2018 Buick Enclave
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Buick › Enclave › 2018
These records cover every 2018 Buick Enclave. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Owner complaints
66 complaints5 involved a crash1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Forward collision avoidance › Automatic emergency braking · Fuel/propulsion system · Power train
I am the original owner of this Buick Enclave Avenir. I have had two near accident occurences when the car started foring the breaks while I was accellarating on the highway and was not behind another vehicle. The car behind me nearly rerended me. On 10/17/26, my purge valve was replaced for the…
I am the original owner of this Buick Enclave Avenir. I have had two near accident occurences when the car started foring the breaks while I was accellarating on the highway and was not behind another vehicle. The car behind me nearly rerended me. On 10/17/26, my purge valve was replaced for the third time, making this the fourth purge valve the car has had. After getting gas, the car will not start, which is an indicator the part has gone bad and needs to be replaced. In June of 2025 I took my car to Anderson Buick over concerns while accellerating. They confirmed my transmission needed to be replaced. Our family shop suggested waiting until the end of summer since I wouldnt be driving daily and the replacement would cost nearly 10k. It could only be ordered through GM, making the part substantially higher in cost. When summer break ended and I needed to use my car daily we could not take the car to the dealer or our family shop because the part was no longer available. We could not get a clear time frame of when the part would be in stock, if at all. We had the transmission rebuilt with 166k miles. Nearly 4 months later the trasmission started to shudder again. We took it back to the same shop for repairs becuase it was under warranty. Nearly four months later, the issue began again. The shop said there is nothing I can do to stop it from happening, that the part is deffective and GM knows. I have opened a claim with GM and expect nothing will happen, but it is apparent that the transmission issues are rampant with this vehicle, as evidenced by the complaints here and the droves of complaints on reddit forums.
- Electrical system · Forward collision avoidance › Automatic emergency braking · Vehicle speed control
The vehicle is experiencing an intermittent but severe safety defect involving the StabiliTrak and Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) systems. While driving at operational speeds, the "Service StabiliTrak" warning light illuminates, immediately followed by the uncommanded, autonomous engagement of the…
The vehicle is experiencing an intermittent but severe safety defect involving the StabiliTrak and Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) systems. While driving at operational speeds, the "Service StabiliTrak" warning light illuminates, immediately followed by the uncommanded, autonomous engagement of the electronic parking brake. When the defect occurs, the vehicle forcibly brakes itself and suffers a complete loss of throttle response, preventing acceleration. This creates a severe, immediate crash hazard, as the vehicle decelerates abruptly without warning to surrounding traffic, leaving the driver unable to accelerate out of harm's way.The vehicle was brought to an authorized General Motors dealership multiple times during the active warranty period for recurring StabiliTrak system warnings. The manufacturer failed to permanently diagnose and resolve the root cause of the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) failure. The vehicle remains highly dangerous to operate due to unpredictable, uncommanded braking.
- Unknown or other
2018 Enclave w/106k on the odometer and the catalytic convertor cracked. $2200 repair.
- Fuel/propulsion system · Suspension
I am submitting this letter to formally report two ongoing issues with my 2018 Buick Enclave. First, I have experienced persistent problems with the emissions purge valve. My vehicle has repeatedly triggered diagnostic trouble code P0496, indicating a malfunction in the purge valve system. I am…
I am submitting this letter to formally report two ongoing issues with my 2018 Buick Enclave. First, I have experienced persistent problems with the emissions purge valve. My vehicle has repeatedly triggered diagnostic trouble code P0496, indicating a malfunction in the purge valve system. I am aware that this issue has been the subject of recall campaigns for other Buick Enclave models; however, my vehicle has not been included in any such recall, despite exhibiting the same symptoms. This malfunction has resulted in persistent check engine warnings and noticeable performance concerns, raising questions about emissions compliance and the overall reliability of my vehicle. Given that other vehicles of the same make and model year have been recalled for the same issue, I respectfully request that my vehicle be reviewed for inclusion in the recall. Second, I am formally reporting a malfunction involving the stabilizers. Recently, I have noticed unusual noises and instability when driving, particularly when turning or traveling over uneven surfaces, which indicates a potential stabilizer malfunction. These issues have persisted despite regular maintenance and inspections, affecting the handling and safety of the vehicle. I believe this may represent a manufacturing or design defect that could pose a risk to other owners of the same make and model. I respectfully request that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigate this matter further. I kindly ask the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to consider expanding the existing recall to encompass additional vehicles affected by this defect. Please advise if you require further information or documentation regarding my case. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Electrical system › Alternator/generator/regulator · 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…
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.
- Power train
After two transmission flushes and being told by a Buick dealership's service technicians that nothing is wrong with the vechile's transmission, it has now failed completely at ~90k miles.
- Unknown or other
Catalic converter weld broke both sides now
- Engine
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…
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.
