Overall rating (best variant)
Safety ratings
2020 Buick Encore GX SUV AWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
2020 Buick Encore GX SUV FWD
- Lane departure warningStandard
- Forward collision warningStandard
- Electronic stability controlStandard
Crash test videos & photos
Crash test #1NHTSA test 11055
Full test report (PDF) ↗Crash-test footage is converted for smooth playback the first time someone requests it — usually under a minute.
Crash test #2NHTSA test 11056
Full test report (PDF) ↗Crash-test footage is converted for smooth playback the first time someone requests it — usually under a minute.
Recalls (2)
- SERVICE BRAKESCampaign 20V588000 · 24/09/2020
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.
Risk: 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.
Fix: 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.
- EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STANDCampaign 21V440000 · 10/06/2021
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.
Risk: A fractured jack can cause the vehicle to collapse, increasing the risk of injury.
Fix: 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.
Owner complaints
Most-reported areas
- SERVICE BRAKES21
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER18
- POWER TRAIN17
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM15
- ENGINE12
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL5
- STEERING4
- AIR BAGS3
Read individual complaints (50 most recent)
These are unverified consumer reports filed with NHTSA, shown as submitted.
- 12/30/2024· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked and attempting to turn off the vehicle, the message “Shift to Park" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that an unstated part in the gear shifter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 34,643.
- 12/29/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
When I park the vehicle doesn’t recognize that I switched my gear to park and it won’t let me turn my vehicle off and when I have my foot on the brake it feels like sponginess
- 12/25/2020· STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
WHILE DRIVING UP TO AN INTERSECTION I APPLIED MY FOOT TO THE BRAKE PEDAL. UPON DOING SO THE PEDAL DID NOT MOVE AS IF IT WAS LOCKED IN PLACE. I APPLIED MORE PRESSURE AS I WAS COMING UP TO THE INTERSECTION AND THEN THE STEERING WHEEL LOCKED IN PLACE AS IF THE CAR WAS OFF. THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR WITH NO BRAKES BEING APPLIED. I QUICKLY BEGAN PUMPING THE BRAKES WHICH STARTED TO SLOW ME DOWN BUT NOT BEFORE DRIVING RIGHT THROUGH THE INTERSECTION. I PULLED OVER AFTER I WAS ABLE TO SLOW THE CAR DOWN TO A STOP, TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE, WAITED A FEW MINUTES, AND TURNED IT BACK ON. I WAS ABLE TO RETURN HOME BUT IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE DEALERSHIP.
- 12/23/2020· SERVICE BRAKES
BRAKES ARE NOISY MORE GOING IN REVERSE. DEALER ORDERED UPDATED FRONT BRAKES ON 12/8/2020 AND AS OF 12/23/2020 THEY HAVE NOT BEEN RECEIVED AND DO NOT HAVE A DATE WHEN THEY WILL BE IN. TRIED TO CALL GM CUSTOMER SERVICE BUT THEY DO NOT ANSWER THE PHONE. ALSO WHEN THE CAR WAS IN THE REPAIR SHOP THEY COMPLETED RECALLS #'S A202310450, A202295530 & A202301230. ALSO I NEVER RECEIVED ANY NOTICES ON ANY RECALLS FROM BUICK.
- 12/16/2024· STEERING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
My vehicle is undrivable. Multiple times per trip the check engine light comes on and I see multiple messages come on the driver information center. These are: Service ESC Reduced Power Service Adaptive Steering System The codes that come up are: P0089 for low fuel pressure P00C6 This results in an immediate speed reduction nearly causing multiple collisions with people following me on the highway. As a result I have been using a code reader to clear the codes so i can continue driving. I refuse to drive on busy highways so I am always forced to drive back roads. This needs to be figured out ASAP!
- 12/10/2024· POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
For the past several months, my 2020 Buick Encore has been giving me a message to shift to park even though I placed my vehicle to park. This then does not allow my car to shut off, because it believes I am still in drive. I tried making an appointment with the dealership a month ago and their earliest availability was today, 12/10/2024. I took my Buick in, and they wrote me and stated that they figured out the issue and the shifter control would need to be replaced and was not covered under my powertrain warranty. I see this has been an issue on several Buicks and I even found the service notification Buick sent out for this specific issue. This is a definite safety issue since I cannot turn my vehicle off because it does not believe I am actually in park. This needs to be recalled for these vehicles since Buick is aware of the issue. I am getting the shifter control replaced, but due to it being a safety concern, it should be covered by Buick. Instead, this is being told to me that it is a $400 replacement part and not covered under Buick's warranty. I wanted to file a complaint so NHTSA can be aware of this issue.
