2017 Buick Encore Review: Unreliable Small Luxury SUV With High Maintenance Costs

Alex Showalter

Jun 28, 2023

The 2017 Buick Encore lasts around 150,000 miles with some serious engine and brake issues reported. At $14,399 to $22,000, it’s cheap, but not worth the money since you’ll spend thousands of dollars repairing it.

The Good

The cabin is very quiet at highway speeds, the suspension is smooth and its stereo is easy to use.

The Bad

The base engine is weak, cargo space is worse than other SUVs and the ownership costs get expensive as it ages.

Is the 2017 Buick Encore a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 7/10 – 2017 is a bad year for the Buick Encore since there are expensive mechanical problems which develop as they age. Owner reviews complain about breakdowns, electrical issues, along with A/C system issues.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nicer than other SUVs, the seats are comfortable, although cargo space is lower than some competitors.
Reliability 6/10 – There are some engine and transmission problems on the 2017 Encore. Avoid models from 2013–2016, while 2018–2022 are more reliable.
Performance 6/10 – Performance is poor from both versions of the four-cylinder engine which focuses more on efficiency rather than power.
Safety 7/10 – The 2017 Encore is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera, while parking sensors are an optional upgrade.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 30 MPG, giving 420 miles of range from the 14 gallon tank. Gas costs are $21 cheaper than average, at $188 per month.
Value 6/10 – The 2017 Buick Encore is cheaper than some other small SUVs, although expensive ownership costs make it a bad long-term value.

Positive Owner Reviews

Kinsley C

Great reliable vehicle Buick encore.

Problems: trouble with touch screen and noise when ac is on. Makes a buzzing sound. Reliable: very. Great mileage. Great when commuting. Comfortable. Hidden storage / trunk space. Backup camera works great. Perfect size. Powerful ac. Drives smooth and quiet.

Rhett A

Buick encore review 2017.

No problems it is very reliable gets great gas mileage and is more comfortable than it looks. The back seat looks small but is a lot bigger. Back seat folds back with ease. Also can fit 5 big people comfortably. Has great connectivity with phone. More trunk space is desired.

Richard Arthur

Great little car

This is really nice SUV for the money. Great mpg 35 average on our 12 mile back road trips to town. Long trips the same. Easy to get in and out due to hip problems. Wife and I love. The only drawback is that it can't be flat towed, has to be tailored which hurts the gas mileage on our rv.

Marsha L

It has great safety features, it is a smooth ride, and great gas mileage.

I love that it is great on gas, it is easy to drive and park. I do not like that it's so small and only sits five. I still love it though.

Vasiliki C

Luxury on wheels in an affordable environment.

Comfort and smooth ride, all the bells and whistles, drives well, feels secure, handles well in all terrains. Love all the upgrades. Used to drive a Lexus sedan that I adored and this car is just as comfortable and luxurious. So happy with my purchase.

Marian M

Perfect small size SUV. Small but not small.

The Buick encore is a small SUV with lots of room, headroom and legroom. The seat are adjustable for height and legs. The turning ratio is crazy good. You can make a very sharp turn without having to back up. It's also a good height for instance some SUVs are too tall to get into comfortably and some are too low for comfort. The body shape is attractive with good lines. I love my car. Would buy it again.

Ryan N

My review of a Buick encore

Great gas mileage, plenty of room for both driver and passengers large screen display on dashboard. Comfortable

Lynda L

Good reliable car, can depend on it and good gas mileage.

Good gas mileage, reliable, design. I have no dislikes. I love the color, easy to operate, easy to backup, I really like the backup camera.

Negative Owner Reviews

Valerie Eubanks

HDMI

Radio not working. Waiting for media to update. Will cost $981 for new HDMI. Will be rather expensive if this occurs everytime an update has a cliche.

Joe

Trading it in

Nope,bad a/c, turbo problem leaking oil from valve cover.check engine light keep turning on.

hELEN W

IT'S A LEMON AND SMELLS LIKE ONE. IT HAS POOR ACCELERATION

LIKE HATCHBACK, PICKUP IS VERY SLOW, HARD TO KEEP CLEAN, POOR AIR CONDITIONER

Rosalind B

Buick encore: not worth the money.

