Owners have filed 290 complaints
about the 2009 Buick Enclave with NHTSA between 2009 and 2025.
The largest single group is the steering.
Across this model's run it ranks 8 of 18 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 79
Against the median year of the Buick Enclave. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 36
6.9% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 19
11% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
20.8%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
93.4%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
83.1%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
2810.7%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
8532.6%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
5521.1%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
6424.5%
150,000+ miles
103.8%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
2009 Buick Enclave 4-DR. w/SAB
—
—
—
15.5% risk
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Apr 2009peak 16Aug 2025
NHTSA investigations into the 2009 Buick Enclave
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
EA20002Opened 31 Aug 2020Closed 30 Aug 2024SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
Outboard Front Seat Belt Anchor Cable Failure
On August 31, 2020, the Office of Defects Investigations (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis (EA) EA20002, as an upgrade of Recall Query (RQ) RQ19003. This investigation, related to recall 14V-266, was opened to investigate instances of detachment of the flexible steel seat belt anchor cable attached to the outboard side of the front seats in vehicles manufactured by General Motors (GM). The subject vehicles included model year (MY) 2009 through 2014 GMC Acadia, Buick Enclave, and Chevrolet Traverse SUVs as well as MY 2009 through 2010 Saturn Outlook SUVs. These vehicles were previously repaired...
RQ19003Opened 28 May 2019Closed 31 Aug 2020SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
Seat Belt Anchor Cable Failure
On May 19, 2014, General Motors LLC (GM) notified the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) that it would conduct Safety Recall 14V266 to address fatigue and separation of the flexible steel cable that connects the front outboard seat belts to the seat-mounted belt pre-tensioner in 1.4 million model year (MY) 2009-2010 Saturn Outlook, 2009-2014 Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Traverse (Lambda Platform) vehicles.The remedy was to inspect for signs of damage and replace pre-tensioner anchor cables as needed. Re-work was conducted to relocate the pre-tensioner anchor cable out of the occu...
AQ10001Opened 18 Nov 2010Closed 28 Dec 2015UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Fleet Vehicle Recall Completion Audit
On November 18, 2010, NHTSA's Recall Management Division (RMD) opened an audit query (AQ10-001) to investigate recall remedy completion by rental car companies on safety recall campaigns.It was expected to provide the agency an indication of how completely and how quickly rental car fleets perform necessary recall-related remedies on the vehicles owned and then rented/leased for use on the roadways.RMD queried three (3) major motor vehicle manufacturers (Ford, Chrysler, and General Motors) and requested data regarding completion figures for fifteen (15) discreet safety recalls.Analysis of this...
Recalls on the 2009 Buick Enclave
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
21V782000
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2008-2017 Buick Enclave and 2013-2017 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
15V415000
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured January 3, 2007, to February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured July 6, 2008, to March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia vehicles manufactured September 15, 2006, to February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles manufactured August 17, 2006, to March 18, 2010. The affected vehicles, equipped with the power liftgate option, have gas struts that hold the power liftgate up when open. These struts may prematurely wear and the open liftgate may suddenly fall.
Risk: If the open liftgate unexpectedly falls, it may strike a person, increasing their risk of injury.
14V266000
SEAT BELTS
General Motors is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Buick Enclave vehicles manufactured April 14, 2008, through May 14, 2014, Chevrolet Traverse vehicles manufactured June 6, 2008, through May 14, 2014, and GMC Acadia vehicles manufactured April 9, 2008, through May 14, 2014, and 2009-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles manufactured April 14, 2008, through March 18, 2010. In the affected vehicles, the flexible steel cable that connects the seatbelt to the front outboard seating positions may fatigue and separate over time.
Risk: If the steel cable becomes fatigued and separates, the seatbelt may not properly restrain the seat occupant increasing the risk of an injury in a crash.
14V118000
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2008-2013 Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia and 2009-2013 Chevrolet Traverse and 2008-2010 Saturn Outlook vehicles. In the affected vehicles, increased resistance in the driver and passenger seat mounted side impact air bag (SIAB) wiring harnesses may result in the SIAB and seat belt pretensioners not deploying in the event of a crash.
