2020 Buick Enclave Problems & Owner Complaints

Engine 15

“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.”
NHTSA complaint #11749965, 2026

“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 ar…”
NHTSA complaint #11739092, 2026

“I am submitting this formal complaint regarding serious mechanical and safety issues with my 2020 Buick Enclave. These issues have created ongoing financial hardship, significant safety concerns, and an urgent need for investigation and resolution. Over the past several months, my vehicle has repeatedly displayed low‑oil notifications, sometimes occurring within one month of receiving a full oil change. During a recent visit to my mechanic for yet another low‑oil alert, he recalled that I had previously brought the vehicle in for the same issue. After conducting a more thorough inspection, he…”
NHTSA complaint #11728514, 2026

Unknown Or Other 11 1 crash

“The rear liftgate locking mechanism failed to latch causing cargo to exit the vehicle where the car behind this car smashed into the cargo causing an accident. For whatever reason the rear door will not lock at all. The fuse was perfectly fine, appears the actuator is defective. No warning was given because the rear liftgate was open and unlatched. After realizing the gate would not close it would notify it was open but the power liftgate operates just fine, and when you activate it, it will push the gate closed and not give a warning until maybe you hit a bump in the road.”
NHTSA complaint #11524078, 2023 · crash

“The mounting bracket welded to the front exhaust pipe (near the flex section) broke off due to weak factory welds. As a result tearing a hole in my exhaust pipe and potentially leading to exhaust fumes leaking into the cabin of the vehicle. In my opinion this defect should be addressed as a safety issue if not repaired.”
NHTSA complaint #11754749, 2026

“Lateral arms needed replaced at 60,000 miles causing shaking, accelerated wear on tires, increasing misalignment.”
NHTSA complaint #11746168, 2026

Electrical System 9 1 crash

“The rear liftgate locking mechanism failed to latch causing cargo to exit the vehicle where the car behind this car smashed into the cargo causing an accident. For whatever reason the rear door will not lock at all. The fuse was perfectly fine, appears the actuator is defective. No warning was given because the rear liftgate was open and unlatched. After realizing the gate would not close it would notify it was open but the power liftgate operates just fine, and when you activate it, it will push the gate closed and not give a warning until maybe you hit a bump in the road.”
NHTSA complaint #11524078, 2023 · crash

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11730361, 2026

“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,…”
NHTSA complaint #11719053, 2026

Power Train 8 1 crash 2 injury

“THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 Buick Enclave C1. THE CONTACT STATED THAT HIS WIFE REVERSED OUT OF THE GARAGE HOWEVER HAD TO STRAIGHTEN THE WHEELS. THE CONTACT PLACED THE GEAR IN THE DRIVE AND WITHOUT WARNING, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED FORWARD CRASHING INTO THE GARAGE DOOR. NO AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS CONTACTED. A POLICE REPORT WAS MADE. THE CONTACTS WIFE SUSTAINED INJURIES TO HER BACK AND NECK (WHIPLASH). THE CONTACTS WIFE SUSTAINED A SEIZURE 3 ADDITIONAL TIMES ON THE WAY TO THE HOSPITAL WHICH SHE STAYED AT OVERNIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BY INSURANCE TO A COLLISION SHOP FOR REPAIRS TO…”
NHTSA complaint #11417759, 2021 · crash · 1 injury(ies)

“After waiting at stop light with foot on the brake (auto stop not engaged) the light turned green. After releasing brake pedal and the car rolling approx 1 foot , then starting to accelerate, within 1-1/2 seconds the transmission went into park abruptly. The shift lever displayed “Park” and “Parking brake” on the DIC illuminated. This almost caused a rear end accident as it was so abrupt. If it would have happened at over 5 MPH the airbags could have gone off causing occupant(s) injury. The resolve was to apply the brake and shift into drive with no issue after that. Will contact dealer…”
NHTSA complaint #11584293, 2024 · 1 injury(ies)

