2021 Buick Encore Gx Safety Report

The 2021 Buick Encore GX presents a mixed safety profile. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with a perfect 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and a 4-star rollover rating, its complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. With 42 total complaints, including 2 crashes and 4 injuries, there are notable issues that impact daily drivability and potentially safety. The most frequently reported component is the ENGINE (7 complaints), followed by POWER TRAIN (5 complaints) and SERVICE BRAKES (5 complaints). These complaints often describe critical failures such as sudden loss of engine power, 'Shift to Park' errors preventing vehicle shutdown, and issues with brake assist. Recall history for the 2021 Encore GX includes two significant campaigns. One recall addresses a potential issue with the emergency jack (EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL), which, if improperly positioned, could cause the vehicle to collapse and increase injury risk. More critically, a recall for SERVICE BRAKES addresses sensor connection contamination that could lead to a loss of electronic brake boost assist, requiring extra pedal force to stop the vehicle. This brake recall directly correlates with some of the service brake complaints received. Common complaint patterns include the persistent 'Shift to Park' error message, which prevents the vehicle from shutting off properly, and recurring turbocharger failures leading to 'engine power reduced' warnings and limp mode, posing a significant hazard, especially at highway speeds. Brake issues, including hard pedals and sudden stops, are also reported. Despite the strong crash test ratings, these operational and component failures, particularly those related to the engine and brakes, suggest potential safety risks that may not be fully captured by crash tests alone. Buyers should be aware of these documented issues.

Our recommendation: While the 2021 Buick Encore GX has strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of recurring engine, power train, and brake issues, and verify that all recalls have been addressed before purchase.