Risk: Failure of the side impact air bags and seat belt pretensioners to deploy in a crash increase the risk of injury to the driver and front seat occupant.
10V375000
SEAT BELTS
GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009-2010 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE, BUICK ENCLAVE, GMC ACADIA, AND SATURN OUTLOOK VEHICLES. THE SECOND ROW SEAT SIDE TRIM SHIELD RESTRICTS THE UPWARD ROTATION OF THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE WHEN THE SEAT BACK IS RETURNED TO A SEATING POSITION AFTER BEING FOLDED FLAT. IF THE BUCKLE CONTACTS THE SEAT FRAME, ADDITIONAL EFFORT IS REQUIRED TO RETURN THE SEAT TO A SEATING POSITION. IF SUFFICIENT FORCE IS APPLIED, THE BUCKLE COVER COULD BE PUSHED DOWN THE STRAP, EXPOSING AND PARTIALLY DEPRESSING THE RED RELEASE BUTTON.
Risk: THE SAFETY BELT MAY NOT RESTRAIN THE OCCUPANT AS INTENDED DURING A CRASH, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT.
10V240000
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
GM IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2009 BUICK, LUCERNE; CADILLAC DTS; HUMMER H2; MODEL YEAR 2008-2009 BUICK ENCLAVE; CADILLAC CTS; MODEL YEAR 2007-2009 CADILLAC ESCALADE, ESCALADE ESV, ESCALADE EXT; CHEVROLET AVALANCHE, SILVERADO, SUBURBAN, TAHOE; GMC ACADIA, SIERRA, YUKON, YUKON XL; SATURN OUTLOOK; AND MODEL YEAR 2009 CHEVROLET TRAVERSE VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH A HEATED WASHER FLUID SYSTEM (HWFS). A RECALL WAS IMPLEMENTED IN 2008 TO ADD A FUSE TO THE CONTROL CIRCUIT HARNESS TO ADDRESS THE POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF A PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD (PCB) ELECTRICAL SHORT. HOWEVER, THERE HAVE BEEN NEW REPORTS OF THERMAL INCIDENTS ON HWFS MODULES AFTER THIS IMPROVEMENT WAS INSTALLED. THESE INCIDENTS RESULTED FROM A NEW FAILURE MODE ATTRIBUTED TO THE DEVICE'S THERMAL PROTECTION FEATURE. THE SIGNIFICANCE VARIES FROM MINOR DISTORTION TO CONSIDERABLE MELTING OF THE PLASTIC AROUND THE HWFS FLUID CHAMBER.
Risk: IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE HEATED WASHER MODULE TO IGNITE AND A FIRE MAY OCCUR.
09V073000
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT
GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING 276,729 MY 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE, CHEVROLET COBALT, HHR, MALIBU, TRAVERSE, GMC ACADIA, PONTIAC G5, G6 AND SATURN AURA AND OUTLOOK PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLES SAFETY STANDARD 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT POSITION SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT", AND FMVSS 114, "THEFT PROTECTION AND ROLLAWAY PREVENTION". ON SOME OF THESE VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT CLIP MAY NOT BE FULLY ENGAGED. IF THE CLIP IS NOT FULLY ENGAGED, THE SHIFT LEVER AND THE ACTUAL POSITION OF THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT MATCH. WITH THIS CONDITION, THE DRIVE COULD MOVE THE SHIFTER TO "PARK" AND REMOVE THE IGNITION KEY, BUT THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT BE IN "PARK".
Risk: THE DRIVER MAY NOT BE ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE COULD ROLL AWAY AFTER THE DRIVER HAS EXITED THE VEHICLE, RESULTING IN A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
08V615000
SEAT BELTS: REAR/OTHER:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
GM IS RECALLING 16,667 MY 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE, CHEVROLET TRAVERSE, GMC ACADIA, AND SATURN OUTLOOK VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, 'SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES.' THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH A SAFETY BELT BUCKLE IN THE SECOND OR THIRD ROW THAT IS MISSING A RIVET.