- 12/09/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The dash shows an error message "Shift to park" whenever I put the car in park. This message last for about 10 minutes or more locking me in the car. The car does not shut off until the error is gone. I have to continue starting up the car, placing it in park, then cutting it off to see if the message is gone.
- 11/29/2021· SERVICE BRAKES,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Dealership, fixed brakes due to previous recall. Brakes continue to squeal and grind with every stop. Was informed by dealership that they can do no further repair because it is considered a noise and not a safety issue. Grinding brakes are a safety issue!!!
- 11/25/2025· POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
SHIFT INTO PARK WARNING WHEN CAR IS IN PARK
- 11/25/2020· STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 BUICK ENCORE GX. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V588000 (SERVICE BRAKES) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED WHILE DRIVING DOWN HILL HOWEVER, FAILED TO ENGAGE AS DESIGNED. ADDITIONALLY, THE STEERING WHEEL SEIZED. THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO ENGAGE THE PARKING BRAKE. THERE WERE SEVERAL WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO JOYCE BUICK-GMC, INC. (38039 CHESTER RD, AVON, OH 44011, (440) 934-6600) TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE MASTER CYLINDER, PROGRAM MODULE, BRAKING SYSTEM, AND ENGINE CONTROL MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED THE CONTACT WITH A CASE NUMBER. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 752.
- 11/23/2020· SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 BUICK ENCORE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 45 MPH SHE RECEIVED AN ALERT THAT THE STABIL TRAK SYSTEM AND THE ANTI LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM WERE MALFUNCTIONING. THE LIGHTS SAID DO NOT TRAVEL OVER 62 MPH. THE CONTACT FELT THE BRAKES GOING ALL THE WAY TO FLOOR AND NOT BRAKING PROPERLY. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO PULL INTO A PARKING LOT AND SHUTOFF THEN RESTART THE VEHICLE. THE WARNING LIGHTS DID NOT REAPPEAR SO THE CONTACT CONTINUED ON THE ROAD. WHEN CONTACT GOT ON THE ROAD, THE INDICATORS WENT OFF AGAIN AND SHE PULLED OVER OFF THE ROAD INTO A PARKING LOT. THE CONTACT DID SAME PROCESS OF SHUTTING OFF AND RESTARTING AND WAS ABLE TO FINALLY ARRIVE AT HER HOME. THE CONTACT CALLED THE DEALER SOUTHTOWNE MOTORS 695 BULLSBORO DR, NEWNAN, GA 30265 (678) 619-4902. THE DEALER SAID THEY COULD NOT SET AN APPOINTMENT RIGHT AWAY AND HAD NO LOANERS FOR THE CONTACT. THERE WAS A CURRENT NHTSA RECALL 20V588000 (SERVICE BRAKES) ON THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN CONTACTED YET AND THE VEHICLE REMAINED UNREPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 1.487.
- 11/21/2020· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
I PURCHASED THIS VEHICLE 9/25/2020. RECALL NHTSA# 20V588 ISSUED 9/24/2020. I WAS NOT CONTACTED BY DEALERSHIP WHO SOLD VEHICLE UNTIL 9/29/2020. THERE WAS AN ACTIVE RECALL ON VEHICLE. RECALL STATUS: INCOMPLETE REMEDY NOT YET AVALABLE.
