Buick Enclave problems
The Buick Enclave is a three-row full-size crossover SUV produced by General Motors since 2007. It was previewed at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, officially as a concept car, making it the first Lambda vehicle to be displayed. The Enclave is partially based on the Buick Centieme concept shown at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show.
The first-generation Enclave, the Saturn Outlook, the original GMC Acadia, and the first-generation Chevrolet Traverse all shared the GM Lambda platform.
The Enclave replaced both of Buick's SUVs, the minivan-based Rendezvous and the truck-based Rainier, as well as the Terraza minivan. The second-generation Enclave was officially revealed at the 2017 New York International Auto Show.
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Buick Enclave model years
Common Buick Enclave problems
The Buick Enclave, a midsize SUV known for its third-row seating, has faced several common issues throughout its model years. These problems have affected the vehicle's transmission, timing chain, power steering, and electrical system, among others.
Transmission issues are particularly prevalent in the Buick Enclave, with the 2008 model being the most problematic.
The timing chain, which regulates the turning of the camshaft and crankshaft, is another area where the Enclave has faced problems. Normally, timing chains are expected to last about 150,000 miles, but several Enclave owners have reported that their timing belts stretched as early as 40,000 miles.
Power steering problems have also affected the Buick Enclave, especially the 2010 model. Many owners of this model have reported that their SUV's power steering occasionally fails, making it difficult to steer the wheel at high speeds.
Electrical system issues are another common problem in the Buick Enclave. The 2008 model, in particular, has received the most complaints and is known for having the highest number of issues compared to other model years.
In summary, the Buick Enclave has faced various common issues throughout its model years, particularly with the transmission, timing chain, power steering, and electrical system. The 2008 model year, in particular, has received the most complaints and is considered the most problematic.
What's the worst year for the Buick Enclave?
Avoid: 2008
By far the worst model year for the Buick Enclave was in 2008. According to CarComplaints.com, the 2008 Buick Enclave received well over 1,000 NHTSA complaints. These complaints made to the National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration focused on multiple issues.
Is Buick Enclave a reliable car?
The 2024 Buick Enclave has a predicted reliability score of 85 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Does the Buick Enclave have any issues?
The Buick Enclave has received low to average reliability scores, with a reliability rating of 3.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal. Some of the top Buick Enclave problems include issues with the transmission, engine trouble, and power steering problems.
What year is the Buick Enclave the best?
Which Are the Best Years of Buick Enclave? The model years 2018, 2020 – 21, and 2022 – 23 are all considered the best years of Buick Enclave. The 2018 is a budget-friendly option, whereas the 2020 or 2023 models can offer better features.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Buick Enclave years
We have researched Buick problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Buick Enclave cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Buick Enclave model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Buick Enclave model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Buick Enclave years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Buick Enclave car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Buick Enclave , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Buick Enclave vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Enclave model years
A total of 79 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Enclave model years
There were a total of 25 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Enclave model years
There were a total of 145 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2260 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Buick Enclave . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Buick Enclave vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Buick Enclave 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
- VIN: 5GAKRCKD6HJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Buick Enclave. The contact received a notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (AIr Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted several times. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts not available.
Buick Enclave 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-24
- VIN: 5GAERCKW2MJ
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: Catalytic converter was defective in October 2022. Had to wait to get part in. Vehicle taken to dealer for repair in December 2022/ Told that the second catalytic converter needed to be repaired. I stated that I was not aware that cars had two catalytic converters. Parts were ordered and replaced. Engine light came back on-again October 15, 2024. Portable CO detector in car was beeping when engine around time engine light came on. Not covered by warranty or insurance. A new car with 55, 000 miles to date should not have these issues.
Buick Enclave 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: 5GAKRBKD3EJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Buick Enclave. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The air bag warning light was illuminated. The dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 174,000. Parts distribution disconnect.
Buick Enclave 2015
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-10
- VIN: 5GAKRBKD9FJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2015 Buick Enclave. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Buick Enclave 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-09
- VIN: 5GAKRBKDXHJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Buick Enclave. The contact was notified of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The local dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact was informed that she would receive a call once parts were available. The contact received a letter stating that parts were now available; however, several dealers informed the contact that parts were still unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Buick Enclave 2016
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-04
- VIN: 5GAKVBKDXGJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: See attached document for complaint.
Buick Enclave 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 5GAKRCKD3EJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Buick Enclave. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the dealer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were available. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Buick Enclave 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-03
- VIN: 5GAKRBKD1EJ
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,WHEELS
- Summary: For the past month, I had been unable to start the vehicle unless I would turn the key without fully starting the vehicle and having to shift to each gear until I would be able to start it. It would start in any gear, but mostly in neutral. Now, on September 25, 2024, I stopped at a shopping center and I was unable to turn the vehicle on at all and it is now stuck in that parking lot. I had not been able to report it because Hurricane Helene hit (September 26, 2024) and we just got power, but phone lines and internet are not stable and cut off in the middle of calls and we have issues uploading documents. I called GM about the issue yesterday and they said because my VIN is not on the recall list that I have to pay for my car to be towed ($89 hook up fee plus $8 per mile) and I have to pay for any repairs. The airbag needs to be replaced as well because it has not been replaced due to the dealership saying they had not received the part and the appointment would be cancelled, so I quit making an appointment to have the driver's side air bag replaced.