Risk: IN A VEHICLE CRASH, IF THE RIVET IS MISSING, THE BUCKLE MAY SEPARATE FROM THE MOUNTING STRAP, INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY TO THE PASSENGER.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 201528036,369 units in Canada
Structure
On certain vehicles equipped with a power liftgate system, the gas-filled struts (which help to raise and support the liftgate) may prematurely wear. These vehicles have a Prop Rod Recovery system intended to accomplish a controlled, slow return of the liftgate to the closed position if the liftgate’s gas struts are no longer capable of supporting the weight of the liftgate. The vehicle would provide audible warnings and flash the tail lamps to indicate there is a problem. However, the liftgate’s Prop Rod Recovery system software may be unable to detect/stop a liftgate with prematurely worn gas struts from falling too quickly after the liftgate is opened. This could allow the liftgate to drop suddenly, placing anyone beneath or near the gate at risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will reprogram the power liftgate actuator motor ECU with a new software and will verify power liftgate operation following the reprogram.
Recall 201418175,701 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain vehicles, the flexible steel cable that connects the seat belt to the vehicle structure at the front outboard seating positions can fatigue over time and could separate, increasing the risk of injury in a crash. Correction: Dealers will inspect and repair or replace the lap pretensioner, as necessary.
Recall 201408170,526 units in Canada
Airbag
On certain vehicles, side airbag wiring connections could develop high resistance, illuminating the airbag warning light. If the vehicle continues to be operated in this condition, resistance may continue to increase over time and eventually cause the seat side airbags and seat belt pretensioners to not deploy in the event of a crash, which could increase the risk of injury. Correction: Dealers will affect repairs.
Recall 201027616,752 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
On certain vehicles, the second row seat side trim shield may restrict the upward rotation of the safety belt buckle when the seat back is returned to a seating position after being folded flat. If the buckle contacts the seat frame, additional effort is required to return the seat to a seating position. If sufficient force is applied, the buckle cover could be pushed down the strap, exposing and partially depressing the red release button. As a result, the release button will not travel as much as designed when depressed and will appear to be jammed. The buckle cover may have visible damage which may only be cosmetic, but in some cases, the buckle may not latch/unlatch, or may appear to latch when the latch mechanism is not fully engaged. If the latch mechanism is not fully engaged, the safety belt may not restrain the occupant as intended in a crash, which could result in personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will modify the second row seat side trim shields, inspect the belt buckle and will replace it if damaged.
Recall 201018999,000 units in Canada
Accessories
On certain vehicles equipped with a Heated Washer Fluid System (HWFS), a short circuit on the printed circuit board for the washer fluid heater may overheat the control-circuit ground wire. A repair was implemented in a recall in 2008, however, there have been new reports of thermal incidents on heated washer fluid system modules after this improvement was installed. This situation may cause some minor distortion, but also could lead to melting of the plastic around the heated washer fluid system, or cause a fire. Correction: Dealers will permanently disable and remove the heated washer fluid module. An updated page will be provided and inserted in the Owner Manual to document the removal of the feature.
Recall 200907631,458 units in Canada
Other
On certain vehicles, the transmission shift cable adjustment clip may not be fully engaged. Should this occur, the shift lever and the actual position of the transmission gear may not match. As such, the driver could move the shifter to PARK and remove the ignition key, but the transmission gear may not actually be in the PARK position. This could allow the vehicle to roll away, possibly causing property damage and/or personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will inspect and, if required, replace the shift cable.
Recall 2008424536 units in Canada
Seats And Restraints
Certain vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of CMVSS 209 - Seatbelt Assemblies. These vehicles may have been assembled with a safety belt buckle in the second or third row that is missing a rivet. In a vehicle crash, this could allow the buckle to separate from the mounting strap. As a result, the seat occupant may not be restrained as intended, which could cause personal injury or death. Correction: Dealers will inspect the seatbelt buckles in the second and third rows, and replace them if necessary.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
Ten Mile, TNFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The seat caught on fire. Origin of fire started in the seat according to fire officials.
