P0299) and triggering reduced-power/limp mode and a check-engine light. The defining Encore defect across the whole run.

commonly reported · 145 NHTSA complaints · typically 60k–110k miles · engine
Takata passenger-airbag inflator recall affects these years; the inflator can degrade over time and must be confirmed repaired under the GM recall.

occasional · 41 NHTSA complaints · other
Engine cooling system leaks: many coolant hoses and components on the 1.4L turbo are plastic and prone to cracking, leading to coolant loss and overheating.

occasional · 30 NHTSA complaints · typically 50k–110k miles · engine
PCV valve (integrated into the intake manifold) can fail, causing excessive oil consumption, vacuum leaks, a whistling noise and rough idle, and can damage the turbocharger if left unaddressed.

occasional · 25 NHTSA complaints · typically 60k–120k miles · engine

Based on public NHTSA complaint data and AI synthesis: patterns, not guarantees.

Sources (4)

api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=buick&model=encore&…
api.nhtsa.govhttps://api.nhtsa.gov/complaints/complaintsByVehicle?make=buick&model=encore&…
carparts.comhttps://www.carparts.com/blog/buick-encore-reliability-and-common-problems/
rerev.comhttps://rerev.com/articles/buick-encore-years-to-avoid/

Recalls & safety

Recall history hasn't been loaded for this model year yet.

Whether a recall is still open on a specific car depends on its VIN. Check it free at NHTSA's VIN lookup (nhtsa.gov/recalls), or ask the seller for proof the repair was done.

Pros & cons

Pros

Quiet, upscale-feeling cabin with Buick QuietTuning and good materials for a subcompact
Comfortable, compliant ride tuned more for cruising than sport
Small, easy-to-park footprint with elevated seating and good forward visibility
Low running costs and an above-average reliability rating, with available all-wheel drive

Cons

Underpowered 1.4L turbo with modest, leisurely acceleration
Small cargo area compared with rival subcompact SUVs
Turbocharger longevity is a real concern at higher mileage, best bought with low miles
Faster depreciation than some rivals

Trims & original pricing

Trim	Original base MSRP	New today	Engine	MPG
Base	$22,990	discontinued	—	—
Preferred	$24,400	discontinued	—	—
Sport Touring	$25,600	discontinued	—	—
Essence	$29,100	discontinued	—	—
Premium	$30,600	discontinued	—	—

Prices are base MSRP for each trim's standard configuration. Options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.

Sources (1)

iseecars.comhttps://www.iseecars.com/car/2018-buick-encore-price

Cost to own

Repairs (rises with mileage)	≈ $450–500/yr
Expected lifespan	~200k miles

National-average estimates based on public data. Your costs vary by region, driver, and condition.

Sources (2)

repairpal.comhttps://repairpal.com/reliability/buick/encore
fueleconomy.govhttps://www.fueleconomy.gov/ws/rest/vehicle/38950

Frequently asked questions

What problems does the 2018 Buick Encore have?

Documented issue patterns include: 1.4L turbocharger failure and loss of power: the turbo can fail around 90,000 miles, setting an underboost code (P0299) and triggering reduced-power/limp mode and a check-engine light. The defining Encore defect across the whole run; Takata passenger-airbag inflator recall affects these years; the inflator can degrade over time and must be confirmed repaired under the GM recall; Engine cooling system leaks: many coolant hoses and components on the 1.4L turbo are plastic and prone to cracking, leading to coolant loss and overheating; PCV valve (integrated into the intake manifold) can fail, causing excessive oil consumption, vacuum leaks, a whistling noise and rough idle, and can damage the turbocharger if left unaddressed. Frequency is based on public NHTSA complaint data: patterns, not guarantees.

Is the 2018 Buick Encore reliable?

How much did the 2018 Buick Encore cost new?

Between $22,990 and $30,600 depending on trim. Those are base MSRPs for each trim's standard configuration; options, packages, and destination charges added to what original buyers actually paid.

Is the Buick Encore expensive to maintain?

Estimated repairs run roughly $450–500/year as mileage climbs.

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Estimates are based on public data: patterns, not guarantees. CarVitals is not affiliated with NHTSA, CarMax, AutoTrader, or Cars.com. Issue frequencies come from public NHTSA complaint data, which has no denominator, so they describe reporting patterns, not failure probabilities. Always have a used car inspected before buying. How we build these reports.