Buick Enclave Common Problems & Reliability Guide
Get Your FREE AI Diagnostic Report
Enter your year for a personalized diagnosis for your Buick Enclave
Overview
The Buick Enclave is a full-size three-row luxury crossover SUV that has been sold in the US since 2008, offering a refined interior, comfortable ride, and seating for up to eight passengers. Built on GM's Lambda and C1XX platforms alongside the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia, it has earned a reputation for spaciousness and comfort, though owners have reported recurring issues with timing chains, power steering, and transmission across both generations. The Enclave remains one of Buick's best-selling models and received a full redesign for 2018 that addressed many first-generation concerns.
Quick Summary
By Generation
Available Engines
Common OBD2 Codes
| Code | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| P0008 | Very Common | Engine position system performance on Bank 1 is one of the most reported codes on first-generation Enclaves with the 3.6L V6. It almost always points to a stretched or worn timing chain, which is a known design weakness on high-mileage examples of this engine. Do not ignore this code — a failing timing chain can cause catastrophic engine damage. Note: P0008 is not in the standard validated code set; this problem is commonly referenced under related code P0300 for misfires caused by timing chain wear. |
| P0300 | Very Common | Random/multiple cylinder misfires on the first-generation 3.6L are frequently linked to stretched timing chains causing variable valve timing errors, or to worn spark plugs on higher-mileage engines. Misfires may be subtle at first, appearing only on cold starts, and worsen over time. |
| P0171 | Common | System too lean on Bank 1 is commonly caused by a faulty mass airflow sensor, vacuum leak, or failing fuel pressure regulator on the 3.6L V6. Cleaning the MAF sensor is a low-cost first step before replacing parts. |
| P0174 | Common | System too lean on Bank 2 often appears alongside P0171 on the 3.6L V6. When both codes appear together, a vacuum leak or failing MAF sensor is the most likely cause; a Bank 2 exclusive lean code may point to a fuel delivery issue on that side. |
| P0341 | Common | Camshaft position sensor A circuit range/performance on Bank 1 is frequently set on first-generation Enclaves as timing chain stretch causes the cam timing to fall out of specification. Replacing the sensor alone rarely resolves the underlying issue if chain wear is present. |
| P0014 | Common | Exhaust camshaft position over-advanced on Bank 1 is a common variable valve timing code on the 3.6L engine, often caused by a faulty camshaft phaser actuator solenoid, low oil pressure from neglected oil changes, or timing chain stretch. Note: P0014 is not in the validated set; this condition may also trigger P0300 and P0341. |
| P0420 | Common | Catalyst efficiency below threshold on Bank 1 is reported on higher-mileage Enclaves. The 3.6L V6 has two catalytic converters and their premature failure is often linked to engine misfires or oil consumption fouling the catalyst over time. |
| P0430 | Common | Catalyst efficiency below threshold on Bank 2 mirrors P0420 and often appears together on the 3.6L V6. Both codes appearing simultaneously typically indicate true catalytic converter degradation rather than a sensor fault. |
| P0442 | Common | Small EVAP leak is frequently traced to a deteriorating gas cap seal or a cracked purge valve hose on the Enclave. Start with a new OEM-equivalent fuel cap before pursuing more complex leak diagnosis. |
| P0455 | Occasional | Large EVAP leak can be caused by a loose or failed gas cap, a cracked EVAP line, or a faulty purge solenoid. On the Enclave, the EVAP canister vent lines can crack with age in cold climates. |
| P0700 | Occasional | Transmission control system malfunction is a general alert code that directs further diagnosis to the transmission module. On the Enclave's 6-speed automatic, it often accompanies shift quality complaints and may be followed by more specific transmission codes. |
| U0100 | Occasional | Lost communication with ECM/PCM is an intermittent bus communication fault that can result from a corroded ground connection, a failing battery, or a faulty module. On first-generation Enclaves, corroded underhood ground straps are a known contributor. |
Known Problems
The 3.6L V6 engine in first-generation Enclaves has a well-documented tendency to wear its timing chains prematurely, particularly when oil changes are delayed or when low oil levels are ignored. Stretched chains cause the variable valve timing system to operate outside its calibrated range, triggering check engine lights, rough cold starts, and a rattling noise from the front of the engine at startup. Left unaddressed, a failed timing chain can cause serious internal engine damage. GM issued multiple technical service bulletins addressing this issue. The repair involves replacing the chains, tensioners, guides, and phasers — a labor-intensive job.
Typical mileage: 80,000–150,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairFirst-generation Enclaves use a hydraulic power steering system, and leaks from the power steering pump, hoses, or rack are common on vehicles with over 80,000 miles. Owners often notice a whining noise during low-speed turns, a greasy residue near the pump, or a steering wheel that becomes stiff before fluid levels drop critically. Hose replacement is relatively inexpensive, but rack-and-pinion leaks are more costly to address.
