2018 Buick EncoreRecalls, problems, MPG & safety
NHTSA lists 0 safety recalls and 75 owner complaints for the 2018 Buick Encore. Most complaints involve engine (30) and service brakes (11). The EPA rates it 27–30 mpg combined, and NHTSA gives it 5 stars overall.
Safety recalls
Owner complaints by component
- Engine30
- Service brakes11
- Power train10
- Air bags10
- Electrical system9
- Fuel/propulsion system6
- Steering6
- Electronic stability control (esc)5
- Engine and engine cooling4
Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.
What owners report most
Engine
“The contact owns a 2018 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle ran rough and sputtered. The check engine warning light failed to illuminate following a deep cleaning service. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection and repair. The dealer identified software failures associated with DTC: P162B and DTC: P111E, and performed software updates. The contact stated that a leak occurred in the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system associated with DTC: P0171. The dealer replaced the intake manifold, vapor canister purge valve, and PCV component, stating that no leaks were found during the inspection. The contact had the removed parts inspected by an independent mechanic, who found an internal leak. The contact stated that the OnStar system indicated that the check engine warning light was illuminated, and an abnormal exhaust odor emanated from the vehicle. While driving, the driver experienced drowsiness and expressed concern regarding carbon monoxide exposure. The contact stated that the tailpipe was damaged and expressed concern regarding warranty coverage for the turbocharger and catalytic converter. The manufacturer was…”
Service brakes
“I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding a repeated dangerous defect in my 2018 Buick Encore. The vehicle intermittently locks up while driving without warning. When this happens: brakes become unresponsive or lock steering becomes difficult or locks gas pedal does not respond dashboard warning lights activate vehicle systems malfunction vehicle may not shut off normally This defect has occurred multiple times and creates a serious crash risk. The vehicle has now undergone three repair attempts at an authorized Buick dealership. During the second repair attempt, dealership staff personally experienced the same malfunction while test driving the vehicle. I paid approximately $2,078 cash for repairs after being told the issue was fixed, but the same dangerous defect happened again afterward.The vehicle has remained at the dealership for 15+ consecutive days, causing loss of transportation and work hardship. I am also concerned by inconsistent repair documentation and possible repairs performed that were not clearly disclosed or authorized. This vehicle remains unsafe to drive, and the defect has not been corrected despite multiple repair attempts. I…”
Power train
“The contact owned a 2018 Buick Encore. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the "Service AWD" warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The warning light remained illuminated while driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer several times, however, the vehicle was not yet repaired. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be repaired, but the failure persisted. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 85,000.”
Engines, transmissions & drive
- EPA class
- Small Sport Utility Vehicle 2WD, Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD
- Engines
- 1.4L 4-cyl turbo
- Transmissions
- Automatic (S6)
- Drive
- Front-Wheel Drive · All-Wheel Drive
- Fuel
- Regular Gasoline
Towing, payload and dimensions aren’t in the EPA or NHTSA data, so we don’t list them.
EPA fuel economy by version
| Version | City | Hwy | Comb. | Fuel / yr | CO₂ g/mi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Encore Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 1.4 L, Turbo, SIDI; Stop-Start · Front-Wheel Drive | 27 | 33 | 30 | $2,100 | 298 |
| Encore Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 1.4 L, Turbo · Front-Wheel Drive | 25 | 33 | 28 | $2,200 | 313 |
| Encore AWD Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 1.4 L, Turbo, SIDI · All-Wheel Drive | 26 | 31 | 28 | $2,200 | 319 |
| Encore AWD Auto (S6), 4 cyl, 1.4 L, Turbo · All-Wheel Drive | 24 | 30 | 27 | $2,300 | 335 |
- 30mpg comb.
- 28mpg comb.
- 28mpg comb.
- 27mpg comb.
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings
- Frontal crash
- 5 of 5
- Side crash
- 5 of 5
- Side pole
- 5 of 5
- Rollover
- 4 of 5
- Rollover risk
- 19.8%
- Frontal crash
- 5 of 5
- Side crash
- 5 of 5
- Side pole
- 5 of 5
- Rollover
- 4 of 5
- Rollover risk
- 17.9%
Maintenance basics
| Item | Miles | Time | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine oil & filter | 5,000–10,000 mi | 6–12 months | Follow the oil-life monitor if fitted |
| Tire rotation | 5,000–7,500 mi | Every oil change | Check pressure monthly |
| Engine air filter | 15,000–30,000 mi | 1–2 years | Sooner in dusty areas |
| Cabin air filter | 15,000–25,000 mi | 1–2 years | |
| Brake fluid | — | 2–3 years | Absorbs moisture over time |
| Coolant | 60,000–100,000 mi | 5–10 years | Long-life coolants last longer |
| Spark plugs | 60,000–100,000 mi | — | Iridium/platinum plugs at the long end |
| 12V battery | — | 3–5 years | Heat shortens battery life |
- Engine oil & filter5,000–10,000 mi
6–12 months - Tire rotation5,000–7,500 mi
Every oil change - Engine air filter15,000–30,000 mi
1–2 years - Cabin air filter15,000–25,000 mi
1–2 years - Brake fluid—
2–3 years - Coolant60,000–100,000 mi
5–10 years - Spark plugs60,000–100,000 mi
— - 12V battery—
3–5 years
2018 Encore questions
How many recalls does the 2018 Buick Encore have?
0 recalls found in NHTSA data as of Nov 9, 2026.
What are the most common 2018 Buick Encore problems?
Owners filed 75 complaints with NHTSA. The most-cited components are engine (30), service brakes (11), power train (10). Complaints are unverified owner reports and aren't adjusted for how many cars were sold.
What MPG does the 2018 Buick Encore get?
The EPA rates the 2018 Buick Encore at 27–30 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain (4 versions rated).
How safe is the 2018 Buick Encore?
NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program gives the 2018 Buick Encore 5 out of 5 stars overall.