I have been having issues with my vehicle shortly after purchase. About a month after, there was a loud sound coming from the brakes. They replaced it. A couple months after the same sound but they couldn't hear it so nothing was done no matter how many times I made a complaint. I even recorded the sound and still no help. It has been three and half years now and it still makes that sound every day. One year and a half after purchase the battery had to be replaced, I would think twice before buying this car again.

Meridith S

If you are more than one person, and you carry ANYTHING around, this is just too small.

It's much smaller than I realized when I got it. The transmission is weak, and it doesn't get as good gas mileage as I think it should for so small a vehicle. I do really like the infotainment system though.

Tim B

This is a family friendly car you'll learn to love.

It is comfortable, super roomy it is family suitable it has great features to use and my family and friends love it highly recommend getting a Buick it is made for everyone! Super affordable and great quality definitely dependable and well managed. I live my car.

Dustin J

Is the 2017 Buick encore a dud?

My 2017 Buick encore is totally under powered, top heavy also. The Buick handles poorly on any wet surface also gravel. Big blind spots also it is to small to really be considered a sports utility vehicle. I do like the back up camera and Sirius XM radio tho.

Rae E

Thoughts on the my latest car.

Cannot see out window when backing up... Seat headrests block view... Sporty, fun to drive. Performs well on wet roads and snow covered roads. Limited center console cup holder. Appreciate heated seats and steering wheel. Nice car but wish I had my mini cooper back.

What Do Critics Say About the Buick Encore?

Consumer Reports says the 2017 Buick Encore offers a luxurious driving experience for the price, but has lower owner satisfaction scores.
Edmunds rates the Encore at 4.5/5, enjoying the quiet interior at highway speeds, but doesn’t like the weak base engine.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Encore a 4.3/5, praising the upscale interior for a small SUV, but owners don’t like the lack of rear-seat legroom.

What Common Problems Does the 2017 Buick Encore Have?

Common problems found on the 2017 Buick Encore include a lot of check engine lights, excessive brake noise, along with auto-dimming mirror failures. Overall, these problems are worse than other small SUVs, leading to more expensive repair costs as the Encore ages.

Check engine lights are the most widespread complaint on the 2017 Encore, showing up at around 30,000 miles. You will need to use an OBD-II scan tool to diagnose the source of the problem. Some of the most common problems include crankshaft issues, which cost $1,200 to repair, as well as some turbo failures, which can cost over $3,000 to fix.

Excessive brake noise has also been reported on some 2017 Encore models at around 20,000 miles. The rear brake pads in particular tend to wear down quickly, leading to a lot of noise. Replacing the brake pads costs around $150, while new rotors are an additional $300 if they are damaged from metal-on-metal contact.

Auto-dimming mirror failures are another issue reported by Encore owners in the first 5,000 miles. Often the problem is simply caused by a damaged fuse for the rearview mirror, while in other cases it’s a problem with the mirror itself. Replacing the mirror costs around $300, depending on local labor rates if it is out of warranty when it fails.

There are two recalls on the 2017 Buick Encore, which is similar to other SUVs from the same year. Both of the recalls are for front air bags which may not deploy. Buick will replace the airbags in affected models for free.

How Long Will the 2017 Buick Encore Last?

A well-maintained 2017 Buick Encore can last around 150,000 miles, which is shorter than other small SUVs like the Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than other compact SUVs based on data provided by Repair Pal, at $511 per year.

As a used 2017 Encore reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the fuel injectors for $180, camshaft sensor costing $380, along with the turbocharger boost pressure solenoid which costs $500.

Zoe V

Yes it is very reliable. I have no problems with it! The only thing I have had a problem with is the tire gauge sensor.

REBEKAH F

I have not had any problems besides getting a flat tire from a nail. I have never broke down. It is a very reliable car. I have not heard of any problems of any other SUVs from this year. It gets me everywhere I need to be.

