378 of the
3,307 complaints filed about the Buick Enclave
are about the engine —
11% of everything owners reported.
The worst model year for it is 2008.
Front exhaust pipe separated from its mounting bracket causing a consistent rattle. This condition is exactly as described in "N222385510 - Special Coverage Front Exhaust Pipe", released in May 2023. Exhaust components in this vehicle are materially the same as the covered 2021 vehicles and thus this vehicle should be similarly covered. Issue has been confirmed by a dealer and is available for further inspection.
NHTSA complaint #11749965 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The engine, power steering, stabilitrak, and reduced engine power (vehicle would essentially die while driving at random times). My safety AND others were put at risk when I am traveling down the road/interstate and the engine just cuts out and am no longer able to accelerate to any speeds, causing me to have to pull over to the shoulder WITHOUT ANY ENGINE POWER. Yes, the problem has reproduced and confirmed with the dealer I purchased from. Vehicle has not been inspected by the above mentioned. Only had it inspected by the dealer I purchased the vehicle from. There were no prior lamps, messages, or other symptoms until it just showed up while driving one day. It happens at the same time as the engine loses power and acceleration. The check engine light comes on, within 2-3 seconds the engine "dies" and then the "Service stabilitrak" pops up, as well as the warning "Reduced Engine Power". This first appeared on approximately on 05 JUN 2026. Vehicle was purchased on 12 MAY 2026.
NHTSA complaint #11749611 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Traction stabilization light comes on very frequently and vehicle loses power, step on gas and it sputters can’t get out of any one’s way, they throw parts at it and never fixes. From feedback off internet a big problem 2008-2017 enclaves
NHTSA complaint #11749129 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Driving home from work on interstate, 2 month old 2026 Buick enclave jolted and shut off completely while going 65mph. Barely pulled over safely to the left side (Oklahoma drivers). Restarted car, check engine light illuminated with messages of reduced engine power (limp mode up to 35mph) while stuck on highway, traction control and esc disabled. Was able to get off highway and limp to nearest GM dealer. They performed diagnostics 3 days later and replaced the fuel rail pressure sensor. It did not fix it. More codes according to dealer and they are involving engineers. Moving next week on military orders and car is still being worked on with no estimate of time to complete. Insanely concerning safety hazard for a brand new car to shut off on the highway. Could have died or killed others in accident. Unable to invoke lemon law yet but not comfortable driving the car again especially across the country on limited time.
NHTSA complaint #11747495 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECU/ECM)
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle shut off and failed to restart. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the alternator was replaced 4 times before the dealer diagnosed that the failure was due to oil leaking onto the alternator and the battery. The contact stated that the alternator had been replaced 6 times in total. Additionally, the contact stated while pulling out of the parking lot and onto the road, the vehicle shut off. The messages "Electronic Control Module Failure", "Battery Saver Active", "Battery Charging System" and "Steering Assist Is Reduced- Drive with Care" were displayed. The vehicle failed to restart and was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with the Electronic Control Module (ECM) and alternator failures. The vehicle was being repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.
NHTSA complaint #11740184 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am submitting a complaint regarding premature exhaust system failure on my 2020 Buick Enclave involving the front exhaust pipe/exhaust manifold/catalytic converter assembly. The issue appears very similar to the conditions described in GM Special Coverage programs N212356540 and N242445280 involving exhaust pipe and bracket failures on related GM crossover platforms. The mounting brackets/support brackets on the front exhaust pipe appear to fail or separate, which places excessive stress on the flex section of the exhaust system. This movement and stress can cause the flex pipe/manifold area to crack and may ultimately damage the catalytic converter assembly itself. My vehicle developed: Exhaust leak Loud ticking/exhaust noise Rich/lean oxygen sensor fault conditions Exhaust fumes entering or potentially entering the cabin Passenger dizziness while riding in the vehicle Concern for carbon monoxide exposure The repair facility documented that the exhaust leak should be repaired as soon as possible because exhaust fumes may enter the vehicle cabin. The estimated repair cost is approximately $1,700 for replacement of the integrated catalytic converter/exhaust manifold assembly. This appears to be more than ordinary wear and tear. The failure pattern is consistent with bracket/support failure causing abnormal stress and cracking in the exhaust system upstream near emissions components. Because these failures can allow exhaust gases and possible carbon monoxide exposure into the passenger compartment, I believe this issue represents a significant safety concern and warrants investigation for 2020 Buick Enclave vehicles and related GM crossover platforms.
