What 87 owners told NHTSA about the 2017 Buick Encore GX

There is a problem with the 2017 Buick Encore turbocharger. From speaking with the auto shop I took it to for a check they have seen many Buick Encore’s with the same turbocharger problems. He spoke to me about it prior to me dropping off the vehicle and then confirming the issue after inspecting the vehicle. The turbocharger inspection revealed a distinct structural crack at the wastegate flange, resulting in boost pressure loss. There is already a recall associated with this problem in other VIN’s with the same year and type of vehicle, recall needs to be expanded because this is a known and ongoing problem.

NHTSA ODI 11743618

UNKNOWN. MY 2017 Buick Encore while parked in front of my home just blew up at 1 am. I have a video of this occuring. It was on the passengers side. My neighbor stated that he heard a loud bang and went outside. He said parts were flying off my car. I don't know how to send the video but I do have one when this occured. I have contacted Buick Corporate and now they are saying that they are sending my matter to the legal department. Buick corporate told me to have my vehicle towed to the Buick Dealer which I did because I wanted to know why that happened. I paid to have it towed and tomorrow I have to pay to have it towed back home until legal gets back in touch with me. The way that the vehicle exploded I am scared to even get back into the vehicle. I am so thankful that this occured at 1 am and my grandson was in bed This could have really hurt or killed someone. I thank God that I wasn't driving it. When the tow truck driver arrived he said oh your air bag exploded . I told him that I didn't know what caused it. The Buick dealer never inspected the vehicle. The Buick dealer stated that it was the tire that blew from his visual inspection.

NHTSA ODI 11740762

Formal Consumer Complaint Statement — GM / Crivelli Buick I am filing a formal consumer complaint against Crivelli Chevrolet Buick GMC and General Motors/Buick regarding what I believe was discriminatory and unfair treatment in connection with a warranty-covered vehicle repair. The customer is [XXX] , owner of a 2017 Buick Encore. The vehicle was serviced by Crivelli Chevrolet Buick GMC in Mt. Pleasant, Pennsylvania, on or about May 20, 2026, for a turbocharger failure covered under GM Special Coverage Bulletin N232395330. The vehicle had recently passed Pennsylvania safety and emissions inspection on April 30, 2026. The turbo-related diagnostic code appeared on or about [XXX]. Crivelli completed the minimum turbocharger warranty repair but then informed the customer that additional intake/manifold-related repairs were needed and would not be covered. The customer disputed this because the additional failure appeared during the same repair sequence and appears directly related to the covered turbocharger failure. A written request was faxed asking Crivelli to review the invoice, compare the repair to GM’s covered parts list, and submit the related intake/manifold issue to GM for collateral coverage, goodwill review, or warranty consideration. Crivelli did not respond to the fax notice and did not return the customer’s calls. When the customer attempted to follow up with the service department, Scott from the service department refused to review the concern, refused to provide further service, and refused to contact GM regarding the related warranty issue. Based on the conduct, tone, refusal to review the documentation, refusal to escalate to GM, and refusal to provide equal service, I believe the customer was denied fair consumer service because of race.The customer is not asking for special treatment. The customer is asking for equal treatment, proper review of GM’s own warranty/special coverage bulletin, and fair handling of a related mechanical INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11739555

Will vehicle was parked in my driveway there was a loud like explosion. It just exploded. My passenger size of my vehicle is totalled. I do have a video of the car blowing up. I am so happy that it was late in the early mornings. I have grandkids that play here and one of them could have got hurt or killed.

NHTSA ODI 11738379

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle experienced a sudden loss of power and went into "LIMP Mode". Additionally, there was smoke coming from the rear of the vehicle. The dealer was notified of the issue but declined to service the vehicle because the vehicle had a salvage title. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 88,000.

NHTSA ODI 11725893

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at 40 MPH, the engine was running rough, and the vehicle experienced reduced power. The stabili-trak and the check engine warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, where a diagnostic trouble code for a cylinder misfire was retrieved. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the cylinder #1 ignition coil and spark plug were replaced, but the failure persisted. The mechanic determined that the engine might need to be replaced; however, the mechanic did not specialize in engine diagnostic tests. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the dealer for a diagnostic test. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The contact related the failure to GM Special Coverage Number: N232395330; however, the manufacturer informed the contact that the VIN was not included, and the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The failure mileage was approximately 44,000.