Lynn H

No problems to date. The car only has 20,000 miles on it at present. I have traveled cross country in it and had one service since I bought it.

Tiffany K

It is reliable. On some models (my mom also as a 2017 encore) the radio may need to be replaced since the back up camera is finicky. The passing alert on the drivers side occasionally flashes in the side view mirror when it is cold and there is no traffic out.

Kendall L

I have not yet had any problems with the vehicle. I have had it for 2 months. So far everything has been perfect.

Eleni P

Nothing but maintenance has been done to my car. Don't jinx me but I feel it’s the most reliable car we’ve had. Right up with our Chrysler Pacifica

Carol K

No problem with car.. just no navigation .. and it's hard to set up using your Buick Android auto.. the car phone is also hard to set up

Arm A

It is reliable. Just the routine items, such as oil change, tire rotation etc. need to be addressed.

How Is the Technology?

Entertainment technology is good, with a standard 8-inch touchscreen on all models. Optional upgrades include a more powerful stereo system.

Standard safety technology is fairly basic, offering a rearview camera.

Optional driver assistance features include:

Blind spot monitoring
Rear cross traffic alert
Lane departure warning
Rear park assist
Forward collision warning
Front and rear parking sensors
Rain sensing windshield wipers

Is the 2017 Buick Encore a Good Value?

No, the 2017 Buick Encore is not a good value since there are mechanical problems reported with them as they age. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $14,399 to $22,000, making it less than a Honda CR-V or Subaru Crosstrek. When new, the price range was $22,990 to $31,965. Depreciation is worse than average, losing about 15% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Buick Encore?

There are six main models of the Buick Encore offered from the Base through to the more luxurious Premium. The Encore comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.

Base is the entry-level model with:

18-inch alloy wheels
Automatic headlights, LED running lights
Keyless ignition and entry
Heated mirrors, roof rails, rear privacy glass
Air-conditioning, cruise control
Power driver seat, fold-flat front passenger seat, 60/40-split folding rear seats
OnStar communications, rearview camera, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Six-speaker sound system with satellite radio, two USB ports
8-inch touchscreen with IntelliLink electronics interface and smartphone app integration

Preferred is a step up, adding:

All Base features
Additional floor mats and cargo cover

Sport Touring is next in the lineup with:

All Base features
Additional fog lights, rear spoiler, and remote start
Optional seven-speaker Bose sound system and blind-spot monitoring system

Preferred II offers more upgrades such as:

All Base and Sport Touring features
Dual-zone climate control
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
120-volt household-style power outlet
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems

Essence has more upgrades including:

All Base, Sport Touring and Preferred II features
LED headlights
Leather upholstery
Six-way power passenger seat with manual recline and power lumbar
Heated front seats, heated steering wheel
Driver-seat memory settings
Available with Experience Buick package

Premium is the flagship model with:

All Base, Sport Touring, Preferred II, and Essence features
Front and rear parking sensors
Forward collision warning system
Lane departure warning system
Automatic wipers
Seven-speaker Bose sound system
Available with Experience Buick package

Base

138 HP 28 MPG

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Preferred

138 HP 27 MPG

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Sport Touring

138-153 HP 27 MPG

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Preferred II

138-153 HP 27 MPG

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Essence

138-153 HP 27 MPG

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Premium

138-153 HP 27 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Buick Encore?

The 2017 Buick Encore comes with two engine options. Both are 1.4L turbocharged four-cylinder engines.

The base engine generates 138 horsepower at up to 28 MPG. and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time for this engine is roughly 9.3 seconds.

The more powerful engine option offers 153 horsepower while getting 30 MPG and also uses a six-speed automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph time for this engine is around 8.4 seconds.

What Colors Does the Buick Encore Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Buick Encore?

The 2017 Buick Encore is well-regarded for its high comfort levels, both regarding its interior quality and ride smoothness. The Encore features a well-designed and quiet cabin, insulated with active noise cancellation technology that reduces road and wind noise, offering passengers a serene and peaceful ride. The seats are outfitted with quality materials, and there is plenty of legroom and headroom, which accommodates adult passengers even on longer journeys.

