2020 Buick Enclave Complaints

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 03/05/2026

Shift gear won't go into park. Emergency brake locked. Had dealer look at it and apparently a valve is blocked in transmission. Seen a number of complaints about transmission issues on this particular model yet this Vin is not on recall. GM says it needs a whole new transmission which will be $10,000. Really?? The least they could have done was fix this vehicle in good faith because of past recalls. Now I'm stuck with no vehicle and still paying for the finance.

ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 08/26/2026

My car started making a loud and rattling noise and when I had my vehicle looked at there was a huge crack in my exhaust pipe which could potentially be leaking harmful toxins in the cabin of my vehicle. I have been to so many places who say they don’t have what they need to repair this and that I need to reach out to GM. I have seen over 30 similar stories in these complaints. This is very unsafe and something needs to be done about this for the 2020 model as it has been done for others. We are afraid to even keep all the windows rolled up with our children inside for fear of carbon monoxide leaking through.

POWER TRAIN — Filed 09/20/2026

The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. While the contact's wife was attempting to park the vehicle, the transmission failed to shift into park as needed. The contact stated that after several attempts, the vehicle was parked. The contact used bricks to chock the wheels to prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards. The vehicle was towed to the dealer. The vehicle was diagnosed with a failed valve body and internal transmission failure. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was contacted by phone and a case was filed. The failure mileage was approximately 58,000.

STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 05/23/2026

Vehicle suffered a catastrophic, uncommanded electronic and mechanical system failure within 30 days of purchase, resulting in a severe crash.Prior to the incident, the vehicle exhibited a violent, unexpected jerking motion while accelerating up a highway on-ramp, though control was briefly regained. A few days later at the end of May, while driving in the rain, the electronic systems completely failed with zero dashboard warning lights or error messages appearing.The vehicle completely overrode driver input, veering uncontrollably from lane to lane on its own. Simultaneously, a total loss of braking power occurred; pressing the brake pedal had no effect on reducing the vehicle's speed. To stop the runaway vehicle and prevent hitting other drivers, I was forced to intentionally steer the SUV into a physical wall. The impact deployed components, caused orange engine coolant to leak, and forced the electronic precision shifter into Neutral on its own before the vehicle lost all electrical power. The steering wheel airbag deployed during this initial impact.Approximately 5 minutes later, while the vehicle was disabled on the road and after I had safely exited, a secondary vehicle struck my stationary car, which caused the majority of the remaining airbags to deploy.Detroit Police responded to the scene and filed an official crash report noting that I 'lost control' and struck the wall, but the responding officer failed to document the mechanical/electronic brake and steering failure reported at the scene.This simultaneous loss of eBoost braking control and electronic steering assist strongly aligns with the current federal safety investigation into GM vehicles (NHTSA Case PE24011). The vehicle is currently parked and being preserved exactly as-is at my residence to serve as evidence, as the module memory holds the Event Data Recorder (EDR) data proving full brake application during the failure. I am requesting an immediate investigation into this VIN.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 06/08/2026

My car starting making a loud noise upon start up and continued while driving, sounded like a GoCart exhaust system and was not normal. It just sounded loud and would get louder when accelerated until the car ran for awhile. I first noticed it at about 83,500 miles. I took to the dealer for checkup at 83,950 miles when I could get an appointment. The dealer (Elco Chevrolet) confirmed the problem upon hearing and looking under the car, there is a bracket broken on the exhaust system and the catalytic converter has a hole/crack in the molding. Our safety is at risk if the exhaust with the crack would create fumes harmful when driving the car and risk of injury if the exhaust would fall off upon driving due to bracket broke. There were no warning lamps or messages from the car. I am submitting this problem as upon discussion with the dealer and investigation online about this, appears that this is a problem with GM vehicles with this make and model, Enclave and Travers, however, my year was not flagged for a recall already established. When I tried to investigate with GM they stated it was because my car was not identified likely due to parts or timing. I am asking to further investigate as there may be a problem with the design of this exhaust system that caused this issue early in the mileage of this car. Asking for further investigation into the make and model of this year for the year 2020.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 08/03/2026

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.

SEAT BELTS — Filed 01/24/2026

Drivers side seatbelt would not latch and dealership said it needed replaced.

ENGINE — Filed 07/13/2026

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.

STRUCTURE — Filed 07/01/2024

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.

SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 06/24/2026

Lateral arms needed replaced at 60,000 miles causing shaking, accelerated wear on tires, increasing misalignment.

POWER TRAIN — Filed 06/03/2026

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.

ENGINE — Filed 05/18/2026

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 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.

ENGINE — Filed 08/25/2025

Leaking flex pipe on the exhaust causing undue rattling and possible exhaust fumes entering the passenger cabin.

POWER TRAIN,ENGINE — Filed 12/31/1969

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.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 03/25/2026

Back up Camera has stopped working. When placing car into reverse we get a black screen with a warning signal and picture of camera with line through. this creates a safety issue when backing up with out camera guidance.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES — Filed 04/10/2026

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

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING — Filed 04/06/2026

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 was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was 52,580.

ENGINE — Filed 03/14/2026

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 informed me that there was a failure within the engine/transmission assembly. He showed me the area where oil was seeping from the engine. I also inspected the oil filter and oil plug, both of which showed no signs of leakage. Following this diagnosis, I brought the vehicle to Royal Buick GMC. Their service department performed a SAVI Dongle test and a GM‑Certified Multi‑Point Inspection. The service technician informed me that the vehicle requires a complete engine replacement including the following: replacement of the engine, repair of a rear main seal failure, resealing of the oil pan, and replacement of the lower control arm. It is my belief that these issues are consistent with reported problems. In addition to the oil‑related failures, I have experienced sudden acceleration and jerking while driving. These incidents are alarming and pose a serious risk to my safety and the safety of others on the road. I am deeply concerned that this defect could lead to an accident through no fault of my own. This vehicle is my only means of transportation for work and for caring for my family. The cost and severity of the required repairs are catastrophic, and I believe the manufacturer should be held responsible for addressing these defects. I respectfully request that the NHTSA investigate these issues and assist in ensuring that GM/Buick replaces the engine for its safe operation.

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,PARKING BRAKE — Filed 02/14/2026

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 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.

TIRES — Filed 12/01/2025

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.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM — Filed 03/12/2026

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.

STEERING — Filed 01/26/2026

See attached document for complaint.

POWER TRAIN — Filed 04/20/2024

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 tomorrow.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER — Filed 05/26/2023

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.

POWER TRAIN — Filed 03/08/2021

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 THE FRONT-END BUMPER AND GRILL. NO DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND PROVIDED A CASE NUMBER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 2,000.