NHTSA ODI 11723105

Rear passenger doors fail to engage internal lock when Child-Lock feature is on, door can still be opened from interior. Rear door locks fail to properly engage when locking and unlocking vehicle

NHTSA ODI 11718605

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving approximately 25 MPH, the contact smelled smoke and became aware that the smoke was coming from under the hood. The failure reoccurred while driving the following day. The vehicle was driven to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed, and it was determined that the turbocharger needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact received notification of Special Coverage: N232395330 (Turbocharger Replacement), and the manufacturer was contacted for reimbursement. A case was opened; however, the manufacturer later informed the contact that the reimbursement claim was denied because the vehicle was not repaired by a dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 48,000.

NHTSA ODI 11712977

Wipers will not shut off.

NHTSA ODI 11711722

4/2025-Engine coolant water outlet needed to be replaced 5/2025- Turbo boost replaced (under recall) 6/2025- Engine fan needed to be replaced 12/2025- There was active leaking in the engine oil cooler and lines- needed to be replaced Engine ventilation , engine oil weep along valve cover seals- needed to be replaced

NHTSA ODI 11710027

I have went to the dealership for the past two years with this problem and they keep saying they are not getting any codes: when the air conditioner is on it’s pulling the power from the motor and makes it hard to go up hill. Hard To accelerate when going on to the freeway as well. The problem is only getting worse and worse.

NHTSA ODI 11687912

The turbo charge is not providing adequate power. I was on the highway and the car began to chugging then accelerated on its own and all the lights on the dash came on then all went off like it was going to shut down. I put my hazards on and started to pull to the side of the highway. I gave it a moment for the car and for me because I was terrified, my kids were in the car and traffic was going steady around 70-75 miles per hour and I was scared as it began to shut down that I would be hit by traffic behind me before I could get over. It started driving again. It still drives but is hard to accelerate and even when stopped you can see the RPM rising. It’s as if the car never idles, it feels as though is constantly under load. I have had it looked at professionally at Midas but they will only say they think it is the turbo as there are no codes coming up. I have had it looked at by mechanics I know who have fixed other things that may cause similar issues and nothing has worked and they also believe it is the turbo. I’ve know other people with Buicks and they have had similar problems I’m confused as to why this 1.4 liter turbo has not been recalled.

NHTSA ODI 11679247

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the engine overheated, and there was smoke coming from the front of the vehicle. The contact stated that the temperature gauge indicated that the engine was hot. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer where the vehicle was diagnosed and the contact was informed that the water outlet housing, the blower motor, A/C condenser, water pump, thermostat, thermostat housing, turbo charger, and the fan were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 60,189.

NHTSA ODI 11675455

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that the front passenger’s side seat belt failed to work as intended. No warning lights were illuminated. The front driver’s side seat belt also failed to work as intended. The contact had to push the front seat all the way back to release the seat belt. The contact stated that the seat belt was too tight and pressed into her stomach. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact had become aware of the failure after the vehicle was purchased. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

NHTSA ODI 11675097

While traveling at approximately 77 mph on the interstate, I was forced off the road by another vehicle, causing my car to collide with a cable barrier. The initial impact was to the front driver’s side corner, and the vehicle then scraped along the driver’s side against the barrier. Despite the high-speed impact, no airbags deployed. •Component or System That Failed: The frontal airbag system failed to deploy. •Safety Risk: The non-deployment of the airbags at this speed and impact angle posed a serious risk to my safety. The lack of airbag activation during a high-speed frontal crash greatly increased the likelihood of injury. •Has the Problem Been Reproduced or Confirmed by a Dealer or Independent Shop? No. The vehicle has not yet been inspected by a dealership or repair facility, and the issue has not been confirmed or diagnosed by a professional. •Has the Vehicle or Component Been Inspected by Manufacturer, Police, Insurance, or Others? No. The vehicle has not been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives, or any other party as of this report. •Warning Lamps, Messages, or Symptoms Before the Incident: No warning lights or messages were active before the crash. There were no known symptoms or alerts indicating a problem with the airbag system.