NHTSA complaint #11523103 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Syracuse, NYFire1 injured
ENGINE
My 2009 Buick Enclave CXL, VIN 5GAEV23D79J118427: Engine caught on fire during the time i was driving it. The car hesitated as if it was going to shut off then i saw smoke coming from underneath the front hood, I pulled to the side of the road and stopped the car and open the front hood, my engine was on fire. The fire was located on the passenger side of the car or the left side of the car if you were facing the front of the car. I tried to put the fire out, but the fire got out of control. I called 911 and the fire Department and Police arrived. My car was being repair due to the fire.
NHTSA complaint #11500646 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Independence, MOCrash
STEERING
While driving 65 mph on the hwy, in rush hour traffic my entire steering column came completely out and I lost control of my vehicle causing a 3 car wreck. The only indicator that something was wrong was that just prior to this happening the tilt on my steering wheel came undone 2 times and by the 3rd time when I pushed the wheel back up to lock it into place it came out entirely. There was no lights, no nothing. No tampering of any kind had ever been done to it whatsoever. And no one has looked at it since. It still falls randomly while driving. I have a picture taken about 5 minutes before this happened and one taken after the accident I will upload.
NHTSA complaint #11495974 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 77,000 milesEverett, PAFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING UNKNOWN SPEED, WHEN SHE HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE A SHORT DISTANCE TO HER RESIDENCE. THE DRIVER STATED SMOKE WAS ENTERING THE VENT INSIDE THE CAB. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE SAFETY. A FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACT AND ARRIVED TO THE RESIDENCE AND WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED MAJOR DAMAGE IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER CONTACTED 911 BUT POLICE DID NOT ARRIVE TO THE RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE INSURANCE ADJUSTER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AS OF YET. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATE OF 77,000.
NHTSA complaint #11329171 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlottesville, VA2 injured
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
REAR DOOR LIFTGATE, CLOSES SUDDENLY HARD WHEN TRYING TO OPEN AT ALL TIMES.
NHTSA complaint #11286820 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 30,000 milesMiami, FLFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
MY ENCLAVE 2009 WAS CAUGHT FIRE WHEN IT WAS PARKED STATIONARY IN A GARAGE AT 9:40AM ON 5/30/2016. THE FIRE STARTED FROM THE RIGHT FRONT OF THE VEHICLE, WHICH RESULTS IN THE WHOLE CAR TOTALED. ME AND MY FAMILY HAVE BEEN SUFFERING MUCH FROM THIS EVENT. IT'S HARD TO BELIEVE IT HAPPENED TO OUR VEHICLE. THIS VEHICLE HAS LOW MILEAGE (ABOUT 30,000), WELL MAINTAINED BY US AND GM SHOP IN THE PAST (ALL THE RECORDS ARE AVAILABLE IN GM SYSTEM). ON 5/31 WE REPORTED TO GM WITH DETAILED INFORMATION AND REQUESTED AN INVESTIGATION. ON 6/2, CUSTOMER DEPARTMENT CONTACTED ME, STATING THAT THEY DON'T CARE ABOUT THE CAUSE OF THE FIRE AND THEY DON'T INVOLVE IN AN INVESTIGATION AS WE HAVE OUR INSURANCE COVERED. I TOLD THEM NO MATTER OUR INSURANCE COMPANY INITIATES AN INVESTIGATION OR NOT, AS THE MANUFACTURER, GM NEEDS TO CHECK THIS VEHICLE AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND IMPROVE ITS PRODUCT IF THERE IS A DEFICIT IN GM ENGINE. HOWEVER THEY STILL ASSERTED THAT THEY DON'T TAKE CARE OF SUCH CASE. I HAVE KEPT THE RECORD OF OUR CONVERSATION IN CASE NEEDED. IT'S AN UNHAPPY EXPERIENCE. ALL THE EVIDENCE WE GOT SO FAR SUGGESTED IT'S THE PROBLEM OF THE ELECTRONICAL SYSTEM/ENGINE. WE DON'T WANT IT TO HAPPEN TO OTHER PEOPLE. WE HOPE GM TO HAVE SOMEONE TO INITIATE AN INVESTIGATION ASAP.
