2020 Buick Encore
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Buick › Encore › 2020
These records cover every 2020 Buick Encore. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
2 recalls name the 2020 Buick Encore. Newest first.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018-2019 Chevrolet Cruze and Buick LaCrosse, 2018-2020 Chevrolet Equinox, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Terrain, 2018 Chevrolet Malibu, 2019-2020 Buick Encore, Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, Chevrolet Blazer and GMC Acadia, and 2020 Cadillac XT6 vehicles. The start/stop accumulator endcap may have missing bolts.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202313440.
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Encore GX and 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. The rear attachment bolts of one or both front seats may not have been installed.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If an occupied front seat is missing the rear attachment bolts, it may move during a crash, increasing risk of injury to the occupant.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect seat attachments for both front seats and install attachment bolts as needed, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is A202304380.
Owner complaints
19 complaints1 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Pedals and linkages · Vehicle speed control › Accelerator pedal
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal and accelerator pedal became extremely hot to the touch. The contact became aware that the silver heat shield was missing. Additionally, the contact stated that there was electrical…
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal and accelerator pedal became extremely hot to the touch. The contact became aware that the silver heat shield was missing. Additionally, the contact stated that there was electrical activity or electricity coming from the area. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer; however, the dealer was unable to determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 77,213.
- Service brakes · Unknown or other
I took my 2020 Buick Encore to an independent auto repair shop to have a brake inspection after I had contacted GM multiple times about the loss of acceleration, check engine light and stabilitrak light would come on with brake pedal stiffness and then almost needing to push it to the floor to…
I took my 2020 Buick Encore to an independent auto repair shop to have a brake inspection after I had contacted GM multiple times about the loss of acceleration, check engine light and stabilitrak light would come on with brake pedal stiffness and then almost needing to push it to the floor to stop. When I took it to the independent auto repair shop for the brake inspection they informed me of a PO161 code recall so I contacted my local recall service center, only to get a phone call from one of their salesman to come in and see about getting a new car. I've had other issues with this car since buying it in September of 2022 but now it's a serious safety situation and all they can either say is it doesn't match my vin so I'll have to pay out of pocket or go in debt for a new one. I don't know what to do at this point I feel at a loss.
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system
Defective "TURBO CHARGER" at 38,091 miles. The defective worn-out or damaged turbocharger was removed from the engine and a new one was installed at a cost of $1816.00. This part should not wear out at 38,000 miles. My mechanic informed me that this is common in the Buick Encore vehicles to experience a defective "TURBO CHARGER" at low vehicle mileage.
- Fuel/propulsion system
I've been dealing with a frustrating car issue lately where my vehicle keeps stalling and hesitating during acceleration - whether I'm pulling away from a stop or trying to pick up speed on the road. After getting it checked out, my mechanic determined that the high pressure fuel pump control…
I've been dealing with a frustrating car issue lately where my vehicle keeps stalling and hesitating during acceleration - whether I'm pulling away from a stop or trying to pick up speed on the road. After getting it checked out, my mechanic determined that the high pressure fuel pump control module is the culprit and needs replacement. The problem is, we're stuck waiting for the part because Buick has it on backorder indefinitely. What's particularly concerning is that GM recently issued a recall for this exact same fuel pump issue on certain models, but somehow my VIN number didn't make the cut. I strongly believe it should have been included, especially considering the safety implications here. When this fuel pump control module fails, it can completely cut off fuel flow to the engine, which creates a serious traffic safety hazard. Nobody wants their car suddenly losing power while merging onto a highway or navigating through an intersection. This isn't just an inconvenience - it's a legitimate safety concern that affects real people on real roads every day.
- Engine
I am co-owner of the vehicle. My daughter was driving the SUV when the Check engine light came on. There was no warning whatsoever, and the turbocharger has gone bad . Prior to the light eliminating there was nothing wrong with the suv. I was driving the suv when the check engine light came on. I…
I am co-owner of the vehicle. My daughter was driving the SUV when the Check engine light came on. There was no warning whatsoever, and the turbocharger has gone bad . Prior to the light eliminating there was nothing wrong with the suv. I was driving the suv when the check engine light came on. I also own another 2020 Buick encore where this also happened. I was driving the vehicle when the check engine light came on with no prior warning and it was a failed turbocharger. There is something wrong with these vehicles .
- Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Unknown or other
On 4/24/25 I noticed a pungent odor (like rotten eggs). The odor is worse today. I did research and it appears there may be a problem and or leak with the catalytic converter. The emissions are making me and my kids feel sick, nauseous, headache, irritated eyes, etc.
- Engine · Power train · Vehicle speed control
Unknown issues w/ sensors and wiring lead to turbocharger failure. This led to spontaneous acceleration issues on the highway. Less than a year after the warranty covered the replacement of the turbocharger (less than 60k miles on the car) the turbocharger again failed (64k miles on car).
- Visibility › Sun/moon roof assembly
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact was able to veer over to the shoulder and discovered that the sunroof had exploded. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the…
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact heard an abnormal sound coming from the vehicle. The contact was able to veer over to the shoulder and discovered that the sunroof had exploded. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and the contact was advised to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
- Electrical system · Fuel/propulsion system
Imthe original owner and purchased the car new 4 years ago. At 89,000 miles, the check engine light came on indicating codes for emission controls not working efficiently. Later additional codes indicated problems with the fuel evaporator. The car started having problems every time I filled up the…
Imthe original owner and purchased the car new 4 years ago. At 89,000 miles, the check engine light came on indicating codes for emission controls not working efficiently. Later additional codes indicated problems with the fuel evaporator. The car started having problems every time I filled up the gas tank it would stall, hesitate and have problems starting shortly after the fill up. Problem also occurred if I let the fuel level run down to 1 gallon when the reserve indicator light came on the fuel tank. So now I fill up when I reach a quarter tank. Steady driving for at least 10 minutes would clear the problem temporarily. Car hesitates, stalls and misfires when going uphill, steep hills and also when coming to full stop Such as a red light. Later additional problem of car hesitating and misfiring during acceleration. I have replaced the spark plugs and ignition coil. No change noticed. Awaiting mechanic diagnosis. This problem seems very similar to another complaint filed under NHTSA ID 11548946 in October 2023
- Engine · Power train
Engine light is on and vehicle is sluggish on hills and keeping up in traffic. Rpms run high if I try. Error code p0299 shows on scanning device- turbo under boost. I have 112,000 miles and need turbo replaced already. this vehicle is very well maintained. I did see a special notice for the GX version of this vehicle. But dealer says my vin does not qualify
- Service brakes
I currently own a 2020 Buick Encore since new with only 18,389 miles on it. Recently, I noticed on the Buick Encore that it lacked stopping power. Upon checking the air in the tires for winter I noticed that the rear brake rotors were severely rusted. And then I decided to further inspect the rotor…
I currently own a 2020 Buick Encore since new with only 18,389 miles on it. Recently, I noticed on the Buick Encore that it lacked stopping power. Upon checking the air in the tires for winter I noticed that the rear brake rotors were severely rusted. And then I decided to further inspect the rotor surfaces. I removed the left rear tire and noticed that the back side surface was severely corroded therefore inhibiting the brake pad to stop with it. I remove the right rear tire and found the same condition! As I am retired, and still a ASE and Michigan master mechanic (XXX) I know this condition is abnormal for a vehicle with such low miles even in Michigan. This is my wife’s vehicle, and she noticed that the stopping distance was severely decreased over the months. With driving is treacherous as it is today she needs all the stopping distance that she can get. With the way the rotors were rusted, the rear brakes had no stopping power, and the fronts were minimal at best for surface for the pads to stop with. I checked the front and found the same thing on the inner surfaces of both front rotors. I decided it was time that I replace all the rotors and the pads as the surfaces of all rotors were beyond the point of turning them. I would never expect this to occur on a vehicle with such low mileage. I replaced the rotors and pads with all AC Delco components as I have faith in the design changes that are usually made to products in the same product family. For the rotors, I made sure that they were plated to stop any rust from occurring on the non-stopping surfaces. If anyone were to Google this vehicle, or it’s Cousin the Trax, you can see there are replacements either with coding or different material that prevents corrosion. I am glad I caught this in time as my wife’s safety was in jeopardy. One can see there is a fix for this issue, but the manufacture neglected to take any action to correct it. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Air bags · Steering
