RoadVitals

2020 Buick Encore GX

Recalls, owner-reported complaints, investigations and safety data

Data refreshed

Owner complaintsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
66
+1 complaint in 30 days
Safety recallsA safety recall is issued when a manufacturer or NHTSA determines that a vehicle has a safety-related defect or does not comply with a federal motor vehicle safety standard. Recall repairs are free. Whether a specific vehicle is covered depends on its VIN — a recall listed for a model year does not necessarily apply to every vehicle of that year.
2
Latest Jun 10, 2021
InvestigationsNHTSA opens an investigation to examine whether a safety defect may exist. An open investigation is not a determination that a defect exists, and many investigations close without a recall. Investigations can, however, lead to one.
0
Crash or fire reportedComplaints whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. These are the reporter's own answers on the NHTSA form, not verified findings.
5
3 injuries, 0 deaths reported

Overview

Our database contains 66 NHTSA owner-reported complaints for the 2020 Buick Encore GX, most frequently naming the brakes, powertrain (other) and electrical categories. 2 safety recalls have been issued covering this model year; and 632 manufacturer communications are on file.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

What owners report

Complaints grouped by the component NHTSA recorded

Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.

Safety recalls

2 campaigns cover this model year

Recalls apply to specific vehicles, not to every vehicle of a model year. Check your VIN with NHTSA or your manufacturer's dealer to confirm whether a recall affects your vehicle.

Check a VIN on NHTSA.gov
21V440000

EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STAND

Jun 10, 2021
135,400 units potentially affected
The defect: 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.
The risk: A fractured jack can cause the vehicle to collapse, increasing the risk of injury.
The remedy: 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.
General Motors, LLCManufacturer number A212335470View on NHTSA.gov
20V588000

SERVICE BRAKES

Sep 24, 2020
3,677 units potentially affected
The defect: 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.
The 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.
The remedy: 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.
General Motors LLCManufacturer number A202307260View on NHTSA.gov

Recent owner complaints

Reports submitted to NHTSA, shown in the owner's own words

View all 66
ElectricalEngineFuel system
Filed Jul 22, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID
11752226
Incident
Jul 18, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Jun 21, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID
11745442
Incident
Jun 4, 2026
Filed Apr 14, 2026

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.

NHTSA ID
11731062
Incident
Mar 16, 2026
Powertrain (other)
Filed Mar 24, 2026

I am writing to formally report a serious mechanical failure involving my vehicle and to request further review and assistance. While operating my vehicle, it unexpectedly stalled in the middle of an intersection, creating a significant safety hazard. At the time of the incident, the check engine light illuminated and the RPMs surged to a range between 6 and 8. I was able to safely move the vehicle to the side of the road, place it in park, and have it towed to a dealership for inspection. Following their evaluation, I was informed that the transmission requires replacement. I have since become aware of a recall related to transmission issues; however, I was advised by a Buick representative that my VIN is not included in the recall. Given that my vehicle is experiencing the same or a substantially similar failure, this determination raises concerns and warrants further review. I have consistently adhered to all recommended maintenance schedules and have taken proper care of my vehicle. Based on the circumstances, I respectfully request a thorough reassessment of my case, including reconsideration for coverage or assistance with the necessary repairs. I appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and look forward to your response.

NHTSA ID
11726783
Incident
Mar 23, 2026
ElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Feb 20, 2026

My 2020 Buick Encore GX is showing a message with accompanying ding ding sounds "Shift to Park" after I put my car in park. This malfunction will not allow the car to be locked. I see there are many complaints and lawsuits that GM has not attended to. How do we get GM to initiate a recall on something they are and were well aware of.

NHTSA ID
11719307
Incident
Feb 19, 2026
EnginePowertrain (other)
Filed Feb 17, 2026

2020 Buick Encore GX; pulling out of a service station, my check engine light illuminated, and message on cluster stated: Engine Power Reduced. I loss throttle response for accelerating. Accelerator pedal was pushed to the floor and no acceleration. Vehicle entered limp mode. Drove 15 miles from service station to my home, in limp mode, unable to accelerate. Called a technician mechanic who check for Diagnostic Trouble Codes; DTC P0299 Turbocharge/Supercharge "A" Under boost condition; is Confirmed, Pending, and Permanent code. Loss of power to Power Train, unable to accelerate.

NHTSA ID
11718640
Incident
Feb 16, 2026
ElectricalPowertrain (other)
Filed Nov 25, 2025

SHIFT INTO PARK WARNING WHEN CAR IS IN PARK

NHTSA ID
11701517
Incident
Nov 3, 2025
Powertrain (other)
Filed Oct 27, 2025

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.

NHTSA ID
11695793
Incident
Sep 15, 2025

Manufacturer communications

A bulletin sent by a manufacturer to its dealers. Not a recall, and repairs are not necessarily free.

PIC6548B

This Preliminary information communicates to the technician the direction needed when encountering an issue with switching between adaptive cruise control and regular cruise control or an issue with automatic high beam feature after the front camera was replaced.

PIT5099J

PI to help diagnose A/C concern

PIP6032C

PIP6032B provides diagnostic direction for dealers when encountering transmission leaks

PIP6029A

This PI instructs dealers to install foam around the shifter cable to stop rattling

PIT3271Q

This preliminary information communicates information about how to determine if a wheel and tires size change is available.

PIC6553B

This bulletin communicates to a dealer the repair direction that should be taken if they encounter a vibration from the engine when the vehicle is parked facing downhill.

Manufacturers file copies of the bulletins they send to dealers with NHTSA. These often describe diagnostic or repair procedures for a known condition. They are not recalls: repairs described in a bulletin are usually only free if the vehicle is still under warranty or the manufacturer has extended coverage.

Compare model years

Complaint and recall counts across every year of this model

Buick Encore GX by model year
YearComplaintsRecallsInvestigationsIssue Index
2027000—
2026200—
2025140044.1
2024281044.9
2023240040.6
2022291043.6
2021502056.7
2020Viewing662054.8

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers. Older model years have had longer for reports to accumulate.