2018 Buick Encore engine problems
29 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the engine on the 2018 Buick Encore — 39% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“Not long after I purchased my car, i noticed it was lacking power during takeoff and when driving uphill which forced my car to hit very high RPMs during normal use. There was also a P0299 code that appeared then disappeared frequently. I discovered a turbo special coverage N232395330 and took it…”
filed Aug 2, 2026
“General Motors issued a Special Policy N202299080 covering 2014 Buick Encores. My 2018 Encore had the same issues and symptoms as this Policy. My concern is because of this known problem the crankcase can be pressurized causing oil leaks which could cause a fire. General Motors issued a Service…”
filed Jul 31, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Engine problems in other Encore years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 Encore | 7 | 37% |
| 2019 Encore | 31 | 37% |
| 2017 Encore | 35 | 39% |
| 2016 Encore | 40 | 51% |
| 2015 Encore | 29 | 23% |
| 2014 Encore | 25 | 42% |
| 2013 Encore | 21 | 40% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2018 Buick Encore
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.