2018 Buick Envision problems

General information about Buick-Envision
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

The Buick Envision is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by General Motors and marketed under the Buick brand since 2014. It is exclusively manufactured in China by the SAIC-GM joint venture, supplying the Chinese and North American markets.

Concept

The Envision was first introduced in 2011 as a design concept. It was a small crossover with two large scissor doors opening upward. The concept was a plug-in hybrid with advanced technology such as a solar roof and head-up display. The waterfall grille made it to the production version of the Envision.

First generation (2014)

The Envision was first introduced in China in August 2014, also known by its Chinese name, “Ang Ke Wei” (昂科威). It went on sale in China on October 20.

The Envision debuted in the U.S. at the North American International Auto Show on January 11, 2016, sharing the segment with a second generation GMC Terrain and the Chevrolet Equinox. It went on sale in the United States in the summer of 2016, making it the first Chinese-built GM vehicle to be sold in America. It was initially offered with all-wheel drive, and subsequently with optional front-wheel drive for model year 2017.

The North American version of the Envision features two powertrains: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 197 hp (147 kW) and 192 lb⋅ft (260 N⋅m) torque, and a turbo-charged 2-liter four-cylinder engine SAE certified at 252 hp (188 kW) and 260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) torque. Both were initially paired with a third-generation six-speed transmission. For the 2016 model year, the Envision was only available in Premium I and Premium II trim levels, with the 2.0L turbo engine, seven active safety technologies, and OnStar/Intellilink connectivity. The trim levels expanded to five for the 2017 model year.

In addition to the larger engines offered in North America, Chinese buyers also have the option of a turbocharged 1.5-liter unit.

Trim levels for the first generation Envision were known as the 20T and 28T.

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Common 2018 Buick Envision problems

The 2018 Buick Envision is a midsize crossover SUV that has received some complaints from owners regarding its performance and features. Here are some of the most common problems with the 2018 Buick Envision based on the search results:

Poor forward visibility: Another common complaint about the 2018 Buick Envision is the poor forward visibility. The Envision's thick A-pillars and small rear window can make it difficult to see other vehicles or obstacles on the road, which can be a safety concern. This issue is particularly noticeable when changing lanes or merging onto highways.

Heating and air conditioning issues: Some owners of the 2018 Buick Envision have reported issues with the heating and air conditioning system. These problems can range from the system not blowing hot or cold air to the system not working at all. In some cases, the issue may be due to a faulty blower motor or a malfunctioning thermostat.

Powertrain issues: The 2018 Buick Envision has received some complaints about powertrain issues, including problems with the transmission and engine. Some owners have reported issues with the transmission shifting roughly or not shifting at all. In some cases, the issue may be due to a faulty transmission control module or a malfunctioning solenoid. The Envision's engine has also been reported to have issues, including coolant hose ruptures and fuel sensor failures.

Steering system issues: Some owners of the 2018 Buick Envision have reported issues with the steering system, including the steering locking up while driving. This issue can be particularly dangerous, as it can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle. In some cases, the issue may be due to a faulty steering column lock or a malfunctioning steering angle sensor.

Suspension issues: The 2018 Buick Envision has also received some complaints about suspension issues, including vibrations while driving. These vibrations can be particularly noticeable in the steering wheel and can be caused by a variety of issues, including worn-out suspension components or unbalanced tires.

Overall, while the 2018 Buick Envision has received some complaints from owners, it is still considered a reliable vehicle with few recalls to date. However, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and consider them when making their purchase decision.

How many miles will a 2018 Buick Envision last?

Buicks and Longevity

In fact, they generally last 200,000 miles, or about 13 years, which placed them third overall (and first among luxury brands) in J.D. Power's 2020 vehicle dependability survey.

Does Buick Envision have transmission problems?

If you don't routinely and consistently change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your Buick Envision transmission will swiftly slip.

What is the most common problem with the 2018 Buick Encore?

The most frequently reported problem with the 2018 Buick Encore is also a serious safety concern. Multiple owners have reported through the NHTSA that while driving at speeds of about 45 miles an hour and then applying the brakes, the engine would attempt to accelerate.

Is Buick Envision a reliable vehicle?

Generally, though, the Buick Envision is a reliable compact SUV; any issues you encounter should not be life-threatening or severe (though they may require significant maintenance work). According to iseecars.com, the Buick Envision is the 14th most reliable luxury and small compact SUV overall.