- 11/17/2020· AIR BAGSCrash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 BUICK ENCORE GX. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HIS DAUGHTER WAS AT A STAND STILL AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT, WHEN SHE WAS REAR ENDED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE, CAUSING HER TO SHOOT FORWARD AND HIT THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF HER. THE CONTACT STATED THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED A HEAD FRACTURE WHEN SHE WAS IMPACTED AND HIT THE STEERING WHEEL. THE DRIVER DID SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION AT A NEAR HOSPITAL. THE CONTACT STATED THE FRONT VEHICLE'S DRIVER DID SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION FOR UNKNOWN INJURIES. A POLICE REPORT WAS REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HER RESIDENCE. THE CONTACT CALLED LOCAL DEALER CARLISLE CHEVROLET BUICK GMC CADILLAC (1701 US-287 BYP, WAXAHACHIE, TX 75165; (972) 938-8000) AND WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AS OF YET. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
- 11/09/2022· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact’s mother-in-law owns a 2014 Jeep Cherokee. The contact stated while his mother-in-law was driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the PCV valve needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that on another occasion while his mother-in-law was driving, the vehicle started sputtering, overheating, and lost motive power. The vehicle remained at the location. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
- 10/28/2020· SERVICE BRAKES
GENERAL MOTORS HAS DECIDED THAT A DEFECT WHICH RELATES TO MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY EXISTS IN CERTAIN 2020 MODEL YEAR CADILLAC CT4, CT5 AND XT4 VEHICLES, 2020MODEL YEAR CHEVROLET CORVETTE VEHICLES, 2020 ' 2021 MODEL YEAR BUICK ENCORE GX VEHICLES, AND 2021 MODEL YEAR CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER VEHICLES. MATERIAL USED IN A SENSOR CONNECTION IN THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE BOOST SYSTEM IN THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN CONTAMINATED DURING THE MATERIAL SUPPLIER'S PRODUCTION PROCESS. CONTAMINATION OF THIS MATERIAL MAY CAUSE AN INTERRUPTION OF COMMUNICATION BETWEEN THE SENSOR AND THE BRAKE BOOST SYSTEM UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS. SAFETY RISK: IF COMMUNICATION WITH THE SENSOR IS INTERRUPTED, 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: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ELECTRONIC BRAKE BOOST MODULE. RECALL STATUS: RECALL INCOMPLETE. REMEDY NOT YET AVAILABLE
- 10/27/2025· POWER TRAIN
Powder Train When parking the car in garage, placed vehicle in park, then turned vehicle off, received a message on dash "SHIP TO PARK". The car was in park. Even thought the engine was off, it would now allow radio or lights to shut off util message goes off. Some times several minutes for it to go out. Taken it to the GM dealer ship was told shifter assembly needs replaced. I have learned their currently is a a class action suit for this issue at this time. My car was under warranty for 5 years and was still under the warranty when this happened to me. I don't feel I should have to pay $491.00 out of my pocket.
- 10/27/2020· SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 BUICK ENCORE GX. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, SEVERAL UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS PUMPED SEVERAL TIMES TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER INTO A PARKING SPOT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO SCHUMACHER BUICK GMC (3031 OKEECHOBEE BLVD, WEST PALM BEACH, FL 33409, (561) 935-4239) AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V588000 (SERVICE BRAKES) HOWEVER, THE PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000.*DT *TR
- 10/25/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,BACK OVER PREVENTION
To Whom It May Concern, I am submitting a formal complaint regarding a recurring issue with my 2020 Buick Encore GX (VIN: [XXX] ) related to the “Shift to Park” defect, which is documented in GM’s Technical Service Bulletin 23-NA-119. My vehicle intermittently fails to recognize when it is in park, preventing me from turning off the engine and causing safety and usability concerns. Despite following GM’s recommended steps and scheduling an appointment through Buick Customer Care, I was charged $195 for a diagnostic fee and quoted $495 to replace the shifter assembly. The dealership confirmed the issue matched the bulletin, yet refused to offer goodwill coverage or reimbursement. This expense is a significant hardship. I am still making payments on this vehicle, which is barely five years old. I previously owned a Honda for 20 years without encountering issues like this. Unfortunately, this is not the first time I’ve faced a manufacturer-documented defect with no support. My previous vehicle, a Mitsubishi Outlander, suffered from a known transmission issue that was later part of a class action lawsuit. Despite experiencing the same symptoms, my VIN was excluded. The cost of repair outweighed the value of the vehicle, and I ultimately had to walk away from it as a total loss—leaving me without a car. I am deeply disappointed to now face a similar situation with Buick. I chose this vehicle expecting reliability and support, and I’ve done everything asked of me to address this issue responsibly. I believe GM should be held accountable for this known defect and the financial burden it places on consumers. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, [XXX] [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- 10/22/2025· ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle began to shake with abnormal sounds coming from the engine compartment. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and it was determined that the turbocharger had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for further assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 51,220.