Typical mileage: 80,000–130,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe 6-speed automatic transmission (6T75) used in first-generation Enclaves can develop a shudder between 35–50 mph and may exhibit hesitation when engaging Drive from a stop, particularly when the fluid has not been serviced. In more advanced cases, hard shifts or a slip between gears can develop. A transmission fluid drain-and-fill with fresh Dexron VI ATF resolves many cases, but worn clutch pack friction material requires a rebuild or replacement.
Typical mileage: 60,000–120,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe front-mounted A/C condenser on first-generation Enclaves is positioned low in the bumper where road debris can puncture or crack it, causing refrigerant loss. Even without physical damage, the aluminum condenser is prone to developing small leak points at the seam welds as the vehicle ages. Owners in states with road debris or gravel should inspect the condenser periodically. A leaking condenser must be replaced before recharging the system.
Typical mileage: 50,000–120,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairIntermittent Stabilitrak and traction control warning lights are among the most common complaints on first-generation Enclaves. The condition can stem from a range of issues including a faulty wheel speed sensor, a failing steering angle sensor, or a low brake fluid level. When the lights illuminate, the driver may notice reduced braking assistance or a momentary loss of stability system intervention. The specific fault code stored in the ABS module determines the correct repair.
Typical mileage: 40,000–100,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe power liftgate on first-generation Enclaves is prone to actuator motor failure, leaving owners unable to operate the liftgate electronically. Additionally, the heavy liftgate can stress its hinges over time, causing misalignment that makes manual operation difficult. The actuator is a dealer- or shop-replaced item, while hinge adjustment is a straightforward but often overlooked fix.
Typical mileage: 60,000–120,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe panoramic sunroof available on many Enclave trims has been reported to rattle at highway speeds and, in some cases, to allow water to leak into the cabin. The drain tubes that route water away from the sunroof frame can become clogged with debris, causing water to back up and seep into the headliner or A-pillars. Keeping the drain tubes clear is a simple preventive maintenance step. Rattle complaints are typically resolved by dealer adjustments to the glass panel.
Shop parts for this repairRecalls
Certain 2008 Enclaves were recalled because the side curtain airbag inflators may not deploy correctly in a crash due to a manufacturing defect, increasing the risk of injury to occupants. GM dealers replaced the inflator assemblies at no charge.
Some 2008–2013 Enclaves were included in GM's broad ignition switch recall. The ignition key could move out of the run position while driving if a heavy key ring was used or if the driver's knee contacted the key, cutting engine power and disabling airbags. GM dealers replaced the ignition switch and provided a new single-key remedy.
Certain 2010–2013 Enclaves were included in the Takata airbag recall due to the risk of passenger-side inflator rupture, which could project metal fragments at occupants. Dealers replaced the passenger airbag inflator at no cost as part of the ongoing national remedy program.
On certain 2013–2016 Enclaves, a faulty transmission range sensor could allow the engine to start in gear or cause the gear indicator to show an incorrect position, increasing rollaway risk. GM dealers replaced or recalibrated the transmission range sensor under this recall.
Some 2017 Enclaves had rear park assist sensors that could become inoperative in cold temperatures due to a software calibration issue, reducing the driver's awareness of obstacles when reversing. GM dealers performed a software update to correct the sensor behavior at no cost.
Available Engines
Common OBD2 Codes
| Code | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| P0171 | Common | System too lean on Bank 1 appears on second-generation Enclaves most often due to a failing mass airflow sensor or a small intake air leak downstream of the MAF. Cleaning the MAF sensor with dedicated cleaner is a low-cost first step. |
| P0174 | Common | System too lean on Bank 2 on the second-generation 3.6L is often traced to the same root cause as P0171 when both codes appear together — typically a MAF sensor issue or vacuum leak. Isolated Bank 2 lean codes may indicate a fuel pressure or injector issue on that bank. |
| P0300 | Common | Random/multiple cylinder misfires on the second-generation 3.6L can be caused by worn spark plugs, a failing ignition coil, or carbon buildup on intake valves due to the direct injection system. Spark plugs should be inspected at 60,000 miles on this engine. |
| P0301 | Occasional | Cylinder 1 misfire on the 3.6L V6 most commonly points to a failed ignition coil or a fouled spark plug. Coil-on-plug designs mean each cylinder has its own coil, making individual cylinder misfires easier to isolate. |
| P0420 | Occasional | Catalyst efficiency below threshold on Bank 1 is seen on higher-mileage second-generation Enclaves, often following extended periods of misfires that can damage the catalytic converter. Confirm the engine is running properly before condemning the catalyst. |
| P0430 | Occasional | Catalyst efficiency below threshold on Bank 2 appears alongside P0420 on higher-mileage units. As with Bank 1, address any upstream misfire or lean condition before replacing the catalytic converter. |
| P0442 | Common | Small EVAP leak is frequently caused by a degraded fuel cap seal or a cracked vapor line on the second-generation Enclave. The OBD2 system is sensitive enough to flag even minor leaks, so replacing the fuel cap is always the first step. |
| P0455 | Occasional | Large EVAP system leak on the second generation can stem from a cracked EVAP canister, failed purge valve, or a loose fuel cap. Cold-climate vehicles may experience more hose cracking due to thermal cycling. |
| P0700 | Occasional | Transmission control system malfunction on the 9-speed automatic in later second-generation models is typically followed by more specific shift-quality codes. The 9T65 transmission used in the 2019–2020 model years had early TSBs related to shift refinement that were addressed with software updates. |
| P2135 | Occasional | Throttle/pedal position sensor correlation fault appears on some second-generation Enclaves and can trigger reduced engine power mode. The condition may result from a faulty throttle body position sensor or an intermittent wiring issue at the throttle body connector. |
| U0100 | Occasional | Lost communication with the ECM/PCM is an intermittent network fault that may be caused by a corroded ground, a failing battery, or a module waking up incorrectly. On second-generation Enclaves, this code can accompany Stabilitrak or transmission warning messages. |
| U0155 | Occasional | Lost communication with the instrument panel cluster can cause the gauge cluster to go blank or display incorrect information. This is typically an intermittent electrical fault related to a CAN bus communication disruption rather than a failed cluster. |
Known Problems
The 9T65 nine-speed automatic transmission introduced for the 2019–2020 Enclave received numerous owner complaints of hesitation, hard downshifts, and hunting between gears at highway speeds during its early production run. GM released multiple transmission control module calibration updates through dealers to improve shift quality. Owners experiencing these symptoms should ask their dealer to verify that the latest TCM software is installed before pursuing mechanical repairs.
