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ProblemsByVin File / 2021-BUICK-ENCORE
2021 · buick

buick Encore problems

0 safety recalls. 8 owner complaints. We mapped every trouble spot before you sign the papers.

0 5 10
Reliability score
9.0 / 10

Above-average reliability for the segment. Few systemic issues on file.

0
Critical
0
Severe
0
Moderate

Top trouble spots 1 category with 3+ complaints

engine
3 reports · avg $3,100
moderate

What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim

2021 Encore · electrical Injury
NOTHING AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WAS LEAVING A PARKING LOT STARTED WENT TO DRIVE OFF !! BANG 2000 BOUNDS OF PRESSURE IN MY FACE! MY WHOLE BODY!! IT WAS A RENTAL !! LOOK INTO THIS VECHICAIL !HAIR BURNT! FRIED WIRE SMELL STILL ON MY BURNT JACKET!! LOOK INTO THIS WITH GREAT CONCERN…
11/28/2023 · NHTSA ODI #11557296.0
2021 Encore · engine
I have continuously had my check engine light pop on. I have took it in twice for them fix the issue which is the purge sensor. It did not fix the issue because the light just pops back on. This has caused issues with me passing emissions and has been an headache shortly street…
11/11/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11698861.0
2021 Encore · engine
Had an oil change done 6/13/22. 6/21/22 Temp gauge rose to 3/4 mark, AC shut off, car really hot under hood, loss of power, car threw crankshaft position sensor code which we replaced. Had the temp gauge do it few more times from 6/21/22 to 8/13/22 when temp gauge did the same…
09/07/2022 · NHTSA ODI #11483354.0
2021 Encore · brakes
The contact owns a 2021 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was firm while depressed. The contact had to slam on the brake pedal to stop the vehicle. The contact stated that the Hill Assist message was displayed. The brake…
08/21/2025 · NHTSA ODI #11682080.0

Estimate your repair exposure

Drag to your current mileage. Numbers are derived from this vehicle's complaint history.

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Likely repair cost in next 24 months
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Common questions

Is the 2021 Buick Encore reliable?

Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 9.0 out of 10 based on 8 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2021 Buick Encore is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.

What's the most common problem on the 2021 Buick Encore?

Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is engine, with 3 complaints filed. Average repair cost runs about $3,100 at an independent shop.

What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?

The engine is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $3,100 at an independent shop. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.

How do I check if my Buick Encore has open recalls?

Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.

Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2021 Buick Encore?

Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 8 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $3,100, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans aren't always better value.

Related vehicles

Recall and complaint data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) public records database, last synced 18 hours ago. Editorial commentary written by ProblemsByVin contributors and reviewed by ASE-certified mechanics. We are not affiliated with buick. Some links on this page are affiliate links and we may earn a commission if you complete a quote or purchase.
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