Buick Encore GX Reliability by YearBest & worst years, problems & recalls — NHTSA data
Comparing used Buick Encore GX options? We analyzed 7 model years (2020–2026) using real NHTSA complaint and recall data so you can spot stronger years, avoid riskier ones, and know what to inspect before buying.
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- Accident & damage history
- Odometer rollback records
- Open recalls & title brands
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the Buick Encore GX has 213 owner complaints and 6 safety recalls across model years 2020–2026. The most reported issue area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. 2020 drew the most complaints; 2025 drew the fewest.
- Make
- Buick
- Model
- Encore GX
- Model years analyzed
- 2020–2026 (7 years)
- Total NHTSA complaints
- 213
- Safety recall campaigns
- 6
- Crash-related complaints
- 7
- Fire-related complaints
- 1
- Worst model year (by complaints)
- 2020 (66 complaints)
- Best model year (fewest complaints)
- 2025 (14 complaints)
- Top reported issue area
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Reliability signal
- Poor
By model year
Buick Encore GX: which years to avoid & which to buy
Based on total NHTSA owner complaints per model year. Higher complaint counts indicate a riskier year to buy used — lower counts suggest a cleaner reliability record.
These years have the most owner complaints. Inspect carefully and always run a VIN check.
These years have the fewest owner complaints on record — lower risk starting points.
Crash test ratings
NHTSA NCAP crash test ratings
New Car Assessment ProgramNCAP crash tests measure how well a vehicle protects occupants in controlled frontal crash, side crash, and rollover scenarios. Stars are awarded per category (5 = safest). These laboratory results are independent of owner complaints and are performed by NHTSA engineers on new production vehicles.
Source: nhtsa.gov/ratings
What the complaint data suggests
PoorThe BUICK ENCORE GX has 213 NHTSA complaints and 6 recalls on record. 7 complaints involve crash-related incidents. This data reflects owner-reported issues submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- 213 total complaints filed with NHTSA
- 6 federal recall campaigns
- 7 crash-related complaints on record
- Review NHTSA complaint history for the most-reported components
- Check recall completion status at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Verify service records for frequently complained components
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with elevated complaint rates.
Consult the by-year breakdown to identify model years with fewer reported issues.
- Run a VIN check on the specific vehicle you are considering
- Verify all open recalls are completed at nhtsa.gov/recalls
- Request service records for the most-reported complaint components
- Have a certified mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase
Problems by model year (best vs. worst)
Source: NHTSA public complaints database. Updated: Aug 2026
Safety recalls
NHTSA safety recalls
6 recalls foundSafety recalls are mandatory repair campaigns ordered by NHTSA when a vehicle defect poses an unreasonable risk to safety. Manufacturers are required to fix recalled vehicles free of charge. Always verify open recalls before buying a used car.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STAND
EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STAND
EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STAND
SERVICE BRAKES
SERVICE BRAKES
Source: NHTSA Recalls Database. Data covers model years 2020–2026. Always run a VIN-specific check below for the most up-to-date open recall status.
Common problems
What goes wrong most often
The vehicle systems owners complain about most, ranked from all 213 NHTSA complaints — these are the areas to inspect first on a used car.
Owner complaints
NHTSA complaint reports
213 totalThese are consumer-submitted safety complaints filed directly with NHTSA. Each complaint describes a real owner's experience. Complaints flagged as crash-related or fire-related are highlighted.
The contact owns a 2024 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact received a phone call and the infotainment screen and the display for the weather and climate control system below the infotainment screen darkened and then became inoperative. The buttons below and around the center console remained operable; however, the contact was unable to see what functions were being selected or controlled because the display was dark. The infotainment screen was also inoperative, preventing the contact from viewing the functions that were controlled. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that an audio software update was needed. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.
This is not a new issue and has happened multiple times since the purchase of this vehicle. Multiple times while driving my 2024 Buick Encore GX, the entire instrument panel intermittently goes completely blank/black. All critical information disappears, including the speedometer, fuel gauge, warning lights, and other indicators. The display does not recover on its own and only returns after I fully restart the vehicle. This creates a serious safety hazard especially at night. Without the speedometer or warning lights, I cannot accurately monitor my speed or receive important vehicle alerts, which increases the risk of a crash due to distraction and lack of critical information. The problem is intermittent and can occur at any time day or night which can become very dangerous. Although I was told my specific VIN does not fall under the formal safety recall (NHTSA 23V744000 / GM A232424320) for the same blank-instrument-panel condition, the symptoms are identical. Similar complaints from other 2024 Encore GX owners describe the exact same issue (blank dash that only recovers after a restart). After being told by the local dealer that nothing can be done about it unless I pay for an expensive diagnostic, which is beyond infuriating, I request that that dealer, certified mechanic, or Buick perform a full diagnostic, install any available software updates for the Virtual Cockpit Unit (VCU) or related systems, and resolve this SAFETY-RELATED defect under warranty.
The contact owns a 2024 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while driving at 5 MPH and attempting to stop the vehicle, the instrument panel displayed a blank screen. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the electrical system needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact associated the failure with NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V744000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 54,000.