- 10/20/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I am getting a shift to park message on my Buick. I have to shift through heats multiple times to get it to stop.
- 10/19/2024· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,LANE DEPARTURE
Since the repair, the original claim no. 11619901. the checked off stuff no longer works. This lapse has occurred around sep. 20 to present day
- 10/15/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The dealership replaced in the “fish body electric system “ to make the shift to park “flag not appear It is available for your inspection. Please check facebook and a list of problems with the vehicle are listed The vehicle was in the driveway not affecting any one. The problem was reviewed by the selling dealer and referred to another dealer to fix. Other than the flag appearing where the speed of the vehicle when on the road. Only the dealership saw the part and inspected it No warning lights The repair was made by Ed Rinke in Centerline,
- 10/10/2024· POWER TRAIN
The vehicle will flash a message “Shift to park” when the car is already parked. This is a known issue across multiple GM brands including Chevy and Buick. The dealer diagnosed the issue and said that it needed a new shifter and wiring harness. Parts and labor for the repair are going to be $700.
- 10/07/2020· SERVICE BRAKES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 BUICK ENCORE GX. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE MAKING A U-TURN, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOORBOARD BUT FAILED TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE SYSTEM FAILURE WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT ENGAGED THE PARKING BRAKE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER AND PARKED AT A NEARBY PARKING LOT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION TEXT OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 20V588000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CONTACT FELT UNSAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS LEFT IN THE PARKING LOT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE LOCAL DEALER ED MORSE SAWGRASS BUICK GMC LOCATED AT 14351 W SUNRISE BLVD, SUNRISE, FL 33323, (888) 377-2660, WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT PARTS WERE NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE. THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO REACH THE MANUFACTURER FOR ASSISTANCE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 1,251.*DT*JB
- 10/04/2022· AIR BAGSCrash
Rear end accident. Distracted driver hit the back of my car at least at 40 mph. No airbags deployed.
- 09/28/2024· POWER TRAIN
I bought this vehicle in 2024, I have been having issues one after another with it, I have taken it to the dealer and all they keep doing if fixing the problem and couple of months it happens again. I am really worried about my safety if I keep driving the vehicle. One problem from the battery to the shift sensor. Thank you
- 09/25/2024· ENGINE
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle had been taken to the dealer on several occasions, and several repairs were performed on the vehicle. The contact stated that the turbo was replaced twice; however, the failure returned after the repairs. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer for a month and the dealer determined that the mechanical outline was incorrect, and that the turbo had been installed incorrectly. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The vehicle was repaired; however, the contact expressed concern that the failure might occur again, and was fearful of driving the vehicle. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
- 09/10/2025· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
When I put the car in park and go to turn off the car, I'm getting a "Shift to Park" error when the car is already in park. This error will not allow the car to shut off. I have to shift it back out of gear and then back to park several times before it will recognize that it's in park and allow me to turn off the car.
- 09/04/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Getting a shift to park error when placing the gear in park. It’s not recognizing the car is already in park and I have to make several attempts until it finally goes away each time.
- 08/29/2026· POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The cluster display shows "shift to park" even while vehicle is stopped, gear shift in park position, and engine is off.
- 08/18/2024· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Shift to park! When I put the car in park it tells me “shift to park” so I’m unable to turn my car off. It’s happening more frequently.
- 07/22/2026· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
I am submitting this complaint regarding several serious mechanical and electrical issues with my 2020 Buick Encore GX that raise significant concerns about the vehicle's reliability and safety. Most concerning, I was recently informed by the dealership that my vehicle requires another transmission replacement, despite having the transmission replaced in 2024. I was also advised that I would need to pay for an additional diagnostic inspection because technicians discovered oil leaking through the lines, which appears to have contaminated engine components. According to the dealership, metal particles have been found within the engine, causing it to malfunction. They have stated that they are unable to determine the source of the contamination at this time. In addition to these major mechanical concerns, I am experiencing several electrical and system malfunctions, including: The passive keyless entry system does not consistently unlock the doors using the exterior door handle, even with a brand-new battery installed in the key fob. The vehicle repeatedly displays a "Shift to Park" warning even though the gear selector is already in the Park position. The vehicle continues to display brake-related alerts and notifications indicating that the brakes need to be serviced or replaced, despite having brand-new brakes installed. These ongoing issues have resulted in repeated repair costs, loss of confidence in the vehicle, and concerns about my safety while driving. The transmission failure occurring shortly after a previous replacement, combined with unexplained engine contamination and persistent electronic malfunctions, suggests there may be underlying defects that warrant further investigation. I respectfully request that these issues be thoroughly investigated to determine whether they are related to known manufacturing defects or warrant a safety recall or other corrective action. I also request that Buick review my repair history and provide appropriate assistance.
