2020 Buick Enclave Problems
Owner-reported complaints filed with NHTSA, grouped by component
Data refreshed
What this page shows
Everything below is an owner-reported complaint submitted to NHTSA about the 2020 Buick Enclave, grouped by the component NHTSA recorded on the report. These are not confirmed defects, and they are not recalls. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a category with more reports in it is not evidence that a part is defective.
Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.
Reports by component
Ranked by how many owner reports name each component category
- Engine1727.9%
- Electrical914.8%
- Powertrain (other)813.1%
- Fuel system711.5%
- Brakes58.2%
- Seat belts34.9%
- Driver assistance23.3%
- Body & structure23.3%
- Suspension23.3%
- Steering23.3%
- Visibility11.6%
- Other / unspecified11.6%
- Tires & wheels11.6%
- Airbags11.6%
Percentages are of component mentions. A single complaint can name more than one component, so these do not sum to the total complaint count.
Each component in detail
What the reports in each category say, in the owners' own words
Engine
Reports naming the engine itself — including stalling, misfires, oil consumption, cooling and internal engine components.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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.
Electrical
Reports naming the electrical system — wiring, battery, charging, control modules, infotainment and electrical accessories.
From owner reports, verbatim
1st incident i was backing out of a parking spot and it went into emergency park i had to turn off the truck , turn it back on and take it out of emergency parking 2nd incident a week later i was at a stop light the truck did the automatic shut off.When you have your foot on a break , I'll let go of the break to go through the light and it went into emergency park again Engine light is on auto zone says it one of 2 different catalytic converters unsure which one would have to get them both replaced over 500 each 3rd incident auto shutdown when stopped burnt out the starter no way to turn off the auto start stop 4th incident TODAY pulling into the parking lot at the grocery store.Doing about 10 to 15 mph truck just shut off It putting it's into emergency park or shutting of while driving is a SAFETY issue but no recalls Single mother can't afford to even have it looked at right now
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)
Powertrain (other)
Powertrain reports that are not specifically the engine or transmission — driveshafts, axles, transfer cases and differentials.
From owner reports, verbatim
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The vehicle lost motive power and was coasted to the shoulder of the roadway. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was in the process of being repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, and a case was filed. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 45,684.
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.
Fuel system
Reports naming fuel storage or delivery — tanks, pumps, lines, injectors and fuel leaks.
From owner reports, verbatim
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.
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)
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Brakes
Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake.
From owner reports, verbatim
1st incident i was backing out of a parking spot and it went into emergency park i had to turn off the truck , turn it back on and take it out of emergency parking 2nd incident a week later i was at a stop light the truck did the automatic shut off.When you have your foot on a break , I'll let go of the break to go through the light and it went into emergency park again Engine light is on auto zone says it one of 2 different catalytic converters unsure which one would have to get them both replaced over 500 each 3rd incident auto shutdown when stopped burnt out the starter no way to turn off the auto start stop 4th incident TODAY pulling into the parking lot at the grocery store.Doing about 10 to 15 mph truck just shut off It putting it's into emergency park or shutting of while driving is a SAFETY issue but no recalls Single mother can't afford to even have it looked at right now
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.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Seat belts
Reports naming seat belts, buckles, retractors and pretensioners.
From owner reports, verbatim
Drivers side seatbelt would not latch and dealership said it needed replaced.
The driver's seat belt will not click into place unless it is inserted multiple times until it finally latches.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Driver assistance
Reports naming forward-collision avoidance, lane keeping, back-over prevention, cruise control and related electronic driver-assistance systems.