The front seats are particularly comfortable, and both the driver and passenger seats come with a wide range of adjustments for personalized comfort. Some models also come with heated seats and a heated steering wheel, providing additional comfort in colder weather.

Regarding the ride itself, the 2017 Encore is smooth and composed. The suspension effectively absorbs most road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride quality. The Encore’s compact size and responsive steering also make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces or urban environments, adding to its overall comfort and ease of driving. Overall, the 2017 Buick Encore provides a comfortable and pleasant experience for both drivers and passengers alike.

How Much Storage Space Does the Buick Encore Have?

The 2017 Buick Encore is a compact SUV that offers a decent amount of storage space for its class. With the rear seats up and in place, the Encore provides 18.8 cubic feet of cargo room. This is enough space to accommodate your weekly grocery shopping or to pack in a couple of small suitcases for a short trip.

However, if you’re in need of more space for larger items, the rear seats of the Buick Encore can be folded down. In this configuration, the Encore expands its cargo capacity to an impressive 48.4 cubic feet. This larger space could hold larger items, such as a bicycle, or multiple larger suitcases for those longer road trips.

Also, the front passenger seat can be folded flat to accommodate longer items, such as a ladder or surfboard. The 2017 Buick Encore may be a compact SUV, but it certainly doesn’t skimp on offering versatile cargo solutions to its users.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The first generation of the Buick Encore was introduced for the 2013 model year.

2015: Standard OnStar and 4G LTE connectivity found on all models.

2016: Sport Touring model introduced with a more powerful 1.4L engine.

2017: Minor exterior styling changes, easier to use controls, Apple CarPlay added, and some upgraded interior materials.

2018: No changes from earlier years.

2019: Optional, more powerful engine offered on some models.

2020: More powerful engine discontinued, minor changes to the Sport Touring model.

2021: Some models removed from the lineup, improved driver aids.

How Does the Buick Encore Compare to the Competition?

The 2017 Buick Encore is a bad small SUV since there are a lot of mechanical problems that develop as they age, making it one that buyers should avoid since they’ll cost a lot to keep running.

The Nissan Rogue is another small SUV which is available for about $1,000 more. Passenger room is better in the Nissan Rogue, while the Buick Encore has a more luxurious interior. We recommend avoiding both for the 2017 model year since they suffer from expensive problems.

The Chevy Trax is a popular choice available for roughly $2,000 less. Both the Chevy Trax and Buick Encore are built on the same base platform, while the Buick Encore offers more luxury features. We recommend staying away from both SUVs since they have the same engine, leading to the same problems.

Ranks #10 Compact SUV by Owners

2017 Subaru Crosstrek

4.68

2017 Kia Soul

4.67

Tie

2017 Buick Encore

4.46

Do Owners Recommend the Buick Encore?

Zoe V

Yes, it drives smooth and has a very good startup. I like the remote start. For a compact SUV it is very roomy. I also like the stereo and the sound system. It also has a nice size trunk.

REBEKAH F

Yes, good on gas, it rides smooth. Compact car with very good gas mileage. There were lots of colors to choose from when I got.It.

Lynn H

Yes, good mileage, smooth travel, looks good. The maintenance is reasonable. It is just right for me to do the type of travel I loge: visit family and friends, do errands, make short trips.

Tiffany K

Yes it is a good vehicle and very reliable. You cannot hear a lot of road noise when driving down the road and it gets really good gas mileage.

Karen D

Yes! I recently purchased this vehicle and I am very pleased with my purchase. It’s great on gas mileage, has updated technology, and is stylish.

Alicia B

Yes I love it. Whenever someone else rides with me, they comment on how much they like my car. The minute I sat in one I knew it was the car for me. No blind spots It’s easy to park Has a heated steering wheel. Yay!

Larry B

Yes. Nice size car.. I like it because it's high and easy to get into. Not big trunk space but not a problem for me. I would buy again definitely

Shawn M

Yes it is. It has a lot of safety features which are extremely helpful. The backup feature helps going out of garages.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Carmen J on June 25, 2021

Small SUV capable of going fast and fitting into small spaces.

