Buick Encore vs Ford Explorer
For 2013–2022 models, the Buick Encore has 10.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold, against 55.9 for the Ford Explorer. Below: what each one’s owners report most, when it shows up, and what it costs to fix.
Both rates cover the same model years (2013–2022), counting each complaint once and dividing by US sales, so the more popular vehicle isn’t penalized for being popular. Years too new to judge are left out. How this is calculated.
Buick Encore
10.2 complaints per 10,000 sold
82% fewer than the Ford Explorer
- Complaints
- 598
- Sold
- 588,707
- Recall campaigns
- 13
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 1
Most complaints: 2013 and 2015. Fewest: 2020–2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Turbocharger and intercooler
Typically around 75,450 mi · repair $1,520–$2,820
-
Airbags, seatbelts and restraints
Typically around 29,500 mi
-
Body control and other modules
Typically around 24,000 mi
-
Stalling and no-start
Typically around 50,000 mi
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 27,000 mi
Ford Explorer
55.9 complaints per 10,000 sold
5.5× the Buick Encore’s rate
- Complaints
- 12,713
- Sold
- 2,273,761
- Recall campaigns
- 70
- Open NHTSA investigations
- 3
Most complaints: 2013–2014 and 2016. Fewest: 2022. Every year →
Most-reported problems
-
Doors, windows, latches, seats and trim
Typically around 82,000 mi
-
Electric power steering motor and module
Typically around 78,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Power steering pump, rack and lines
Typically around 77,000 mi · repair $750–$2,230
-
Harsh, delayed or erratic shifting
Typically around 88,300 mi
-
Water leaks and seals
Typically around 60,000 mi
Common questions
Which has fewer problems, the Buick Encore or the Ford Explorer?
For 2013–2022 models, the Buick Encore has 10.2 owner complaints per 10,000 sold and the Ford Explorer has 55.9, counting the same model years for both.
What is the most common problem on the Buick Encore?
The most-reported problem on the Buick Encore is turbocharger and intercooler, typically around 75,450 miles; the repair typically runs $1,520–$2,820.
What is the most common problem on the Ford Explorer?
The most-reported problem on the Ford Explorer is doors, windows, latches, seats and trim, typically around 82,000 miles.
Which Buick Encore and Ford Explorer years have the most complaints?
Relative to each vehicle's typical year: Buick Encore: 2013 and 2015; Ford Explorer: 2013–2014 and 2016.
Source: NHTSA owner complaints, recalls and investigations; US sales from public industry figures; repair costs from book labor hours and parts pricing at national rates. Complaints are self-reported and not independently verified. Problem lists cover each vehicle’s full history. This is not a recommendation to buy or avoid either vehicle.