When driving on the freeway 60 mph, the car jerked and locked up, no warning lights, speedometer was rising and dropping rapidly, car slowly dropped speed. Had to pull on the side of the road, when car was put to parked, neutral, or drive it went backwards until it wasn’t able to move at all. Car was towed to the GM Chevrolet in my area where it was fixed previously for transmission module issue. After inspection it was found by a mechanic that it was a transmission failure. Thankfully, we didn’t get into an accident but it was a close call.
The contact owns a 2024 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while driving approximately 60-65 MPH on the interstate, the vehicle was shuddering abnormally while accelerating, and the transmission failed to properly shift into gear. The contact was concerned about safety while driving the vehicle at highway speeds. There were no warning lights illuminated, or messages displayed prior to the failure. After the most recent failure, the vehicle was driven to the residence. The vehicle was taken to a dealer to be diagnosed; however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 34,500.
The contact owns a 2024 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle, the instrument panel displayed a blank screen. In addition, the contact stated that the failure occurred every 31 seconds. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed with a failed VCU module. The contact was informed that the VCU module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. In addition, the contact was informed that the repair was not covered under an unknown recall or warranty program. The failure mileage was approximately 55,300.
Read 14 more owner reports
The instrument panel gets really hot. I've taken the car to a dealer to diagnose the problem but they say that that can't find anything wrong .There were no warning lights or any message. I purchased the car in 2025 and it already had a little over 10,000 miles on it. Not just the instrument panel gets hot, but, also yhe panel where the radio is.
The contact owns a 2024 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while reversing, the rear-view camera displayed a blurry image, and the rear-view camera later displayed a solid red image. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the contact was informed that there were no issues with the rear-view camera image. The failure reoccurred, but the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The contact referenced an unknown related recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall. The contact stated that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 10,000.
The information screen has gone totally black and calls are cutting in and out. In my research I've seen there was a recall for this issue on this year and model but, it does not show for my particular vehicle.
Vehicle was started and started misfiring and then shut off, no check engine lights came on. Tried to restart the car and it continued to misfire but eventually stopped. Car also misfires sometimes after refueling. Car was taken to dealership to be looked at and there were no findings of any issues, they suggested it was bad gas.
door locks don't work. This is the second time in less than a year. Last time it took Buick 28 days to fix. Vehicle wont lock while driving or when parked. No warning. The dealer has had the vehicle since 10-20-25.
The display screen will glitch and completely go black while driving. I have tried turning the car off to hopefully “reset” the issue, and sometimes the entire display will not come on at all. I have taken my car in 4-5 times to my local dealership only to be blown off. Lately my headlights and taillights are going off at random times. The are a huge safety concern and it seems increasingly common for many Buick owners. The recall needs to be expanded to include my vehicle before I have an accident and I, or someone else is seriously hurt.
The brakes squeak constantly and occasionally skid or lock up. The car will occasionally have all electrical power disconnected so all screens go blank for 2-3 secs (sometimes in succession for 3 times max), the car will continue to run and drive. However, the screens will blink as if starting up each time the car does this. The car will also indicate 44 miles left until tank is empty, working 10-12 more miles the car will stop as if it’s out of gas and will not start again until you put gas it (all indications on gauges show enough gas to go 25-30 miles left). Very disappointed in the car and dealership can’t figure it out.
Same issue that happened a couple years ago in which a recall was issued. My 2024 Buick Encore GX ST screen went blank. I was unable to see my odometer, speed, fuel gauge etc. while operating the vehicle.
The contact leased a 2024 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving 70 MPH, the steering wheel was pulling to the left and to the right. The contact was able to remain in the middle lane. The contact had to use both hands while driving the vehicle. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was previously taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the steering column needed to be replaced. After two months, the vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 30,620.
Noticed around 7000 miles that the brakes are squealing and grabbing at slow speeds
The issue has happened three times and has been "repaired" three times. While driving, the vehicle starts to shake violently. Then the check engine light comes on and the vehicle shuts off. It has happened on extremely busy roads and almost caused major accidents. It has been a problem with fuel pump and sensor. Again, it has happened three times.
On [XXX], I was driving on the [XXX] in San Diego, a rather busy freeway, and the instrument panel went black with no interference from me. I could not see speedometer or any other information about the car, like check engine light. I drove the 17 miles home. At my home, I restarted the car several times and the screen was still black. A separate screen with the radio, etc. was still working though. I made sure that a button to dim the screen hadn't accidentally been touched, and it hadn't as I turned it back and forth with no response. There was no error message, etc. I was at risk of not knowing how fast I was going, not having the safety feature of knowing how close I was to other vehicles, and not knowing if there was a check engine indicator. There was no symptoms prior to the incident. The car has about 1,246 miles on it. I just purchased in bout 7 weeks ago brand new. I contacted OnStar as they have a help feature and they instructed me I had to bring the car in to the dealer. I have been ill the last few days but will have to take in there to be inspected. I have not started the car today on 7/11/2025 to see if the screen will come on, but a black instrument panel seems to be an ongoing problem the Buick Encore GX. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
The contact owns a 2024 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated there was an abnormally strong foul odor inside the vehicle, and there was mildew and mold inside the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer to be inspected. The dealer informed the contact that the failure had occurred due to the design of the vehicle. The dealer informed the contact that water and debris were entering the vehicle through the gap between the windshield and the cowl. The dealer was currently cleaning the vehicle with mold removal products; however, no assistance was provided to correct the gap between the windshield and the cowl. The dealer advised the contact to park the vehicle in a garage. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that her daughter was asthmatic and was taken to the hospital because her asthma might have been triggered by the mold and mildew inside the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 6,500.
