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: 2011
My family and I were in search of a car that would be suitable for the long winters in the Northwest. After conducting thorough research for several weeks, we finally decided on a GMC Acadia. During our visit to the dealership, we also had the opportunity to test drive a Buick. After test driving both cars, my wife and I concluded that the Buick was a better fit for us due to its superior fit and finish, quietness, and ride quality. I found the car to be responsive and while it may not be the fastest off the starting line, it has ample power to pass safely. The ride quality is exceptional, and the car is very quiet, which were both important factors for my wife. The interior is well-designed, and the materials used are above average. I would highly recommend this car.
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Vehicle year: 2013
I bought this car after researching crossovers and SUVs for 4 years. It was definitely worth the time and effort. The vehicle is easy to drive, loaded with extras, and very comfortable. It doesn't feel like an SUV at all. With the rear camera and parking assist, I have no worries when backing out of my driveway or parking spots. The A/C cools rapidly even in our very hot summers with high humidity. The car has a very tight turning radius and combined with the variable speed steering, it's a breeze to maneuver. I've received so many compliments on my new vehicle that I've lost count. I've fully enjoyed the first 6 weeks and I'm looking forward to many more years of enjoyment.
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Vehicle year: 2011
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I was wondering if you could help me understand why all three timing chains would need to be replaced at only 36000 miles? Thank you so much for your time!
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Vehicle year: 2020
What a great car! I'm still learning about all the amazing technology it has to offer, but I'm already in love with most everything about it. While there are a couple of small things that I miss from my 2009 Enclave, like the powered shade on the panoramic sunroof over the second row and the auto up and down feature on the front passenger window, overall I'm extremely satisfied with this car. The gear shift is a bit different from what I'm used to, but it's nothing that can't be mastered with a little practice. The adaptive cruise and lane departure warning with subtle correction are both so much fun to use, and I think they should be standard on all trim levels. I haven't had a chance to test out all the safety features yet, but I'm looking forward to exploring and exploiting all the helpful technology that this car has to offer. It's also incredibly comfortable, making for a very quiet and enjoyable ride. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase!
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Vehicle year: 2018
I recently purchased the 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir FWD after test driving the BMW X5 and Audi A7. While both the BMW and Audi are excellent vehicles, I found that they did not match the smooth, quiet ride of the Avenir trim level of the Enclave. The interior of the Enclave provides passengers with an exceedingly quiet ride, making for a comfortable journey down the road. Additionally, the sound system is outstanding and the technology control panel is easy to learn and use. Passenger safety is also enhanced with features that keep you at a safe distance from vehicles in front and blind spot awareness. In my opinion, I have not found a better value in this price range.
Are you having problems with your Buick Enclave?
Skye Waelchi 2025-07-28
Vehicle year: 2018
I have experienced running out of gas for the second time in 4 months, despite the gauge reading over 1/8 of a tank and the digital reading indicating over 65 miles until empty. The first time it happened, I thought it was a fluke as it occurred with less than 2000 miles. However, today the same issue occurred with 7000 miles. It is evident that there is a factory setting problem. Additionally, the transmission has been exhibiting problematic behavior, such as going into neutral while driving and requiring multiple attempts to engage into drive or reverse.
Floy Lockman 2025-07-23
Vehicle year: 2012
We bought this car to replace our old Navigator, which we no longer needed to tow our boat. As first-time Buick owners, we were curious to try it out. Luckily, we still had some factory warranty left when we purchased it, and we also got a 1-year extended warranty that covered major components. A few weeks after buying it, we noticed a flutter in the engine and a hesitation. We took it in and found out that it needed an expensive part for the transmission and new struts. Fortunately, our factory warranty covered the transmission part, and our extended warranty covered the struts. A few months later, we noticed that the RPM was jumping around when traveling at 45-50 mph. We took it to the dealer, and they said it was a known issue that happens when the temperatures are high (we live in AZ), but it doesn't affect the engine, so we would just have to deal with it. Then, 8 months in, the AC went out and needed a manifold hose. Our factory warranty had run out, but our extended warranty covered it. We're a bit nervous about this vehicle once the extended warranty has expired because we're not sure if we can trust it not to cost us a lot in repairs. We'll probably trade it in once the warranty is up.
Trenton Nikolaus 2025-07-22
Vehicle year: 2010
My 2000 Suburban had over 200,000 miles on it with very little repairs ever needed. I thought I was upgrading myself by getting this smaller, easier to park SUV that still seats 7 passengers. Although it only gets 17mpg, which is not a huge difference from the Suburban's 13mpg, I love the interior of the car. The split passenger bucket seats make it easy for kids to get into the 3rd row and the back can be easily folded down for shopping at Costco. Parking is also a breeze. However, I have had some issues with the car and it has been in the shop repeatedly. I paid $17,000 for it used and still owe $9,000. In the beginning of November, it went into the dealership for repairs which cost me $3,400. Unfortunately, as soon as I drove it away, I noticed the noise was even worse than when I took it in. I went right back and made the technician take a ride with me. He suggested that I drive it and see if it works itself out. After driving it for 4 days, the engine light came on and I had to pay an additional $3,200 for timing chain repairs. If I had known ahead of time that I would be dishing out almost $7,000 on the car in only one month, I might have considered starting over. I can't afford 2 car payments, but I could have bought another car with the cost of repairs! I just need the car to run without any issues. I hope the dealership can fix it soon.
Bud Kuphal 2025-07-12
Vehicle year: 2011
The 2011 Buick Enclave with 113,000 miles has several issues that require attention. The A/C has never worked properly, the car body leaks water into the interior when it rains, and the suspension is noisy. Despite multiple visits to the local dealer, the support received has been less than satisfactory. However, after contacting the Buick hot line, I was provided with a number to document our call. While the issue remains unresolved, I am confident that it will be addressed in due course.
Dillan Corwin 2025-07-09
Vehicle year: 2009
Before purchasing a car, it's important to research all of the extended service repair warranties available. In the case of the Enclave, it's worth noting that some models have been known to leak during rainy weather or in a car wash. This can cause water to build up in the pan under the passengers' feet, which can be frustrating when turning corners. Additionally, some Enclave models with Bose stereos have experienced malfunctions, which can be attributed to water damage. If you do experience any issues, it's important to note that repairs can be costly. It's also worth mentioning that the Enclave has had some problems with the transmission and power steering, which has resulted in a class action suit in CA. If the car drops below 1800 rpm's, you may revert to manual steering without warning, which can be dangerous at higher speeds. However, it's important to note that the manufacturer has provided extended warranties for these issues for 10 years or 150,000 miles. While the Enclave may have some maintenance costs, there are many other vehicles available that are more water-tight and may be a better fit for your needs.