Reliable, great gas mileage, SUV but still fits into compact spaces. Air vents could be placed better or stronger. Turbo engine but takes a minute to go super fast. Modern features for low price, still under warranty so Sewell dealership handles any issues and maintenance. Easy to keep clean, handle, no major problems.

Monique R on June 16, 2021

Very nice SUV would buy again.

I really love this car and features. I looked at many cars before I chose it, so far I have not had any problems with this car, its comfortable and stylish I would recommend this model to my family and friends. Our whole family loves it even has room for our dogs.

Dina D on June 16, 2021

Review of 2017 Buick encore.

I haven't had many problems with the car itself, performance is good, car runs fairly smooth. The seats are comfortable but the inside of the car is fairly small, smaller than I would like. I wish both front seats had an arm rest, only the driver seat has one. Other than that it is a good car.

Diane S on June 10, 2021

The encore is a highly comfortable and dependable driving experience.

Extremely comfortable. Seats adjust to make driving very comfortable. Reliable car that handles well in winter weather. The interior instrumentation is much improved over the 2015 model I traded in. It is very easy to matriculate through the dashboard options. The only negative of this model is that the passenger seat does not have the storage drawer the 2015 model had but it is a trade off because that seat has the lumbar support built in.

Jesi S on June 6, 2021

Zip and zooms but not much room.

I love how the vehicle drives. However it is very small on the inside for tall people. There also is not much space in the trunk if you like to do big shopping trips. If you live in town and do small load trips it is just fine. But if you buy big batches of groceries or stuff you will need to use the backseat. But it gets around great and I love it.

Abigail H on June 2, 2021

Great size car with enough space!

I love the size and the android auto/google assistant feature. The seats are comfy and the front seats are easily adjusted. There is a good amount of trunk space for the size of the car, I also like that there is a cover for the trunk section so that people cannot see into the back from outside of the car. There are some blind spots which is a downside.

Dawn Adams on May 30, 2021

Poor motor issues

I bought my 2017 and loved it, until 6000 miles it needed a whole new motor put in. Mind you it was only 3 months old. Buick checked ot out to see what the issue was. Now @45,000miles it is losing antifreeze someplace, could'nt see or smell it. Just to it to dealership,and sure enough it now needs a head gasket once again, on a 2nd motor that has 37000 miles on it. I would say it's a d**n lemon. It's great in the snow and a nice little small suv, but obviously the lack of power in a turbo motor really sucks. I'm sure in another 25-30, 000 miles it willneed a 3rd motor. Anybody else who owns one ever have any problems like mine? I'm VERY DISAPPOINTED, and very unhappy. I will never buy or recommend one to anybody.Good Luck ONCORE owners.

Sapphire S on May 27, 2021

An amazing first car buy!

It is a reliable vehicle! It is incredibly high-tech with Bluetooth options at a great price. The seats are comfortable and adjustable. The car seats 5 people comfortably with a spacious trunk. I would recommend this car to anyone with a small family!

Kara B on May 19, 2021

A great car if you are looking for something safe and comfortable!

This vehicle has been reliable and comfortable. It is also great on gas and safe. I have noticed there is great visibility and it is a relatively quiet vehicle to drive. There are a lot of features of this vehicle that make it a great family car. While compact, it still has a lot of room and trunk space which makes traveling comfortable and convenient. There is a lot of storage compartments in this vehicle which make it nice for the driver. I also appreciate that this vehicle will hold its value. One of my concerns with this vehicle that I have noticed is that there sometimes is an electrical issue. I notice that it has a hard time comprehending when I am starting the vehicle/stopping it and turning the key off (push start.).

Andrea W on May 9, 2021

Luxury ride for the frequent traveler.

