repaired · 2023 Q2
Power train: automatic transmission
Risk. Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a…
2020 Buick EncoreProblems, recalls & complaints
NHTSA has logged 19 owner complaints about the 2020 Buick Encore, most often about the engine. It is covered by 2 safety recalls, and for recall 20V-668 the manufacturer reports only 79% of affected cars repaired.
Source: NHTSA complaints, recalls, investigations and manufacturer recall reports, through June 25, 2026. Updated daily. Photo: Mr.choppers, CC BY-SA 3.0.
Complaints by system
Where the 2020 Buick Encore has problems
19 complaints grouped by the system owners reported.
7Engine
4Fuel/propulsion system
4Power train
4Electrical system
3Vehicle speed control
2Service brakes
1Visibility
1Latches/locks/linkages
1Service brakes, hydraulic
33 other systems2 crash/fire/injury
| System | Complaints | Crash, fire or injury |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 7 | 0 |
| Fuel/propulsion system | 4 | 0 |
| Power train | 4 | 0 |
| Electrical system | 4 | 0 |
| Vehicle speed control | 3 | 0 |
| Service brakes | 2 | 0 |
| Visibility | 1 | 0 |
| Latches/locks/linkages | 1 | 0 |
| Service brakes, hydraulic | 1 | 0 |
| 3 other systems | 3 | 2 |
Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation. Complaints are submitted by the public and are not verified by NHTSA.
2 recalls
2020 Buick Encore recalls and how many were fixed
Each ring shows the share of affected cars repaired, from the manufacturer’s latest quarterly report to NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers.
repaired · 2022 Q3
Seats
Risk. If an occupied front seat is missing the rear attachment bolts, it may move during a crash, increasing risk of injury to the occupant.
Recalls apply to specific cars. To see whether a recall is still open on yours, enter the 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or with Buick.
Best & worst years
2020 vs. every other Encore year
Bars show complaints per model year. Colors show the CarFlaw verdict: complaints weighted for crashes, fires and injuries, adjusted for years on the road and compared with the Encore median. How we score
'13'14'15'16'17'18'19'20'21'22
- Avoid
- Caution
- Solid
- Best
- Not rated
NHTSA crash tests
2020 Buick Encore safety ratings
2020 Buick Encore SUV AWD in NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program. Photos are from NHTSA's crash tests.
★★★★★
Frontal crash★★★★★
Side barrier★★★★★
Side pole★★★★★
- Rollover: 4 stars (17.9% risk)
- Stability control: Standard
- Forward collision warning: Optional
- Lane departure warning: Optional
In owners' words
What Encore owners report
Recent engine complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. Personal details are removed.
Defective "TURBO CHARGER" at 38,091 miles. The defective worn-out or damaged turbocharger was removed from the engine and a new one was installed at a cost of $1816.00. This part should not wear out at 38,000 miles. My mechanic informed me that this is common in the Buick Encore vehicles to…
I am co-owner of the vehicle. My daughter was driving the SUV when the Check engine light came on. There was no warning whatsoever, and the turbocharger has gone bad. Prior to the light eliminating there was nothing wrong with the suv. I was driving the suv when the check engine light came on. I…
On 4/24/25 I noticed a pungent odor (like rotten eggs). The odor is worse today. I did research and it appears there may be a problem and or leak with the catalytic converter. The emissions are making me and my kids feel sick, nauseous, headache, irritated eyes, etc.
Own a 2020 Encore?
Decode your VIN to see the recalls for your exact car, then confirm open recalls with NHTSA.