Buick Enclave research: recalls, reliability and buyer's guide
The Enclave is Buick's largest SUV, known for a quiet ride, upscale cabin and a usable third row. The 2011-2017 models use a 288-hp V6 and 6-speed automatic (refreshed for 2013 with a new dash and the first front center airbag); the redesigned 2018-2024 models have a 310-hp V6, 9-speed automatic and the luxury Avenir trim, with a 2022 refresh that made automatic emergency braking standard. The 2025 redesign switched to a 328-hp turbo four and a 30-inch display.
Model years covered: 2011–2026. The Enclave is in production; the 2025-2026 third generation uses a 2.5L turbo four. Verify 2026 specs and equipment against current Buick data.
Last updated 2026-10-15.
Strengths
- Quiet comfortable ride
- Spacious three row cabin
- Upscale interior materials
- Smooth V6 power 2011 2024
- Available AWD
- Standard safety suite 2022 and later
- Strong turbo four and large display 2025 and later
Things to know before you buy
- First generation airbag recalls must be checked by VIN
- First generation timing chain and transmission inspection
- Fuel economy is modest for the class
- Heavy vehicle wears tires and brakes
- 2013 2018 2022 and 2025 are key change years
- 2025 and later use a turbo four instead of a V6
- Recall status should be checked by VIN
Generations
Generation 1 (2008–2017)
The first-generation Enclave (2008-2017, on GM's Lambda platform shared with the Traverse and Acadia) uses a direct-injected 3.6L V6 rated about 288 hp and 270 lb-ft with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. A 2013 refresh brought new styling, a redesigned dash with IntelliLink, LED lighting and an industry-first front center airbag.
Buyer takeaway: These are the most affordable Enclaves and still offer a big, quiet cabin. Prefer 2013-2017 for the updated interior; confirm airbag recalls are done and look for oil-change and transmission service records because timing-chain and transmission repairs can be costly.
Generation 2 (2018–2024)
The second-generation Enclave (2018-2024) is lighter and roomier, with a 310-hp, 266 lb-ft 3.6L V6, 9-speed automatic, available twin-clutch AWD and the new Avenir trim. The 2022 refresh added new styling, a push-button shifter, wireless smartphone integration and a standard safety suite with automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist.
Buyer takeaway: A strong choice for a modern, V6-powered luxury three-row SUV. Choose 2022-2024 for the standard safety features; test-drive for smooth 9-speed shifts and confirm recalls by VIN.
Generation 3 (2025–present)
The third-generation Enclave (2025-present) uses a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder with 328 hp and 326 lb-ft, an 8-speed automatic and FWD or AWD, a 30-inch widescreen display, and available Super Cruise. Trims are Preferred, Sport Touring and Avenir.
Buyer takeaway: Best for buyers who want the newest technology and safety features with warranty coverage. Buyers who prefer a V6 should look at 2018-2024 models.
Buick Enclave by model year
2026 Buick Enclave
The 2026 Enclave continues the third generation with the 328-hp 2.5L turbo four, 8-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, and the 30-inch display; EPA lists FWD at about 20/25 mpg. Trims remain Preferred, Sport Touring and Avenir. Verify 2026 equipment and pricing against current Buick data, and check the VIN for any open recalls.
- Engines: 2.5 liter turbo I4 328 hp 326 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2025
- Verify 2026 specs against current buick data
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Turbo engine warm start and boost behavior; 8 speed automatic shift quality; 30 inch display and software updates; Super cruise and driver assistance if equipped; AWD engagement if equipped; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2025 Buick Enclave
The 2025 Enclave is all-new, with a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder (328 hp, 326 lb-ft) and an 8-speed automatic in place of the V6, rated about 20/27 mpg with FWD. Every trim (Preferred, Sport Touring, Avenir) gets a 30-inch widescreen display, and it is the first Buick with available Super Cruise hands-free driving. IIHS named the 2025 a Top Safety Pick+.