I really like the motorized driver seat. Is great for lumbar support and comfort during long drives. I also love the large infotainment screen. The Buick phone app is really awesome too. You can check status of your vehicle and perform basic functions like lock or unlock your doors, or start your car from your phone. I like the tire pressure feature on the dashboard menu along with the status on the phone app. I also like that it keeps track of your oil life. This vehicle is the best one I have ever had. I travel a lot for work and by car only, so I spend many hours in the car. I use OnStar and have the Sirius radio subscription so I can keep listening to music without is cutting out on long trips. It is built right into the vehicle, no need to add equipment. There is plenty of room for my family, groceries, and other things. I usually haul a lot of network gear for installs when I travel, and there is plenty of room for that too.

Carol K on April 28, 2021

Good all around vehicle to own.

Great size vehicle not too small and not too Big. Easy to get in and out of. Good safety features. Comfortable seating and seat adjustment. Easy to use features. Decent rear storage and seats are easy to put down to expand room to carry a longer load. Backup camera works well and side warning alarm comes in handy.

Marzieh S on April 27, 2021

Great small size SUV AWD, very classy.

The only thing I do not like about it is that the trunk is small. Also when we had an infant car seat it was kind of tight back there, especially if you want to place the car seat in the middle seat, it wasn't possible. The back is really only for two people. If you want a small SUV it is a great option. I test drove multiple other cars like rogue from Nissan but fell in love with the encore and brought it home that same day.

Sam G on April 24, 2021

Amazing car. With an amazing backup camera and very safe.

Absolutely love my vehicle. Absolutely no problems, I love how well the backup camera work and how smooth the car drives. I also really like all the airbags in the vehicle that make it very safe and reliable. The seats in my vehicle are also very comfortable.

Yesenia L on April 23, 2021

Benefits of owning a Buick!

This vehicle is perfect for a small family. It has a lot of luxurious features like steering wheel and seat warmers. It drives very smoothly. The only thing that I do not like about my car is that there is not a lot of space inside it is very compact..

Brittini H on April 20, 2021

Best car I have ever had.

Very reliable. Drives smooth, no major repairs. Had it for couple years now. Pretty comfortable and driver friendly. My husband loves the car too. Enough room in the back. Easy to maneuver in the seats. I have driven this car multiple times to Florida.

Carol W on April 17, 2021

Buick encore: good all-around vehicle.

It is comfortable for me to drive. I like sitting up high so I can see better. I like the adjustability of the driver's seat. The trunk is too small, even with the seats folded down. There are bad blind spots on the sides. I love the backup camera and the ability to connect to apple CarPlay.

Katie W on April 14, 2021

Buick encore 2017 is nice.

Started driving this car in December of 2017 and it has not let me down since. It is proven to get through a bit of snow on the road as it snows here in the winter and I still have to get to work. It is pretty good on gas and is very comfortable to drive. The driver's seat has a few adjustments that my past cars didn't have.

Alexis S on April 13, 2021

Great sound system and built in GPS.

I recently just purchased a 2017 Buick encore. I find it very reliable due to I drove 8 hours to attend my college in this vehicle. The downfall I found is that it has a very small gas tank so it requires a fill up quite frequently. Plus side is it cost very little to fill up. 20 dollars at the max. It is very reliable and the built in GPS is extremely useful. Great sound system if you are one for jamming out while you drive and I feel as though it can be very good for a family with kids. I am a college student so I am not for sure on that but I can imagine it is trustworthy and a great vehicle for a family.

Dustin J on April 8, 2021

Is the 2017 Buick encore a dud?

Theresa G on April 4, 2021

My Buick encore is a great car I love it and would highly recommend it to anyone.

I love my Buick encore it is the perfect size for me very comfortable to drive. It gets great mileage 35 mpg highway. I have never had any issues with it and when my lease is up later this year I am planning on getting another one. It looks small but actually has a great deal of leg room in the front and back seat.

Joel C on April 2, 2021

It offers better performance than most 4 cylinder cars/SUVs

The vehicle is built with quality and style/design. It offers a very quiet and smooth ride while not sacrificing performance. It provides all of the latest "tech" enhancements, and delivers on excellent fuel economy.