- 07/14/2024· POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
"Shift toPark"message is displayed on the dic shifter control leaver
- 07/07/2022· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact’s fiancé owns a 2020 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated while driving approximately 2 MPH, the vehicle was unable to stop while the brake pedal was depressed and the parking brake was activated. Additionally, the vehicle made grinding sounds while the brake pedal was depressed. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, and the dealer reprogrammed the brake system; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,600.
- 06/25/2024· POWER TRAIN,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
When parking car in garage, placed vehicle in park, then turned vehicle off, received a message on dash " SHIFT TO PARK". The car was in park. Even though the engine was off, it would not allow radio, or lights to shut off until this message goes off. Some times it takes several minutes for message to go out. I have taken to GM dealership, and was told shifter assembly needs replaced ($500). I have learned their currently is a class action suit for this issue at this date.
- 06/22/2023· ENGINE
I was driving on the interstate on June 7, 2023 heading to work doing the speed limit of 60 MPH and all of a sudden the check engine light came on and a message stated "Engine Power Reduced" and the engine literally dropped engine power immediately and thankfully there was nobody right behind me and I was able to get off the interstate to a safe place. I called the Buick GMC dealership where I purchased the vehicle and they said to bring it in. They pulled codes on it and it gave a code of "engine under boost" and they said they ran tests on it and could not find anything wrong after 3 days at the shop, they did a software update and told me to come and pick it up. Then not even a week later, I was driving and out of nowhere came the same engine light, message read "engine power reduced" and the engine lost power immediately and I called the Buick GMC dealership again and they said to bring it back in and it's there now. I called today to check in and they said they are going to test the Turbo on it and order parts, etc. but they still do not have a definitive answer as to what's wrong with it yet. I bought my 2020 Buick Encore GX new in November 2020 and it has about 26,000 miles on it. No recalls have been made on my VIN model - I am afraid to even drive this car again and get stuck somewhere away from help or at night - someone could have rear ended me when I lost power on the interstate doing 60 MPH and killed me!!!
- 06/22/2023· ENGINE
I was driving on the interstate on June 7, 2023 heading to work doing the speed limit of 60 MPH and all of a sudden the check engine light came on and a message stated "Engine Power Reduced" and the engine literally dropped engine power immediately and thankfully there was nobody right behind me and I was able to get off the interstate to a safe place. I called the Buick GMC dealership where I purchased the vehicle and they said to bring it in. They pulled codes on it and it gave a code of "engine under boost" and they said they ran tests on it and could not find anything wrong after 3 days at the shop, they did a software update and told me to come and pick it up. Then not even a week later, I was driving and out of nowhere came the same engine light, message read "engine power reduced" and the engine lost power immediately and I called the Buick GMC dealership again and they said to bring it back in and it's there now. I called today to check in and they said they are going to test the Turbo on it and order parts, etc. but they still do not have a definitive answer as to what's wrong with it yet. I bought my 2020 Buick Encore GX new in November 2020 and it has about 26,000 miles on it. No recalls have been made on my VIN model - I am afraid to even drive this car again and get stuck somewhere away from help or at night - someone could have rear ended me when I lost power on the interstate doing 60 MPH and killed me!!!
- 06/21/2026· POWER TRAIN
Transmission would not connect with the engine. La Fontaine dealership in Saint Clair. Said I need a new transmission cost $14,000. It has 59823 miles under the vehicle.
- 05/15/2024· POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while parking the vehicle, the gear shifter was shifted into park(P); however, the “Shift to Park” message was displayed. The contact was unable to turn off the vehicle and drove to the residence. The message was no longer displayed after the contact parked the vehicle at the residence. The failure recurred on multiple occasions. The dealer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the manufacturer. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 24,000.
