2018 Buick Encore Sport Touring
VIN: KL4CJ1SB6JB688844 | 2018 | General Motors LLC | BUPYEONG, SOUTH KOREA
2018 Buick Encore Sport Touring — 1.4L 4 Cyl, FWD, Automatic. Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV].
A
86/100
Safety & Recall Score: Excellent
This score reflects NHTSA safety data only — recalls, complaints, and crash ratings. It does not include title status, accident history, or odometer records. Verify hidden history with VIN Pro Plus →
Composite rating based on recalls, complaints, crash ratings, and vehicle age.
⚠ 74 owner complaints
✓ No recall campaigns
✓ VIN fully verified
VIN Decoded
VIN Verified- Official VIN decode record located
- Type: MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
- Body: Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
- Plant: BUPYEONG, SOUTH KOREA
NHTSA Recalls
No Recall Campaigns- No recall campaigns found.
Owner Complaints
74 filed with NHTSA- Not long after I purchased my car, i noticed...
- General Motors issued a Special Policy N202299080 covering 2014...
Fuel Economy
30 MPG Combined- City: 27 MPG
- Hwy: 33 MPG
- Combined: 30 MPG
- Fuel: Gasoline
Technical Specifications
Vehicle Overview
VIN
KL4CJ1SB6JB688844
Model Year
2018
Make
Buick
Model
Encore
Trim
Sport Touring
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]/Multipurpose Vehicle [MPV]
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Doors
4
Seats
5
Seat Rows
2
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Engine
1.4L 4 Cyl
Manufacturer
General Motors LLC
Plant Location
BUPYEONG, SOUTH KOREA
Country of Origin
SOUTH KOREA
VIN Breakdown
Position 1 — WMI Region
K → South Korea
Position 2 — Manufacturer
L → General Motors LLC
Position 3 — Vehicle Type
4 → MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Positions 4–8 — Descriptor
CJ1SB → Encore Sport Touring
Position 9 — Check Digit
6 → ✓ Valid
Position 10 — Model Year
J → 2018
Position 11 — Plant Code
B → BUPYEONG, SOUTH KOREA
Positions 12–17 — Serial
688844 → Production sequence
Engine & Powertrain
Engine Model
LUV: MFI, Variable Valve Timing, ALUM, E85 MAX
Engine Manufacturer
GME
Cylinders
4 Cyl
Displacement
1.4 L
Displacement CC
1400.0
Displacement CI
85.43324173262
Valve Train
Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC)
Fuel Injection
Multipoint Fuel Injection (MPFI)
Turbocharger
Yes
Transmission Style
Automatic
Transmission Speeds
6
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Type Primary
Gasoline
Fuel Economy & Environmental Impact
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Combined MPG
30 MPG
City MPG
27 MPG
Hwy MPG
33 MPG
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,150
5-Yr Fuel Cost
$10,750
GHG Score
7/10
CO₂ Emissions
298 g/mi
Barrels/Year
9.92
Safety & Driver Assistance
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Included
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Forward Collision Warn
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Departure Warning
Not reported in manufacturer data
Lane Keep System
Not reported in manufacturer data
Blind Spot Monitoring
Available
Blind Spot Intervention
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Not reported in manufacturer data
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not reported in manufacturer data
Parking Assist
Not reported in manufacturer data
Dynamic Brake Support
Included
Pedestrian AEB
Not reported in manufacturer data
Rear Auto Braking
Not reported in manufacturer data
Auto Reverse System
Included
Daytime Running Lights
Included
Adaptive Driving Beam
Not reported in manufacturer data
Keyless Ignition
Included
Auto High Beams
Included
Front Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Side Airbags
1st and 2nd Rows
Curtain Airbags
All Rows
Knee Airbags
1st Row (Driver and Passenger)
Seat Belt Type
Manual
Pretensioner
Not reported in manufacturer data
Brake System
Hydraulic
Steering Location
Left-Hand Drive (LHD)
Vehicle Dimensions & Weight
Curb Weight
3,237 lbs
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Doors
4
Towing & Utility
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Axles
2
Drive Type
FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
Wheels & Tires
TPMS
Standard (Federal Req.)