Buick Enclave 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-28
- VIN: 5GAERBKW1LJ
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The vehicle's exhaust intermediate pipe mount has broken has caused damage in the intermediate pipe requiring both the be replaced. The cracked exhaust allows exhaust fumes to enter the passenger compartment. A recall (N222385510) for 2021 Chevrolet Traverse has been made however is addressing this on only the 2021 models, even though the same issue is applicable to other models. On the this forum, there are several complaints of this design flaw reported. https://gmauthority.com/blog/2023/06/gm-to-fix-2021-chevy-traverse-front-exhaust-pipe-issue/
Buick Enclave 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 5GAKRBKD6HJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Buick Enclave. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V334000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. Parts distribution disconnect.
Buick Enclave 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-27
- VIN: 5GAKRCED0BJ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Ignition not acting like it’s in the right spot like not starting when turning key it moves like it’s loose and turned off while driving. Thankfully was driving very slow and coasted to the side of road when it died at first acted like it was going to start again but it did just drive back home. Just bought suv from mother in law and already replaced alternator last week
Buick Enclave 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: 5GAKRBKDXEJ
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Buick Enclave. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 23V344000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Buick Enclave 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-15
- VIN: 5GAKVDED5CJ
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: When pulling onto a county road with traffic the transmission kept slipping and the engine would rev higher. It took a lot longer to get up to speed and the cars behind me had to brake quickly.
Buick Enclave 2017
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-13
- VIN: 5GAKRAKD3HJ
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2017 Buick Enclave. The contact stated while driving at approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle was vibrating, with the electronic stability warning light illuminated and the vehicle stalled. The contact was unable to restart the vehicle. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The independent mechanic had not diagnosed or repaired the vehicle. The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced intermittent engine failure prior to the vehicle stalling. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
Buick Enclave 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-08
- VIN: 5GAERBKW2KJ
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: On Sept 6th the check engine light came on. A diagnostic test showed it was code P0442 related to the canister purge valve /solenoid. It also showed that it was a permanent thing that had been on there a while but when I look up my Vin number there is no recalls for it, but there is for other 2019 Buick enclaves.
Latest 5 recalls Buick Enclave
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 65 recalls for different components of the Buick Enclave.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Buick Enclave 2015
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. GM began mailing final owner letters February 23, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2024. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232404980.
- Model: Buick Enclave 2017
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. GM began mailing final owner letters February 23, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2024. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232404980.
- Model: Buick Enclave 2014
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. GM began mailing final owner letters February 23, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2024. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232404980.
- Model: Buick Enclave 2016
- Report Received Date: 2023-05-10
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag module, free of charge. GM began mailing final owner letters February 23, 2024. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2024. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232404980.
- Model: Buick Enclave 2015
- Report Received Date: 2022-04-14
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the drivers air bag module, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 23, 2023. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300; Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N222366190.
Latest negative Buick Enclave car reviews
Latest positive Buick Enclave car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2014
The Enclave is an excellent vehicle, with a few minor issues that can be easily addressed. Although I would have given it a perfect score, there were a few areas that needed improvement. The second row of seats could be more comfortable, and at 27,000 miles, the air conditioning evaporator had to be replaced, along with the blower motor assembly. Fortunately, this was covered under warranty. While the bumper-to-bumper warranty ended in February 2018, in July 2018, the brake power vacuum booster and HID bulb for the right front headlight needed to be replaced. Although neither was covered under warranty, the bulb cost $321.49 plus $130. I am confident that GM will take the necessary steps to improve the Enclave, such as using LED bulbs.
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Vehicle year: 2019
Didn't want to purchase a GM product, but since the Enclave is the only CUV with three usable rows of seating which still has decent cargo space behind the third row, I took a chance. So far I've been impressed. The ride and handling are very good, the engine has plenty of power, the transmission is a little less smooth than I expected but it's responsive, the tech features are useful, there are many safety features, and the fit and finish are very good. No problems with anything so far. It's not perfect of course. Some of the materials are not luxury level, the auto stop/start is stupid and there's no override button, the seats are not very comfortable, and there are a few missing amenities, but overall it's been very enjoyable.Update: It's been over a year now with the Enclave and everything is still great. No issues whatsoever. Update: Nearing 25K miles now and still love our Enclave. Other than replacing a broken sunshade bracket there have been no problems.Update: Third year and it's still great, no problems. The excellent AWD system has come in handy a few times in the snow. Too bad the morons at GM decided to replace the AWD system with an inferior one starting in 2021.
