2021 Buick Encore Gx Safety Report
2021 Buick Encore GX Safety Report
Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx
This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2021 Buick Encore Gx. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.
| Signal | Value | What to inspect next |
|---|---|---|
| Recall burden | Moderate (2) | Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below. |
| Owner complaints | Moderate (42) | Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates. |
| Crash and fire reports | 2 | Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item. |
| Primary component hub | Engine | Compare engine issues across vehicles. |
| Cleaner nearby model year | 2025 | Compare against the 2025 Buick Encore Gx with 10 complaints and 0 recalls. |
| Riskier nearby model year | 2020 | Check the 2020 Buick Encore Gx before buying across this generation. |
Buick Encore Gx Year-by-Year Comparison
The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Buick Encore Gx years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.
| Model Year | Complaints | Recalls | Use case |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Buick Encore Gx | 25 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2020 Buick Encore Gx | 63 | 2 | Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year. |
| 2023 Buick Encore Gx | 22 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2024 Buick Encore Gx | 21 | 1 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
| 2025 Buick Encore Gx | 10 | 0 | Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative. |
2021 Buick Encore Gx Complaint Theme Map
Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2021 Buick Encore Gx, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.
Engine
7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine issues Buick onlyPower Train
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train issues Buick onlyService Brakes
5 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Service Brakes issues Buick onlyEngine And Engine Cooling
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Engine And Engine Cooling issues Buick onlyUnknown Or Other
4 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Unknown Or Other issues Buick onlyPower Train,Electrical System
2 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.
All Power Train,Electrical System issues Buick onlyAI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx
Reliability Score
The 2021 Buick Encore Gx receives a reliability score of 5 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.
Known Issues for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine And Engine Cooling Issues with the engine and cooling system have been reported, particularly around 30,000 to 60,000 miles. |
Medium | Common | 30k-60k miles |
| Brake System Control Module A fault with the brake system control module has led to recalls, affecting multiple models. |
High | Common | All miles |
| Shift To Park Error Owners have reported a 'Shift to Park' error message, which can cause issues with the vehicle shutting off or starting. |
Medium | Common | All miles |
| Mechanical Accessories Recalls have been issued for accessory scissor/screw/bottle jack/lift stand issues. |
Medium | Common | All miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Buick Encore Gx:
Issues with the brake system control module have been reported, leading to recalls.
Problems with the engine and cooling system have been reported, particularly around 30,000 to 60,000 miles.
Owners have reported a 'Shift to Park' error message, which can cause issues with the vehicle shutting off or starting.
Recalls have been issued for accessory scissor/screw/bottle jack/lift stand issues.
Recall Details for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx
The following 2 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx by NHTSA:
Summary: 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.
Consequence: A fractured jack can cause the vehicle to collapse, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the jack, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owner of the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 26, 2021. A second notice will be mailed once remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is A212335470.
Summary: 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.
Consequence: If communication with the sensor is interrupted, the electronic brake boost assist could be lost. Extra pedal force will be required to slow and stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electronic brake boost module, free of charge. The recall began December 9, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is A202307260.
NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx
Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2021 Buick Encore Gx with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 2 complaints involved crashes. 3 reported injuries or fatalities.
The contact owns a 2021 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while attempting to park the vehicle, the message to “Shift to Park” was displayed while the vehicle was already shifted in park(P). The contact stated that several attempts to shift to park were needed to clear the message. On several occasions, the contact drove the vehicle and then shifted back to park(P) for the message to be cle...
The contact owns a 2021 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that during a routine oil change at the local dealer, the contact informed the dealer that while in the park or shifting to park, the engine was shutting off unexpectedly. The message to “Shift to Park” was displayed and the vehicle was difficult to turn off. The contact wiggled the ignition to shut off the vehicle. There were no warning ...
When trying to park/shut off, the vehicle gives ‘shift to park’ error message upon shifting to park and won’t shut off or when starting will give ‘shift to park’ error message and not start. This seems to be a common issue with this vehicle model…we could really use a recall
Trying to understand why a recall was not done on an engine issue on this car and instead GMC chose to send out 2 letters in 2024 detailing the problem that "might" happen with the engine losing power while driving and for owners to "carry" the letters in the glove compartment of the vehicle so the dealership could be aware of the issue. You were told to not bring the car to be serviced unless th...
Brake System Control Module Replacement - The brake system control module needs replacement due to a fault detected with 10 volts on terminal 1. Replacing this component can help maintain proper functionality of the brake system and ensure consistent performance. Why would this all of a sudden be faulty after almost 5 years?
The contact owns a 2021 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated while depressing the brake pedal to make a right turn, there was an abnormally loud popping and scrapping sound coming from underneath the vehicle. The contact pulled over to the side of the road. Upon exiting and inspecting the vehicle, the contact became aware that the exhaust manifold had detached from the vehicle. The vehicle was driv...
2021 Buick Encore with 25000 miles. Warning message “SHIFT TO PARK” while vehicle is in park. Dealership says shifter and knob need replaced at an out of pocket cost to me of nearly one thousand dollars. GM has already settled claims for this problem with Chevrolet owners.