The contact owned a 2020 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH and attempting to make a right turn, the vehicle lost power steering and drove straight into a deep ditch. The contact did not recall whether a warning light illuminated. The front driver's side and…
The contact owned a 2020 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving approximately 10 MPH and attempting to make a right turn, the vehicle lost power steering and drove straight into a deep ditch. The contact did not recall whether a warning light illuminated. The front driver's side and passenger's side air bags exploded while deploying and propelled fragments that burned the skin near the contact left breast, hit the contact's shoulder and right wrist. The contact's wrist was bleeding. Additionally, there was powder smoke coming out of the air bags. The contact exited the vehicle with the assistance of bystanders. The police assisted the contact out of the deep ditch and transported the contact to the residence. A police report was filed. The contact's husband transported her to the hospital, where the contact was informed that her right wrist bone was dislocated, and surgery was required. The contact received the needed medical assistance. Additionally, the contact had been receiving physical therapy. The vehicle was towed to an unknown dealer's autobody repair shop, where it was totaled. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000. The VIN was unavailable.
- Electrical system
I have to constantly jump start my vehicle. Took it to the dealers and they stated there is nothing wrong with the battery.
- Engine · Power train
I was told there was a recall on my engine. My check engine light is on. My car doesn't speed up pass 75. When I try to speed up I can feel the gears change.and the car jerks
- Latches/locks/linkages › Trunk lid › Latch
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH, the "Trunk Open" light was illuminated and the trunk raised up. The contact drove the vehicle to her residence and attempted to close the trunk. The contact had to push the trunk release button several…
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving approximately 20 MPH, the "Trunk Open" light was illuminated and the trunk raised up. The contact drove the vehicle to her residence and attempted to close the trunk. The contact had to push the trunk release button several times for the trunk to lock securely. The contact had taken not taken the vehicle to a local dealer. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 29,000.
- Electrical system
The horn goes off automatically when the car is started. The fuse must be pulled out to stop it. Dash radio and phone not working properly. Cruise control not working.
- Tires · Tires › Pressure monitoring and regulating systems
Tire suddenly developed a large bubble after about 18,000 miles of driving from new. Tire came new from manufacturer of my 2020 Buick Encore. I didn't hot any thing with this tire that could have contributed to the bublle. I think its a manufacturing defect
- Engine · Power train · Unknown or other
Purchased new buick encore 2020 on 05/22/2000. Previous vehicle was honda civic. Encore never seemed to have enough power & would downshift. On 10/19/20 there was an issue action requested) detected by buick but I was not notified. Then on 10/28/2020, we were diving the vehicle when it seemed to…
Purchased new buick encore 2020 on 05/22/2000. Previous vehicle was honda civic. Encore never seemed to have enough power & would downshift. On 10/19/20 there was an issue action requested) detected by buick but I was not notified. Then on 10/28/2020, we were diving the vehicle when it seemed to loose power & an 18 wheeler almost hit us. Encore has 5,302 miles on it. 10/28/20 3:41 p.m. Message from buick dx. The engine and transmission system IS not performing as expected. An issue has been detected in the air induction system which monitors and controls air intake to the engine. We were traveling from medical appointments & almost did not make it home. The vehicle IS very dangerous & IS at the dealer now. I am severely disabled & ill and bought this vehicle for medical appointments out of town. It has clearly had a problem since it was purchased. I will not pick up the vehicle from the dealership no matter how they try to fix it at IS extremely dangerous when loosing power. We were on an interstate when this started happening. Thank you.
- Electrical system · Vehicle speed control
I was driving on the interstate and the vehicle was in cruise control. It acted as it was accelerating and then the cruise control quit and I lost speed. I regained speed and then it lurched again; the cruise control again went off. When I applied the brake to pull to the side of the road, the engine started to throttle up and accelerate, I had to brake harder to come to a full stop.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11011996This service bulletin provides diagnostic/repair information to correct a customer concern of Cellphone not Charging or USB Receptacle Inoperative.
