Catastrophic control arm failure. The part is available for inspection. Problem confirmed by certified technician at Brake Master repair shop in Santa Fe NM. No visible damage to control arm prior to catastrophic part failure from apparent metal fatigue. Only 37,000 miles on this 2019 Encore. There were no indications of this problem prior to the part failure. The vehicle began making a loud clunking noise and heavy physical clunk when the brakes were applied. Because of the possible safety concerns I had the vehicle towed to the Brake Master facility. Upon inspection the control arm was seen to be broken in two. I took the problem part to the Octane GMC/Buick dealership in Santa Fe where the vehicle was purchased new and showed the part to one of the mechanics who informed me that he had seen this happen before. As this is a relatively small dealership I thought that it was significant that this mechanic had seen this failure previously. Got me wondering if GM is having this problem not only with the Buick Encore but possibly with its twin in the Chevrolet product line. Repair estimate from Brake Master #227 Santa Fe NM - RO#1757569, $634.91. Service advisor 3717-Caesar Sanchez Description of damage: Front Right control arm broken-ripped apart.

- Cerrillos , NM, USA

The lower control arm is poorly designed. When the vehicle hits a pothole it will cause the lower control are to bend near the ball joint. Basically, the lower control arm metal is not reinforced in that area. The area by the ball joint is just a flat piece and does not have much strength. When it fails it will cause the cv joint to come out of the transmission and break many parts.

- Wichita, KS, USA