NHTSA complaint #10873137 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
Brooklyn, NY
STEERING
Every time I turn right my car turns off. I am able to restart after. I’ve taken it to several mechanic's and no one seems to know the issue. I’ve had my battery change circuits change a tune up and my gas filter changed and the car still doesn’t work.
NHTSA complaint #11681021 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Odometer Fraud. The contact owns a 2009 Buick Enclave. The contact purchased the vehicle from a local used car dealer in April 2025. The contact stated that the odometer and the bill of sales indicated that the mileage was 133,000. The contact stated that while registering the vehicle with Carshield, the contact was informed that the mileage was reported in January 2025 at 163,000. The dealer was made aware of the issue.
NHTSA complaint #11672171 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lafayette, IN
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK
The contact owns a 2009 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that while driving approximately 35 MPH, the rear tailgate unintentionally opened. The contact stated that once the failure had occurred, the contact closed the rear tailgate, and the rear tailgate was inoperable and failed to open. No warning lights were illuminated; however, the message "Gate Lifted" was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken back to the residence. The contact researched and was made aware of an undisclosed recall; however, the VIN was not included. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11649030 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 179,000 milesGaylord, MI
STEERING
The contact owns a 2009 Buick Enclave. The contact stated while reversing at 5 MPH, the steering wheel seized and was inoperable. The contact stated that the vehicle lost motive power. The contact was able to restart the vehicle and drive to his destination. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the steering wheel sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 179,000.
NHTSA complaint #11551090 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Ten Mile, TNFire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The seat caught on fire. Origin of fire started in the seat according to fire officials.
NHTSA complaint #11523103 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesBrooklyn, NY
POWER TRAIN
The contact owns a 2009 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that the rear driver’s side and center seat belt failed to latch securely. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed but no failure could be determined. could not be determined. The contact then stated that on another occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the gear shifter failed to operate in drive(D). The contact stated that the shifter was stuck in drive (Low). As a result, while the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH. Additionally, the contact stated that on multiple occasions, the instrument panel digital display failed to illuminate, and the contact was unable to state whether there were any warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the instrument panel light bulb was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #11511151 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesBrooklyn, NY
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
The contact owns a 2009 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that the rear driver’s side and center seat belt failed to latch securely. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed but no failure could be determined. could not be determined. The contact then stated that on another occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the gear shifter failed to operate in drive(D). The contact stated that the shifter was stuck in drive (Low). As a result, while the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH. Additionally, the contact stated that on multiple occasions, the instrument panel digital display failed to illuminate, and the contact was unable to state whether there were any warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the instrument panel light bulb was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #11511151 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesBrooklyn, NY
SEAT BELTS: REAR/OTHER:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
The contact owns a 2009 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that the rear driver’s side and center seat belt failed to latch securely. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed but no failure could be determined. could not be determined. The contact then stated that on another occasion, while driving at an undisclosed speed, the gear shifter failed to operate in drive(D). The contact stated that the shifter was stuck in drive (Low). As a result, while the accelerator pedal was depressed, the vehicle failed to exceed 30 MPH. Additionally, the contact stated that on multiple occasions, the instrument panel digital display failed to illuminate, and the contact was unable to state whether there were any warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the instrument panel light bulb was replaced; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was not repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 150,000.
NHTSA complaint #11511151 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Syracuse, NYFire1 injured
ENGINE
My 2009 Buick Enclave CXL, VIN 5GAEV23D79J118427: Engine caught on fire during the time i was driving it. The car hesitated as if it was going to shut off then i saw smoke coming from underneath the front hood, I pulled to the side of the road and stopped the car and open the front hood, my engine was on fire. The fire was located on the passenger side of the car or the left side of the car if you were facing the front of the car. I tried to put the fire out, but the fire got out of control. I called 911 and the fire Department and Police arrived. My car was being repair due to the fire.