- Engines: 2.5 liter turbo I4 328 hp 326 lb ft
- Transmissions: 8 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new third generation
- 2.5 liter turbo four replaces the V6
- New 8 speed automatic
- 30 inch widescreen display standard
- First buick with available super cruise
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Turbo engine warm start and boost behavior; 8 speed automatic shift quality; 30 inch display and software updates; Super cruise and driver assistance if equipped; AWD engagement if equipped; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2024 Buick Enclave
The 2024 Enclave is the final second-generation model and the last Enclave with the 310-hp 3.6L V6 and 9-speed automatic (about 18/26 mpg FWD). It keeps the 2022 refresh's standard safety suite. Buyers who prefer a naturally aspirated V6 over the 2025 model's turbocharged four-cylinder should consider 2022-2024.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Final year of second generation
- Last enclave with a V6
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; 9 speed automatic shift quality at low speed; Engine stop start operation; AWD engagement if equipped; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2023 Buick Enclave
The 2023 Enclave continues the refreshed design with the standard safety suite, wireless smartphone integration, the 310-hp 3.6L V6 and a 9-speed automatic with FWD or AWD (about 18/26 mpg FWD). It is a good choice for buyers who want modern safety features and the proven V6 rather than the 2025 turbo four.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2022
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; 9 speed automatic shift quality at low speed; Engine stop start operation; AWD engagement if equipped; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2022 Buick Enclave
The 2022 Enclave got a mid-cycle refresh: new front styling with slim LED lights, revised taillights, a push-button shifter, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and an available head-up display. Automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert became standard. The 310-hp V6 and 9-speed carry over (about 18/26 mpg FWD).
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- New front and rear styling with slim LED lights
- Standard automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist
- Standard blind spot and rear cross traffic alert
- Push button shifter and wireless carplay android auto
- Available head up display
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; 9 speed automatic shift quality at low speed; Engine stop start operation; AWD engagement if equipped; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2021 Buick Enclave
The 2021 Enclave is the last year of the original second-generation styling, with the 310-hp 3.6L V6, 9-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 18/26 mpg FWD). It offers the same space and power as the refreshed 2022 at a lower price, but automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist are not standard on every trim, so confirm the equipment.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Last year before the 2022 refresh
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; 9 speed automatic shift quality at low speed; Engine stop start operation; AWD engagement if equipped; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2020 Buick Enclave
The 2020 Enclave continues with the 310-hp 3.6L V6, 9-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 18/26 mpg FWD). Advanced safety features such as automatic emergency braking were mostly optional before 2022, so check the window sticker or equipment. Several 2020 recalls apply to specific builds, including the transmission accumulator, so run the VIN.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Stop start accumulator recall completion; 9 speed automatic shift quality at low speed; Engine stop start operation; AWD engagement if equipped; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2019 Buick Enclave
The 2019 Enclave carries over the redesigned second generation: a 310-hp 3.6L V6, 9-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, and trims topped by Avenir (about 18/26 mpg FWD). Some 2019-2020 Enclaves are in a recall to inspect the transmission's stop-start accumulator cover bolts, so confirm it by VIN.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2018
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Stop start accumulator recall completion; 9 speed automatic shift quality at low speed; Engine stop start operation; AWD engagement if equipped; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2018 Buick Enclave
The 2018 Enclave was fully redesigned with sleeker styling, a longer wheelbase and more interior space. A new 3.6L V6 (310 hp, 266 lb-ft) pairs with a 9-speed automatic, and AWD models use a twin-clutch system. It debuted the luxury Avenir trim. Fuel economy improved to about 18/26 mpg with FWD. As a first-year model, check that software updates and recalls are complete.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 310 hp 266 lb ft
- Transmissions: 9 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- All new second generation
- New 310 hp V6 with 9 speed automatic
- New avenir luxury trim
- Lighter body with more cabin space
- Available twin clutch AWD