Laurie H on March 29, 2021

A few issues. Overall reliable

Doesn't seem to have a lot of power. Reliable. A few issues with broken seat belt. Won't retract. And front bumper pops out of the clasp. Needs to go in for these repairs. First time seat belt. Second time for bumper issue. The vehicle is good enough for running around to do what I need to do.

Dawn C on March 26, 2021

Not a ton of power, but will get you where you need to go.

Wipers cannot be lifted off windshield to clear snow and ice. Cargo space with folding seats is great.

Hannah M on March 20, 2021

Perfect for a small sports utility vehicle (SUV).

The 2017 Buick encore rides smoothly. The back seat is small and the vehicle is not ideal for large family trips. It is very comfortable seating and nice adjustments on the front seats for added comfort. The Bluetooth and auxiliary feature work but are sometimes difficult to connect to.

Mika S on March 19, 2021

Small but spacious: a reliable car that you can always count on.

I have traveled so much in my Buick encore and I absolutely love it! I have had no issues with it; it is a very reliable car. It looks small from the outside but everyone that gets in my car is surprised how much space I have. It is able to move me in and out of college and is a good all around car to have.

Jan L on March 19, 2021

It gets great gas mileage and fits a lot of groceries. It will not fit a wheelchair in the trunk without lowering the back seat.

It is a small luxury suv. It gets great gas mileage. It should have two arm rests in the front seat. Both seats should be fully electronic. It should have more charging plugs for cell phones.

Pat C on March 17, 2021

Buick compares to any luxury vehicle on the market.

My Buick has very comfortable seating for long or short trips. It has been a very reliable, no problem vehicle that gets very good gas mileage. I have had no mechanical problems and have only had to do regular maintenance and upkeep. It has a very smooth ride with all of the comforts and extras that would come in a much more expensive vehicle.

Jerry N on March 12, 2021

Overall satisfaction of my car.

My 2017 Buick encore does not have a CD player, but it gets good gas mileage, and is a pretty smooth ride. It is comfortable, and quick enough. It does not have a lot of take-off, but it is safe and I have had it over a year and had no mechanical issues so far.

Tim B on March 12, 2021

This is a family friendly car you'll learn to love.

Violet J on March 11, 2021

My Buick encore experience so far.

It is a great vehicle for a small SUV to get to and from comfortably and it is so incredibly great on gas mileage for road trips definitely. It is very techy which I love also! It has enough room in the trunk for your average grocery shopping days and also for your road tripping vacations.

Cari H on March 9, 2021

Apple play is super nice!

For a small car it is absolutely amazing! Great gas mileage and not too cramped! Also love the touch screen and apple play! I can easily fit everything I need in my car. From friends to groceries, it is the perfect car. Also folding the back is super easy to clean and to pack more.

hope S on March 8, 2021

Love everything about my Buick encore. 10/10 would recommend this car.

Love this car. I have not had any problems out of it thus far. I love all the features. The car is super comfortable and it rides really well. I again am so in love with this car and beyond happy with this purchase. I do not want to own any other vehicle and plan on sticking with buick’s. 10/10 would recommend.

Emily P on March 6, 2021

In love with my Buick encore!!

I love the size, and look of the encore. She gets great gas mileage! High tech and comfortable. She drives well and is very reliable. I feel safe and secure. I currently lease but am thinking about buying the car at the end of my lease. I highly recommend the Buick encore.

Robert H on March 6, 2021

Easy to handle, great gas mileage, I will buy another one when it comes time.

I have not had any problems yet, it is a wonderful car. I love it immensely. When it ever comes time to buy another one I will buy another Buick encore. It gets great gas mileage easy to handle on the road just a dream car. The only thing that has happened is I had to replace the battery. Great car.

Marisa F on March 5, 2021

Overall I really enjoy this vehicle!

Pros: it feels like you are driving while sitting on a couch. On star, real time diagnostics, and smartphone adaptors make traveling a breeze. I love the automatic windows and power steering as well! Cons: the vent fan started to make a high-pitched chirping about 2 years after purchase.

Elizabeth A on March 4, 2021

Sleek and impressive family vehicle.