Does Buick Envision have transmission problems?

If you don't routinely and consistently change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your Buick Envision transmission will swiftly slip.

How many miles will a 2018 Buick Envision last?

Buicks and Longevity

In fact, they generally last 200,000 miles, or about 13 years, which placed them third overall (and first among luxury brands) in J.D. Power's 2020 vehicle dependability survey.

Is the Buick Envision a reliable vehicle?

What is the most common problem with the 2018 Buick Encore?

2018 Buick Envision car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Buick Envision problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Steering problems
Electrical system problems
Unknown or other problems
Suspension problems
Engine problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2018 Buick Envision vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2018 Buick Envision complaints

The NHTSA has received 10 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2018 Buick Envision.

2024-02-27

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-01-30
VIN: LRBFX3SX3JD
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Summary: The Instrument Panel Cluster failed and is completely gone black. Due to the failure, there is no speedometer, or other safety notifications being delivered to the driver. The lack of knowing your current speed, the speed cruise control is set at, along with zero safety notifications is a huge safety issue for the driver and passengers, other vehicles on the road and pedestrians, etc. All of the alert features failed, including the forward collision warning, parking collision warning, lane keeping assistance, etc. The component was inspected by the GMC dealer's shop the vehicle was purchased through, along with another GMC certified shop. There were zero warning lamps, message or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure. After reading numerous on-line Buick/GMC forums, it appears this same issue has been prolonged and on-going across multiple Buick years, makes and models.

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2023-03-28

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2023-03-12
VIN: LRBFX1SA3JD
Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: Every time the car auto stops and turns back on the steering locks. So when the car starts you can’t turn the wheel. Also, while driving the car will lock and radio will shut off/ turn on. This happens like 1 to 2x a week. It is available for inspection. It could be very dangerous for me and others for needing to turning into places or even turning down the road. It hasn’t been confirmed or inspected, yet. There is only one warning lamp that flashes on for a split second, it’s no t/c. It just started flashing 3/26/23 not prior to incidents.

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2022-08-29

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-08-20
VIN: LRBFX3SX8JD
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: While driving my vehicle at 55mph on a country road, I went to brake, and then realized that I had no brakes. I had to coast to a near stop and put everything I had into pushing the little bit of brake pedal clearance left to the floor to come to a complete stop. I had NO warning signs or dash lights before this happened. Once I turned my car off and then back on, the service brake assist light came on, followed by the engine light. Had any cars been in front of me to stop, I surely would not have been able to stop with what little brakes I had left. My brake assist vacuum pump was removed, and inside there were many pieces of the part in there. This part is available for inspection. Again, had this happened in traffic or with anybody stopped in front of me, this would have had a completely different outcome. I had to have my vehicle towed 70 miles for repair. When the part was removed, there were no visible signs of any of the seals leaking.

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2022-06-19

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2022-06-18
VIN: LRBFX3SX6JD
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: On June 4, 2022 the radio bar showed a line in the middle of it and the volume of it would not increase. I could not hear anything. I tried everything even going into systems on the radio. Later that day it corrected itself and went back to normal. On June 18, 2022 the front passenger side window I put down approximately 1-1 1/4” and drove for maybe a half mile then decided to put it back up, it won’t move. I tried from both the drivers door control and passenger door, nothing. I looked in the manual and did what it stated to do, nothing, I got home turned off the car waited, turned the car back on and tried again, nothing. I called the dealership where I purchased the car and to my disappointment no service on Saturday. I have less than 35000 miles on this car no reason why I should be having issues.

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2021-11-20

STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-04-12
VIN: LRBFX1SA4JD
Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE
Summary: My Buick Envision started to occasionally create notable vibration in the front and traveling into the steering column. I brought the car to a GMC Buick dealership in Amite, LA(4/13/21) it was there for 3 days. The problem couldn't be duplicated. Next the car was brought to Royal Buick, Baton Rouge, LA(10/26-11/6/21.Having trouble controlling the car on each occurs.

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2021-10-21

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-10-19
VIN: LRBFX4SX1JD
Components: STEERING
Summary: While we were merging onto the highway, the steering wheel locked! I was going 50 MPH and I couldn't move the steering wheel left or right. We almost got into an accident, but I pulled my hardest on the wheel and was able to pull over. I shut off the car and turned it back on and it was OK, but under the wrong circumstances, this could've ended up real bad. Are there similar complaints on this vehicle?

