The oil filter on a 2016 Buick Encore is located on the front lower section of the engine and is accessible from underneath the vehicle after removing the front underbody shield. The exact appearance depends on the engine family in your car.
Buick Encore models around 2016 use a small Ecotec engine family (commonly the 1.4L turbo). Depending on the exact production date and VIN, the oil filtration setup may be a traditional spin-on filter or a cartridge-style filter inside a housing. In either case, you’ll typically need to raise the vehicle and remove protective splash shields to reach the filter safely. For the precise configuration on your car, consult the owner’s manual or the service information for your VIN.
Common oil filter configurations you might encounter
The following outlines the two most common filter setups you may find on a 2016 Encore, so you can identify what you should replace during maintenance:
- Spin-on oil filter: A metal canister filter that screws onto a threaded port on the engine block. It is usually visible from the front of the engine or accessible from underneath, behind the underbody shield.
- Cartridge filter in a housing: A plastic oil filter housing with a removable cap. Inside is a replaceable filter element. Access is via the front of the engine or from the side/top after removing the protective shield or cover.
Regardless of configuration, you’ll need to raise the vehicle and work safely. If you’re unsure which setup your Encore uses, check the service manual for your exact VIN.
How to locate the exact filter on your specific vehicle
- Park on level ground, engine off and cool, and engage the parking brake. Gather basic tools and a drain pan and gloves.
- Raise the front of the car and remove the front undercar shield or splash guard to expose the engine belly area.
- Look for the oil filter visually: a cylindrical metal canister (spin-on) or a small plastic/metal housing with a cap. The spin-on filter is typically located near the front lower part of the engine, while a cartridge in a housing sits in a nearby housing with a removable cap.
- If you see a spin-on canister, position a filter wrench, loosen, and remove it to access the filter element. If you see a housing with a cap, unscrew the cap to replace the cartridge inside.
- Install a new filter element or cartridge, reinstall the cap (and seal/gasket), and torque per service specifications. Reinstall the oil drain plug if you drained oil.
- Refill with the correct engine oil, start the engine, and check for leaks around the filter area.
Note: If you’re unable to locate the filter or feel uncertain about the process, consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or a GM service guide for your exact VIN, or have a professional perform the change. Incorrect installation can lead to leaks or engine damage.
Summary
The 2016 Buick Encore’s oil filter is generally found on the front lower side of the engine and is accessible from underneath with the underbody shield removed. Depending on the engine configuration, you may encounter a traditional spin-on filter or a cartridge-style filter inside a housing. Identify the exact setup by inspecting the front of the engine once the undertray is removed, then follow the appropriate replacement steps and safety precautions to complete an oil change.