Manufacturing & Identity
Manufacturer
General Motors LLC
Manufacturer ID
984
Make ID
468
Model ID
1842
Plant Company
GM Korea
Plant City
BUPYEONG
Plant Country
SOUTH KOREA
Vehicle Descriptor
KL4CJ1SB*JB
GVWR
Class 1C: 4,001 - 5,000 lb (1,814 - 2,268 kg)
Recall & Safety Summary
Total Recalls
0
Recall Status
No recall campaigns
Recall Campaigns
No recall campaigns identified
ABS
Included
ESC
Included
Traction Control
Included
✅ Pre-Purchase Checklist
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Negotiate Using This ReportNo recall campaigns on file for this model year.
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Review Title & Lien StatusEnsure no outstanding liens before transfer. Your state DMV can verify title.
Estimated Market Value
Based on vehicle age, class, trim & U.S. market conditions
Market estimate
$15,100–$21,800
Based on vehicle class, age, trim, and U.S. market trends. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
💡 This is a general estimate, not real data for this specific vehicle. Get the real, transaction-based Verified Market Value with VIN Pro Plus — $4.99 →
📚 Helpful Vehicle Resources
Safety Ratings
Overall Rating
5 Stars
Front Crash Rating
5 Stars
Side Crash Rating
5 Stars
Rollover Risk
4 Stars
Safety Recalls
No recall campaigns found
NHTSA returned no recall campaigns for this model/year.
Service bulletins and open investigations aren't part of this report. You can search them for free on NHTSA's site.
Finance & Cost Estimates
🔧 Service & Parts for this 2018 Buick Encore
$1,200/yr
Estimated Annual Insurance (national avg — varies by driver, location & coverage)
5-Year Cost of Ownership (estimate)
Insurance (5yr)
$6,000
Maintenance (5yr)
$7,500
5-Yr Fuel Cost (EPA)
$10,750
Depreciation (5yr est.)
$9,810
⛽ Fuel Cost Calculator
🏢 Find Buick Dealers
Get this VIN's recalls resolved, service appointments, and CPO program details from an authorized Buick dealer.
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Run Free NICB Check for KL4CJ1SB6JB688844 →State Emissions & Lemon Law
Emissions Testing & Lemon Law by State
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OBD-II Check Engine Code Lookup
🔧 Check Engine Light Code Lookup
Enter a code from your OBD-II scanner, pick from the dropdown, or tap a common code chip below.
Common:
Owner Complaints
Not long after I purchased my car, i noticed...
Not long after I purchased my car, i noticed it was lacking power during takeoff and when driving uphill which forced my car to hit very high RPMs...
General Motors issued a Special Policy N202299080 covering 2014...
General Motors issued a Special Policy N202299080 covering 2014 Buick Encores. My 2018 Encore had the same issues and symptoms as this Policy. My concern is because of...
Strong odor of gasoline, followed by a crack in...
Strong odor of gasoline, followed by a crack in the high pressure fuel line. Gasoline poured out under pressure from fuel line approximately 1 foot ahead of the...
Request for Goodwill Assistance – Turbocharger Failure (Special Coverage...
Request for Goodwill Assistance – Turbocharger Failure (Special Coverage XXX) Dear General Motors Customer Assistance, I am writing to request a one-time goodwill repair for my 2018 Buick...
I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding a...
I am filing a formal safety complaint regarding a repeated dangerous defect in my 2018 Buick Encore. The vehicle intermittently locks up while driving without warning. When this...
The contact owned a 2018 Buick Encore. While driving...
The contact owned a 2018 Buick Encore. While driving at an undisclosed speed, the "Service AWD" warning light illuminated on the instrument panel. The warning light remained illuminated...
The front passenger air bag sensor turns off either...
The front passenger air bag sensor turns off either before we begin driving or while the vehicle is in motion. The manual says that if you have a...
Was driving and lost complete power but came right...
Was driving and lost complete power but came right back on itself. Car also makes a loud noise periodically when reversing and pressing the brake. Was told this...