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2021-10-11

UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2021-02-05
VIN: LRBFX1SA8JD
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: We bought our used buick envision essence in Feb 2021 from Scott Robinson Honda, Torrance, CA with 6,489 miles and 3 month warranty. The night we drove it off the lot the floor behind the driver's seat was wet and we thought it was from the prep (including shampooing the carpet) they said they had to do before we drove it off the lot at 9:00 p.m. The next day found that the matts in front were saturated in gasoline so threw them away. Since then whenever it rains floor becomes soaked each time. This causes windows to always be fogged up because of constant moisture in vehicle creating dangerous very poor visibilty and mildew we have to breath in causing breathing problems. We took the vehicle to our regular auto repair, Encinitas Foreign Auto who checked the moon roof, door windows, windshild and AC system and after hundreds of dollars still don't know where wet floors are coming from. Should not be happening with less than 7,000 miles on it. Buick is now feeling and smelling damp all the time and fogging up windows making it difficult to see. We feel the manufacturer needs to correct this defect on our vehicle as soon as possible. Thank you.

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2020-11-14

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2020-10-17
VIN: LRBFX2SA5JD
Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: THERE HAVE BEEN 2 SEPARATE INCIDENTS OF THE COOLANT HOSE RUPTURING DUE TO THERMOSTAT FAILURE AND FUEL SENSOR WAS BAD CAUSING NOT BEING ABLE TO TO FILL TANK. DEALER SAID NOT UNDER WARRANTY TOOK TO SEPARATE SHOP WHEN IN FACT IT WAS UNDER WARRANTY SO THEN TOOK TO DEALER THEY DO NOT WANT TO EXTEND WARRANTY ON MOTOR FOR POSSIBLE DAMAGE TO THE MOTOR. OVERHEATED TWICE WHILE DRIVING

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2020-06-14

STEERING PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2020-06-14
VIN: LRBFX3SX6JD
Components: STEERING
Summary: LOSS OF POWER STEERING FOR @ 5 MINUTES UNTIL STOPPED AT RED LIGHT, TURNED OFF THE ENGINE AND TURNED IT BACK ON, IT WAS WORKING. HOWEVER, JUST DROVE 2 MINUTES TO EMPLOYMENT PARKING LOT. NOT ENOUGH TIME TO SEE IF IT MALFUNCTIONING, WILL NOTICE DRIVING BACK HOME.

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2020-01-21

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2018-07-01
VIN: LRBFXBSA1JD
Components: SUSPENSION
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2018 BUICK ENVISION. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE VIBRATED WHEN DRIVING AT 36 TO 40 MPH AND CAUSED THE STEERING WHEEL TO VIBRATE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN THE SPEED WAS INCREASED TO 41 MPH, THE VIBRATION STOPPED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PAUL MASSE BUICK GMC SOUTH (2909 TOWER HILL ROAD, SAUNDERSTOWN, RI 02874, PHONE (401) 515-3737). THE DEALER WAS ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS NOT A FIX FOR THE VIBRATING FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 400.

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Negative 2018 Buick Envision car reviews

Ben Harvey 2024-09-23

This vehicle has had some challenges since the beginning of ownership. However, we have been proactive in addressing these issues and have worked closely with the dealer to resolve them. The On-star/infotainment systems required a factory reset, which was promptly taken care of by the dealer. The rear seat air conditioning also had an issue, but the dealer was able to replace the A/C evaporator case located under the front instrument panel. Although the vehicle sat for 3 weeks while we waited for parts, we were provided with a rental car during that time. The rear seat air failed again after 3 months, but we continued to drive the vehicle until the same parts were available. We are still working on resolving the conflict between the navigation/infotainment/blue-tooth systems, but we are confident that we will find a solution. Additionally, we have identified an issue with the visibility of the instrument panel/navigation displays in strong sun, particularly in Florida. We have provided feedback to Buick regarding the removal of the windshield tint at the top of the windshield and the need for an instrument panel shield for the navigation screen. We are confident that these issues will be resolved and we are pleased with the overall performance of the vehicle.
Braeden O'Connell 2024-09-16

