Encore GX (1st)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
L1H - DI, VVT, ALUM, CSS PRIME
1.2L 3-cyl TurboView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
L3T - SIDI, VVT, ALUM
1.3L 3-cyl TurboView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Show 1 additional engine variant with limited data
Buick Encore GX Unidentified Engine
View details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the Buick Encore GX regardless of engine variant.
Recalls (3)
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2024 Buick Encore GX, Envista, and Chevrolet Trax vehicles. The software in the Virtual Cockpit Unit Module (VCU) may cause the instrument panel display to intermittently go blank at vehicle startup or while driving.
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Buick Encore GX and 2021-2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. The emergency jack, if not positioned as directed in the vehicle owner's manual, can fracture while in use.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac CT4, CT5 and XT4, 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, and 2020-2021 Buick Encore GX vehicles. Sensor connection contamination in the electronic brake boost system may cause an interruption of communication between the sensor and the brake boost system.
Alternatives in Compact SUV
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX problems?
The 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX has accumulated 187 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Electrical System, Engine, Brakes. As with any used vehicle, an inspection before buying and a vehicle history report are recommended.
Which Buick Encore GX engine is most reliable?
The 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX was offered with 3 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 1.2L Turbo 3-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX a good used car?
The 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX can be a sound used car depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 187 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX have?
The 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX has 187 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX?
There are 3 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2020-2025 Buick Encore GX vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN — check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used Buick Encore GX?
Before buying a used Buick Encore GX, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Electrical System, Engine, Brakes, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Encore GX?
The 2025 Buick Encore GX received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 5 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (17.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Standard. Lane Departure Warning: Standard. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 187 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-05-23.