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Is the 2013–2022 Buick Encore reliable?

Scored from 8 documented faults · reviewed by the VehicleFaults Research Team

Quick answer

5.5/ 10
Mixed

On our documented-fault scoring the Buick Encore rates 5.5 out of 10 · mixed. We hold 8 known faults for it and 2 are rated high severity, so the risk is real but contained. The weak points cluster around engine, transmission and electrical. A well-serviced example with evidence for the big-ticket items is usually a safe buy; the score describes the model, not the specific car in front of you.

Verdict · Negotiate · budget for the known faults

What the score is built from

Critical
0
High
2
Medium
3
Low
3

Weak points cluster around engine, transmission, electrical, cooling.

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The faults that decide it

Engine PCV SystemHigh

High-pitched whistling noise from the engine bay, rough idle, and triggering of the EML. Caused by the PCV diaphragm rupturing within the plastic cam cover.

Typically appears
50,000-80,000 miles
What to inspect
With the engine idling, place a finger over the small breather port on the top right of the cam cover. If you feel strong suction or the whistling stops, the PCV valve has failed.
Typical repair
Lighting unit replacement · £120–£900
Forced InductionHigh

Lack of power, sluggish acceleration, and underboost fault codes. Often caused by a cracked turbine housing around the wastegate port.

Typically appears
70,000-100,000 miles
What to inspect
Rev the engine abruptly while listening for excessive exhaust hissing near the bulkhead. Visually inspect the cast iron turbo housing beneath the heat shield for visible soot trails or hairline cracks.
Typical repair
Turbocharger replacement · £750–£2,200
EngineMedium

1.4L turbo coolant leaks, timing-chain wear and oil consumption.

Typically appears
60,000+ miles
What to inspect
Check for coolant loss, chain rattle and oil level.
Typical repair
Timing chain, tensioner & guides · £900–£2,400
CoolingMedium

Water-pump and thermostat failures.

Typically appears
70,000+ miles
What to inspect
Confirm the engine reaches and holds normal temperature.
Typical repair
Cooling component replacement · £220–£750
Fuel SystemMedium

Extended cranking or difficulty starting immediately after filling the petrol tank, often accompanied by a loud ticking noise from the EVAP purge valve.

Typically appears
60,000-90,000 miles
What to inspect
Start the engine and listen for a loud, rhythmic ticking near the inlet manifold. Unplug the electrical connector to the EVAP purge valve; if the ticking persists or the engine stumbles heavily, it is sticking open.
Typical repair
Exhaust / emissions component · £200–£950

Costs are indicative UK independent-garage bands for budgeting and negotiation · never a quote.

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