- Visibility/wiper
The air conditioning system failure prevents proper windshield defogging, significantly reducing visibility in humid or rainy conditions. Additionally, cabin temperatures become excessively high, causing driver fatigue and impaired concentration. This creates an unsafe driving condition and increases the risk of a crash
- Seat belts
In December 2017 we were involved in a rear end collision so violent the spare tire was knocked out from under the vehicle. Our vehicle, 2014 Buick Enclave VIN [XXX] was struck in the rear. The lap belt held us secure, but the shoulder belt allowed us to be tossed forward. My head hit the left…
In December 2017 we were involved in a rear end collision so violent the spare tire was knocked out from under the vehicle. Our vehicle, 2014 Buick Enclave VIN [XXX] was struck in the rear. The lap belt held us secure, but the shoulder belt allowed us to be tossed forward. My head hit the left windshield/top post leaving me looking like a racoon the next day. General Motors representatives, [XXX] CEO at the time ,stated the seat belts functioned properly. I injured my left wrist as a result of being thrown forward and have pain in it ever since then. We now drive a 2018 Buick Enclave VIN [XXX] that we purchased as a result of the December 2017 accident. We have noticed the same problem with the shoulder belts not working in sync with the lap belt, especially during a panic braking. Could this be product failure or just coincidence? I BELEIVE THIS WARRANTS EVALUATION! Thank you. My email address is [XXX] , mailing address is [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Power train
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that while at a stop light, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond as intended, with a grinding sound coming from the transmission. A bystander pushed the vehicle to the side road, and the vehicle was…
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that while at a stop light, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to respond as intended, with a grinding sound coming from the transmission. A bystander pushed the vehicle to the side road, and the vehicle was later towed to the residence. The contact’s husband inspected the vehicle and determined that it had experienced transmission failure. No further information was available. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were not contacted. The failure mileage was 110,000.
- Power train
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated while stopped at a gas station; after refueling the vehicle, the vehicle was restarted but was unable to shift to drive(D). The contact attempted to shift to reverse(R) and the shift lever failed to respond. The contact stated an unknown…
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated while stopped at a gas station; after refueling the vehicle, the vehicle was restarted but was unable to shift to drive(D). The contact attempted to shift to reverse(R) and the shift lever failed to respond. The contact stated an unknown warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 71,000.
- Air bags · Electrical system · Exterior lighting
My vehicle has begun all us sudden flickering headlights from low beams to high beam when driving and also it ay the airbag safety light turn on with the locks also doing a closing and opening while driving.
- Exterior lighting
The headlights continously and irregularly flicker between high and low beam while driving at night. I have no control over it and cannot turn off the high beams when they activate. This is highly annoying to drivers ahead me, as they believe I am trying to get their attention (or be obnoxious). In…
The headlights continously and irregularly flicker between high and low beam while driving at night. I have no control over it and cannot turn off the high beams when they activate. This is highly annoying to drivers ahead me, as they believe I am trying to get their attention (or be obnoxious). In these times and the legalization of open carry weapons in the state of Florida, this can be highly dangerous if the wrong person is aggravated by unintentional signaling. I have already had issues on the road with drivers not happy with the high beam flicking on and off at them while driving on the road. They have become very aggressive, following, slowing down, honking at me because they think I am being impatient or trying to tell them someting is wrong. I spent $2000 in January 2025 trying to get this fixed and it has started (December 2025) happening again.
- Engine and engine cooling
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that after picking up the vehicle from the dealer for a different failure, the exhaust pipe made an abnormally loud sound while driving. The check engine and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the…
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that after picking up the vehicle from the dealer for a different failure, the exhaust pipe made an abnormally loud sound while driving. The check engine and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, who determined that the catalytic converter had failed and informed the contact that the catalytic converter and the front exhaust pipe needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to Special Coverage Adjustment: N212356540 (Front Exhaust Pipe); however, the VIN was not covered. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and advised the contact to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
- Service brakes
Several times I have been stopped at a red light, and my parking break will come on without me engaging it. I was almost hit by other vehicles the last time my vehicle did this. People were blasting their horns and speeding around me because I was unable to move my vehicle. Because I had not…
Several times I have been stopped at a red light, and my parking break will come on without me engaging it. I was almost hit by other vehicles the last time my vehicle did this. People were blasting their horns and speeding around me because I was unable to move my vehicle. Because I had not manually engaged my parking break, my vehicle would not allow me to disengage the parking break until after it finally read that I engaged it. It took me 10 minutes of having to turn my car off and back on and trying to engage the parking break manually before the vehicle finally noticed it was engaged and would allow me to disengage my vehicle so that I could move it out of the way. This has now happened 3 separate times in the last month. It is an extremely dangerous situation and is making me become nervous to drive my own vehicle.
