2020 Buick Encore

Here’s a breakdown of common issues reported for the 2020 Buick Encore, organized by category and engine/transmission option.

The 2020 Buick Encore is a subcompact SUV known for its comfortable ride and maneuverability. It features a single engine option: a 1.4L Turbocharged Inline-4, producing 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Many owners appreciate its compact size for city driving and its relatively upscale interior for its class. Common dislikes include its limited cargo space and somewhat underpowered engine, especially when fully loaded.

Engine

1.4L Turbocharged Inline-4 (LE2)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than expected oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. Symptoms can include the low oil pressure light illuminating, a burning oil smell, and visible exhaust smoke.
  • Solution: Replacing the PCV valve can help. Other solutions include piston ring replacement or engine replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100 (PCV Valve Replacement); $2,000 - $5,000+ (Piston Ring/Engine Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced turbocharger failure, resulting in a loss of power and potential engine damage. Symptoms include unusual noises from the turbocharger, a check engine light, and reduced acceleration.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6T40)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported experiencing rough or delayed shifts, particularly between certain gears. Slipping can occur when the transmission fails to properly engage the next gear.
  • Solution: Transmission flush and fluid replacement may resolve minor issues. More severe cases may require valve body repair or replacement, or even a full transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 (Fluid Change); $800 - $1500 (Valve Body); $3,000 - $5,000+ (Transmission Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, especially when the torque converter is supposed to be locking up. Can also manifest as stalling.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Suspension Component Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Owners have reported needing to replace suspension components like struts, shocks, and sway bar links earlier than expected. Symptoms include excessive bouncing, poor handling, and clunking noises from the suspension.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per corner, depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Buick Encore’s infotainment system, including the touchscreen display, can experience glitches, freezing, and connectivity problems with Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • Solution: Software updates may resolve some issues. In other cases, the infotainment unit may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (Software Update); $500 - $1,500+ (Infotainment Unit Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure or parasitic drain leading to a dead battery, especially after the car sits for a few days.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the drain, which could be a faulty module or accessory. Battery replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (Diagnosis & Repair); $150 - $300 (Battery Replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housings.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly, resealing the existing assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters will not heat up.
  • Solution: Repair or replace seat heater element.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2020 Buick Encore has some common issues that prospective buyers should be aware of. Engine issues like excessive oil consumption and potential turbocharger failures can be costly to address. Transmission problems, such as harsh shifting, can also require significant repairs. Electrical issues with the infotainment system and battery drain can be frustrating. While many owners report satisfactory experiences, being aware of these potential problems can help buyers make an informed decision and budget accordingly. Overall, the severity and cost of potential repairs range from minor to significant.