- 05/13/2025· SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore GX. The contact stated that while shifted into reverse on several occasions, the brake was depressed and there was an abnormal foghorn sound coming from the driver’s side rear wheel. The vehicle was taken to a dealer however, the failure was not duplicated. The vehicle was taken to the residence where the rear driver’s side wheel was removed. The caliper was removed, and the contact became aware that piston inside the caliper had fractured in half. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 101,000.
- 05/11/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
I have started to receive multiple 'Shift to Park' messages when attempting to turn off my vehicle after already being placed in park. To get the car to register that it is indeed in park, I have to re-shift or slam the gear shift into place. I was advised that the issue was with the shifter assembly which prevents the vehicle from recognizing whether or not it is in gear. I had no issues with the vehicle prior to the message and I get my vehicle serviced regularly. This malfunction can lead to battery drain, failure of a vehicle to shut off completely, or difficulty starting it.
- 05/10/2021· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
CAR HAS LESS THAN 30 (THIRTY) MILES ON IT; GARAGED SINCE PURCHASE BC OF PANDEMIC; STARTED OCCASIONALLY; BATTERY DEAD WHEN I TRIED TO GO OUT LAST WEEK; CHARGED BATTERY; DIED AGAIN; CHARGED AGAIN; CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ALERTED ONSTAR, WHO SENT EMAIL STATING PROBLEMS W/ENGINE & TRANSMISSION SYSTEM, POSSIBLE ISSUES W/FUEL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM, EMISSIONS CONTROL, MISFIRE CONDITION... ONLY 30 MILES! NEW CAR! JUST DROVE HOME FROM DEALERSHIP AND PARKED IT. TRIED CHATTING W/BUICK CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE, BUT THEY CUT ME OFF 3 TIMES OVER 2 HOURS, SO I GAVE UP THAT EXERCISE IN FUTILITY. DEALERSHIP IS UNPLEASANT; TRYING A DIFFERENT DEALER. GOOGLED RECALLS. THIS SOUNDS LIKE THE EMISSIONS SYSTEM RECALL ON THE 2021 ENCORE GX, BUT MINE IS A 2020. WHY WOULD A BRAND NEW, $38,000-CAR BE SO FRIGHTENINGLY UNRELIABLE? I TRADED IN TWO CARS AND SAVED MANY YEARS TO BUY THIS. I'M AFRAID TO EVEN DRIVE IT IN FOR SERVICE. MY DAD WAS A PATENTED ENGINEER. I MISS MY DAD.
- 05/06/2021· POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 BUICK ENCORE GX. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE AS NEEDED. ADDITIONALLY, THE VEHICLE INADVERTENTLY LUNGED FORWARD WHILE ATTEMPTING TO REVERSE INTO A PARKING SPACE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO BELLAVIA CHEVROLET BUICK (199 NJ-17, EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ 07073) THE BRAKES AND TRANSMISSION VALVES WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER AND THE TRANSMISSION WAS REPLACED AFTER RECEIVING APPROVAL FROM THE MANUFACTURER. THE DEALER FOUND 3 PIECES OF RUBBER INSIDE THE TRANSMISSION WHEN IT WAS TAKEN APART. THE MANUFACTURER WAS INFORMED OF THE FAILURE AND A CASE WAS FILED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 9,529.
- 04/25/2025· SERVICE BRAKESCrash
I was traveling to school when my breaks didn’t work I tried them twice and I crashed into another vehicle. And the month or march I took it into to Buick for break issues and they said everything was fine.
- 04/24/2025· POWER TRAIN
Shifter malfunction not allowing transmission to shift to park without multiple attempts. Car lurches at times while attempting to resolve problem.
