2021 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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Common 2021 Buick Enclave problems
The 2021 Buick Enclave has been reported to have various problems, with the most common ones being related to the brake, transmission, and engine systems.
Brake Problems:
Many owners of the 2021 Buick Enclave have reported brake problems, including loud grinding and squealing noises. These issues are often related to premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, and regenerative braking. Some owners have reported that the front brakes began to squeal after just 4,000 miles, and it took several months to replace the pads under warranty due to backordered parts.
Transmission Problems:
The 2021 Buick Enclave has a history of transmission problems, with many owners reporting issues online. Some owners have reported that the transmission has failed completely, causing dangerous situations on the freeway. The transmission problems can lead to hesitation when instant power is needed, making it difficult to drive safely.
Engine Problems:
The 2021 Buick Enclave has also experienced engine problems, with the engine being the second most complained about problem according to Car Problem Zoo. Some owners have reported that the engine has abruptly stopped in the middle of the street, leaving them stuck with no warning of malfunctioning. The auto start/stop feature has also been a problem for some owners, as it can cause hesitation when instant power is needed, such as when making a left turn.
In summary, the 2021 Buick Enclave has been reported to have various problems related to the brake, transmission, and engine systems. These issues can lead to dangerous situations and can be frustrating for owners. It is essential to bring the Enclave to an authorized dealership if any problems are experienced, and to research the model before making a purchase to avoid buying a lemon.
Are there any problems with the 2021 Buick Enclave?
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
Are there any recalls on the 2021 Buick Enclave?
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave vehicles. During service by dealers, certain vehicles may have received incorrect air bag calibration software that may affect frontal airbag deployment.
What is the most common problem with Buick Enclave?
Q: What are the most common issues reported by Buick Enclave owners? A: Enclave owners have frequently reported problems with the transmission, timing chain, power steering, check engine light, electrical system, airbag deployment, and structural components.
What are the brake problems with the 2021 Buick Enclave?
Efficient issues that will arise when your 2021 Buick Enclave brake pads need to be replaced include squealing, screeching, grinding or squeaking when brakes are applied. You may also notice vibrations or pulsation in the pedal or steering wheel.
Are there any problems with the 2021 Buick Enclave?
Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.
What is the most common problem with Buick Enclave?
Q: What are the most common issues reported by Buick Enclave owners? A: Enclave owners have frequently reported problems with the transmission, timing chain, power steering, check engine light, electrical system, airbag deployment, and structural components.
Are Buick Enclaves reliable?
Overall, the Enclave is considered to be a reliable model, which can last from 200,000 to 250,000 miles before needing any extensive repairs. Recent model years have seen no safety recalls from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Are there any recalls on the 2021 Buick Enclave?
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave vehicles. During service by dealers, certain vehicles may have received incorrect air bag calibration software that may affect frontal airbag deployment.
2021 Buick Enclave car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Enclave problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Engine problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2021 Buick Enclave vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2021 Buick Enclave complaints
The NHTSA has received 14 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2021 Buick Enclave.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-05
- VIN: 5GAEVAKW8MJ
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: The rear switch on our tailgate has failed and it allows the tailgate to open/close randomly on its own while the vehicle is locked even. I contacted Buick about the problem and they said didn’t care, but this can happen while the vehicle is moving down the road as well as when parked. It’s not necessarily a typical safety issue that are normally recalled for, but it does pose significant safety issues if you want your car to be locked and you come back from the store and it’s not and people are free to break it or if it were to happen while moving. We had this happen on our car at around 38,000 miles. From reading other Buick forums to try and figure out what the cause is, it sounds like it’s a somewhat common occurrence. It’s alarming that it can open while the vehicle is locked.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-01
- VIN: 5GAEVAKW8MJ
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Passenger seat belt doesn't always work. Has to click several times
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-29
- VIN: 5gaevckw0mj
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AWD has vibration at highway speeds when engaged
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2022-02-28
- VIN: 5GAERBKWXMJ
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: When driving my car down the street today, it abruptly stopped in the middle of the street and and engine locked up. I could not shift gears. I could not put my car in neutral. I was literally stuck in the middle of the street with a vehicle that gave me no warning of malfunctioning. This is the 3rd transmission that I have had in this car. It is a 2021 Buick Enclave with just over 12,000 miles.