From owner reports, verbatim
Hello, My Enclave’s back up camera keeps going out and it’s identical to the issue that was under investigation by the NHTSA, which GM ultimately just issued a recall for the Cadillac XT5, XT6 and Acadia models. These cars are basically the short wheelbase versions of the Buick Enclave and the Chevrolet Traverse, and use the same parts for the backup 360 camera failure, so it makes sense that these vehicles would be affected as well. Attached are pictures of multiple times. This is happening which creates an unsafe environment. On the others it appears that it’s a faulty cable. If I turn the car off and let it reset, the camera will work again, but that’s not feasible when in a situation that it is needed immediately. My car is barely out of warranty, I reached out to the dealer and he agreed and it’s the same issue but because these other cars have a recall and mine, doesn’t there’s nothing he can do until a recall is issued. Thank You
I BOUGHT A 2020 BUICK ENCLAVE, (OWNED BY GMC) WITH 6 MILES ON IT, 1 WEEK AGO. YESTERDAY THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR STARTED JERKING ANYTIME THE TRANSMISSION SWITCHED GEARS. I CALLED TO TRY TO GET IT IN TO A CERTIFIED BUICK DEALERSHIP TO BE LOOKED AT AND NOWHERE CAN GET IT IN FOR 3-5 DAYS AND NONE OF THE DEALERSHIPS WILL GIVE A LOANER CAR UNTIL THE TIME OF THE VEHICLE APPOINTMENT. I CONTACTED BUICK DIRECTLY REGARDING THIS AND THEY TOLD ME THE SAME THING, THAT WE CAN'T GET A SAFE DRIVING VEHICLE, UNTIL THE ONE WE HAVE CAN BE LOOKED AT BY A DEALERSHIP AND IF WE TAKE IT TO AN UN-CERTIFIED SHOP THAT IT WOULD NOT BE COVERED. SO NOW I AM STUCK WITH EITHER DRIVING AN UNSAFE CAR 50 MILES ON THE HIGHWAY TO WORK FOR THE NEXT FEW DAYS OR NOT BEING ABLE TO GO TO WORK. THIS IS A BRAND NEW CAR DRIVEN STRAIGHT OUT OF THE FLOOR ROOM! BUICK IS PUTTING PEOPLE'S LIFE AT RISK BY INSISTING THAT WE DRIVE THIS UNSAFE VEHICLE ON THE HIGHWAY UNTIL WE CAN GET IT LOOKED AT! LOOKS LIKE A HUGE LAWSUIT IN THE MAKING!!!!! *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Body & structure
Reports naming the vehicle structure, frame, body panels, doors, hood and trim.
From owner reports, verbatim
I am submitting this complaint regarding a paint defect on my 2020 Buick Enclave. The passenger-side rear door has significant top-coat peeling and flaking, exposing the primer and metal underneath. This deterioration is not normal wear for a six-year-old vehicle that has been properly maintained and protected from environmental conditions. The pattern of peeling indicates a failure of the top coat or clear coat applied during manufacturing. The paint layers are separating prematurely, reducing corrosion protection and long-term durability. Exposed metal increases the risk of rust, structural weakening, and potential failure of the door panel, which may affect occupant safety in the event of a collision. I am aware that similar paint adhesion failures have been reported across multiple General Motors vehicles, and class-action lawsuits are currently pending alleging defective basecoat and clearcoat systems that cause premature peeling, bubbling, and flaking. The number of complaints suggests a broader manufacturing issue rather than isolated consumer misuse. Although my vehicle’s limited warranty has expired, the defect is clearly premature and manufacturing-related. A properly applied top coat should not fail this early, especially on a vehicle that has been routinely washed, waxed, and stored in normal conditions. I respectfully request that NHTSA review this issue and consider opening an investigation into paint top-coat failures on Buick and other GM vehicles. Premature paint failure affects corrosion resistance, vehicle longevity, and consumer value, and may compromise the safety of occupants and other drivers if corrosion spreads or structural integrity is reduced. I am willing to provide photographs, documentation, and maintenance records to support this complaint. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your commitment to consumer safety and manufacturing accountability.
FACTORY RUNNING BOARDS ON 2020 BUICK ENCLAVE ICE UP IN WINTER DRIVING BLOCKING THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER DOORS FROM OPENING. VEHICLE CAN BE PARKED AND IF ICE ACCUMULATES OR SNOW MELTS AND FREEZES THE DOOR WILL NOT OPEN. IF VEHICLE IS IN MOTION AND ICE/SLUSH BUILD UP AND FREEZE THE DOORS WILL NOT OPEN.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Suspension
Reports naming suspension components — springs, struts, shocks, control arms and related hardware.
From owner reports, verbatim
Lateral arms needed replaced at 60,000 miles causing shaking, accelerated wear on tires, increasing misalignment.
The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was inadvertently pulling to the left. Additionally, the vehicle made abnormally loud sounds, and unknown parts detached from the vehicle while driving. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that the control arm, ball joint, and axle driveshaft needed to be replaced. Additionally, the dealer confirmed that the vehicle would be sent to the body shop for the damaged body components. The vehicle was not repaired and remained at the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and dispatched an investigator to the dealer to inspect the vehicle; however, the manufacturer declined to disclose any information. The failure mileage was approximately 33,000. The contact stated that GM authorized the repairs for the vehicle after inspecting it. The contact is still unaware of what caused the failure.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Steering
Reports naming the steering system — racks, columns, power-steering assist and steering linkage.
From owner reports, verbatim
See attached document for complaint.