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Vehicle year: 2016
Our 3rd Enclave is the best one yet! I absolutely love the comfortable seating and ample storage space. My wife does a lot of Prison Ministry work and can easily fit 4 people in the car with all of her supplies. It's the perfect vehicle for us since we often transport our grandkids and their car seats. The entertainment system is a lifesaver on long trips, keeping the kids occupied with their favorite DVDs. The only minor issue I've had is accessing the spare tire, which is located under the storage bin at the rear of the vehicle. However, the dealer was quick to fix a rear cooling system leak under warranty. Overall, we still adore our Enclaves - they're fantastic vehicles!
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Vehicle year: 2010
This sounds like an amazing trip! Travelling from Edmonton, Alberta to Las Vegas and then down to Disneyland and San Diego for the 5th time now. The ride is so quiet and the handling is great. It's impressive that you've driven 75,000 km in less than 3 years with no issues whatsoever. And it's great to hear that the XBOX 360 running during all the trips never had any effect on the battery at all.
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Vehicle year: 2009
We narrowed our choice down to three SUVs: the Audi Q7, Acura MDX, and the 2009 Enclave CXL AWD (Carbon Black), which we ultimately purchased. We absolutely love this car! It's incredibly roomy, has a great design, and is super quiet. The handling is very good for an SUV, and the third row is comfortable for three people. As a family of four, this car is perfect for us. GM did an amazing job with this car. It's an excellent SUV crossover that has the potential to be the best in every category. While there is room for improvement, such as adding real wood, better MPG, and throttle response/shift adjustment, I would highly recommend the Enclave to anyone looking for a solid, well-designed SUV.
Are you having problems with your Buick Enclave?
Stephan West 2025-04-19
Vehicle year: 2024
Hi there, I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share my experience with the 2023 enclave, as I recently upgraded from a 2015 enclave. While I was excited about the new model, I have to say that I was a bit disappointed. I found that some of the features that I loved in my previous car were missing, such as the clothes hooks to hang a clothes bar on. Additionally, the seats don't move into position with memory recall until you push and hold the button on the door or start the engine, which can be inconvenient for my wife who is shorter than I am. I also noticed that the seats are narrower than the previous enclave, which makes them less comfortable. Overall, I found some of the features to be a bit gimmicky and not well thought out. While I have been a loyal Buick customer for years, I wish I had explored other options before making my purchase. Best regards, Lyle Johnson
Hilario Gleason 2025-04-17
Vehicle year: 2010
It is unfortunate that my car's power steering has been causing issues for the past few months, and now the check engine light has come on with a generic code of P0008, which is related to the timing chain. Although this is a well-known issue with GM, they have refused to take responsibility for it. As a result, I will have to spend up to $4000.00 to fix it myself. It is frustrating that this is a problem that they could have prevented during the car's production. However, I am pleased to report that my power steering is being replaced for free due to safety concerns. It is concerning that GM does not consider the timing chain issue a safety concern, as it is known to heat up and stretch, potentially leading to catastrophic engine failure. I have heard stories of this happening to people while driving, which is alarming. Despite my previous plans to purchase another GM car, I am no longer considering anything made by them.
Cyril Miller 2025-04-14
Vehicle year: 2008
Before making a purchase, it's important to consider the costs associated with maintaining a used car. Unfortunately, I've had some issues with the transmission in this car and it's been unreliable. I initially chose this car for its spaciousness and the convenience of picking up my grandchildren after school, but now I'm hesitant to do so. Just something to keep in mind when making your decision.
Carlos Hoeger 2025-04-11
Vehicle year: 2022
My brother purchased a 2020 Enclave with 5,000 miles on it, which he considered to be a new vehicle. Unfortunately, after a month of driving, the transmission failed while we were on our way back from Los Angeles with family members. This was a very dangerous situation to be in on the freeway, but thankfully we were able to pull over safely. The vehicle has been at the dealership for a week now, waiting for a transmission replacement. My brother has contacted GM to request a buy back due to the negative experience, but unfortunately encountered a rude and unhelpful representative. Despite my preference for American-made cars, this experience has left me reconsidering my options.
Jaquan Williamson 2025-04-10
Vehicle year: 2014
Our 2014 Buick Enclave's engine seized after only 3 years and 71500 miles. Despite receiving unhelpful responses from local dealers, I contacted the corporate office who promptly suggested taking the car in for repair. As the mileage was over 70000, they offered to assist with the repair costs. However, we decided to take the car to a local mechanic to save money. Upon inspection, they discovered that one of the valve springs had broken and caused all the problems. While this was a disappointing experience, it is important to note that this is not indicative of all American-made cars. We will continue to explore our options and make informed decisions when purchasing our next vehicle.