Buick Enclave problems

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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.

photo of Buick Enclave car production

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Buick Enclave model years

buick enclave 2024 photo
Enclave 2024
Buick

5

0

20

4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2023 photo
Enclave 2023
Buick

7

0

23

3.2
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2022 photo
Enclave 2022
Buick

8

1

25

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2021 photo
Enclave 2021
Buick

14

2

22

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2020 photo
Enclave 2020
Buick

26

6

27

3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2019 photo
Enclave 2019
Buick

28

1

25

3.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2018 photo
Enclave 2018
Buick

43

0

33

3.3
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2017 photo
Enclave 2017
Buick

165

3

17

3.9
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2016 photo
Enclave 2016
Buick

124

4

34

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2015 photo
Enclave 2015
Buick

161

5

20

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2014 photo
Enclave 2014
Buick

258

7

16

3.5
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2013 photo
Enclave 2013
Buick

66

4

33

2.7
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2012 photo
Enclave 2012
Buick

124

6

18

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2011 photo
Enclave 2011
Buick

211

6

30

2.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2010 photo
Enclave 2010
Buick

270

6

30

3.1
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2009 photo
Enclave 2009
Buick

217

8

28

3.8
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
buick enclave 2008 photo
Enclave 2008
Buick

533

6

29

2.4
  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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.

Buick Enclave

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

  1. Lincoln Cruickshank 2025-03-29

    Vehicle year: 2009

    The car experienced multiple issues, including shocks/struts, wheel bearing, steering pump, transmission, coolant leak, and heater failure. Despite following normal maintenance guidelines, the vehicle's reliability was poor. As a result, I have lost confidence in GM products and will not be purchasing them again. Unfortunately, customer service support was not helpful as the vehicle was out of warranty. However, I remain confident in my assessment of the vehicle's quality and reliability.

  2. Dylan Stracke 2025-03-28

    Vehicle year: 2012

    The repair shop informed me, after the fact, that Enclaves are notorious for transmission failure, power steering pump issues, timing chain problems, and various other malfunctions. Despite having paid only 8000 for the vehicle a month earlier, I had to spend 5000 on repairs.

  3. Demarco D'Amore 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2008

    Hello, I am joining this discussion as we are also experiencing an issue with our 2008 Buick Enclave. Unfortunately, we need a new transmission due to a 3/5/R wave plate fracture, which seems to be a common problem with this model. It's disappointing that GM has not issued a recall for this issue despite the number of unsatisfied Enclave consumers on these forums. When we brought our vehicle to the service department, we were surprised to find out that it was no longer under warranty due to the in-service date. The service department quoted us $4900 to replace the transmission, which was frustrating. However, a friend recommended that we call GM directly to see if they could offer any cost assistance. After countless phone calls and two and a half weeks later, we were disappointed to learn that they would not offer any help. The woman who handled our case was not very friendly and even suggested that maybe we should have bought a different brand vehicle. While we did not expect GM to absorb the full cost, we were hoping they would at least split the cost of the repair. As someone who has owned GM vehicles for over ten years, this experience has left me unsure if I will ever buy or recommend another GM product. If anyone has any thoughts or suggestions, I am open to hearing them.

  4. Sterling Lind 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2023

    The ride is exceptionally smooth and comfortable, with excellent handling. While some luxury features are absent, the overall experience is still impressive. The seats could benefit from being larger, and the rear window can be difficult to see out of. Additionally, the rear wiper motor location is poorly engineered. A larger touchscreen would be a welcome addition, and rear window sunshades are needed. Overall, this is an exceptional vehicle that could benefit from a few minor improvements.

  5. Tillman Kuhn 2025-03-26

    Vehicle year: 2014

    I purchased a used 2014 Buick Enclave in December 2017. Although I have experienced some issues with the airbag, seatbelt, passenger light, and headlights, I have taken the necessary steps to address these problems. I am currently working with my mechanic to determine if there has been a recall and to replace the necessary sensors. While these repairs have been costly, I am confident in my decision to purchase the Enclave and am taking the necessary steps to ensure its continued reliability.

Latest positive Buick Enclave car reviews

  1. Nicola Goldner 2025-03-27

    Vehicle year: 2011

    I've been driving the CXL1 AWD for a week now and I'm still getting used to it. It's a bit like driving an ocean liner, very grand and impressive, but not the easiest to manoeuvre in tight spaces. When my wife and I were looking for a leather-seated vehicle, we test drove a few different crossovers, including the Toyota Highlander, Subaru Outback, Mazda CX9, Acura MDX and Chevrolet Traverse. The Enclave was the clear winner for us. I absolutely love the exterior design, although some of the interior controls are a bit oddly placed. Unfortunately, the gas mileage hasn't been great so far, but that's not really a surprise. I'm still trying to find the perfect seating arrangement, but my 15-year-old daughter thinks the Enclave is amazing, which is high praise indeed coming from her!

