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: 2021
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!
-
Vehicle year: 2009
The car has been incredibly reliable for me. As a veteran who frequently visits the Fargo VA hospital, it provides a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride. I value its dependability, especially since I need a car with fewer miles.
-
Vehicle year: 2018
The 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir arrived in AZ during the last week of October. I had been searching for a car for a year to replace my 2012 Lexus RX 350. I was almost ready to give up on finding a car that had a good ride, was quiet, had enough room for adults on long drives, and could still fit in a parking space. Oh, and it had to have a decent engine. These are the attributes of the Lexus brand, but I find the new Lexus to be mean-looking. I test drove all SUVs, including Honda, Toyota, Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q5 Q7 SQ5, Chevy Traverse, Jaguar, Acura, and GMC. I like to think I pretty much covered the universe and I liked the Buick best. It is extremely quiet and yet has the guts to handle a high-speed pass of 70 to 90 smoothly. The long wheelbase and great suspension give it a very smooth ride. This was not the most fun car I drove, but it was the most practical. We don't need the 3rd row often, but I like the immense storage with easy parking. By the way, the most fun car was not the Porsche, but the Audi SQ5. I would highly recommend it for a sporty 2-row. Buick has upped its game and matched the prestige badges with a 4-year, 50,000-mile warranty. The Avenir trim is worth the money over the premium. It looks better and seems quieter. If any of my checklist matches yours, go drive the Buick. Update after 1 year of ownership: The weird shift pattern for the electronic shifter is just plain dumb. There was no reason to change. It is way too easy to shift into Park while moving. The transmission can get lost on rare occasions while shifting. I LOVE the car overall, but this is a major flaw. Update after four years: The software update has helped the transmission, but of course not the shift pattern. Some work was done under warranty, the water pump failed early, but overall not many trips to the shop. Personally, I am ready for something new, but it seems like I will get another 4 years and 50,000 miles out of it without much problem.The car has depreciated 50% in just 4 years, which is certainly disappointing. However, it still offers great interior space, drivability, and a quiet, smooth ride. While I would consider buying it again, the steep depreciation makes me think that a 2 or 3 year old car would be a much better value.
-
Vehicle year: 2010
After owning a series of high end luxury sedans such as BMW, Jag XJL and Cadillac, my growing family necessitated the move to an SUV. After conducting extensive research, I found that the Enclave was the best combination of space, seating, style, luxury and quality. I am pleased to say that I have not been disappointed after the first 1100 miles. In fact, this is the quietest car I have ever owned, even quieter than my $72,000 Jaguar XJL! The fit and finish is on par with BMW or Lexus. The Enclave rides and handles like a luxury car, not an SUV. I believe that the Enclave is a tremendous value when compared to other SUVs.
-
Vehicle year: 2023
I recently had the pleasure of driving the 2022 Enclave as a rental car for a couple of weeks, and I must say, I was thoroughly impressed! The ride was incredibly smooth and comfortable, even when driving over bumps and railroad crossings. The car boasts a plethora of convenient features, including an intelligent and intuitive infotainment system that never felt gimmicky or distracting. The 360-degree and backup camera systems were some of the best I've ever used, and the controls were well laid-out and pleasant to use, including those on the steering wheel. Even the auto-stop system, which I usually dislike, was barely noticeable and didn't detract from the overall driving experience. My kids loved the captain's chairs, rear climate control, and wireless Android Auto, which allowed them to play music off my phone in the back of the car while I could still see directions on the vehicle screen. The only downside was the dash partially covered with leatherette, which looked a bit cheap and could have been color-matched better. At first, I wasn't a fan of the button-push gear selector, but I grew to appreciate it because of the storage space underneath. I could even fit a box of Kleenex there, which was a nice touch! Although I'm not currently in the market for a vehicle this large, if I were, the Enclave would definitely be a top contender. Overall, it was a great couple of weeks driving this car around!
Are you having problems with your Buick Enclave?
Emile Feil 2025-05-09
Vehicle year: 2011
The '11 Buick Enclave has a lot of great features that make for a luxurious and comfortable ride. However, there are a few areas where cost-cutting measures seem to have been taken, which is a shame for a vehicle in this price range. For example, the front passenger seat cushion only adjusts front to back and cannot be angled, which is a bit disappointing. Additionally, it would be nice to have some ambient interior lighting, which is a feature that even my $15,000 less expensive '11 Mustang GT has. While some of the interior materials could be improved, the Enclave is still a great car overall. I had considered the Ford Flex with Eco Boost, but my wife was not a fan of the styling. All in all, the Enclave just needs a bit more attention to detail.
Maxwell Carroll 2025-05-08
Vehicle year: 2008
At 50,000 miles, I had to replace the transmission on my Buick, which is still experiencing issues. Since then, I have also had to replace the navigation, struts, shocks, brakes, rotors, and now the battery isn't charging. It's frustrating that this vehicle seems to have non-stop issues and is costing me a lot of money. Despite my disappointment, I am confident in my decision to never own another GMC.
Sim Breitenberg 2025-05-06
Vehicle year: 2020
Accelerating between 17-20 mph, the transmission shudders again at 27-30. I am currently experiencing the same issues with my 2019 Enclave Avenir, which is a major concern, especially after reading reviews of others with the same problem. However, I must say that the service technicians have been wonderful and we really want to like the vehicle. It's just frustrating to deal with this issue.
Lukas Bradtke 2025-05-06
Vehicle year: 2010
It's highly probable that you may encounter expensive air conditioning problems that exceed $1,100. Unfortunately, these issues may arise when you need it the most, such as during your dream vacation. In fact, we had a similar experience when we tried to drive our car from Missouri to Florida. We only made it to Tennessee before we encountered electrical issues that ruined our vacation. Therefore, we suggest that you consider other options and avoid GM products altogether.
Griffin Lueilwitz 2025-05-06
Vehicle year: 2008
The design of the vehicle is fantastic and perfect for my family. However, there have been some issues with the wave plate and the transmission. Despite having it fixed multiple times, the problem persisted and I had to have the transmission rebuilt twice, which is unfortunate since I am now out of warranty. The car has a carfax report with multiple transmission issues, but I am confident that the right buyer will appreciate the vehicle's design and potential.