Brake & Engine issues are among the top complaints received by the NHTSA from vehicle owners
Originally launched in 2007 for the 2008 model year, the Buick Enclave is a midsize crossover SUV made by General Motors (GM.) The second-generation Enclave appeared a decade later in 2017, and a refreshed model is scheduled for 2022.
It may be an iconic, near-luxury brand, but from the very first model, there have been hundreds of complaints to the United States Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In general, complaints over the years have been remarkably varied. While not necessarily surprising, it makes it impossible to identify common problems over the years.
Click on other model year to view more problems: 2019 2020
In the first model year, there were 518 complaints with 6 recalls, and 107 complaints and 15 recalls for the second model. Thankfully, these numbers decreased gradually and improved, even more, when the second-generation Enclave was launched. At 9 complaints and just 1 recall in 2021, these numbers are the lowest made to the NHTSA in the history of this car.
Only 4 components are listed in the 2021 NHTSA complaints file:
| Complaint Category | Number of Complaints |
|---|---|
| Service Brakes | |
| Electrical System | |
| Engine | |
| Structure:body | |
| Unknown Or Other | |
| Fuel/propulsion System | |
| Lane Departure: Assist | |
| Latches/locks/linkages | |
| Latches/locks/linkages:tailgate:latch | |
| Power Train |
Many Buick Enclave owners complain about loud grinding noises when they apply the brakes. Other descriptions include a metal-on-metal or growling sound. At least one driver states that it is necessary to apply more pressure to ensure the car slows down and comes to a stop.
An alarming factor is that owners with this problem have been told that GM doesn’t have a solution but is looking for one. They maintain that it isn’t a safety issue, but drivers believe otherwise. Several say it is definitely a safety issue to drivers as well as others on the road.
One says: “I am concerned should the brakes not work properly when applied” this could cause an accident. This Buick Enclave owner was told that GM has told dealers not to replace any parts or attempt any repairs at this time (1 June 2021.)
Another says: “I find it unnerving to drive a vehicle with noisy brakes.” This owner was told to call back from time to time to see how GM has decided to correct the problem. With only 684 miles on the clock, this isn’t a great solution!
The harassing company pays our fees.
This complaint reports that the problem almost caused a crash with an oncoming car. According to the NHTSA complaint, the dealer says there had been other similar complaints. It seems as if a software patch will make the car safe, but there is no reported resolution.
This complaint, which relates to an auto-stop feature, is worth mentioning because according to the complaint, the dealer refuses to override the reported fault.
“I just want the ability to disable this dangerous feature.”
There is no doubt that there have been a lot of Buick Enclave lemons over the years. But it isn’t possible to gauge what the owners did when they discovered the problem. If it happens to you now, though, we can help you.
Lemberg Law has found solutions for many clients who have found themselves with vehicles that qualify as lemons. Maybe you want a refund or a replacement car. We will assess your situation and advise what is possible.
Legally, GM is going to have to foot your legal bill, so call our Helpline as soon as possible so that we can advise you.
Think you have a lemon? Sit back and let the experts work out your lemon case at no cost to you. The law makes GM pay legal fees. You may be able to get your lemon out of your life. Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace or pay cash settlements to thousands of ‘lemon’ owners like you.
Lemberg Law are Lemon Law experts and can help you get Lemon Justice – absolutely free! Fill out our form on this page for a no-obligation case evaluation, or call toll free 877-795-3666
Brian Jones spent more than 30 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.
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