NHTSA complaint #11500646 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Independence, MOCrash
STEERING
While driving 65 mph on the hwy, in rush hour traffic my entire steering column came completely out and I lost control of my vehicle causing a 3 car wreck. The only indicator that something was wrong was that just prior to this happening the tilt on my steering wheel came undone 2 times and by the 3rd time when I pushed the wheel back up to lock it into place it came out entirely. There was no lights, no nothing. No tampering of any kind had ever been done to it whatsoever. And no one has looked at it since. It still falls randomly while driving. I have a picture taken about 5 minutes before this happened and one taken after the accident I will upload.
NHTSA complaint #11495974 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Charlotte, NC
STEERING
Having problems with the power steering, was a recall but was informed recall has expired. I didn’t purchase the vehicle until 2016, steering wheel is really tight, and going to cost thousands to fix, If this is a problem GM knew about they should at least be willing in some type of assistance to correct it.
NHTSA complaint #11482457 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 42,000 milesNorth Lawrence, OH
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
The contact owns a 2009 Buick Enclave. The contact stated upon pressing the liftgate power button to open the liftgate, the liftgate partially opened and rapidly closed on her. The contact's husband who was standing nearby, held the liftgate manually until she was able to remove herself out of the path of the liftgate. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring and she had to manually open and hold the liftgate open. The contact stated that the software update for the power liftgate actuator motor control unit was previously completed under NHTSA Campaign Number: 15V415000 (Structure) which she associated to the failure. The local dealer was contacted and an appointment was scheduled for repair. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that they could not assist as the recall had been closed. A case was opened. The failure mileage was approximately 42,000.
NHTSA complaint #11462114 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Lehigh Acres, FL
SEAT BELTS
I attempted to put my seatbelt on the cable that attaches the seatbelt to the vehicle broke. If this had failed during an accident, my seatbelt would have failed. I have contacted GMC regarding the issue. They advised me that there was an extended warranty for this item but it has since expired on my vehicle. They are not willing to fix even though it is a big safety concern.
NHTSA complaint #11420659 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 52,000 milesParis, MO
POWER TRAIN
MY WIFE TOOK A TRIP TO SPRINGFIELD ILL. FROM PARIS MO. ON 5/5/21 SHE DROVE APPOX 50 MILES TOWARD SPRINGFIELD ON I72 E.HER TACHOMETER STARTED SHOOTING UP ABOUT 5-6 THOUSAND RPM AT 70MPH .HOT TRANSMISSION LIGHT CAME ON.I TOLD HER TO STOP AN LET IT COOL.THE LIGHT WENT OFF AND SHE PUT IT IN GEAR ONLY TO FIND SHE ONLY HAD LOW GEAR.WE TOOK IT TO S & K BUICK IN SPRINGFIELD ILL. WHERE THEY DIAGNOSED IT . THE WAVE PLATE IN THE TRANSMISSION HAD EXPLODED.WHEN WE EXPLAINED THIS VEHICLE ONLY HAS 52,000 MILES THEY OR GM WOULD DO NOTHING FOR US.WE FIND THAT RIDICULOUS.THEY ONLY USED THAT TRANSMISSION FOR 2 YEARS AND ABRUPTLY STOPPED USING IT.WE HAVE READ OF MANY OF THESE WITH THE SAME ISSUE ON THE INTERNET SITES. KNOW THEY WANT US TO PAY NEARLY $5000.00 TO REPLACE TRANSMISSION.ONCE AGAIN THIS VEHICLE ONLY HAS 52,000 ORIGINAL MILES IS GARAGE KEPT AND IS PAMPERED .THIS IN OUR MIND SHOULD BE A RECALL AND THEY SHOULD HAVE SOME RESPONSIBITY IN THIS ISSUE AT GENERAL MOTORS.ANY HELP WOULD BE APPRECIATED.ALSO WEDNESDAY 5/19/2021 THE DEALER WILL HAVE HAD THIS VEHICLE 2 WEEKS.ANOTHER JOKE.