Wipers malfunctioning. Engine temperature sensor issues. Plenty of storage. Front driver seat has lumbar support. Front passenger seat is not comfortable when reclined. Good gas mileage. Sleek design. Works well with apple products. Difficult to clean seats.

Phillip M on March 2, 2021

Very dependable and great gas mileage.

My 2017 Buick encore get great gas mileage. I average thirty three miles per gallon all around. It handles very nicely. The only negative about my Buick encore is that it is a little small and has very little cargo room. All in all I am very satisfied with my vehicle purchase and would recommend.

Nadine W on March 2, 2021

Ride like your in a rolls Royce. . .

Nice and comfortable ride, roomy, feels. Nice due to sitting up high, no mechanical issues, good gas mileage.

douglas R on March 2, 2021

Looks good happy with choice that I made and the warranty.

I have had no problems with the encore seems to be maintenance free presently but I do bring it for service to the dealer when it is needed I have warranty on the vehicle my warranty is for the lifetime and that's very good. I did change the oil within the last two months and usually drive around 6000 miles per year or being changed when needed.

lauren w on March 1, 2021

It is slower to accelerate than other cars so it cannot vamp up as fast.

I love my car. Sometimes i wish it would accelerate faster but it is okay for now. I love how the seats fold down and there's so much room.

Haley T on February 28, 2021

The size is about the size of a midsize sedan with the room and height of an SUV.

Buick encores are the perfect size for millennials. I love driving a fuel efficient SUV that fits perfectly in the city but has plenty of room for road trips and friends! The stunning interior and design is sleek and stylish, while still having the charm of a Buick; quiet and comfortable!

Matt K on February 28, 2021

Great mileage, and good convertible trunk space, but the high center of gravity doesn't respond well to wind and the seats don't feel like they hold you well enough.

I don't like how the seats feel like they don't support you enough and so you jiggle around in the car too much. Maybe if there were cross support X style seat belts it would be better.

Theresa F on February 26, 2021

Great compact car with great interior room.

Only one center arm rest would be better with 2 car has power to go up hiss even with 4 cylinders. Easy to park in tight spaces. Great options on interior and exterior as well as trim package. Interior is very roomy for compact car. Great on gas mileage.

Eric J on February 23, 2021

It is not for larger families, but perfect for a single person or small family.

Smooth ride. Great fuel efficiency for a small SUV. Very reasonably priced. High safety rating. Not the most powerful for accelerating but handles very well in the winter.

Taylor B on February 21, 2021

Dependable, comfortable, great gas mileage.

This car is great on gas mileage. It is comfortable and big enough for me and my daughter. It is comfortable and rides smoothly. It has a nice, clean look to it. I love the two toned seats and the fact that it is equipped with Bluetooth. I would recommend this vehicle to a couple.

Aaron W on February 21, 2021

Say goodbye to the former “old man’s” vehicle!

No issues. Good solid vehicle with great gas mileage for an SUV! Seats are really comfortable. Kind of wish the back had more space, not the best for traveling with needed items! Good for a couple people to travel on a camping trip! Easy to clean! Enjoy all of the audio features and carplay! Really feel safe in this vehicle.

ed g on February 19, 2021

Reliable, it is easy to take care of. It is good on gas mileage

Good size for a large man. High off the ground, for easy in and out. Very good on gas mileage.

Kris S on February 16, 2021

2017 Buick encore an honest college student review.

I love it but I really wish it had heated seats. It handles well in all weather thought which is great. It makes pretty good gas mileage but I do wish the tank held a bit more as I travel frequently and wish I could refill less. I also wish the trunk was bigger, as it really isn't spacious at all. However, it's a great everyday car.

Maria M on February 15, 2021

It is great on gas miles.

I wish the back door opened by remote. I like everything else about my car. It's just the right size for me.

Susan I on February 12, 2021

Easy and fun to drive. Easy parking, great heater. Does well in snow.

Perfect car for me. Good performance, good gas mileage, easy and fun to drive. Great single lady car. I would recommend to anyone.

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.