  2. Wilmer Hoppe 2025-03-26

    Vehicle year: 2024

    I test drove the Telluride and the Hyundai, but there is no comparison. The Telluride has an instant acceleration of 310 hp compared to 299 hp on the others. The drive is a little soft, but it's near luxury, so that's to be expected. I think it's a great find and better than the others.

  3. Javon Dare 2025-03-24

    Vehicle year: 2011

    After my lease was up on my 2012 Infiniti EX35, I decided to buy a 2011 Enclave with only 20k miles. I'm really happy with my decision because the Enclave gets a consistent 17 mpg in town compared to 15 mpg for the EX. It's also twice the size of the Infiniti, which was a primary reason for not getting another EX lease - no one could fit in the back seat! I've been impressed with the gas mileage of the Enclave, especially considering it's nearly as large as my Yukon Denali. I've seen some comments about how 2-3 mpg was bankrupting people that bought $45k cars and were considering $60k cars with better MPG to make up the difference. I don't really understand that, but everyone has their own opinions, I guess...LOL!

  4. Avery Green 2025-03-23

    Vehicle year: 2010

    The shifting from 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd in the auto trans can be quite hard most of the time, which is a bit annoying. I was expecting a smoother shift all the time, especially in a vehicle as expensive as the Enclave. However, I do like the car overall. According to the dealer CSR, this is normal for this vehicle, but I was hoping that the shifting would improve over time with more mileage. Unfortunately, it has remained the same. While GM has been making auto trans for over 70 years, this issue still persists. Due to this problem, I would not consider buying another Enclave.

  5. Arne Rempel 2025-03-22

    Vehicle year: 2013

    If you're considering buying a Lexus, it's important to have it thoroughly checked out before making a purchase. Unfortunately, original owners often don't keep maintenance records, which can lead to neglected mechanical issues. I learned this the hard way when I bought a Lexus with 95,000 miles on it. The first owner had not taken care of the necessary maintenance, and as a result, I had to spend around $4,000 to get it up to speed. Despite this, I still enjoy driving the vehicle because it's very comfortable. However, I had a negative experience with the Lexus dealer in Cool Springs. They were supposed to do a 141-point inspection on the car, but I found that they overlooked many issues and did not mention them on the inspection sheet. I had to replace bald tires, worn brakes, and fluids that had never been changed. The front motor mount was leaking oil, the engine was missing at low speeds, and the battery was six years old and not holding a charge well. Although I'm disappointed with the dealership's dishonesty, I'm happy to report that the SUV is still going strong after a few years with the right maintenance. The gas mileage is about the same as before, and the car still rides like new. Although the navigation system has gone out, I still have my cell phone to use for directions. Overall, I'm pleased with my Lexus and would recommend it to others, as long as they have it thoroughly checked out before buying.If you're planning on buying one, then go for it. My Enclave now has 122,800 miles on it and runs really great. The dealership has been hounding me to death about buying it back as they are really low on used cars, but they don't want to give you much for it. I plan to keep her until the wheels fall off and then change them out for some new ones. In closing, I might say that most of these older ones can get as much as 300 to 400 thousand miles out of them before anything really major has to be done. Just do the regular maintenance and keep track of it, and you won't be sorry. The car was a good investment for me. Update: The Enclave is now 10 years old and still running well. I just got back from a long trip to Orlando for vacation and went to put it away for the day when the check engine light came on. After a few weeks, I got an appointment to have it looked at and they found a Fuel Rail Sensor had gone bad. The bad thing was where it was located, under the manifold. The cost to fix was almost $780.00. It was the high-pressure sensor that was failing. Now it also has a low-pressure sensor, but according to my mechanic, that one tested out just fine, like a few things that they had tested. All in all, it's been a very good car. A good friend of mine named Stan, who works for a Honda Dealership, said he had one and the transmission went out on him around 150,000 miles. I hope that is not the case with mine. I love the ride, and the fuel mileage is about 24 miles to the gallon on a trip using cruise control set at about 70 to 75 MPH. Since replacing the fuel rail sensor, it sure made a difference in the get-up-and-go power that the car has now. I am hoping I can get another 150,000 miles out of it before it has any more problems. I tried to trade it in the other day for a newer model car, but the NADA book value on it was very poor. It still looks very good.The seats still heat and cool like they should, and everything works as it should, except for the navigation. But that's okay, I have my cell phone and can use it if I need to see where I'm going.

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