The Most Common 2020 Buick Encore GX Problems

2020 Buick Encore GX owners should look out for failing brake assists, service brake problems, and electrical malfunctions.
Written by Macy Fouse
Edited by Pat Roache
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Common 2020 Buick Encore GX problems include a failing brake assist, parking brake problems, and electrical system malfunctioning. 
  • Failing brake assists and service brakes are the most common 2020 Buick Encore GX problems
  • General Motors issued recalls for the 2020 Buick Encore GX’s brake sensors and emergency jack
  • Despite these common problems, the Buick Encore receives decent reliability scores from Consumer Reports, J.D. Powers, and RepairPal

The most common 2020 Buick Encore GX problems

The most common and most severe problem that vehicle owners have reported their 2020 Encore GX is with the brake system:  
  • Brake sensor recall: GM issued a recall for the 2020 Encore GX due to a brake sensor connection contamination which disrupts the communication to the electronic brake boost system. This can result in drivers stopping suddenly without warning or
    not being able to stop at all
    despite pressing the brake pedal.
  • Brake failure increases the risk of a crash: Without a reliable braking system, a serious car accident could happen at any moment. Several owners reported car accidents resulting from loss of brake functionality in their 2020 Encore GX.
Owners of the 2020 Encore GX also report experiencing the following issues:
  • Steering: Owners have reported squeaking or locked steering wheels accompanied by a complete loss of the brake assist system. 
  • Electrical system: Multiple owners have claimed a complete loss of electrical systems in their 2020 Encore GX affecting the power steering, air conditioning, and infotainment systems.
  • Minor powertrain problems: A few owners have reported failing engines and transmissions within the first 100 miles of ownership, sometimes accompanied by problems with the fuel system. 
  • Emergency jack recall: GM issued a recall in 2021 because the 2020 Encore’s emergency jack is prone to fracture if not positioned exactly as directed in the owner’s manual. This can cause the vehicle to collapse with serious risk of injury.
Many of these problems are often accompanied by a
check engine light
or other warning lights.
What to do: Contact your nearest Buick dealership if you suspect your 2020 Encore GX suffers from any of the
vehicle recalls
listed above. Buick should cover repairs for recalled components, regardless of whether your new car warranty is active or not. 

2020 Buick Encore GX reliability: 3/5 stars

The 2020 Buick Encore GX is a fairly reliable subcompact crossover with the following reliability scores from Consumer Reports:
  • Overall reliability: 3/5
  • Engine reliability: 5/5
  • Transmission reliability: 5/5
  • Drivetrain reliability: 5/5
Reliability experts like J.D. Powers and RepairPal have not rated the 2020 Encore GX. That said, the standard Buick Encore receives the following reliability scores:
  • RepairPal: 4/5
  • J.D. Powers: 85/100
The annual cost of repairs for a 2020 Buick Encore GX is around $440 on average. This is slightly below average compared to other compact SUVs
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Methodology

Common problems with the 2020 model year of the Buick Encore GX have been assessed based on customer complaints filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) and CarComplaints.com.
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