2019 Buick Encore Safety Report
2019 Buick Encore: High crash ratings, but significant engine and air bag deployment concerns from owner complaints and recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Buick Encore
Reliability Score
The 2019 Buick Encore receives a reliability score of 55 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 2019 Buick Encore
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Buick Encore:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turbocharger Failure Multiple complaints describe turbocharger failures, often leading to coolant leaks, engine overheating, loss of power, and check engine lights. Repairs are costly, with one owner reporting a $4,463.43 bill. |
High | Common | 50000-85000 miles |
| Engine Overheating/Coolant Leaks Several owners report the engine running hot, coolant loss, and issues like blown head gaskets, even after thermostat and water pump replacements. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Loss Of Motive Power/Stalling Vehicle becoming sluggish, losing power, stalling while driving, or jerking abnormally, sometimes with white smoke from the tailpipe. |
High | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Air Bag Non-Deployment One severe crash reported where airbags did not deploy, resulting in a brain injury, directly correlating with a recall for Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) issues. |
High | Rare | unknown miles |
| Transmission Issues (Start-Stop System) Recall for missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap leading to oil leaks and potential loss of propulsion. Some complaints mention harsh jolts/jerks after the start/stop system activates. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Buick Encore:
Frequent reports of turbocharger failures, overheating, coolant leaks, and general engine performance issues like stalling or loss of power.
Concerns about air bag non-deployment in crashes, aligning with a recall for the Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM).
Includes issues like fuel pump control module failure and general propulsion system malfunctions.
Transmission-related complaints, including a recall for potential oil leaks and loss of propulsion, and reports of rough shifting or being stuck in park.
Reports related to brake system performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Buick Encore
Is the 2019 Buick Encore safe?
The 2019 Buick Encore received excellent 5-star overall safety ratings from NHTSA for crash tests, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts. However, owner complaints highlight significant real-world safety concerns, particularly with engine reliability (turbocharger failures, overheating) and potential air bag deployment issues, which are also subject to recalls. There are 74 total complaints, including 9 crashes, 9 injuries, and 1 reported death.
What are common problems with the 2019 Buick Encore?
The most reported issues for the 2019 Buick Encore revolve around the ENGINE (9 complaints), AIR BAGS (7 complaints), and ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (6 complaints). Common problems include turbocharger failures, engine overheating, coolant leaks, loss of power or stalling, and concerns about air bag deployment. There are also reports of transmission issues and a recall related to the power train.
Are there any recalls for the 2019 Buick Encore?
Yes, the 2019 Buick Encore has two recalls. One is for 'POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION' due to missing bolts that could lead to an oil leak and loss of propulsion. The second recall is for 'AIR BAGS', where the Sensing Diagnostic Module (SDM) may not have been properly configured, potentially preventing air bag deployment in a crash.
How does the 2019 Buick Encore perform in crash tests?
The 2019 Buick Encore performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, earning a 5-star Overall Safety Rating. It received 5 stars for both Frontal Crash and Side Crash tests, and 4 stars for the Rollover test.
What should I look out for if buying a used 2019 Buick Encore?
If considering a used 2019 Buick Encore, pay close attention to the engine's history, specifically for any signs of turbocharger issues, coolant leaks, or overheating. Ensure all recall work, especially for the transmission and air bag system, has been completed. Check for any persistent check engine lights or unusual driving behavior like loss of power or rough shifting.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of significant owner-reported engine reliability issues and critical air bag recall concerns; thoroughly investigate service history and ensure all recalls are addressed.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Buick Encore
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Buick Encore. The data includes 74 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 9 reported injuries, and 1 fatalities associated with this vehicle.
The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 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.