MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2020 Buick Encore

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2020 Buick Encore

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

2Recalls
19Complaints
0Investigations
ABOUT THE BUICK ENCORE

The Buick Encore is a subcompact luxury SUV that has carved out a loyal following among urban drivers and empty-nesters who want a premium feel without the bulk of a full-size crossover. Slotting into one of the most competitive segments in the American market, the Encore pitches itself on refinement and ease of use, making it a natural fit for buyers who prioritize a composed, upscale daily driver.

VERDICT

The 2020 Buick Encore earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 89 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 2 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally regard the Buick Encore as a refined, easy-to-live-with subcompact SUV that earns points for its upscale cabin feel and smooth ride. Most acknowledge the segment has grown increasingly competitive, and some note the Encore's powertrain options feel modest relative to newer rivals, though its overall package is consistently described as well-suited to comfort-focused buyers.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 17.9%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 14365

Index breakdown

Crash protection66/70
Avoidance tech6/10
Defect record17.25/20
Forward collision warning: OptionalLane departure warning: OptionalStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION20V668000

Risk: Missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could result in a transmission oil leak and may progress to a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of a crash. A transmission fluid leak in the presence of an ignition source may increase the risk of fire.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the start-stop transmission accumulator and replace it if any bolts are missing, free of charge. The recall began December 15, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick Customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this reca

Reported 2020-10-29

SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS20V537000

Risk: If an occupied front seat is missing the rear attachment bolts, it may move during a crash, increasing risk of injury to the occupant.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect seat attachments for both front seats and install attachment bolts as needed, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is A202304380.

Reported 2020-09-03

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

19 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

1reported crash
0reported fire
1reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 7Fuel/Propulsion System 4Power Train 4Electrical System 4Service Brakes 3Vehicle Speed Control 3

Other Encore years

Rivals in SUV (2020)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 14365), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Buick Encore 2020. Class rank 23 of 107 in SUV 2020. Methodology · Disclosure