NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Buick Encore GX Safety Ratings
The 2021 Buick Encore GX scores 92 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Exceptional), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 48 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2021 Buick Encore GX achieved an overall crash rating from NHTSA that contributed to its NHTSA Safety Index of 92/100, an "Exceptional" band score. This compact SUV's strong performance in federal testing is complemented by a low recall count: only two recalls have been issued for this model year. For buyers prioritizing safety, the Encore GX presents a reassuring profile based on its published data.
The 2021 Buick Encore GX received an overall 5-star crash-test rating from NHTSA and a NHTSA Safety Index of 92/100, sourced entirely from NHTSA federal safety data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 118 SUVs from 2021 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2021 Buick Encore GX ranks 16 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 92 / 100 (Exceptional) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 5 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 17.9% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 48 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 16 of 118 SUVs tested for 2021 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2021 Buick Encore GX?
The 2021 Buick Encore GX represents a meaningful step forward from its immediate predecessor. The NHTSA Safety Index climbed six points, from 86/100 in the Strong band for the 2020 model year to 92/100 in the Exceptional band here, a movement driven largely by the crash protection sub-score of 66 out of a possible 70 points and a perfect 10/10 for crash-avoidance technology. Forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control all come standard on this year, which is what locks in that full avoidance-tech credit. The defect record sub-score of 16/20 reflects the two active recall campaigns, one covering the jack equipment and one covering the braking system in a broad multi-model GM action. With 48 unverified owner complaints on file, the most concentrated allegations cluster around the engine and powertrain. The rollover rating of 4 out of 5 stars is the only NHTSA figure that prevents a sweep of top marks, though the dynamic tip test returned a No Tip result, which provides meaningful context for that score.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2021 Buick Encore GX perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Buick Encore GX AWD achieved a 5 out of 5 star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Its performance in frontal and side crash tests was exemplary, earning 5 stars in both categories. The rollover assessment, however, presents a distinct area for consideration, with a 4 out of 5 star rating and an 18 percent rollover risk, despite a "No Tip" result in the dynamic test.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15337
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2021 Buick Encore GX have any recalls?
Two recall campaigns cover the 2021 Encore GX. The first targets the emergency scissor jack equipment, which may present a mechanical failure risk during roadside use. The second addresses service brakes across a multi-brand GM campaign. Neither carries a do-not-drive or park-outside directive in the available data, but owners should verify remedy completion by VIN.
EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STAND21V440000
Risk: A fractured jack can cause the vehicle to collapse, increasing the risk of injury.
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.
Reported 2021-06-10
SERVICE BRAKES20V588000
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.
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.
Reported 2020-09-24
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2021 Buick Encore GX?
NHTSA has logged 48 unverified owner allegations for this model year. The most frequently alleged problem areas are the Engine (14 reports), Power Train (10), Fuel/Propulsion System (7), and Service Brakes (7). These are consumer-reported allegations only and have not been independently verified.
48 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2021 Buick Encore GX?
Two safety recalls issued by NHTSA are a notable concern. Prospective owners should verify the status of these campaigns via the VIN, as the jack equipment and service brake issues require professional resolution to ensure the vehicle's safe operation.
- The Safety Index rose six points year-over-year, from 86/100 in 2020 to 92/100 in 2021, moving the Encore GX from the Strong band into the Exceptional band for this specific model year.
- NHTSA's rollover rating for the 2021 AWD model is 4 out of 5 stars with an 18 percent rollover risk, the only star score that does not reach the top mark, though the dynamic tip test recorded No Tip.
- Two recall campaigns are on record for this year: one involving the emergency jack equipment and one involving service brakes as part of a multi-brand GM action. VIN-level verification of remedy status is essential for used-market buyers.
- Of the 48 unverified NHTSA complaints filed for this model year, 14 allege engine-related issues and 7 allege service brake concerns, the same brake system covered by one of the active recalls, making that remedy check especially relevant.
RANKINGSWhere the 2021 Buick Encore GX places
The 2021 Buick Encore GX qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2021 Buick Encore GX safety questions
Was the 2021 Buick Encore GX crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2021 Buick Encore GX, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 92 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2021 Buick Encore GX crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2021 Buick Encore GX earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 5 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 17.9%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2021 Buick Encore GX have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Buick Encore GX. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2021 Buick Encore GX?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 48 owner complaints are on file for the 2021 Buick Encore GX. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Encore GX years
Rivals in SUV (2021)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 6-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 7-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Nissan Murano | 96/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Mazda CX-3 | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 15337), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Buick Encore GX 2021.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 16 of 118 in the SUV class for 2021.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.