There are no safety recalls for the 2018 Buick Encore, but owners have filed 75 complaints with NHTSA.
2018 Buick Encore problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Engine | 30 | |
| Service Brakes | 11 | |
| Unknown or Other | 10 | |
| Power Train | 10 | |
| Air Bags | 10 | |
| Electrical System | 9 | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 6 | |
| Steering | 6 | |
| Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | 5 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 5 | |
| Vehicle Speed Control | 3 | |
| Seat Belts | 2 | |
Most reported parts
- Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System › Hoses/Lines/Piping/Fittings — 1
- Vehicle Speed Control › Accelerator Pedal — 1
- Structure › Body — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System › Emission Control › Catalytic Convertor — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline › Turbo/Supercharger — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 20,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2018 Buick Encore complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Fuel/Propulsion System · reported Jul 20, 2026
Strong odor of gasoline, followed by a crack in the high pressure fuel line. Gasoline poured out under pressure from fuel line approximately 1 foot ahead of the right rear tire. Major amount of spillage - literally several gallons within a minute or so, that eventually faded as the system lost pressure. Could have been a significant safety issue and catastrophic loss if there had been an ignition source nearby. Overall repair required dropping the fuel tank and the replacement of GM Part Number 95080144, a plastic fuel pipe. Overall, a safety issue and expensive (~$900) repair.
Engine · reported Jun 10, 2026
Request for Goodwill Assistance â Turbocharger Failure (Special Coverage XXX) Dear General Motors Customer Assistance, I am writing to request a one-time goodwill repair for my 2018 Buick Encore (VIN: [XXX]). Approximately two months after purchasing this vehicle, the check engine light illuminated and diagnostic testing identified code P0299, indicating turbocharger failure. This issue appears to align with General Motors' Special Coverage Program XXX, issued in February 2024 for certain 2017â2018 Buick Encore vehicles equipped with the 1.4L engine due to known turbocharger failures.…
Service Brakes · reported Apr 29, 2026
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…
Power Train · at 85,000 miles · reported Mar 23, 2026
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.
Air Bags · reported Feb 20, 2026
The front passenger air bag sensor turns off either before we begin driving or while the vehicle is in motion. The manual says that if you have a seat cushion or are not in the position for the sensor to "see" you, it may turn off. I have a bad back, and I need my 2-inch seat cushion for long trips, or I will be in pain. But when I use my seat cushion, the sensor turns the air bag off. So, if I use my seat cushion (or the sensor otherwise decides to turn the air bag off), I am not protected in the case of an accident. If I don't use my seat cushion, I am in pain from my back. The front…
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2018 Buick Encore have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2018 Buick Encore as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2018 Buick Encore?
Owners report engine problems most often (30 reports), followed by service brakes (11). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 20,000 miles.
Are Buick recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized Buick dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.