- Air bags
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that while making a left turn, another vehicle jumped onto a curb and struck the rear end and rear tire of the vehicle. The front driver side, passenger side, and curtain air bags deployed. The contact was concerned about whether the air…
The contact owns a 2018 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that while making a left turn, another vehicle jumped onto a curb and struck the rear end and rear tire of the vehicle. The front driver side, passenger side, and curtain air bags deployed. The contact was concerned about whether the air bags should have deployed for the type of impact experienced. No warning light illuminated. The local dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. A police report was filed. The contact sought medical attention for bloody stool, lower back pain, and neck pain. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
- Engine · Steering
Wednesday August 6th 2025, I was coming home from work, the low engine compression and engine light came on the car was shaking and I lost power on a busy road, I had to pull it off the road quickly before I lost all power. I stayed there for a few minutes, then turned the car back on to retreat to…
Wednesday August 6th 2025, I was coming home from work, the low engine compression and engine light came on the car was shaking and I lost power on a busy road, I had to pull it off the road quickly before I lost all power. I stayed there for a few minutes, then turned the car back on to retreat to a safer spot, I then waited for my husband to bail me out, we checked the oil on the dipstick, there was minimal oil on it. We added 1 quart of oil, then the lights went off, all seemed fine. August 23rd 2025, I was driving my car and the same thing happened car lit up with low engine compression and engine light came on car was shaking, I shit the car off. we added 1quart of oil. But the engine light stayed on after about 30 min. I shut the car off. The engine light went off after I shut the car off.
- Electrical system · Engine · Vehicle speed control
I am a [XXX] and owner of a 2018 Buick Enclave that suffered a catastrophic transmission failure which nearly killed me and my child. On Friday, [XXX], while driving westbound on [XXX] from Edison, NJ to my home in Easton, PA, my vehicle suddenly and without warning came to a complete halt in the…
I am a [XXX] and owner of a 2018 Buick Enclave that suffered a catastrophic transmission failure which nearly killed me and my child. On Friday, [XXX], while driving westbound on [XXX] from Edison, NJ to my home in Easton, PA, my vehicle suddenly and without warning came to a complete halt in the fast lane. A driver tailgating me swerved at the last second to avoid impact. Moments later, when I tried to move again, the car lost all power and drifted helplessly across two lanes of speeding traffic, directly into the path of two tractor-trailers barreling down at highway speeds. This was the hottest day of the summer, and I was left in terror, fully aware that one wrong move would have ended our lives instantly. The fact that my child could have lost their only parent because of a mechanical defect is beyond unacceptable. The stress, fear, and trauma of this incident cannot be overstated—it was a near-fatal event that never should have happened. My mechanic has since confirmed the transmission is destroyed, with black metal fragments throughout—clear evidence of internal failure. Only two months earlier, in June 2024, the car passed inspection with no codes or signs of a problem. This was not wear and tear; it was a hidden, catastrophic defect. In December 2024, GM recalled more than 461,000 vehicles, including certain 2018 Enclave models, for transmission defects leading to rollaway and internal failure. Source: The Lemon Firm, 12/18/24 [XXX] ). My case mirrors the defect exactly, yet I never received recall notice. I demand GM confirm my VIN’s inclusion and cover the full cost of repair or replacement. I barely escaped a fatal crash. GM must act immediately before lives are lost. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
- Power train
The torque converter is failing it seems this is far too common and dangerous with all Buick enclaves for this year. The vehicle shakes when applying the gas not having the power it needs to keep a steady speed without shaking. A mechanic stated the torque converter is bad known as the “GM shutter”
- Fuel/propulsion system
Check engine light was on due to the EVAP Purge Solenoid not sealing properly and causing a leak. Scan testing performed of the engine control module and diagnosed/cleared DTC P0496-00. Vehicle was brought to a dealership for repair.
- Fuel/propulsion system · Power train · Unknown or other
My vehicle stopped in the middle of the highway and was unable to put in drive
- Back over prevention › Warnings · Forward collision avoidance › Automatic emergency braking · Service brakes
The brake system ABS module/sensor malfunctions- yes it is available for further inspection. Safety is an issue due to the ABS indicator light on. Yes, the problem/issue has been confirmed by a dealership. No inspections have occurred other than the dealership. The only warning is the light indicator for the brakes, parking ABS.
- Electrical system · Engine · Steering
The car shuts off at random when coming out of autostop, the car will disable power steering when coming out of autostop to make turns making it difficult to turn the steering wheel. Coming out of autostop is typically when you are trying to go or make a turn. This has been an ongoing issue that happens often. The issues began around 60k miles.
- Engine · Power train
My car starting sputtering on take off from stops, extremely dangerous if you’re trying to get out in traffic and keep up quickly from a stop. Then when I took it to get looked at it the mechanic said it needs a new transmission. Now my family is stuck because that’s our only vehicle big enough for our growing family. They’re was a check engine light that keeps coming on.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11011990This service bulletin provides a procedure to clean the back side of the rims and rotors and to correct the customer concern of wheel clicking.