NHTSA ODI 11672365

Steering wheel locked up, had to replace rack and pinion, locking up when turning, therefore needing a wheel alignment.

NHTSA ODI 11662532

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at approximately 45 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the vehicle hesitated with the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power and then suddenly jerked forward. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the turbocharger was failing and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The contact researched online and related the failure to Special Coverage Turbocharger Replacement: N232395330; however, the VIN was not included. The failure mileage was approximately 118,000.

NHTSA ODI 11659571

First the car started to act odd, jumpy or you could tell there was issues with the turbo. On [XXX] car overheated??? Out of nowhere. Mileage 82049. No warnings, no lights. We had it towed to shop where we were told we need new turbo, new engine, power steering service, ac service. The total Cost was $6813.54. We had to take out 2 loans - 90 days same as cash then 145% interest as well as pay $243.54 in Cash. We were guaranteed the car was in great condition. We picked it up on 1/24/25. Then on [XXX] - Odometer reading 82509 - We pulled over on the side of the road to grab something from the trunk. Driver got back in car and all of a sudden the car just shut down saying overheated and smoke was coming out of the hood. Again, Absolutely no warning, no lights, no weird noises, nothing! We are now stuck in the middle of nowhere with our [XXX] granddaughter. Thank God a police man drove by. The next day we had to have it towed back to shop. Once back to the shop we were told that the engine or labor that they just put in our vehicle would not be covered by warranty. Nothing was fixed!!! I contacted the attorney general. We went to pick it up on 3/28/2025. Once they got involved the shop agreed to do all repairs for $1873.96. (pay $600 now and then post date 2 more checks). The owners said they looked over everything and nothing should be going wrong. It should be good as new. On [XXX] We were on our way to Puerto Penasco Mexico where we have a vacation home. About 20 miles into Mexico the car just stopped. Tons of Smoke from the tail pipe, Low oil pressure all of a sudden came on. I am attaching pics showing that the car was not showing overheated. So now my husband and i are stuck on the side of the road in Mexico with no cell phone service with a [XXX] car that we can not get fixed no matter how much money or time we put into it. When we finally got ahold of the shop they said they are washing their hands of it and do not want to see this car again. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ODI 11652657

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

NHTSA ODI 11646203

This car is not mine but someone somehow fraudulently registered it in my name. I got the VIN # from truth finder when I did a search on myself. Please help.

NHTSA ODI 11644612

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the message "Engine Power Reduced" was displayed on the instrument panel. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer however, the failure could not be duplicated. The contact stated that the failure persisted, and the vehicle was taken back to the same local dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was related to Special Coverage: N232395330; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 88,881.

NHTSA ODI 11643729

Passenger airbag light on dash is lit. Has ben lit for about a month.

NHTSA ODI 11642773

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that the check engine warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost motive power. In addition, the contact stated while the vehicle was at a stop light, the vehicle was idling roughly. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failed turbo charger. The contact was informed that the turbo charger needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised that the repair was not covered under any special coverage or recalls. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.

NHTSA ODI 11641270

The contact owns a 2017 Buick Encore. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to properly accelerate while depressing the accelerator pedal. The check engine warning light remained illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who was unable the determine the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown. The VIN was not available.

NHTSA ODI 11622557

I HAVE AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. WHEN I AM STOPPED AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT ON AN INCLINE, THE CAR WILL SOMETIMES ROLL BACKWARDS WITH MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE OR WHEN CHANGING MY FOOT TO THE GAS PEDAL TO MOVE FORWARD ONCE THE LIGHT CHANGES. THE MORE THE INCLINE; THE WORSE THE PROBLEM. This happens at a bus stop in a community with an incline and kids at a bus stop. This feeling is as I am driving a manual vehicle. It's not a good feeling knowing that there's children around and knowing that we want our children around for the future and something like this happens with a vehicle, the service department in the dealership cannot find what the problem is. This has happened to my car more than once. I have complained about it once and I am complaining about it again. I have low mi on my car and now, this has happened between the low miles of my car after purchasing up to miles. I have on it now .I've got 110,000 mi on my car and it still is not being repaired and is still happening. And it's bad. Once the car is paid off it turns into multiple problems with my car. Up

NHTSA ODI 11622138