The most commonly reported problem with the 2016 Buick Encore is transmission trouble, especially with the six-speed automatic, including rough shifting, hesitation, and occasional slipping.
Reliability data from owner reports, recalls, and service bulletins point to the transmission as the primary concern for this model year. This article reviews what buyers and owners typically encounter, how widespread the issue appears to be, and what steps can be taken to monitor or mitigate it.
The core issue: Transmission problems
Across reliability trackers and owner feedback, the six-speed automatic transmission is the feature most often cited as problematic in the 2016 Encore. Below are the common issues tied to this area and what to watch for.
- Rough or abrupt shifting between gears at low to moderate speeds
- Delayed engagement or hesitation when moving from a stop
- Transmission slipping or failing to hold gear, particularly at highway speeds
- Harsh downshifts or a noticeable shudder during acceleration
These symptoms are frequently reported in consumer reviews and service histories and have driven warranty and recall activity in some cases.
Common symptoms to watch
Beyond the specific fault codes, there are a handful of telltale signs that may indicate transmission trouble in the Encore:
- Illumination of the check engine or transmission fault indicators
- Unusual noises from the transmission area, such as clunking or whining
- Loss of power or the car entering a limp‑home mode
- Persistent or escalating shudder during shifts
If any of these symptoms appear, a diagnostic check with a GM service advisor is advisable to determine if software updates, fluid changes, or more extensive repairs are needed.
Other notable issues reported
While the transmission is the dominant concern, other problems have been reported with the 2016 Encore. These are generally less common but can affect ownership experience:
- Electrical and infotainment glitches, including display screen quirks and battery drain
- Air conditioning and climate-control irregularities
- Occasional brake noise or rotor wear concerns
- Water leaks or cabin condensation reported by a minority of owners
These issues often appear intermittently and may be influenced by maintenance, climate, or individual vehicle history. They are not necessarily symptomatic of a systemic defect in all cars from this year.
What to do if you’re evaluating or owning a 2016 Encore
If you’re considering buying a 2016 Encore or you already own one, here are practical steps to address the most common risk and stay ahead of potential problems.
- Check for open recalls related to the powertrain, transmission, and software updates, and ensure any required repairs have been completed.
- Review maintenance history for transmission-related service, including any GM service bulletins or software updates (ECU/TCU) that may have been applied.
- Test-drive with focus on transmission behavior: note any rough shifts, hesitations, delays, or downshift shudders, and document them for a service visit.
- If symptoms are present, schedule a diagnostic with a qualified mechanic or GM dealer who can read fault codes and assess the transmission control module.
- Consider a pre-purchase inspection (PPI) by an independent technician familiar with GM transmissions to gauge current condition and potential future repairs.
Proactive checks and timely maintenance can help reduce the impact of transmission-related issues on ownership experience.
Summary
For the 2016 Buick Encore, transmission problems are the most commonly reported issue, particularly with the six-speed automatic, manifesting as rough shifting, hesitation, and occasional slipping. Other problems exist but are less prevalent. Prospective buyers should verify recall status and service history, while current owners should monitor for transmission symptoms and seek prompt diagnostics if concerns arise. With attentive maintenance and informed purchasing decisions, the Encore can still deliver a reliable compact-SUV experience.