“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 ad…”
NHTSA complaint #11744760, 2026

Fuel/Propulsion System 5

“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 mou…”
NHTSA complaint #11724643, 2026

“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,…”
NHTSA complaint #11719053, 2026

“Welds have broken loose from exhaust creating a hole and loud noise & strong exhaust smell”
NHTSA complaint #11640093, 2025

Service Brakes 4

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11730361, 2026

“We bought this 2020 Buick Enclave from Pinegar Chevrolet in Republic, MO from the preowned side of the dealership. When we test drove it only in the parking lot it didn't make any noises, but as soon as we drove off the lot after purchase the brakes made a noise as if the anti lock brake system was not working properly making it difficult to stop as the car should. We also was told that since this is a preowned and not a certified preowned that it was sold as is no warranty. I believe GM needs to fix this issue ASAP or the dealership needs to either buy the car back or put us into something wi…”
NHTSA complaint #11678235, 2025

“VEHICLE JERKS AT LOW SPEEDS WHEN ACCELERATING. BRAKES GRIND WHEN APPLIED AT HARD BRAKING OR REGULAR BRAKING.”
NHTSA complaint #11376503, 2020

Seat Belts 3

“Drivers side seatbelt would not latch and dealership said it needed replaced.”
NHTSA complaint #11750337, 2026

“The driver's seat belt will not click into place unless it is inserted multiple times until it finally latches.”
NHTSA complaint #11568257, 2024

“My driver side seat belt has always been hard to click and secure. I am unable to secure my seatbelt at this time at all.”
NHTSA complaint #11566595, 2024

Engine And Engine Cooling 2

“The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from under the hood. Additionally, there was an abnormal exhaust odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the passenger’s side flex pipe bracket had cracked, causing damages to the catalytic converter. The contact was informed that the flex pipe and catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there…”
NHTSA complaint #11730120, 2026

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11727512, 2026

Fuel System 2

“The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where the evaporative emission system, vapor canister purge solenoid, and the control solenoid were replaced; however, the failure persisted. The contact stated that the vehicle was difficult to start, and the instrument cluster gauges were fluctuating. The contact stated that the failure had occurred after refueling the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure had progressively worsened. The vehicle was taken back to the independe…”
NHTSA complaint #11673314, 2025

“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2020 BUICK ENCLAVE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING DOWNHILL AT APPROXIMATELY 75 MPH, THE VEHICLE DECELERATED TO APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH WITH 'CAN NOT SHIFT IN THIS POSITION' MESSAGE DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO SOMERSET BUICK LOCATED AT 1850 W. MAPLE RD, TROY, MI 48084, WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK SENSOR WAS FAULTY. THE FUEL TANK SENSOR WAS REPLACED HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE TRANSMISSION SERVICE REQUIRED MESSAGE WAS DISPLAYED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS NOT YET DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT…”
NHTSA complaint #11415777, 2021

Steering 2

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11575060, 2023

Structure 2

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11748311, 2024

“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.”
NHTSA complaint #11383291, 2020

Suspension 2

“Lateral arms needed replaced at 60,000 miles causing shaking, accelerated wear on tires, increasing misalignment.”
NHTSA complaint #11746168, 2026

“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 aw…”
NHTSA complaint #11509594, 2023

Air Bags 1

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11690090, 2025

Back Over Prevention 1

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11502595, 2023

Chest Clip 1

“The chest clip does not stay fastened. It comes unfastened with a very slight amount of pressure.”
NHTSA complaint #11651203, 2025

Forward Collision Avoidance 1

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11502595, 2023

Parking Brake 1

“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…”
NHTSA complaint #11727512, 2026

Tires 1

“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 t…”
NHTSA complaint #11726183, 2025

Vehicle Speed Control 1

“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-CER…”
NHTSA complaint #11330057, 2020

Visibility/Wiper 1

“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 A…”
NHTSA complaint #11382917, 2020