2021 Buick Encore GX
Not enough comparison years on file yet for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2020 | 69 |
| 2021 | 52 |
| 2022 | 31 |
| 2023 | 25 |
| 2024 | 31 |
| 2025 | 15 |
| 2026 | 3 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
29% of complaints: engine — 15 distinct reports on file.
21% of complaints: power train — 11 distinct reports on file.
15% of complaints: service brakes — 8 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
INJURYShow complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2021 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated while driving at approximately 35 MPH, the brake pedal was lightly depressed and the vehicle unintentionally came to an instant stop; the vehicle then began to shudder.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240822
This week I leased a white buick encore gx fwd in the preferred model. After driving off the lot I noticed the brakes are very hard to press down and I canât stop the vehicle over short distances.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210613
The brake system failed upon pulling into a parking space. Had it happened a few, short moments before, there would have been a high probability of a crash. The vehicle was taken to Hardy Buick GMC Chevrolet.
NHTSA ODI report, 20210611
13% of complaints: fuel/propulsion system — 7 distinct reports on file.
8% of complaints: electrical system — 4 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac CT4, CT5 and XT4, 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, and 2020-2021 Buick Encore GX vehicles.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electronic brake boost module, free of charge. The recall began December 9, 2020.
Campaign 20V588000 — check if this car was fixed
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Buick Encore GX and 2021-2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. The emergency jack, if not positioned as directed in the vehicle owner's manual, can fracture while in use.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the jack, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owner of the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 26, 2021. A second notice will be mailed once remedy parts become available.
Campaign 21V440000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2021 Buick Encore GX — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (15 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (8 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 20V588000 (service brakes) has been completed.
- Verify recall 21V440000 (equipment) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2021 Buick Encore GX reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Buick Encore GX?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 29% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2021 Buick Encore GX have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.