On 10/21/2024 the main gauge cluster began flickering and lasted that way for several days while GM had part on back order. Then on 11/9/2024 the gauge cluster went completely out while driving at night with no indication of speed or status. The incident was very disorienting but did not cause an incident. GM has been waiting on the part since 10/28/2024 with the latest delivery expected in Feb 2025. Each month the part's expected arrival slips several weeks, and our confidence is low that the part will be available in Feb.
Showing 20 of 213 total NHTSA complaints. Source: NHTSA Complaints Database
Check the exact car
Before you buy, check the exact Buick Encore GX
These pages show model-year patterns across 7 years. Enter a VIN to verify the exact vehicle's accident history, title brands, odometer records, and open recall status before purchase.
The basics
How to read this data
Complaints, recalls, investigations — here’s what each number actually tells you about a used Buick Encore GX, in plain English.
What is an NHTSA Complaint?
An NHTSA safety complaint is a report filed directly by a vehicle owner or driver describing a safety-related issue. Anyone can submit a complaint at NHTSA.gov. The number of complaints is a signal of how common a problem is — but complaints per model-year matter more than raw totals, since popular vehicles naturally receive more reports. The Buick Encore GX has 213 complaints on record across 7 model years.
What is a Safety Recall?
A safety recall is a mandatory campaign issued by NHTSA when a vehicle component poses an unreasonable risk to safety or does not comply with federal motor vehicle safety standards. Unlike complaints (which are owner-reported), recalls are formally investigated and confirmed by regulators. Manufacturers must fix recalled vehicles free of charge. The Buick Encore GX has 6 recall campaigns in the NHTSA database.
What Are Crash Complaints?
Crash complaints are NHTSA filings where the owner indicates a crash occurred as part of the incident. 7 of the Buick Encore GX's 213 complaints involved a crash. This metric is particularly important because it indicates how often defects resulted in actual collisions — a key safety signal beyond general reliability.
How Is the Reliability Verdict Calculated?
The reliability verdict (Poor) is generated by analyzing the vehicle's total complaints, recall history, crash complaint ratio, fire complaint ratio, and top component failures relative to class averages. This verdict gives buyers a quick interpretation before they review year-level details and VIN-level history. It should be treated as one decision input, not a substitute for a VIN-specific report.
Why Do Newer Years Have Fewer Complaints?
Newer model years appear to have fewer complaints because there has been less time for owners to file them. Complaints accumulate over years of ownership. A 2020 model year vehicle will typically show fewer complaints than a 2015 model year even if it is less reliable — simply because fewer owners have had time to report issues. Focus on complaints per year of market presence when comparing across model years.
Fleet Data vs. Individual VIN
Everything on this page reflects aggregated data across all Buick Encore GX vehicles on the road — not any specific car. Two Buick Encore GX vehicles of the same year can have very different histories: one may have been in three accidents and have an open recall; another may be clean. A VIN check gives you the individual car's history: accidents, title brands, odometer records, service history, and real-time recall status.
What Are NHTSA Investigations?
When NHTSA receives a pattern of related safety complaints, it opens a formal investigation. A Preliminary Evaluation (PE) is the first stage — NHTSA determines if a safety defect may exist. If evidence is strong, it escalates to an Engineering Analysis (EA), which can result in a mandatory recall. The Buick Encore GX has 0 investigations on record (0 active). Investigations listed above may have already led to the recalls shown on this page.
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Buick Encore GX reliability — frequently asked questions
Is the Buick Encore GX reliable?
Poor. The Buick Encore GX has 213 NHTSA owner complaints and 6 recall campaigns across model years. A commonly reported issue area is ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. Use year-level data as a pattern guide, then verify the exact car with a VIN check before purchase.
Which Buick Encore GX years to avoid?
Years with the most NHTSA complaints: 2020 (66 complaints), 2021 (50 complaints), 2022 (30 complaints). Use these years as a shortlist for deeper inspection, and always run a VIN check on the exact vehicle before purchase.
What are the most common Buick Encore GX problems?
Top reported issues: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (55 complaints); POWER TRAIN (47 complaints); UNKNOWN OR OTHER (45 complaints).
Does the Buick Encore GX have recalls?
Yes — 6 NHTSA recall campaigns have been issued for the Buick Encore GX. Check nhtsa.gov/recalls or run a VIN check to see if your specific vehicle has open recalls.