Market Segment:
Subcompact Crossover SUV / Luxury Small SUV
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Trax (shares platform), Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, Nissan Kicks, Ford EcoSport, Jeep Renegade
Target Demographic:
Urban dwellers, small families, individuals seeking a versatile and premium-feeling compact vehicle.
Value Proposition:
Offers a more upscale interior and refined driving experience compared to many mainstream competitors in its class.
Manual Value:
Provides in-depth, vehicle-specific technical information essential for accurate diagnosis and repair, mirroring dealership-level expertise.
Engine Systems:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control Systems (ECM/PCM), Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Turbocharger System (where applicable)
Transmission Systems:
Automatic Transmission (6-speed 6T40/6T45), Clutch System (if applicable), Drivetrain Components (axles, CV joints)
Braking Systems:
Hydraulic Brake System, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Traction Control System (TCS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Parking Brake
Suspension Steering:
Front Suspension (MacPherson Strut), Rear Suspension (Torsion Beam Axle), Power Steering System (Electric Power Steering - EPS), Wheel Alignment
Electrical Electronic Systems:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting Systems (Headlamps, Taillamps, Interior), Instrument Panel, Body Control Module (BCM), Infotainment System, Power Windows, Power Locks, Wiper/Washer System, HVAC Controls, SRS (Supplemental Restraint System - Airbags)
Body Chassis:
Body Exterior (Panels, Bumpers, Doors), Body Interior (Trim, Seats), Glass and Mirrors, Frame and Structure, Corrosion Protection
HVAC Systems:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) System Components, Refrigerant Handling, Climate Control
Fuel Emissions:
Fuel Delivery, Evaporative Emission Control (EVAP), Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Fluid Checks and Replenishment, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting Flowcharts, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) Interpretation, Component Testing, Electrical Circuit Diagnosis
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step guides for component removal and installation, Overhaul procedures for major components (engine, transmission), Body panel repair and replacement, Electrical component repair
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Component Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics, Wiring Diagrams, Diagnostic Data
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, complex repairs, and full system overhauls. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Code And Description:
1.4L LUV Turbocharged I4 (Ecotec)
Horsepower:
138 hp @ 4900 rpm
Torque:
148 lb-ft @ 1850 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Engine Control Module:
ECM (Engine Control Module) - Specific GM part numbers detailed in manual
Coolant Type:
Dex-Cool® (GM P/N 12346324 or equivalent silicate-free, orange)
Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (GM P/N 10-9019 or equivalent)
Oil Capacity:
4.7 quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Turbocharger Details:
Integrated turbocharger system, intercooled
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Automatic (6T40/6T45)
Optional Transmission Type:
N/A (Manual transmission not offered)
Drivetrain:
Available in Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) and All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron-VI (GM P/N 88864351 or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 7.5 quarts (7.1 liters) for refill
Length:
168.4 inches (4277 mm)
Width:
69.9 inches (1775 mm)
Height:
65.1 inches (1654 mm)
Wheelbase:
100.6 inches (2555 mm)
Passenger Volume:
Approx. 94.5 cu ft (2676 L)
Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:
Approx. 19.2 cu ft (545 L)
Cargo Volume With Rear Seat Folded:
Approx. 48.4 cu ft (1371 L)
Curb Weight FWD:
Approx. 3100 - 3300 lbs (1406 - 1497 kg)
Curb Weight AWD:
Approx. 3300 - 3500 lbs (1497 - 1588 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvw:
Approx. 4400 - 4600 lbs (1996 - 2087 kg)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star Overall Safety Rating (for models tested)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Top Safety Pick status achieved by some model years
Active Safety Features:
ABS, Traction Control, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Available Forward Collision Alert, Available Lane Departure Warning
Passive Safety Features:
Ten Airbags (Front, Side, Curtain, Knee), High-Strength Steel Frame
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) System
Infotainment System:
Buick IntelliLink infotainment system with touchscreen display (e.g., 7-inch)
Smartphone Integration:
Available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (on later models within the range, check specific year).
Audio Options:
Available Bose premium audio system
Driver Assistance Features:
Rear Vision Camera, Available Rear Park Assist, Available Side Blind Zone Alert, Available Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Available Forward Collision Alert, Available Lane Departure Warning.
Connectivity Options:
Bluetooth connectivity, Available OnStar system with 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot (depending on trim and subscription).
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months, whichever comes first (using synthetic oil).
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or as needed based on wear.
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as needed.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 96,000 miles (154,000 km) (Iridium-tipped spark plugs).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (GM P/N 19299569 or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Dexron-VI Automatic Transmission Fluid (for Electric Power Steering system)
Common Issue 1:
Turbocharger oil consumption/leaks (potential early wear).
Common Issue 2:
Engine oil leaks from valve cover or oil pan gaskets.
Common Issue 3:
Transmission shifting issues or shuddering (related to 6T40/6T45 transmission).
Common Issue 4:
Water pump leaks (engine).
Common Issue 5:
Minor electrical glitches or sensor issues.
Buick Legacy:
Buick, a long-standing American automotive brand, is known for its focus on comfort, quietness, and premium features, often positioned as an entry-level luxury marque.
First Generation Launch:
The Buick Encore was introduced for the 2013 model year as a 2013 model, marking Buick's entry into the burgeoning small crossover segment.
Platform Sharing:
Based on the GM Gamma II platform, sharing its underpinnings with the Chevrolet Trax.
Production Location:
South Korea (Bupyeong-gu, Incheon)
Market Reception:
Initially met with mixed reviews regarding its small size and engine power, but found a niche with buyers appreciating its premium features and comfortable ride.
