2019 Buick Encore: Reliability, Recalls, Known Issues & Cost to Own
Data last updated 2026-07-04 · sources listed throughout · based on public NHTSA data
Mature, comfortable small crossover with low running costs, but 1.4L turbo and engine-cooling complaints are still present. A good-value used pick overall, inspect the turbocharger and cooling system before buying. 4 known issue patterns are documented below, with frequency and the mileage windows where they typically appear. New, the 2019 Buick Encore ranged from $23,200 to $29,550 depending on trim (base MSRP, before options and destination).
This listing
Context from the listing you were viewing, not a market-price judgement.
Mature, comfortable small crossover with low running costs, but 1.4L turbo and engine-cooling complaints are still present. A good-value used pick overall, inspect the turbocharger and cooling system before buying.
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
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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
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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
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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
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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 | $23,200 | discontinued | — | — |
| Preferred | $24,600 | discontinued | — | — |
| Sport Touring | $25,800 | discontinued | — | — |
| Essence | $29,550 | 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/2019-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 2019 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 2019 Buick Encore reliable?
Mature, comfortable small crossover with low running costs, but 1.4L turbo and engine-cooling complaints are still present. A good-value used pick overall, inspect the turbocharger and cooling system before buying.
How much did the 2019 Buick Encore cost new?
Between $23,200 and $29,550 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.