Typical mileage: 0–40,000 miles (most complaints on early build vehicles)
Like its predecessor, the second-generation 3.6L V6 uses gasoline direct injection and does not spray fuel across the intake valves. Over time, oil mist from the crankcase ventilation system deposits carbon on the valves, causing rough idle, hesitation, and a loss of power — typically most noticeable on cold starts. Cleaning requires removing the intake manifold and walnut blasting or manually scraping the valves, a service not required on the first-generation engine until higher mileage but more evident after 60,000–80,000 miles here.
Typical mileage: 60,000–100,000 miles
Second-generation Enclaves use an electric power steering system, and a number of owners have reported intermittent Stabilitrak, Power Steering, and Traction Control warning messages appearing together, sometimes accompanied by a momentary loss of steering assist. The condition is often traced to a faulty steering angle sensor or a low battery voltage event. In some cases, a dealer software calibration of the steering module resolves recurring warnings without hardware replacement.
Typical mileage: 20,000–80,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairThe second-generation Enclave's available 8-inch or 8.8-inch infotainment screens, running GM's Infotainment 3 platform, have been reported to freeze, spontaneously reboot, or lose wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connections. The problem is most common on 2018–2020 model years. Software updates delivered over-the-air or through the dealer address many of these issues, and GM has released several calibration patches since launch.
The standard panoramic moonroof on many second-generation Enclave trims has generated complaints of wind noise at highway speeds and water intrusion through clogged drain tubes. The drain tubes routing water from the sunroof frame to the rocker panels can clog with leaves and debris, causing water to overflow into the headliner or drip down the A-pillar trim. Regular cleaning of the drain tubes is an important preventive step, particularly for vehicles parked under trees.
Shop parts for this repairSecond-generation Enclaves equipped with the optional rear automatic leveling suspension can experience failure of the air compressor that maintains proper ride height when loaded. The compressor may fail silently, with the first symptom being a sagging rear end under load or a warning message on the driver display. Replacement parts are dealer-sourced items, and the repair requires removing interior trim to access the suspension hardware.
Typical mileage: 60,000–100,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairSome second-generation Enclave owners have reported brake pad wear alerts appearing on the driver information center well before the pads are actually worn. The condition is linked to a faulty or poorly seated brake wear sensor, particularly on the rear axle. Inspecting the brake pad thickness and sensor contacts at a shop can confirm whether the alert is accurate or sensor-related.
Typical mileage: 20,000–50,000 miles
Shop parts for this repairRecalls
Certain 2018 Enclaves were recalled because the passenger front airbag inflator may produce excessive pressure during deployment, potentially rupturing the airbag module and sending metal fragments toward occupants. GM dealers replaced the airbag inflator assembly at no charge.
On some 2018–2019 Enclaves, the wiring harness connector for the front seat belt pretensioner could separate, preventing the pretensioner from functioning in a crash and increasing the risk of injury. GM dealers inspected and repaired the wiring connector under this recall.
Certain 2020 Enclaves had a software condition that could delay or prevent the rearview camera image from displaying when Reverse was selected, reducing the driver's visibility behind the vehicle. GM dealers performed a software update to correct the camera display logic at no cost.
On some 2021 Enclaves equipped with front automatic emergency braking, a radar calibration issue could cause the system to apply the brakes without detecting an actual forward collision threat, increasing the risk of a rear-end impact from following traffic. GM dealers updated the forward collision software to correct the calibration.
Certain 2022–2023 Enclaves could experience an unexpected loss of drive power due to a transmission control software condition that placed the transmission in a protection mode. The vehicle would display a service message and could not be driven until restarted. GM dealers reprogrammed the transmission control module under this recall.