Showing 8 of 74 complaints. View all on NHTSA →
Maintenance Schedule
Current
Oil & Filter Change
Every 7,500 mi
Buick recommended interval
Due Now
Air Filter (Engine)
Every 15,000–30,000 mi
Dirty filter reduces fuel economy by up to 10%
Due Now
Cabin Air Filter
Every 15,000–25,000 mi
Affects AC, heat, and air quality
Due Soon
Tire Rotation
Every 5,000–7,500 mi
Extends tire life by 25–40%
Due Soon
Brake Inspection
Every 12 months or 15,000 mi
Brake pads typically last 30,000–70,000 mi depending on driving
Due Now
Spark Plugs
Every 30,000–100,000 mi
Copper plugs every 30k; iridium/platinum every 60–100k
Due Now
Coolant Flush
Every 30,000 mi or 5 years
Old coolant becomes acidic and damages the cooling system
Due Now
Transmission Fluid
Every 30,000–60,000 mi
Neglected fluid leads to expensive transmission repairs
Due Now
Brake Fluid Flush
Every 2 years
Brake fluid absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point
Due Now
Battery Test
Every 3–5 years
12V batteries typically last 3–5 years
Due Now
Drive Belt Inspection
Every 60,000–100,000 mi
Serpentine belt failure leaves you stranded
This schedule is a general reference based on make, model year, and powertrain. Always follow your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Additional Tools & Information
Estimated depreciation for this 2018 BUICK Encore based on vehicle class and age. These are projections from today’s general estimate, not past sale prices. Verify with KBB or Edmunds for mileage-adjusted value.
Now
$18,500
+1 yr
$16,300
-12%
+2 yr
$14,400
-22%
+3 yr
$12,600
-32%
Estimates based on vehicle class averages. Actual values vary by mileage, condition, and location.
Estimated annual cost to own this vehicle at average U.S. driving conditions.
Insurance
$1,200/yr
17%
Maintenance
$1,500/yr
21%
Fuel/Energy
$2,150/yr
30%
Depreciation
$1,962/yr
28%
Registration
$250/yr
4%
Estimated Total Annual Cost
$7,062/yr
National averages. Registration varies by state. Does not include parking, tolls, or loan interest.
7.8
/ 10
Rank #7 overall
30 issues / 100 vehicles
Buick Reliability
Buick has improved significantly in recent J.D. Power surveys, leading some domestic brands.
General editorial reference for this manufacturer, not a live or VIN-specific measurement — see the sources below for detailed, current data.
Use this checklist to track which recalls have been resolved. All recall repairs are free at authorized dealerships.
✓ No NHTSA recall campaigns were returned for this model/year.
Vehicles in a similar class to the 2018 BUICK Encore:
This vehicle is older, so current-market prices for these alternatives wouldn't be a fair comparison — research period-correct pricing for each instead.
Private Party
$13,300–$20,100
No warranty · Lower price · Inspect first
Dealer (Used)
$15,900–$24,000
Some warranty · Financing available
CPO / Certified
$16,300–$25,100
Manufacturer-backed limited warranty · Inspected · Best protection
Negotiation tip:
No recall campaigns on file for this model year. Focus negotiation on mileage, condition, and comparable listings on AutoTrader or CarGurus.
Automated checks against common VIN fraud indicators. Always verify with a paid history report and independent inspection.
✓
Check digit (position 9) validates
✓
VIN is exactly 17 characters
✓
No invalid characters (I, O, Q not present)
✓
Year position (pos 10) matches decoded model year
✓
Manufacturer decodes to a known brand
✓
Not a repeated-character test/placeholder VIN
Manual checks to do in person: Compare the VIN on the dashboard (visible through windshield), driver door jamb sticker, engine block, and title — all must match exactly. A cloned or re-VINed vehicle will show inconsistencies.
⚠ Always check the tire placard on the driver door jamb for the exact manufacturer-specified PSI for your vehicle.
Front Tires
33 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Rear Tires
33 PSI (typical)
See door jamb
Spare Tire
60 PSI (typical)
Check monthly
Rotation Pattern Guide
FWD: Front to rear straight, rear cross to front
RWD: Rear to front straight, front cross to rear
AWD/4WD: Full X-pattern every 5,000–7,500 mi
Staggered: Side-to-side only if non-directional tires
Recommended rotation interval: every 5,000–7,500 miles. Rotate with every other oil change for best results.