Evap leak detection pump failed at 78,871 miles. 2022 models and beyond are covered for this defect.
Evap leak detection pump failed at 78,871 miles. 2022 models and beyond are covered for this defect.
When I put my car into Park, a bell alarm sounds and a message shows up to put the car into Park. While it’s already in Park. I then push the stick shift forward and the bell alarms stops and message disappears.
This is an ongoing issue that I have brought to the NHTSA's attention before, which resulted in a special coverage program being issued; however, now GM is not willing to assist me with the special coverage program due to a branded title (used vehicle), and the condition is only getting worse. Tonight, on August 16th, my vehicle experienced a complete loss of power, including engine functionality ...
About 6 times in the last 3 months when I put the car into reverse and the reverse camera comes on the image is kind of sketchy and in weird colors - definitely not clear then it completely goes black with message at the top saying something about getting the rear camera repaired. It doesn't happen often but I can't use the rear camera when it does that so it's back to old school when in reverse l...
Once a day sometimes twice, when I have pulled into a parking spot and put the car into Park, a bell alarm sounds and a message shows up to put the car into Park. Since I already put it into Park I then jiggle the stick shift lightly and the bell alarms stops and message disappears. This started within last 6 months.
Car is put on Park and a warning light comes out saying car is not on park.
The contact owns a 2021 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that after parking the vehicle and shifting to park(P), the vehicle failed to immediately shut off. During the failure the message "Shift to Park" was displayed. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure, but no assi...
Turbo charger has gone out 4 times since I purchased it in April 2021. I have been on the interstate driving and suddenly my car slows down and a message that says “engine power reduced” comes up and my check engine light comes on. This is dangerous as I was on the interstate with 18 wheelers and could’ve been rear ended and badly hurt or killed. My grandchildren could’ve been in the car with me. ...
Vehicle overheating randomly due to faulty Coolant Control Valve. Vehicle goes into reduced power mode and also instructs you to pull over and idle engine. Part is on National backorder for weeks. The issue could cause Vehicle to become inoperable and cause a crash.
brakes are difficult to press (VERY HARD)
Went to install a car seat and the place to hook it to is so far Imbedded into the seat I would have to cut the seat to get to it. I need these car seats attached. I am not cutting the seats.
The contact's girlfriend owned a 2021 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while his girlfriend was driving at 20 MPH, an abnormal, snapping sound emitted from the vehicle as the steering wheel independently shifted to the right and crashed into two parked vehicles. The contact stated that the suspension warning light appeared on the instrument panel after the failure and later discovered that th...
Showing 20 of 42 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Buick Encore Gx
Has the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX been recalled?
Yes, the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX has 2 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.
How many complaints does the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX have?
The 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX has 42 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 2 involved crashes. 4 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.
What is the safety rating for the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
The 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX received an overall NHTSA safety rating of excellent (5/5). Frontal crash: 5/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX involve engine (7 complaints), power train (5 complaints), service brakes (5 complaints). Other affected components include engine and engine cooling, unknown or other, power train,electrical system.
How many crash reports does the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX have?
There are 2 crash reports associated with the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX out of 42 total complaints (4.8% of complaints involved crashes).
How many fire reports does the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX have?
There are no fire reports for the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX in the NHTSA database.
Are there any deaths reported for the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX.
How many injuries are reported for the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
4 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.
Should I buy a 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX is generally recommended. It has 42 complaints, 2 recalls, and a excellent (5/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.
What components fail most on the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
The components with the most failures on the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX are: 1. ENGINE (7 complaints), 2. POWER TRAIN (5 complaints), 3. SERVICE BRAKES (5 complaints), 4. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (4 complaints), 5. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (4 complaints). ENGINE is the single most-reported problem area with 7 complaints.
What should I know before buying a 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
Be aware of potential issues with the engine, cooling system, and brake system control module. Check for recalls and address any 'Shift to Park' errors promptly. The 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX has 42 NHTSA complaints and 2 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it excellent (5/5).
How reliable is the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
The 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX receives a reliability score of 5/100, indicating below-average reliability. This is based on 42 owner complaints, 2 recalls, and 2 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Engine and Engine Cooling and Brake System Control Module.
What are the known issues with the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX?
Known issues with the 2021 BUICK ENCORE GX include: Engine and Engine Cooling, Brake System Control Module, Shift to Park Error, Mechanical Accessories. These are based on patterns found across 42 NHTSA complaints. 2 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.
What are the main safety concerns with the 2021 Buick Encore GX?
Main concerns include engine and cooling system issues, brake system control module faults, and 'Shift to Park' errors.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 Buick Encore GX?
Yes, there have been recalls for the brake system control module and mechanical accessories.
What should I do if I encounter a 'Shift to Park' error?
Address the issue promptly by taking the vehicle to a dealership for repair.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Be aware of potential issues with the engine, cooling system, and brake system control module. Check for recalls and address any 'Shift to Park' errors promptly.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Buick Encore Gx
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Buick Encore Gx. The data includes 42 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 4 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Buick Encore Gx an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.
Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.
Analysis last updated: 2026-05-13