NHTSA complaint #11739092 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
While driving, the vehicle suddenly and without warning experienced a severe, dangerous loss of acceleration. The dashboard immediately displayed a "Reduced Engine Power" warning message along with a "Service StabiliTrak" light, forcing the vehicle into an immediate electronic fail-safe "limp mode." This sudden, drastic reduction in engine power severely restricts the vehicle's ability to maintain safe roadway speeds, accelerate from a stop, or merge safely into traffic, posing an immediate rear-end collision hazard to myself and other motorists. Furthermore, the defect simultaneously disables critical active safety systems by shutting down the StabiliTrak and Traction Control networks. A diagnostic scan revealed code P2138 (Accelerator Pedal Position Sensors 1-2 Correlation Not Plausible). Investigation reveals that this is a widespread, systemic safety defect caused by design flaws in the vehicle's body. Rainwater and moisture from clogged factory sunroof drains or cowl seams leak directly down into the interior cabin wall, pooling into the primary instrument panel-to-body wiring harness block (X218 connector) in the driver's side footwell. This water intrusion causes green corrosion on the delicate pins, short-circuiting the 5-volt reference sensor circuit for the throttle controls while the vehicle is in motion. General Motors is fully aware of this exact defect and has documented it internally via Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) #10-00-89-017H (and related GM TSBs). Because this defect causes unexpected, immediate engine failure and disables traction safety networks while driving, it constitutes a severe safety hazard that should be escalated to a mandatory safety recall.
NHTSA complaint #11738309 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Exhaust leak from broken front exhaust pipe. This has been a known defect in this make/model however the year of my vehicle was not included in the extended repair window and should have been. The exhaust leak was identified by the dealership when the vehicle was taken in for other maintenance. I had to pay for the repair myself and would like to be reimbursed due to this being a manufacturer known defect with the exhaust pipe. The exhaust leak caused unusual noises, a loud roaring, and reduced gas mileage. This was also a danger for carbon monoxide exposure.
NHTSA complaint #11735792 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Why enclave Burns about 1 to 2 quarts of oil in between oil changes so I'm constantly having to check the oil level and put more oil in it which come really close to being out of oil and causing the engine to seize Buick says this is normal and I don't think it is I have never had a car that uses oil like this new or used in addition to that the transmission is locked up twice since we have owned it and can't get it out of park can't drive it can't use it. Had to have it towed . The first time that the transmission gave issues it didn't lock up in park it locked up in drive and we couldn't put it in park I was able to get it to the dealer to get worked on it was still under warranty at that time the second time it wouldn't go out of park and could not move it it was stuck wherever we happen to be at and it would not move when they loaded it on the tow truck to tow it down to the dealer the wheels were locked up cuz it was in park and we couldn't it had to just be drug onto the truck.
NHTSA complaint #11732460 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2019 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that while driving in traffic at 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The horn and wipers turned on unexpectedly. The contact stated that the vehicle lost power steering functionality and was inoperable and the vehicle jerked. The doors failed to unlock, and the air conditioner was inoperable on a hot day, and the contact had symptoms of hyperventilation. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the windows failed to roll up or down. Eventually, the vehicle failed to turn off, and the owner disconnected the battery. A towing company was called to tow the vehicle. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 72,000.
NHTSA complaint #11730218 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from under the hood. Additionally, there was an abnormal exhaust odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the passenger’s side flex pipe bracket had cracked, causing damages to the catalytic converter. The contact was informed that the flex pipe and catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was 52,580.
NHTSA complaint #11730120 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
I am submitting this formal complaint regarding serious mechanical and safety issues with my 2020 Buick Enclave. These issues have created ongoing financial hardship, significant safety concerns, and an urgent need for investigation and resolution. Over the past several months, my vehicle has repeatedly displayed low‑oil notifications, sometimes occurring within one month of receiving a full oil change. During a recent visit to my mechanic for yet another low‑oil alert, he recalled that I had previously brought the vehicle in for the same issue. After conducting a more thorough inspection, he informed me that there was a failure within the engine/transmission assembly. He showed me the area where oil was seeping from the engine. I also inspected the oil filter and oil plug, both of which showed no signs of leakage. Following this diagnosis, I brought the vehicle to Royal Buick GMC. Their service department performed a SAVI Dongle test and a GM‑Certified Multi‑Point Inspection. The service technician informed me that the vehicle requires a complete engine replacement including the following: replacement of the engine, repair of a rear main seal failure, resealing of the oil pan, and replacement of the lower control arm. It is my belief that these issues are consistent with reported problems. In addition to the oil‑related failures, I have experienced sudden acceleration and jerking while driving. These incidents are alarming and pose a serious risk to my safety and the safety of others on the road. I am deeply concerned that this defect could lead to an accident through no fault of my own. This vehicle is my only means of transportation for work and for caring for my family. The cost and severity of the required repairs are catastrophic, and I believe the manufacturer should be held responsible for addressing these defects. I respectfully request that the NHTSA investigate these issues and assist in ensuring that GM/Buick replaces the engine for its safe operation.
