NHTSA Complaint #11563558 — 2017 BUICK ENCORE
ENGINE issue reported to NHTSA
Complaint Details
| ODI Number | 11563558 |
| Vehicle | 2017 BUICK ENCORE |
| Component | ENGINE |
| Date of Incident | |
| Date Filed | |
| Mileage | N/A miles |
| Crash | No |
| Fire | No |
| Injuries | 0 |
| Deaths | 0 |
| Vehicle Towed | No |
| State | TX |
Consumer Description
There is a known defect with the GM Ecotec engines, specifically the lack of retaining clip for the internal PCV valve, allowing it to become dislodged and drawn into the engine. Without the PCV valve, tremendous engine pressure is produced, leading to broken gaskets causing vacuum leaks, misfiring, severe vibration, and loss of power when accelerating (which can be a safety issue). Dorman produced a video outlining the issue and has re-engineered the part to prevent the issue from occurring: "Why GM 1.4L Ecotec engine intake manifold and valve covers repairs are often related" [XXX] This appears to be a fairly wide-spread issue with the GM Ecotec engines, and GM should perform a recall to replace these parts, and reimburse those who had to replace themselves. This also causes error codes requiring spark plugs to be replaced (they get fouled by oil) and the MAF Sensor. In troubleshooting, I also had to replace the distributor power bar and air intake hose. I have recipts for all parts, but file upload is not working on this site. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
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