NHTSA complaint #11416820 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 112,769 milesMassena Springs, NY
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE ILLUMINATION WHILE DRIVING. THERE WERE SEVERAL UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING INSPECTED AT THE RESIDENCE, SHE WAS INFORMED THAT THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARMS AND BALL JOINTS WERE FAULTY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GREENS AUTO REPAIR (23 E ORVIS ST, MASSENA, NY 13662, (315) 514-1282) TO BE DIAGNOSED HOWEVER, THE RESULT WAS STILL PENDING. THE VEHICLE REPAIR WAS STARTED BUT NOT YET COMPLETED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 112,769. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #11373464 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 112,769 milesMassena Springs, NY
SUSPENSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE ILLUMINATION WHILE DRIVING. THERE WERE SEVERAL UNKNOWN WARNING LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE THE VEHICLE WAS BEING INSPECTED AT THE RESIDENCE, SHE WAS INFORMED THAT THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE LOWER CONTROL ARMS AND BALL JOINTS WERE FAULTY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO GREENS AUTO REPAIR (23 E ORVIS ST, MASSENA, NY 13662, (315) 514-1282) TO BE DIAGNOSED HOWEVER, THE RESULT WAS STILL PENDING. THE VEHICLE REPAIR WAS STARTED BUT NOT YET COMPLETED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 112,769. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #11373464 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Missoula, MT
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON PLACING THE GEAR SHIFTER INTO PARK, THE VEHICLE REVERTED TO NEUTRAL WITH THE CIRCUIT RELAY WARNING MESSAGE DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION AND WAS UNABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE. SHE ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL AWAY AS THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE PARKING BRAKE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. UPON INVESTIGATION, THE CONTACT LINKED THE FAILURE TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 09V073000 (POWER TRAIN) HOWEVER, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #11360801 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 119,280 milesColumbia, SC
ENGINE
THE TIMING CHANGE IS LEAKING IT WAS FIXED BACK IN 2019 IT HASN'T EVEN BEEN A YEAR NOW SINCE I HAD IT AND IT'S LEAKING AGAIN I WAS DRIVING HOME WHEN I NOTICED A SMELL LIKE OIL BURNING AND WHEN I PARK THE VEHICLE IT STARTED LEAKING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE WHERE THE TIMEING CHANGE IS HOUSED
NHTSA complaint #11337991 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 74,321 milesYork, PA
STEERING
TRANSMISSION-PUSH ON GAS BUT WOULDN'T MOVE, JUST REVVED UP, WAS PARKED AND TRIED TO LEAVE AND VEHICLE WOULDN'T GO IN REVERSE SO ENDED UP HAVING IT TOWED AND TRANSMISSION REPLACED. LESS THAN 75,000 MILE ON IT. POWER STEERING PUMP-WOULD GO TO TURN WHEEL AND WOULD TAKE BOTH HANDS TO TURN IT BECAUSE IT WAS THAT TIGHT. MOTOR MOUNT FOR STABILITRAK NEEDED REPLACED. WOULD BE DRIVING DOWN ROAD AND IT WOULD BE WOBBLY AND LIGHT WOULD COME ON THAT STABILITRAK/TRACTION CONTROL NEEDED FIXED. HAVE VEHICLE ABOUT 6 MONTHS AND PUT LESS THAN 1,000 MILES ON IT. ONLY HAD 74,000 WHEN I GOT IT. REGRET PURCHASE AND NOW FEEL UNSAFE IN MY OWN CAR.