NHTSA complaint #11728514 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. The vehicle was reversed out of the driveway; however, after shifting into drive(D) and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle jerked, vibrated, and the check engine warning light and other unknown warning lights illuminated. After several minutes, the vehicle functioned as intended. A short distance later, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, but no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was taken to a private dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the catalytic converter was clogged, and that the electronic brake control center module and the transmission module had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
NHTSA complaint #11727512 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Catastrophic engine failure. We were left stranded in [XXX] while on a trip. No warning lamps. Vehicle was towed and inspected by the Buick dealership service department. Took 3 months to get our vehicle back which had to be transported back to the state in which we live. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11726348 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The vehicle developed an exhaust leak caused by both weld points on the front exhaust pipe breaking. A dealership inspected the vehicle and confirmed that the exhaust welds had failed, creating a hole in the exhaust pipe and triggering a P0420 catalyst efficiency code. The failure occurred at approximately 31,500 miles. The exhaust leak caused increased exhaust noise and emissions warning codes. The dealership recommended replacement of the front exhaust pipe assembly. This appears similar to known failures on the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse platform where the front exhaust pipe mounting bracket separates from the pipe due to weld failure. GM has issued special coverage adjustments for similar exhaust pipe bracket weld failures on other model years of these vehicles. The failure occurred at relatively low mileage and appears to be a structural weld defect in the exhaust system.
NHTSA complaint #11724643 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Dear NHTSA Safety Team, I am submitting a formal safety complaint regarding my 2020 Buick Enclave (VIN: [XXX] ). My vehicle has experienced repeated engine shutdowns while driving, creating a serious safety hazard. Vehicle & Incident Details: * Make/Model/Year: 2020 Buick Enclave * VIN: [XXX] * Mileage: ~116,834 miles (purchased at ~62,000 miles, used) * Purchase Date: [Insert Month/Year] * Dealer: Kyle Durrence Claxton Dealership Repair History: * First repair attempt: TPMS system * Second repair attempt: Connector assembly block * Total out-of-pocket spent: $4,000+ * Despite these repairs, the vehicle continues to shut off unexpectedly while driving. Safety Impact: * Engine shuts off while the vehicle is in motion, creating a risk of collision. * Vehicle is my only mode of transportation. * Dealership has not provided a loaner vehicle. Additional Concerns: * I have discovered forged signatures on my original finance/loan paperwork from the dealership, which I previously reported to the dealership General Manager without response. Requested Action: I request that NHTSA record this safety issue, investigate the repeated engine shutdowns, and consider whether this defect warrants a recall or further manufacturer action. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
NHTSA complaint #11719053 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Car was purchased on 1/2/25 and first issue with vehicle was on 1/30/25 for check engine light. Feb 20,2025-Check engine light, car shakes, radio and dash go in and out, passenger rear window screeches. issues fixed except vibration. May 26, 2025 check engine light. rear window still making noise-fixed . Trunk gets stuck-no fix. Unaligned lane assist, car continues to shake. Sept, 26 2025-Brakes continue to make noise and now pulsate. Dealer found that pads and rotors were warped and had discoloration, and were replaced under warranty at 11,845 miles. CAR WAS IN SERVICE FROM SEPT 26-OCT 23, 2025. BRAKE NOISE STARTED 2 DAYS LATER-TEXTED ADVISOR Dec 4-Car continues to shake and brakes continue to make squealing noise. Have email from GM TAC stating "SOME noise from the brakes is a normal characteristic, especially if the brakes are cold or wet. this is a condition we have no control over as it has to deal with the environment and weather. I LIVE IN FLORIDA! CAR WAS IN SERIVCE DEC 4-DEC 26, 2025. NO RESOLUTION AGAIN Feb 6-Car leaking and overheating, passenger rear window not going down, exterior antenna cover came off, still shaking and brakes still squeaking. I WAS TOLD BRAKES ARE NO LONGER UNDER WARRANTY AND NOTHING THE CAN DO AFTER 7,500 MILES YET THEY WERE PREVIOUSLY REPLACED AT 11k MILES AND I'VE VOICE CONCERN FOR MONTHS AND NOTHING WAS DONE BEFORE. AND OTHERS WERE REPLACED EVEN OVER 7,50MILES I am concerned over the safety of myself and my family with these continues brake issues.
NHTSA complaint #11718769 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? - Had to do with the Transmission. Something about internal loose bolts from the factory in the torque converter that cause transmission fluid leakage and making the car undrivable. Might be related to PIP6005 or CSP N242473580) How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? Not being able to take off from a stoplight could have been easily rear ended. Had it broke a came to a complete stop on the interstate, my wife and kids could have been killed from high speed impact at the rear of the vehicle could have life impacting injuries or death. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? Yes Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? Inspected by Dealer Don Hewlett Chevrolet Were there any warning lamps, messages or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? None at all
NHTSA complaint #11712231 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.