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.
Social links
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
-
Vehicle year: 2022
2 adults and 3 young kids can comfortably fit in the Enclave, which is why I chose it over the competition. I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth and powerful engine, intuitive gear selection, and many tech and safety extras that make driving stress-free. The start/stop system is barely noticeable and helps save gas, while the spacious interior is perfect for my family. There are even extra seats for family and friends who want to join us. I highly recommend this car, especially for parents with young children. It's a great choice for the typical American family!
-
Vehicle year: 2023
This is my first Buick and I am really enjoying it. It reminds me a lot of our Chevy Traverse, but with many more features. The ride is great and the interior finishes are of good quality. I am impressed with the amount of computerized sensors and cameras on this vehicle.
-
Vehicle year: 2013
Traded my 2011 Cadillac SRX Performance model for a Buick and I couldn't be happier. The seats are much more comfortable and the ride is smoother, making the Cadillac pale in comparison. The Buick feels much more solid on the road and the handling is excellent. Although the Cadillac has a list price of $53,000, the cheap plastic decor inside the car makes it look cheap and poor quality. Overall, I am confident that I made the right decision in switching to the Buick.
-
Vehicle year: 2012
It's a direct injection motor. Make sure to do your research. While it does come with some known issues, if properly taken care of by a reputable dealership, it shouldn't be a problem.
-
Vehicle year: 2023
I had no prior knowledge of the Buick Enclave. However, when I visited the GMC dealer to purchase another SUV, my salesman recommended that I take it for a spin. I was immediately impressed and decided to purchase it on the spot. I absolutely adore this vehicle. It exudes luxury and the ride is simply incredible. Although I wish it had Sirius, I can still listen to my favorite tunes using the iPhone app. The three row seating and overhead air for all three rows are particularly important to me, given the hot Nevada climate. When I'm not using the third row, it folds down to create an incredible amount of space in the back. Additionally, the power seats for both the passenger and driver are a great feature. The price was also very reasonable.
Are you having problems with your Buick Enclave?
Jarret Grant 2025-11-29
Vehicle year: 2021
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.
Jeffry Skiles 2025-11-27
Vehicle year: 2009
In February 2014, I purchased my car with 28k miles on it. Unfortunately, shortly after, I experienced some issues with the steering wheel making a whining noise. I took it to the dealership and was informed that this was a common issue with SUVs. Although I was concerned about the safety of driving with a faulty power steering, the dealership assured me that they would fix it if anything happened. I was not satisfied with this response as it seemed like a reactive approach to a potentially dangerous problem. Later on, I had to replace the water pump twice, which was quite expensive. A few months later, the timing chains broke, which was not only inconvenient but also caused damage to the transmission. Fortunately, I was able to have them replaced under a special policy. However, the transmission continued to slip, and I had to take it to another dealership. They fixed the 3-5-R plate under a special policy, but I had to pay for the A/C, coil, and spark plug replacement, which cost me over $475. A few months later, I had to replace two more coils and spark plugs, as well as the front engine mount, which cost me over $1100. Unfortunately, after the repairs, the car displayed a warning message saying 'LOW OIL PRESSURE. STOP ENGINE!' I have decided to trade the car as I do not feel comfortable selling it to someone else. It is disappointing to have to trade in a car that I had planned on driving for a long time, especially since my children loved the DVD player, and I loved the back-up camera. Despite contacting GM, they only noted my issues, which was not very helpful. Please provide reimbursement for the expenses I have incurred due to the repeated repairs, tows, and missed work caused by my car's failure to start. As a dissatisfied customer, I have lost faith in GM and will not be purchasing from your company again.
Blair Rempel 2025-11-26
Vehicle year: 2012
I really appreciate the aesthetics and functionality of our 2012 Buick Enclave. However, I cannot recommend it due to some major drivetrain failures. Unfortunately, the water pump failed at 75k miles and the engine and transmission failed at only 90k miles. Additionally, 4 months ago (Jan. '17), I had a fuel injector failure. The GM service tech strongly suggested that all 6 be replaced at the same time ($2400), which was a bit of a setback. However, just recently, I was diagnosed with a failing transmission (torque converter & transmission) in April '17. The cost to install a new transmission by GM is $5200. It's really disappointing that at only 90k miles on a 5 year old, well-maintained vehicle, I'm out. Unfortunately, I have no confidence in the Enclave's reliability. It's a real shame.
Deonte Grimes 2025-11-24
Vehicle year: 2008
Although the Buick Enclave/Lacrosse 1st series with a 3.6V engine may look and handle great, my personal experience with it has not been positive. Unfortunately, after only 6 months of owning the car, the traction control light came on and I had to spend $4,500 at the Buick Dealership to replace the timing chain. While I was able to fix the issue, the transmission went out 8 months later, costing me another $2,100 for a rebuild. Even after the transmission repair, the traction control light came back on a year later and I was informed that the timing chain needed to be replaced again, this time for another $4,500. In my opinion, the engine and transmission in this car have a hard time communicating with each other. If you're considering purchasing a car from 2008-2016, I would recommend looking for a more reliable option for your family. Although the 3.6V engine has improved, I still believe that this car is not worth the time or money. It's unfortunate that GMC has not initiated a recall or Buy Back Program for these cars. My advice would be to buy something else unless you enjoy wasting money.
Lorenzo Hintz 2025-11-23
Vehicle year: 2009
The Enclave can be a great car when everything is working properly. It is a quiet, comfortable, and fairly powerful SUV. Unfortunately, we experienced several issues with our Enclave, and it seemed like something was always going wrong. Our first major issue was the throttle body going out, which caused the entire electrical system to crash, leaving us stranded on the side of a busy road and partially blocking traffic. We tried using Onstar during this experience, but unfortunately, it was not helpful. Additionally, the hazards drained the battery after only an hour, rendering them useless. We also had issues with buttons snapping off, brakes needing replacement, and problems with the transmission and power steering. Ultimately, we decided to purchase a fully loaded 2014 Infiniti QX60, which we absolutely love!