NHTSA complaint #11337674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 74,321 milesYork, PA
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
TRANSMISSION-PUSH ON GAS BUT WOULDN'T MOVE, JUST REVVED UP, WAS PARKED AND TRIED TO LEAVE AND VEHICLE WOULDN'T GO IN REVERSE SO ENDED UP HAVING IT TOWED AND TRANSMISSION REPLACED. LESS THAN 75,000 MILE ON IT. POWER STEERING PUMP-WOULD GO TO TURN WHEEL AND WOULD TAKE BOTH HANDS TO TURN IT BECAUSE IT WAS THAT TIGHT. MOTOR MOUNT FOR STABILITRAK NEEDED REPLACED. WOULD BE DRIVING DOWN ROAD AND IT WOULD BE WOBBLY AND LIGHT WOULD COME ON THAT STABILITRAK/TRACTION CONTROL NEEDED FIXED. HAVE VEHICLE ABOUT 6 MONTHS AND PUT LESS THAN 1,000 MILES ON IT. ONLY HAD 74,000 WHEN I GOT IT. REGRET PURCHASE AND NOW FEEL UNSAFE IN MY OWN CAR.
NHTSA complaint #11337674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 74,321 milesYork, PA
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)
TRANSMISSION-PUSH ON GAS BUT WOULDN'T MOVE, JUST REVVED UP, WAS PARKED AND TRIED TO LEAVE AND VEHICLE WOULDN'T GO IN REVERSE SO ENDED UP HAVING IT TOWED AND TRANSMISSION REPLACED. LESS THAN 75,000 MILE ON IT. POWER STEERING PUMP-WOULD GO TO TURN WHEEL AND WOULD TAKE BOTH HANDS TO TURN IT BECAUSE IT WAS THAT TIGHT. MOTOR MOUNT FOR STABILITRAK NEEDED REPLACED. WOULD BE DRIVING DOWN ROAD AND IT WOULD BE WOBBLY AND LIGHT WOULD COME ON THAT STABILITRAK/TRACTION CONTROL NEEDED FIXED. HAVE VEHICLE ABOUT 6 MONTHS AND PUT LESS THAN 1,000 MILES ON IT. ONLY HAD 74,000 WHEN I GOT IT. REGRET PURCHASE AND NOW FEEL UNSAFE IN MY OWN CAR.
NHTSA complaint #11337674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 77,000 milesEverett, PAFire
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE HIS WIFE WAS DRIVING UNKNOWN SPEED, WHEN SHE HEARD AN ABNORMAL NOISE AND THE STEERING WHEEL BECAME DIFFICULT TO TURN. THE CONTACT STATED NO WARNING LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE A SHORT DISTANCE TO HER RESIDENCE. THE DRIVER STATED SMOKE WAS ENTERING THE VENT INSIDE THE CAB. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE SAFETY. A FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CONTACT AND ARRIVED TO THE RESIDENCE AND WAS ABLE TO EXTINGUISH THE FIRE. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE SUSTAINED MAJOR DAMAGE IN THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER CONTACTED 911 BUT POLICE DID NOT ARRIVE TO THE RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DRIVABLE. THE INSURANCE ADJUSTER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED AS OF YET. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD BEEN INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATE OF 77,000.
NHTSA complaint #11329171 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 14,400 milesDetroit, MI
STEERING
IT WAS HARD TO STEER THE CAR AND TO TURN IT WAS VERY DIFFICULTY TO DO.
NHTSA complaint #11327103 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesBrooten, MN
STEERING
STEERING LOCKS UP PERIODICALLY IN MOTION AT SLOW SPEED WHEN MAKING A TURN ON HIGHWAY ALSO FROM A DEAD STOP WHEN TURNING LEAVING A INTERSECTION. ARM STRONG POWER STEERING MEANING VERY HARD TO TURN.
NHTSA complaint #11319886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,488 milesBlackville, SC
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
WHILE DRIVING MY CAR TWICE THIS WEEK MY VEHICLE TURNED OFF WHILE I WAS DRIVING. ONE OF THE TIMES IT CUT OFF AT THE LIGHT WHILE I WAS TURNING.
NHTSA complaint #11319402 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.