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Software updates and first year recalls; 9 speed automatic shift quality at low speed; Engine stop start operation; AWD engagement if equipped; Infotainment and camera operation; Driver assistance sensors and warnings; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2017 Buick Enclave
The 2017 Enclave is the last of the first generation, still using the 288-hp 3.6L V6 and 6-speed automatic with FWD or AWD (about 15/22 mpg FWD). It has the most mature version of the original design but older technology than the redesigned 2018. Shoppers comparing 2017 with 2018 should weigh the newer model's 9-speed, lighter body and modern tech.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Final year of first generation
- Largely carryover
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Airbag recall completion by VIN; Timing chain noise or codes on 3.6 liter V6; 6 speed automatic shift quality and slipping; Service airbag warning light; Oil change records; Power liftgate operation; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2016 Buick Enclave
The 2016 Enclave is a late first-generation model with the same 288-hp 3.6L V6, 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD. The published EPA ratings for 2016-2017 are about 15/22 mpg city/highway with FWD, lower than earlier listings. It offers big-SUV space at a lower price than the 2018 redesign; look for good oil-change records and a quiet cold start.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Published EPA ratings about 15 22 mpg FWD
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Airbag recall completion by VIN; Timing chain noise or codes on 3.6 liter V6; 6 speed automatic shift quality and slipping; Service airbag warning light; Oil change records; Power liftgate operation; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2015 Buick Enclave
The 2015 Enclave is a carryover of the refreshed first generation: 288-hp 3.6L V6, 6-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, and seating for seven or eight (about 17/24 mpg FWD). GM's OnStar 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot arrived across many 2015 models, so confirm it on the specific vehicle. Driver-airbag inflator recalls cover these years; check completion by VIN.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Onstar 4g lte wifi availability verify by equipment
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Airbag recall completion by VIN; Timing chain noise or codes on 3.6 liter V6; 6 speed automatic shift quality and slipping; Service airbag warning light; Oil change records; Power liftgate operation; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2014 Buick Enclave
The 2014 Enclave continues the refreshed 2013 design with IntelliLink, the front center airbag and available blind-spot monitoring. Power still comes from the 288-hp 3.6L V6 with a 6-speed automatic and FWD or AWD (about 17/24 mpg FWD). A 2013-2017 Enclave gives the most modern first-generation cabin; recall completion and service history matter more than the exact year.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover from 2013
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Airbag recall completion by VIN; Timing chain noise or codes on 3.6 liter V6; 6 speed automatic shift quality and slipping; Service airbag warning light; Oil change records; Power liftgate operation; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2013 Buick Enclave
The 2013 Enclave got a meaningful refresh: a new chrome waterfall grille, HID headlights with LED running lights, LED taillights, and a redesigned dashboard with richer materials and the IntelliLink touchscreen. It also introduced an industry-first front center airbag and available blind-spot monitoring. The 288-hp 3.6L V6, 6-speed automatic and FWD/AWD carry over (about 17/24 mpg FWD).
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Refreshed grille lights and bumpers
- Redesigned dashboard with intellilink touchscreen
- Industry first front center airbag
- Available blind spot monitoring
- LED taillights and daytime running lights
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Airbag recall completion by VIN; Timing chain noise or codes on 3.6 liter V6; 6 speed automatic shift quality and slipping; Service airbag warning light; Oil change records; Power liftgate operation; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2012 Buick Enclave
The 2012 Enclave carries over the original design: a 288-hp 3.6L V6, 6-speed automatic, FWD or AWD, and a roomy three-row cabin (about 17/24 mpg with FWD). It is the last year before the 2013 refresh, so it lacks the later touchscreen and front center airbag but can be a value buy. Several airbag recalls cover these years, so confirm they were completed by VIN.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- Last year before the 2013 refresh
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Airbag recall completion by VIN; Timing chain noise or codes on 3.6 liter V6; 6 speed automatic shift quality and slipping; Service airbag warning light; Oil change records; Power liftgate operation; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
2011 Buick Enclave
The 2011 Enclave is a first-generation, three-row Buick crossover with seating for seven or eight. Every one uses a direct-injected 3.6L V6 (about 288 hp and 270 lb-ft) with a 6-speed automatic and front- or all-wheel drive, rated about 17/24 mpg city/highway with FWD. It rides quietly and has a roomy third row; check timing-chain health, transmission behavior and airbag recall completion by VIN.
