What weaknesses does the Buick Encore Gamma-II have?

	Weakness	Cost
!	6T40 Transmission Harsh Shifting The 6T40 automatic exhibits harsh downshifts, shuddering, and gear slippage. Individual solenoids cannot be replaced — entire control module replacement required. Symptoms: Hard shifts, shuddering on acceleration, engine stalls during R-D shift from 100,000 km Ad 6T40 TEHCM control module 6T40 transmission Encore	High

NHTSA Owner Complaints

Below average

569 complaints · 2013–2022

Engine

208 ⚠ 5

Electrical

86 ⚠ 2

Powertrain

71 ⚠ 5

Other

68 ⚠ 6

Airbags

68 ⚠ 34

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Engine (208 complaints)

⚠ Electrical (86 complaints)

⚠ Powertrain (71 complaints)

Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 14 weaknesses have been documented for the Buick Encore Gamma-II (2013–2022) — 9 engine-related and 5 vehicle-related. One problem engine: LUV (1.4L Turbo I4). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Other, HVAC, Electronics. Considered reliable: LE2 (1.4L Turbo DI I4).

Encore (LUV, 2013–2020) — Stay Away!: Turbo oil feed line cokes up (LUV), Cracked pistons (LUV 2016–2017), Intake manifold PCV check valve failure (LUV). Power: 138 PS.

What to watch out for with the Buick Encore? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Buick Encore Gamma-II have? +

The Buick Encore Gamma-II has 9 known engine weaknesses and 5 vehicle weaknesses.

What should I look for when buying a used Buick Encore Gamma-II? +

faq.watch_a_avoid faq.watch_a_rec

Which engine is recommended? +

Good choice: LE2 (1.4L Turbo DI I4). The most reliable engine is the LE2 (1.4L Turbo DI I4) with the lowest risk score. The most fun to drive is the LE2 (1.4L Turbo DI I4). Problem engine: LUV (1.4L Turbo I4) — stay away!

Which Buick Encore Gamma-II engine is the most reliable? +

The {code} ({displacement}) is the most reliable engine in the Buick Encore Gamma-II. It has the lowest risk score of all available engines and is rated "Good Choice". However, there are 3 known weaknesses to be aware of.

Which Buick Encore Gamma-II engine is the most fun? +

The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Buick Encore Gamma-II — rated: "Decent". {description} The LE2 is noticeably better than the LUV. Fewer PCV issues, more power. A reasonable choice for the final model years.

Is the Buick Encore Gamma-II worth buying used? +

The Buick Encore Gamma-II requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.

What horsepower variants are available for the Buick Encore Gamma-II? +

The Buick Encore Gamma-II is available with engine variants from 140 to 158 hp. Petrol: LUV (1.4L Turbo I4), LE2 (1.4L Turbo DI I4).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee