2018 Buick Encore Safety Report

2018 Buick Encore: Excellent Crash Test Scores Mask Recurring Engine and Airbag Reliability Concerns

69Complaints
0Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
10Crash Reports
9Injuries
Most reported components: Engine (15)Air Bags (9)Unknown Or Other (6)Power Train (4)Electrical System,Engine (2)Unknown Or Other,Engine (2)Electrical System (2)Service Brakes (2)Engine And Engine Cooling (2)Electronic Stability Control (Esc) (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2018 Buick Encore

The 2018 Buick Encore presents a mixed safety picture. While its crash test performance is exemplary, earning a perfect 5-star overall rating from NHTSA, with 5 stars in frontal and side impacts and 4 stars in rollover, the vehicle has accumulated 69 complaints. A significant concern is the 10 reported crashes and 9 injuries, despite zero reported fatalities or fires. The most prevalent complaint category is the ENGINE, accounting for 15 complaints, often related to loss of power, stalling, timing chain issues, and turbocharger failures. This suggests potential reliability issues with the powertrain that could compromise safety in certain driving conditions. Further analysis of complaints reveals recurring patterns beyond the engine. AIR BAGS are the second most reported component with 9 complaints, including instances where airbags failed to deploy in a crash. POWER TRAIN issues, distinct from engine-specific problems, also contribute to the complaint count, often involving hesitation or transmission malfunctions. Several complaints describe critical failures such as complete loss of power, steering, and braking while driving, which are severe safety hazards. The absence of any recalls for the 2018 model year, despite these recurring and serious complaints, is noteworthy. The overall safety picture is one of strong passive safety (crashworthiness) but potential active safety and reliability concerns. The high number of engine-related complaints, including turbocharger and timing chain issues, indicates a systemic problem that can lead to dangerous situations like sudden loss of power on highways. The reported airbag non-deployments are also a serious concern, directly impacting occupant protection in a collision. While the vehicle performs well in controlled crash tests, real-world reliability issues, particularly with the engine and electrical systems, pose a risk to drivers and passengers.

Reliability Score

The 2018 Buick Encore receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2018 Buick Encore

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2018 Buick Encore:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Engine Power Loss/Stalling
Multiple reports of the vehicle losing motive power, stalling, or hesitating while driving, often accompanied by check engine or Stabili-trak warning lights. This can occur at various speeds and poses a significant safety risk in traffic.		 High Common variable miles
Turbocharger Failure/Leak
Numerous complaints about turbocharger issues, including leaks, failure to maintain proper speed, and reduced acceleration. Some owners report multiple turbo replacements.		 High Common variable miles
Timing Chain Issues
Reports of engine timing chain problems leading to loud noises, hesitation, and loss of power, compromising vehicle performance and safety.		 High Occasional variable miles
Airbag Non-Deployment/Sensor Issues
Several complaints of airbags failing to deploy in crashes, as well as issues with the front passenger airbag sensor turning off, potentially reducing occupant protection.		 High Occasional variable miles
Electrical System Malfunctions
Reports of electrical glitches including screens turning on/off, doors locking/unlocking, and in severe cases, loss of steering, braking, and acceleration due to electrical failure.		 Medium Occasional variable miles
Oil Leaks (Oil Filter Housing)
Complaints about cracked oil filter housing units leading to oil leaks, which can be a fire hazard or lead to engine damage if not addressed.		 Medium Occasional variable miles
Brake Malfunction/Locking
Isolated but severe reports of brakes locking randomly while driving, causing the vehicle to slow down unexpectedly and creating a hazardous situation.		 High Rare variable miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2018 Buick Encore:

Engine 21% of complaints

Frequent reports of engine power loss, stalling, timing chain issues, and turbocharger failures, significantly impacting drivability and safety.

Air Bags 13% of complaints

Concerns regarding airbag non-deployment in crashes and issues with passenger airbag sensors.

Power Train 5% of complaints

Problems with transmission hesitation and general power train malfunctions.

Electrical System 5% of complaints

Malfunctions ranging from minor glitches to critical loss of vehicle control due to electrical failures.

Service Brakes 2% of complaints

Reports of brake malfunctions, including random locking while driving.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2018 Buick Encore

Is the 2018 Buick Encore safe?

The 2018 Buick Encore received excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating. However, it has 69 complaints, 10 crashes, and 9 injuries reported to NHTSA, with recurring issues like engine power loss, turbocharger failures, and airbag malfunctions raising concerns about its real-world reliability and active safety.

What are common problems with the 2018 Buick Encore?

The most reported issues for the 2018 Buick Encore are related to the ENGINE (15 complaints), including power loss, stalling, timing chain problems, and turbocharger failures. AIR BAGS (9 complaints) and POWER TRAIN (4 complaints) are also frequently cited, with some reports of critical electrical system failures.

Are there any recalls for the 2018 Buick Encore?

As of the provided data, there are no recalls issued by NHTSA for the 2018 Buick Encore. This is notable given the number and severity of complaints, particularly concerning engine and airbag issues.

How does the 2018 Buick Encore perform in crash tests?

The 2018 Buick Encore performed exceptionally well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star overall safety rating. It received 5 stars for frontal crash and side crash protection, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

What should I look out for if buying a used 2018 Buick Encore?

If considering a used 2018 Buick Encore, pay close attention to the engine for any signs of power loss, stalling, or unusual noises, especially related to the timing chain or turbocharger. Check for any warning lights, particularly the check engine or Stabili-trak light. Also, verify the functionality of the airbag system and inquire about any past electrical issues or oil leaks.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2018 Buick Encore boasts strong crash test scores, potential buyers should be aware of recurring engine reliability issues, including turbocharger and timing chain problems, and some airbag concerns; a thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2018 Buick Encore

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2018 Buick Encore. The data includes 69 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 10 reported crashes, 9 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2018 Buick Encore 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.