- Engines: 3.6 liter V6 288 hp 270 lb ft
- Transmissions: 6 speed automatic
- Drivetrain: Front wheel drive; All wheel drive available
- Body style: 5 door three row crossover SUV
What changed:
- Largely carryover
- 3.6 liter direct injection V6 with 6 speed automatic
- Seven or eight passenger seating
What to inspect: Open recalls by VIN; Airbag recall completion by VIN; Timing chain noise or codes on 3.6 liter V6; 6 speed automatic shift quality and slipping; Service airbag warning light; Oil change records; Power liftgate operation; Third row seat folding mechanisms; Tire wear and alignment; Brakes; Maintenance history.
Known issues and what to check
- Driver Airbag Inflator Recalls (2008-2017) (2011–2017)
GM has recalled 2008-2017 Enclaves (NHTSA 21V-782 and 23V-334, plus related campaigns) because the driver's airbag inflator may rupture during deployment due to a manufacturing defect. The fix is a free replacement of the driver airbag module. Applicability depends on the VIN.
What to do: Check the VIN for open airbag recalls and have any open recall completed before regular use. - Side-Impact Airbag Wiring Recall (2008-2013) (2011–2013)
Recall 14V-118 covers 2008-2013 Enclaves: increased resistance in the seat-mounted side airbag wiring connectors can turn on the 'Service Air Bag' warning and may keep the side airbags and seat-belt pretensioners from deploying. Dealers replace the connections with soldered connections at no charge.
What to do: Make sure the airbag light goes out after startup and that the recall is completed. - 3.6L V6 Timing Chain Wear (First Generation) (2011–2017)
The first-generation Enclave's direct-injected 3.6L V6 is known for timing-chain stretch on some engines, more often on earlier Lambda-platform vehicles and when oil changes were stretched out. It is an expensive repair. Not every engine is affected.
What to do: Ask for oil-change records and have the engine scanned for timing-related codes before buying. - First-Generation 6-Speed Automatic Inspection (2011–2017)
The 6-speed automatic in the first-generation Enclave has a reported history of internal failures (commonly described as loss of third, fifth and reverse gears) on some higher-mileage vehicles. Fluid condition and shift behavior are the best clues.
What to do: Road test carefully, including reverse and highway shifts, and favor vehicles with transmission service records. - Transmission Stop/Start Accumulator Recall (2019-2020) (2019–2020)
Recall 20V-668 covers certain 2019-2020 Enclaves: the 9-speed transmission's stop/start accumulator end cap may be missing bolts, which can leak transmission fluid. Dealers inspect and replace the accumulator if needed, at no charge.
What to do: Confirm the accumulator recall is complete on a 2019-2020 Enclave. - 9-Speed Automatic and Stop-Start Behavior (2018-2024) (2018–2024)
The 2018-2024 Enclave pairs its 310-hp V6 with a 9-speed automatic and engine stop-start. Some owners report busy or harsh low-speed shifts; software updates have addressed some drivability concerns. Check shift quality and that stop-start restarts smoothly.
What to do: Test drive in traffic and ask whether transmission software updates were performed. - Enclave Generation and Sibling Disambiguation (2011–2026)
The Enclave shares platforms with the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia (and the first generation with the Saturn Outlook), but specifications and equipment differ. U.S. Enclaves use a 288-hp V6 (2011-2017), a 310-hp V6 (2018-2024) or a 328-hp 2.5L turbo four (2025-2026). A different, shorter Enclave was sold in China.
What to do: Confirm the generation, engine and trim by VIN before comparing prices or specs.
Recalls
Recall applicability varies by model year, production date, equipment and VIN. Check the VIN for current open recalls, especially driver-airbag inflator recalls on 2008-2017 Enclaves.
Similar vehicles to consider
- Chevrolet Traverse
- GMC Acadia
- Acura MDX
- Infiniti QX60
- Lincoln Aviator
- Volvo XC90
- Kia Telluride
- Hyundai Palisade
- Toyota Highlander
- Ford Explorer
Questions this guide answers
- What generation is this Buick Enclave?
- What engine does this Enclave have?
- What changed in the 2013, 2018, 2022 and 2025 Enclave?
- Does this Enclave have open airbag recalls?
- Is the first-generation Enclave's timing chain a concern?
- What fuel economy does the Enclave get?
- How does the Enclave compare with the Traverse and Acadia?
- Which Enclave years have standard emergency braking?
- What should I inspect on a used Enclave?
- What similar vehicles should I consider?