We have owned our 2017 Envision Preferred for two years now. We purchased it new for two main reasons: to make it easy for my wife's aging parents to get in and out of the back seat and for its quiet ride on the road, reminiscent of old-fashioned Buick quiet. Initially, the ride was comfortable and quiet, and we were pleased with the pretty decent mileage (averaging 29.8 mpg with 70% highway and 30% city driving) and good fit and finish. However, we have encountered some issues with the service system that have left us feeling disappointed. The auto-reminders from the dealers are inaccurate, despite their ability to query the vehicle at any time. We have dealt with two different dealerships, one small The only fix required is to replace the tires. Although the tread is still good, it is advisable to drive until the tires are more worn before replacing them. I have reached out to the service advisor regarding a prorated replacement, but unfortunately, I have not received a response yet. I have noticed a rattle somewhere under the floorboard in front, which seems to show up when I fill up the gas tank. If I only fill it up 3/4 full, there is no rattle. I have not yet asked the dealer staff what they might want to do about it. I have found a way around the stop/start feature by driving in manual mode all the time, and I have had no problems with that. Although the transmission can be harsh at times, I still enjoy driving my Envision. I hope that Buick will continue to produce quality vehicles, and I encourage anyone considering an Envision to scrutinize the service department heavily before making a purchase.
Demetrius Marquardt 2024-08-01

Our rear differential is leaking oil, but we have been unable to obtain the necessary parts. It has been approximately seven months since the issue was first identified.
Michale Legros 2024-04-16

The night lighting could use some improvement. Also, it seems like the engine cuts out at stop lights and the car can be a bit jerky when starting from a stop.
Lon Schamberger 2024-01-06

Night time driving can be difficult with the current dim/bright lights. They are not as effective as the old headlights.

Positive 2018 Buick Envision car reviews

Bradly Erdman 2024-10-21

I purchased my Envision in December 2017. My husband and I have always been loyal to Oldsmobile's, but when GM stopped making them, we switched to Buick. We previously owned an Enclave, but encountered some issues with it and decided to downsize. I tried the Encore, but found it to be too small. Then the dealer suggested the Envision. I had never heard of it before, but as soon as I sat in it, I was sold. I ordered a black on black Envision and as soon as I picked it up, I decided to name it 'Max'. Out of all the cars I have owned over the years, Max is by far the best. After five years, it has never needed anything more than regular servicing, and the dealership I take it to always tells me that the Envision is one of the most reliable cars they have ever had. It has all the bells and whistles (some of which I must admit I still haven't figured out), and it's just a real joy to drive. Every once in a while when I'm driving it, I think about just taking off and heading across the country - it's that great to drive. Of course, since I'm 80 years old, I guess that's not practical. Still, I don't understand why GM doesn't advertise these wonderful cars. They're a perfect mid-size and Max still gets compliments on its good looks. Needless to say, I heartily recommend the Buick Envision.
Madyson Nienow 2024-10-20

Only problem was rear a/c. Dealer promptly fixed.*update* Still love this vehicle, great gas mileage even with all my stop and go traffic. Back seat occupants feel safe and comfortable!!
Jeffrey Robel 2024-10-07

This is one of the best cars that I've owned. It has adequate power and is very comfortable. It rides very smoothly.
Linwood Stracke 2024-09-24

I reviewed all types of cars and once I set my sights on this one, I had to have it. I have been driving it for only one month and I am not disappointed. I love it! I saved quite a bit by buying a previously owned Corporate Lease with only 12,000 miles. I had to have it brought up from Naples. I must have saved nearly $10K by buying slightly used.
Erling Hagenes 2024-09-19

I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying the Envision! It's great to know that you find it easier to handle and park than other vehicles. Additionally, it's wonderful to hear that you think the features are just as good as those found in the Enclave.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2018 Buick Envision problems:

2018 Buick Envision Problems | Kelley Blue Book

https://www.kbb.com/buick/envision/2018/common-problems/

How reliable is the 2018 Buick Envision? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 months.

The Most Common 2018 Buick Envision Problems | GetJerry.com

https://getjerry.com/car-insurance/the-most-common-2018-buick-envision-problems

Nov 17, 2022 ... The most common 2018 Buick Envision problems · Poor trunk and storage space · Poor forward visibility · Heating and air conditioning issues.