- 11011989This service bulletin provides information on the harmful effects of ethylene glycol in transmission fluid.
- 11011900This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 11011805This Preliminary information communicates a GM part number forreflective high temperature heat or insulating tape when repairing wiring harnesses.
- 11011782This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about the use of J-35616-64B terminal test probe, replacement terminals, and terminated leads. The J-35616-64B is the latest test probe released for checking tension or probing the .64 series terminals. The test probe terminal has been released in the terminal repair kit (J-38125-620H) located in Lear Tray 7 part number 963716-2. There are 5 terminated leads in a package part number is 13505346, which can be ordered through your normal General Motors Customer Care and Aftersales parts channel.
- 11011709This bulletin advises the dealers to maintain the vehicle stock on hand by doing a full inspection on the vehicles before being sold (prepping) to the customer.
- 11011444This Preliminary information communicates to the dealer a process for accessing the procedure to add attachments to a GM technical assistance case using the dealer case management tool.
- 11011420This Preliminary information communicates to the dealer technician that TAC recommends the utilization of the GDS2 software to aid in diagnosing automatic transmission concerns. TAC is requesting the GDS2 session logs be sent in before the dealer contacts TAC.
- 11011406This Preliminary information communicatesa "Forward Collision System Reduced" message displayed on the DIC when theForward Automatic Braking has been set to the "Alert" setting. This is normal when theFAB has been set to "Alert".
- 11011225This service bulletin advises the tech that the rotational Clicking Noise Heard After Engine Shut Down may be normal characteristics of the vehicle.
- 11011205This informational bulletin explains Unscheduled Supplemental Services and the importance of GM Simplified Maintenance Schedules.
- 11011119This Preliminary information communicates to dealers GM is working on a solution for outdated Apps
- 11010576This service bulletin provides information on All hazmat parts being returned to the Warranty Parts Center (WPC) must be shipped using Central Transport. Hazardous materials should never be sent by air transportation to the WPC.
- 11010545This service bulletin provides information on key code security rules and information on GM keycode look-up applications (U.S).
- 11010495This bulletin provides information on Warranty Administration Required Operating Procedures - 8 Points (U.S. Only).
- 11010493This warranty administration service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories - Dealer-Installed, Repaired or Replaced During Warranty Coverage Period.
- 11010491This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information for GM courtesy transportation and roadside assistance programs.
- 11010490This service bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
- 11010488This Warranty Administration bulletin provides information on the Global Warranty Management (GWM) Warranty Parts Center (WPC) Parts Return Program.
- 11010421This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information on the requirements for 12V battery testing and warranty replacements.
- 11009764This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 11009756This bulletin provides information on Policies Applicable to All U.S. Dealers for Engine and Transmission Assembly Replacement Under Warranty, Policy or Customer Enthusiasm and information on Submission of Warranty Transaction in Global Warranty Management.
- 11009532This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009531This service bulletin provides information for maintenance cleaning of the fuel injectors and gasoline detergent additive.
- 11009170This Preliminary information communicates additional information on how a LIN bus operates and diagnostic tips when working on a LIN bus.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11009088This service bulletin provides information on some vehicles that may rock or move slightly forward or rearward while in Park at start up after cold soak. This condition may be accompanied by a clunk noise. This is a slight movement that is more often seen visually, rather than felt, when viewed from the outside and using the auto-start feature, if equipped.
- 11009039This warranty administration bulletin provides policy information, proper labor operation selection and causal part identification for warranty transactions (U.S. Only).
- 11009037This service bulletin provides information on Enhancing Field Product Reports with Digital Pictures.
- 11008986This Preliminary information communicatesdirection and examples when diagnosing multiple DTCs, one of which includes U**** Byte 71 DTC.
- 11008956This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on When and How to Submit a Field Product Report (FPR) (U.S. and Canada Dealers Only).
- 11008906This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 11008898The bulletin provides direction on how to locate the Temporary Service Part (TSP) form in GlobalConnect.
- 11007936This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007935This service bulletin provides information to dealership personnel on diagnosis and replacement of shock absorber and strut due to fluid leak.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007724This technical bulletin provides repair information to correct a customer concern of Vehicle Will Lock and Unlock (Active Functions Work) but Will Not Crank or Start (Loss of Passive Functions Do Not Work)
- 11007723This service bulletin provides repair information to correct a customer concern of No Crank, No Start, Quick Start/Stall, No FOB Detected, Key FOBs Inoperative, B3924 00, B3925 00, B3926 00, B3927 00, B3928 00 Set.
- 11007721This service bulletin provides information on AGM batteries that require less frequent charging in storage.
Every Buick Enclave model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.