- 04/21/2022· POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
I have only had the vehicle for a year. On multiple occasions the vehicle feels like it is slipping gears (more often when the autostop feature is turned on). On multiple occasions the vehicle has stalled out and would not do anything when pressing on gas- didn't even rev, did absolutely nothing. These stall outs happened crossing highways, at stop lights, stop signs, etc. There were no warnings prior to the incidences, though the vehicle did through an engine/transmission code afterwards, the code would go away. The first several attempts of taking it to the dealership (last year) as it is still under warranty- it was not checked. i was simply told it was a "glitch" and it was fine. They did not record in their system that i requested it to be checked either apparently. They only recorded that i brought it in for an oil change. They only checked into it this February after my boyfriend told them what it was doing. They kept it and replaced one part in the transmission. The vehicle continued to have the same issues and threw a code withing the first 5 minutes after picking it up. I took it back in- and they said it was doing the issues because of the code it threw. I told them it was doing it again before it threw the code. They said it simply needed a line vacuumed out, and then gave it back to me. It continued to have the same issues and stalled out again causing me to roll backwards onto the highway-into traffic. I took it back again. They kept it, and then told me they'd be replacing the entire transmission, but it is on backorder. Still no time frame when it will be repaired. They then told me i could have my car back and continue to drive it until the transmission comes in?!? I said no- it isn't safe, I just told you what happened and i could have been hurt or killed. I am not driving it, especially when i have my son to drive around as well! I have been without my car for at least a month now. I am paying for a car that i don't even have/can't drive.
- 04/14/2026· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
My 2020 Buick Encore GX which has only 30,600 had the "Shift to Park" message appear on the dashboard screen and my car was not turning off properly. I read online that it is a widespread known issue: however, I had to pay 630.14 to fix the GM well know widespread issue so I can turn off my vehicle. This should be covered FREE of charge by GM as they are aware of the issue affecting the 2020 Buick Encore GX.
- 04/13/2021· UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
THE VEHICLE HAS A SOFTWARE ANAMOLY ACCORDING THE THE DEALER THAT HAS MY SES LIGHT ON AND MY PRE-COLLISION ALTERS SEEM TO NOT BE WORKING SINCE THIS OCCURRED. THE SES LIGHT CAME ON 4/9/21 AND WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. I PICKED THE VEHICLE UP ABOUT 6 PM 4/12/21 AND THE LIGHT WAS ON STILL AND NOTICED IMMEDIATELY THAT THE PRE-COLLISION WARNING DID NOT WORK WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE CUT ME OFF AND STOPPED SHORT IN FRONT OF ME. I DO NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. BUICK WAS SUPPOSED TO HAVE ANOTHER DEALER CONTACT ME TO GET A SECOND OPINION BUT AS OF THIS THEY HAVE NOT CONTACTED ME. THEY EXPECT MT TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE AND IGNORE THE LIGHT SO IF SOMETHING DOES HAPPEN I WILL HAVE NO WAY OF KNOWING BECAUSE THE LIGHT IS JUST ALWAYS ON. IF GM CANNOT KEEP UP WITH SOFTWARE UPDATES TO KEEP THEIR CUSTOMERS SAFE PERHAPS THEY SHOULD NO LONGER BE IN THE AUTOMOTIVE BUSINESS.
- 04/08/2022· ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
While driving this 2020 Buick Encore GX with around 7,000 miles on the odometer, the entire electrical/electronic system shut down. Windows were inoperative, the AC stopped, the radio failed, the flashers did not work, etc. The only things that worked were the engine and brakes. I have no idea if the brake lights worked. I was able to drive the car to the dealership - Van Buick GMC in Scottsdale, Arizona where the car is now sitting and awaiting their inspection. In the 95 degree temperature here in AZ, I thought that I would die as I could not open the doors. I have since learned that I could have opened the doors by pulling the door handle twice. No one ever educated me on this. There were no advance warnings prior to the failure. This car is a death trap. Please NHTSA help me.
- 04/03/2025· UNKNOWN OR OTHER
The gear shift when placed in park and the car ignition turned off would cause an alarm to go off and a message to show up on the dash that the gear shift should be placed in parks (which it was in already). When I contacted the GM in CA dealer and talked to him he advised me it was a common problem and the was a shortage of parts to repair but bring it in because the alarm would where down the battery. After jamming the gear shift in park many times I was able to stop the alarm. Them I drove from CA to NV to the Buick dealer there and told me the same thing that the GM dealer tome about a shortage of parts because of this being a common problem and that he would try and get GM to pay for repairs. When I picked up the car I was advised that although this was a common problem GM was not going to be a recall so I had to pay the $558.40 to repair the gear shift. The recipt shows: "SHIFT CONTROL ASSEMBLY REPLACEMENT - found intermittent failure to register shifter position of park - Need to replace shifter assembly "