❄ Winter Prep
✓ Check antifreeze concentration (minimum -34°F protection)
✓ Test battery — cold temps reduce capacity 30–60%
✓ Verify tire tread depth (4/32" minimum for snow traction)
✓ Consider winter tires if driving in snow or ice regions
✓ Replace wiper blades and refill washer fluid (-20°F rated)
✓ Test heater, front/rear defroster, and heated seats if equipped
✓ Inspect fuel lines and check for water in fuel system
☀ Summer Prep
✓ Check coolant level and test radiator cap pressure seal
✓ Inspect serpentine belt for cracking or glazing
✓ Test A/C system output and replace cabin air filter if needed
✓ Check tire pressure — heat increases PSI (recheck cold in a.m.)
✓ Inspect brake pads and rotors before summer road trips
✓ Check transmission fluid color and level
✓ Top off all fluids: brake, power steering, coolant, washer
Original Buick Factory Warranty
Basic / Bumper-to-Bumper
4yr/50k
Has likely ended
Powertrain
5yr/60k
Has likely ended
Corrosion / Rust
6yr/100k
Has likely ended
Estimated from the model year only. Factory coverage runs from the vehicle's original sale date, which this report can't confirm, and mileage limits can end coverage sooner. Verify remaining coverage with a Buick dealer using the VIN.
Third-Party Extended Warranty Options
CARCHEX
Get Quote →
A+ BBB-rated. 6 plan tiers, up to 500k miles.
Endurance
Get Quote →
Direct-pay at any ASE-certified mechanic.
AUTOPOM!
Get Quote →
Month-to-month plans, high-mileage coverage.
Estimate total fuel cost and stops for any road trip in this 2018 BUICK Encore.
Steps to get the best price when selling this 2018 BUICK Encore:
📄 Service records
Buyers pay more for documented maintenance history. Even basic oil change receipts add value.
🔍 Resolve all recalls
Unresolved recalls suppress resale value and are easy objections for buyers. Fix them free at any dealership.
🚗 Professional detail
A full detail ($150–$300) typically returns $500–$1,500 in perceived value, especially on dark-colored vehicles.
📷 Photograph in good light
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🗂 Vehicle history report link
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🔍 Price using real comps
Search AutoTrader and CarGurus for same year/make/model/trim within 100 miles. Price within 5% of the median.
No model-specific issue notes in our database for this year. The 74 NHTSA complaints filed provide the best available signal — review them in the Owner Complaints section above.
NHTSA offers free recall alerts by VIN. Sign up to be notified the moment a new recall is issued for this vehicle.
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VIN KL4CJ1SB6JB688844:
No recall campaigns currently on file. Sign up to be alerted if a new recall is issued.
Get competing insurance quotes for this exact vehicle. Rates vary by 30–60% between carriers for the same driver profile — comparing saves real money.
Estimated national average for this vehicle: $1,200/year. Your actual rate depends on your driving record, location, age, and coverage level.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VIN KL4CJ1SB6JB688844 decode to?
VIN KL4CJ1SB6JB688844 decodes to a 2018 BUICK Encore Sport Touring, assembled in BUPYEONG, SOUTH KOREA.
How many recalls does this 2018 BUICK Encore have?
No recall campaigns are currently associated with the 2018 BUICK Encore at the time of this report. Always verify at NHTSA.gov before purchasing.
What is the estimated value of this 2018 BUICK Encore?
Based on vehicle age, body type, trim level, and U.S. market data, this 2018 BUICK Encore Sport Touring is estimated at $15,100–$21,800. Verify with Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for a precise appraisal based on mileage and condition.
Is this VIN check really free?
Yes — the core VIN check on VinForFree is free with no signup required. All data is sourced from public records including NHTSA, the EPA, and official government databases.
What fuel economy does a 2018 BUICK Encore get?
According to EPA data, the 2018 BUICK Encore gets approximately 30 MPG combined (27 city / 33 highway). Estimated annual fuel cost is $2,150.
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