Steering wheel repeatedly locks while turning followed by loss of power steering. Also accompanied by warning messages such as "Service ESC", "Park Assist Off", "Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care", as well as the stability control and stability control off lights. Began in October 2023. Brought in to dealership 4 times in 5 months (waiting on loaner availability to bring in for a 5th time) and still not repaired. Dealership unable to replicate problem but finds error codes when diagnosing. Below is a summary of each visit to "fix" the problem: Visit 1 (October 17, 2023): problem due to software out of date, reprogrammed the brake control module Visit 2 (October 30, 2023): problem due to battery low voltage, replaced battery Visit 3 (January 12, 2024): problem due to software out of date, reprogrammed power steering control module Visit 4 (February 19, 2024): problem due to short in steering rack, replaced steering rack There is no pattern to when the power steering goes out or when the wheel locks. Must constantly drive on guard to be prepared. We live in a city and drive in a lot of traffic. It is dangerous to have the wheel lock while turning, causing the car to potentially head into traffic, pedestrians, curbs, etc.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Visibility
Reports naming windshields, glass, wipers, defrosters and mirrors.
From owner reports, verbatim
I WAS DRIVING ON A STATE HIGHWAY WITH OPEN FIELDS ON BOTH SIDES. THERE WERE NO OTHER CARS OR TRUCKS ON THE ROAD. CLEAR BLUE SKY AND THE TEMPERATURE WAS ABOUT 50 DEGREES. NO WINDOWS WERE OPEN IN THE CAR. I WAS ON CRUISE CONTROL AT 62 MPH. THERE WAS WHAT I CAN ONLY DESCRIBE AS AN EXPLOSION SOUND SOMETHING CLOSE TO THE SOUND OF A 45ACP PISTOL DISCHARGE.. LUCKILY I HAD THE SUN SCREEN CLOSED OR I WOULD HAVE HAD GLASS EVERYWHERE. THE FRONT SUNROOF HAD EXPLODED AND THERE WAS A 18" HOLE IN THE MIDDLE OF IT. THE FORCE OF THE BREAK WENT UP, MEANING THE EDGE OF THE BROKEN GLASS WAS RAISED ABOUT AN INCH AND A HALF ABOVE THE REST OF THE GLASS AND WINDOW FRAME. THAT KIND OF A BREAK IS CAUSED BY STRESS NOT FROM SOMETHING LIKE A STONE HITTING IT.. THE CAR WAS PURCHASED IN AUGUST SO THE CAR IS ONLY 4 MONTHS OLD. I IMMEDIATELY DROVE THE CAR TO BERGSTROM MOTORS IN GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN, FOR THEM TO FIX IT. THEY TOOK PICTURES. SERVICE MANAGERS NAME IS [XXX]. HE HAS ALL THE INFORMATION. THERE IS NO POLICE REPORT. [XXX] GOT BACK WITH ME TODAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020, AND TOLD ME BUICK WOULD NOT PAY FOR THE REPAIRS BECAUSE IT'S GLASS. I WAS TOLD THE REPAIR WOULD BE ABOUT $1000. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Other / unspecified
Reports whose component NHTSA recorded as unknown, or that do not map to one of the categories above.
From owner reports, verbatim
The chest clip does not stay fastened. It comes unfastened with a very slight amount of pressure.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Tires & wheels
Reports naming tires, wheels, hubs, or the tire-pressure monitoring system.
From owner reports, verbatim
Component/System Failed: Tire Sidewall (Continental CrossContact LX20 EcoPlus+, Size: 255/55R20 107H). I am reporting a potential safety defect regarding my Continental tires. While my specific mold number (S-421232) is not currently listed in NHTSA Campaign 20T018000, the tires were manufactured in the same week (DOT 0420) and show symptoms consistent with the overcuring defect described in that recall. I have observed unusual marks and [mention what you see: e.g., "cracking," "distortions," or "bubbling"] on the sidewall. These marks appeared without any impact or road hazard. Given that this specific model and production week are already associated with sudden sidewall breakage and carcass failure, I am concerned that the existing recall scope is too narrow and that my tires pose a similar risk of sudden air loss or crash.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Airbags
Reports naming the air-bag system — deployment behaviour, inflators, sensors and warning lights.
From owner reports, verbatim
I came to a stop in the left turn lane at an intersection with a red light with the car in drive and my foot engaged on the brake to wait for the light to turn green. The car suddenly and completely died and all power was shut down. I was not able to engage the hazards. It was dark outside and I was afraid cars behind me would hit me. It was an incredibly dangerous situation with no warning. I exited the vehicle and got to the side of the road. The police arrived and were able to push the car to the side of the road as well. I opened the hood and checked the negative battery terminal and upon pulling the lever, the power came back on. We have an appointment at a GM dealership on Monday to fix the issue to ensure we are not put at risk again.
Too few reports in this category for a page of its own — they appear in the full complaint list.
Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.
Elsewhere on this vehicle
Data sources
- NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation — owner-reported complaints and the components recorded on them
Data on this page last refreshed .