2018 Buick Encore
This year's complaint volume is within 30% of this model's typical year.
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 |
|---|---|
| 2013 | 52 |
| 2014 | 60 |
| 2015 | 123 |
| 2016 | 77 |
| 2017 | 87 |
| 2018 | 71 |
| 2019 | 79 |
| 2020 | 19 |
| 2021 | 9 |
| 2022 | 8 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
38% of complaints: engine — 27 distinct reports on file.
Show complaint excerpts
I have been employed in the Automotive Parts and Repair business for over forty years. I notice my vehicle exhaust sounded different than usual. I suspected the flex pipe part of the front exhaust pipe was leaking.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240108
15% of complaints: service brakes — 11 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURY14% of complaints: power train — 10 distinct reports on file.
CRASHShow complaint excerpts
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 BUICK ENCORE. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND UNOCCUPIED, IT INADVERTENTLY ROLLED AWAY AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES.
NHTSA ODI report, 20180802
14% of complaints: air bags — 10 distinct reports on file.
CRASH INJURYShow complaint excerpts
When crossing through an intersection at approximately 45mph, I was struck by another vehicle, speed unknown, who failed to stop at a stop sign. My vehicle was struck on the front passenger corner.
NHTSA ODI report, 20250823
A deer came out of nowhere and I hit it head on. It totaled the car. The airbag did not go off
NHTSA ODI report, 20250320
AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY WHEN VEICHLE WAS HIT FROM BEHIND. 2 PEOPLE WHERE INJURED.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190319
13% of complaints: electrical system — 9 distinct reports on file.
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2018 Buick Encore — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for engine issues (27 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (11 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (10 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2018 Buick Encore reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2018 Buick Encore is rated "typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Buick Encore?
The most-reported component is engine, accounting for 38% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2018 Buick Encore have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.