STEERING,LANE DEPARTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-17
- VIN: 5GAEVCKW2MJ
- Components: STEERING,LANE DEPARTURE
- Summary: This car crosses the line before the lane keep assist does anything. The car nearly hit an oncoming car. I asked the Koons Tysons Buick Service rep about it and he said he has heard this from a number of people but noting has been done. It seems like a software patch is necessary to make this safe.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-23
- VIN: 5GAERBKW6MJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brakes started grinding at 1000 miles. I will filed a complaint with the dealership and hope they record it. Now I have approximately 2100 miles on the car and it continues to sound and feel like my brake pad and rotor on the right front are grinding every time I apply the brakes. On July 23 2021 an own coming 18 wheeler did not see me and made a left turn in front of me at the traffic light . I step on the brakes lightly to stop but the car made the metal to metal sound and kept moving forward. So I had to jam on the brakes to stop. All wheels slid forward immediately except the front right. I think different brake pads and rotors are needed on this vehicle. This is definitely a safety issue to all drivers as well as others that are on the road.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-07-02
- VIN: 5GAERBKW9MJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: No accident. I bought this brand new car on May 29, 2021, and have been experiencing brake issues. When I apply the brakes, there is a weird noise, grinding type and it feels like there is less traction (like when slowing down on snow). I have to apply more pressure to my brakes to slow the vehicle and come to a stop. The problem occurs quite often.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-01
- VIN: 5gaevbkw9mj
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brakes started grinding at 300 miles. I have filed a complaint with dealership who did record it and advised that it was a known issue that GM is working to resolve. I now have approximately 2000 miles on the car and it continues to sound and feel like my brakes are grinding every time I apply the brakes. Occasionally, when I apply the brakes and they are making the grinding feeling - it feels as if the vehicle is not wanting to slow down and I need to apply more pressure to my brakes. This definitely would be a safety issue to the driver as well as others that are on the road.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-04-19
- VIN: 5gaevbkw4mj
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: This vehicle has an auto stop start feature that the dealer refuses to override. The problem is that if you are stopped to make a left turn, the engine stops. When you need to go when there is a break in traffic, there is a hesitation to get going just when you need instant power. Also at stop lights or signs you tend to keep tapping the brake to keep it running resulting in a dangerous situation. Also if you are stopped and forget and get out of the car, it can start up and run into something. I just want the ability to disable this dangerous feature.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-06
- VIN: 5gaerbkw5mj
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: when applying the brakes it sounds lile metal on metal
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-01
- VIN: 5GAEVBKW9MJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I have a 2021 Buick Enclave Premium purchased 01.03.2021from Alden Buick-GMC been having problems with my brakes when I apply my brakes I have a brake noise grinding growling noise coming from the brakes. Took vehicle to dealership today 06.01.2021. Was told cause is Composition of brake material, dealers informed by GM not to replace any parts or attempt any repairs at this time. Was informed vehicle is safe to drive and GM engineering is working on a solution to this concern. I am concerned should the brakes not work properly when applied causing an accident. Would like to know if NHTSA is aware of this problem on the 2021 Buick Enclaves and 2021 Cadillac XT5-XT6, 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, Traverse, and 2021 GMC Acadia? Would like to know if NHTSA feels it is safe to drive?
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-05
- VIN: 5GAEVAKW8MJ
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHEN I DRIVE MY BUICK ENCLAVE AFTER IT SITS FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME, IF I APPLY THE BRAKES, I HAVE A LOUD GRINDING TYPE SOUND AND I NOTICE THE NOISE CONTINUES AS I DO MY SHOPPING AND IT DOES NOT ALWAYS GO AWAY. I TOOK THIS VEHICLE TO THE BUICK DEALERSHIP AND I WAS TOLD THAT GENERAL MOTORS IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND THEY (GM) WERE TRYING TO FIND A SOLUTION TO THE NOISE. ALSO, I WAS TOLD THAT I CAN CONTINUE TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE AS IT WOULD POSE NO SAFETY ISSUES. I FIND IT UNNERVING TO DRIVE A VEHICLE WITH NOISY BRAKES AND I INQUIRED WHEN GM FINDS A FIX WILL I BE CONTACTED? I WAS TOLD TO CALL BACK PERIODICALLY TO SEE HOW GM HAS DECIDED TO CORRECT THE NOISE PROBLEM. AS OF THIS WRITING I HAVE ONLY 684 MILES ON THIS BUICK ENCLAVE. I DO FEEL THIS ISSUE IS WORTHY OF CONSIDERATION BY THE NHTSA 05/05/2021
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-03
- VIN: 5GAERBKWXMJ
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I JUST BOUGHT A NEW 2021 BUICK ENCLAVE AND THERE IS A NOISE COMING FROM THE WINDSHIELD OR THE WINDOW. SOUNDS LIKE MY WINDOW IS CRACKED. HOWEVER, WHEN I TRY TO LET UP THE WINDOW, THE WINDOW DOESN'T MOVE AND SOUND IS STILL THERE. THE NOISE IS THERE FROM ABOUT 45 MPG AND UP.
2021 Buick Enclave recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2021 Buick Enclave.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Traverse and 2021-2022 Buick Enclave vehicles. The harness connector to the left or right side roof rail air bag may have incompatible electrical terminals, which could prevent the air bags from deploying in a crash.
- Consequence: Roof rail air bags that do not deploy as intended increase the risk of injury in a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the harness connector to the roof rail air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 29, 2022. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212352140.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:SENSOR:FRONTAL IMPACT
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave vehicles. During service by dealers, certain vehicles may have received incorrect air bag calibration software that may affect frontal airbag deployment.
- Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the air bag calibration software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 29, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is N212340220.
Negative 2021 Buick Enclave car reviews
Positive 2021 Buick Enclave car reviews
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My wife and I recently traded our 18 Buick LaCrosse for a new Enclave because we needed more space for passengers. I must say, the new generation of Buick vehicles have much better interior styling and build quality than past generations, with an almost German feel. We were already accustomed to the oddity of the transmission shifter because of our Lacrosse, but it can be frustrating if you're not used to it. However, the thing I like the most about the Enclave is that the dash layout is simple, intuitive and not riddled with a bunch of tiny buttons like many competitors. Although the driving dynamics are not as inspiring as our LaCross, they are smooth and comfortable with somewhat spirited throttle response for a vehicle of this size. The only downside is that engine noise can be quite intrusive under acceleration, but it dies down to null once the transmission has rowed through all 9 gears. Road noise is almost non-existent. Overall, the Buick Enclave is a very competent people hauler that may even make the other moms jealous at the next soccer match.
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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.
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I'm so glad to hear that you love your vehicle! I understand how you feel about missing the windshield speedometer display that your Lacrosse had, but it sounds like your new vehicle has everything else you need. It's a real beauty!
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I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying your car for the past 17 months! It's great to hear that you haven't had any issues with it and that you're impressed with its performance, handling, and overall comfort. Based on your positive experience, it sounds like you would definitely consider buying this car again in the future.
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You're in for a treat with this vehicle! I understand that it's currently leased, but I'm glad to hear that you're considering purchasing it. I do want to mention that I personally prefer not to buy electric vehicles, but I'm sure you'll make the best decision for yourself.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2021 Buick Enclave problems:
2018+ Enclave - common issues? | EnclaveForum.net: Buick ...
Jul 4, 2021 ... I have not yet found problems that are being reported about other 2021s. One thing I do do to protect myself with these modern cars is always ...
2021 Buick Enclave Problems and Top Complaints - Lemon Law
Jan 5, 2023 ... In addition to brake and transmission problems, the 2021 Buick Enclave has also experienced engine problems. The engine is the second most ...
2021 Buick Enclave Avenir Transmission Shifting Issue ...
Jul 22, 2023 ... I have a 2023 Enclave and had the same “Shudder” in the lower gears with light throttle. Under warranty I requested the dealer drain the tranny ...
2021 Buick Enclave Review, Problems, Reliability, Value, Life ...
Dec 8, 2023 ... Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2021 Enclave. Avoid models from 2018 which have some engine issues, while 2019–2022 ...
2021 Buick Enclave Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2021 Buick Enclave? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.
Other years of Buick Enclave
Are you having problems with your 2021 Buick Enclave?
Casper Greenfelder 2024-11-28
I have some concerns about the 2020 Premium Enclave. Firstly, I find the 20-inch wheels that came with the SUV to be quite rough riding and noisy, which also reduces the MPG. Additionally, I am not a fan of the dash design, which seems more fitting for a cheaper Chevrolet model. The Bose radio system is also not up to my standards and the color of the car is not worth the premium price we paid for it. Furthermore, the two rear mirrors do not match the color of the car and the seats are quite hard and uncomfortable. The brakes also make a grinding noise when we stop, which the Buick dealership deemed normal and did not fix despite me showing them a TSB for the brake noise. Lastly, the front seats seem narrow and small for me, and I am 5'10 and weigh 160 pounds. If GM continues to not allow us to check the oil level in the transmission, it will be a major inconvenience. Overall, I believe Buick needs to improve their customer service and take better care of their customers. By doing so, they can ensure customer satisfaction and loyalty. Oh, and I also noticed a rumbling from the front as I drive down the road.
Davion Mueller 2024-09-21
The garage door transmitters and driver's electronic information system have experienced some issues since their initial use. Despite having to visit the dealer for a second time next week, I am confident that the necessary repairs will be made to ensure optimal performance in the future.
Kane Wilkinson 2024-09-20
Hello! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my new 2021 Buick Enclave that I purchased a month ago. Unfortunately, I've noticed a loud humming noise coming from the back doors when driving at high speeds on the highway. However, I've made an appointment to have it checked out and I'm confident that it will be resolved soon. Thankfully, the car is still covered under warranty. Overall, I'm really enjoying the car and it runs very smoothly. I'll be sure to provide an update after the issue is fixed next week. Thank you for your time!
Jeffery Buckridge 2024-07-12
The auto stop/start can be a bit jolting, which may feel like the car is stalling. Additionally, Apple Car Play and audio can sometimes cause issues. The accelerating power could be improved, and the automatic transmission may not always shift properly.
Cielo Leffler 2024-01-28
The door seals on vehicles, including Buick and other brands, are of poor quality and fail to prevent dust and road noise from entering the vehicle. This has been a persistent issue with both our 2013 and 2020 Buick Enclave. It is disappointing that manufacturers prioritize profits over providing quality products to consumers. However, as a confident consumer, we can demand better quality and hold companies accountable for their products.