- 11011989This service bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
- 11011900This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 11011805This Preliminary information communicates a GM part number forreflective high temperature heat or insulating tape when repairing wiring harnesses.
- 11011782This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads. The J-35616-64B is the latest test probe released for checking tension or probing the .64 series terminals. The test probe terminal has been released in the terminal repair kit (J-38125-620H) located in Lear Tray 7 part number 963716-2. There are 5 terminated leads in a package part number is 13505346, which can be ordered through your normal General Motors Customer Care and Aftersales parts channel.
- 11011709This bulletin advises the dealers to maintain the vehicle stock on hand by doing a full inspection on the vehicles before being sold (prepping) to the customer.
- 11011444This Preliminary information communicates to the dealer a process for accessing the procedure to add attachments to a GM technical assistance case using the dealer case management tool.
- 11011420This Preliminary information communicates to the dealer technician that TAC recommends the utilization of the GDS2 software to aid in diagnosing automatic transmission concerns. TAC is requesting the GDS2 session logs be sent in before the dealer contacts TAC.
- 11011367This informational bulletin provides a guide on how to diagnose and test for vibrations utilizing the PicoScope.
- 11011205This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.
- 11011119This Preliminary information communicates to dealers GM is working on a solution for outdated Apps
- 11011117This service bulletin provides information on dark spots in the headlamp pattern when the vehicle is pulled up to a wall or garage.
- 11010901This bulletin provides a procedure on how to check for a battery drain utilizing the Picoscope and how to measure the load on the system that may be causing a drain.
- 11010651This service bulletin informs the technician of an alternate lift procedure that has been developed when the lift plate does not fit the top of the transmission case for 6T30, 6T35, 6T40, 6T45, and 6T50 Transmissions.
- 11010576This service bulletin provides information on All hazmat parts being returned to the Warranty Parts Center (WPC) must be shipped using Central Transport. Hazardous materials should never be sent by air transportation to the WPC.
- 11010545This service bulletin provides information on key code security rules and information on GM keycode look-up applications (U.S).
- 11010495This bulletin provides information on Warranty Administration Required Operating Procedures - 8 Points (U.S. Only).
- 11010493This warranty administration service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period.
- 11010491This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
- 11010490This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
- 11010488This Warranty Administration bulletin provides information on the Global Warranty Management (GWM) Warranty Parts Center (WPC) Parts Return Program.
- 11010421This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information on the requirements for 12V battery testing and warranty replacements.
- 11010415This service bulletin provides a procedure to apply aluminum butyl tape around the lower side object modules and the fascia to aid in deflecting the radar away from the ground and stop triggering false alerts.
- 11009764This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 11009760This service bulletin provides information on the Transport Mode Feature, also known as Logistics mode, which is used to increase the 12V Battery stand time of the vehicle during transit and or long period of stand time at the dealerships.
- 11009756This bulletin provides information on Policies Applicable to All U.S. Dealers for Engine and Transmission Assembly Replacement Under Warranty, Policy or Customer Enthusiasm and information on Submission of Warranty Transaction in Global Warranty Management.
- 11009532This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009531This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009170This Preliminary information communicates additional information on how a LIN bus operates and diagnostic tips when working on a LIN bus.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11009088This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.
- 11009039This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information, proper labor operation selection and causal part identification for warranty transactions (U.S. Only).
- 11009037This service bulletin provides information on Enhancing Field Product Reports with Digital Pictures.
- 11008986This Preliminary information communicatesdirection and examples when diagnosing multiple DTCs, one of which includes U**** Byte 71 DTC.
- 11008956This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
- 11008906This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 11008898The bulletin provides direction on how to locate the Temporary Service Part (TSP) form in GlobalConnect.
- 11007940This service bulletin provides information on dark spots in the headlamp pattern when the vehicle is pulled up to a wall or garage.
- 11007936This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007935This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
Every Buick Encore model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.