Last updated: 2026-05-13
2018 Buick Enclave Reliability Report
The 2018 Buick Enclave scores 75/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 60 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
0
Complaints
60
Complaint Rate
12.1per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
N/A
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,850–$3,000
Detailed Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
The Verdict
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues to Watch
- SERVICE BRAKES (15)
- POWER TRAIN (14)
- ENGINE (6)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2018 is the first model year of the Second generation (2018).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2018 model year.
- Refreshed in 2022.
- 2nd generation Enclave (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2018 pricing and recall counts against 2019+ before deciding.
2018: Second generation (2018) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2022: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2018 Buick Enclave?
At 75/100, the 2018 Buick Enclave lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Owners log 60 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.
Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to power train (14). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2019 Buick Enclave, which scored the same.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +No recalls issued
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −SERVICE BRAKES issues reported (15 complaints)
- −POWER TRAIN: Transmission failures and torque converter problems (14 complaints)
Compare 2018 Buick Enclave With
2018 Chevrolet Traverse
Reliability: 62/100
2018 Honda Pilot
Reliability: 63/100
2018 Toyota Highlander
Reliability: 72/100
2018 Ford Explorer
Reliability: 64/100
2018 Volkswagen Atlas
Reliability: 44/100
Common Problem Categories
Other
HIGH RISK- SERVICE BRAKES (15)
- POWER TRAIN (14)
Recall Overview
0
recalls on record
No recalls are on record for the 2018 Buick Enclave — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
12.1
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 26
Safety Incidents
5
Crashes
0
Fires
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
Buying a used 2018 Buick Enclave? Check its history first
Every 2018 Buick Enclave has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
2018 Buick Enclave NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.9%
Safety Technologies
Buick EnclaveRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
Buick Enclave Resale Value
The Buick Enclave is estimated to retain about 51.4% of its original value after 5 years, based on observed used-car listings.
This benchmark covers the Buick Enclave model overall and is not specific to the 2018 model year.
- Value Retained
- 51.4%
- Depreciation
- 48.6%
- Listings Analyzed
- 175
after 5 years
over the same period
U.S. used-car listings
Listings observed in . This is a historical market benchmark, not a current price quote.
Explore Buick Enclave depreciation and resale value on CarResaleValue.comMPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
20–21 MPG
Fuel cost: $2,850–$3,000/yr
Fuel only
17–18 city / 25–26 hwy MPG
Based on EPA fuel-cost estimates. Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2018 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Enclave FWD 3.6L 6-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 18 | 26 | 21 | $2,850 |
| Enclave AWD 3.6L 6-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic 9-spd | 17 | 25 | 20 | $3,000 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2018 Buick Enclave.
Test electronic parking brake for unexpected activation
Inspect transmission for shuddering or failure to shift
Check for engine stalling or hesitation during acceleration
Verify functionality of auto-stop feature and power steering
Inspect headlights for flickering between high and low beams
Check for exhaust leaks and unusual engine noises
Ensure proper operation of all safety alerts and warning systems
2018 Buick Enclave Common Problems by Component
60 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
SERVICE BRAKES
15 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2018 Buick Enclave frequently report issues with the electronic parking brake activating unexpectedly, both while stationary and in motion, often requiring the vehicle to be turned off to reset the system. Complaints also describe instances of brake system malfunctions, including loud grinding noises and ABS warning lights, with some incidents leading to crashes due to the brakes not engaging. These issues are reported across various mileage ranges, with some occurring as early as 1,200 miles. Safety implications are significant, with owners describing loss of vehicle control and requiring towing due to brake failures. Potential buyers should be aware of these recurring brake system issues, as they may impact vehicle reliability and safety.
POWER TRAIN
14 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several power train issues with the 2018 Buick Enclave, primarily involving transmission failures and torque converter problems. Complaints frequently mention symptoms such as the vehicle failing to shift gears, shaking or sputtering during acceleration, and grinding or screeching noises. These issues often occur around mileages ranging from approximately 70,000 to 125,000 miles. One incident involved a crash where the vehicle rolled backward unexpectedly, highlighting potential safety concerns. Buyers should be aware of these recurring problems, as they may lead to significant repair costs and potential safety risks.
ENGINE
6 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Buick Enclave frequently report issues with the engine, particularly related to the automatic start-stop feature. Complaints describe the vehicle stalling or hesitating to move when at a stop, with some instances occurring in busy intersections, which could pose safety risks. Several reports mention the engine shutting down unexpectedly and failing to accelerate, sometimes accompanied by transmission warning lights or check engine lights, with codes like P0011 and P0024. These issues often occur at low mileages, around 3,500 miles, and owners express frustration over the lack of available remedies from the manufacturer. Additionally, one report highlights an exhaust leak from a broken front exhaust pipe, causing unusual noises and reduced gas mileage.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (6 complaints)
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
6 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2018 Buick Enclave's electrical system, particularly involving the auto-stop feature and electronic parking brake. Common symptoms include the vehicle unexpectedly shutting down during stops, flickering headlights, and multiple warning lights activating, such as "Service Transmission" and "Service Parking Brake." Several complaints highlight parking brake malfunctions, including failure to disengage or engage properly, with some incidents leading to overheating brakes. These issues are reported at varying mileages, with one owner noting problems at just over 5,000 miles. Safety implications are evident as some owners describe near-miss accidents due to sudden loss of power or brake malfunctions, which could be concerning for potential buyers.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Buick Enclave frequently report issues related to unintended vehicle behavior and malfunctioning safety features. Complaints commonly describe the vehicle shifting into a neutral state unexpectedly, sudden braking at low speeds, and erratic acceleration, often accompanied by dashboard lights flashing. These issues are reported to occur as early as 4,000 miles. Additional complaints highlight the failure of safety alerts such as front collision and lane departure warnings, which do not function as described despite being tested by a GM engineer. Safety implications include potential accidents due to unexpected stops or surges in traffic and inadequate warning systems. These issues could be crucial for used car buyers considering this model.
STEERING (2 complaints)
STEERING
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Buick Enclave report issues related to the steering system, particularly when the vehicle comes out of autostop mode. Complaints frequently mention that the power steering becomes disabled during this transition, making it difficult to maneuver the vehicle, especially during turns. This problem is noted to occur often and begins around 60,000 miles. Additionally, there is a report of the vehicle shutting off unexpectedly, which could have safety implications due to the loss of steering control. Used car buyers should be aware of these potential issues, especially if the vehicle has high mileage.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners report issues with the 2018 Buick Enclave's fuel/propulsion system, particularly involving the EVAP Purge Solenoid. A common symptom is the check engine light activating due to a leak caused by the solenoid not sealing properly, with diagnostic trouble code P0496-00 frequently identified. Another issue described is a strong gasoline odor, noticeable in enclosed spaces such as garages, which could pose safety concerns related to fuel vapor accumulation. These problems are reported regardless of vehicle age, with one owner noting the issue within the first year of ownership. Buyers should be aware of these potential issues, especially in enclosed environments.
STRUCTURE (2 complaints)
STRUCTURE
2 complaintsOwners of the 2018 Buick Enclave report issues with the sunroof structure, specifically mentioning incidents where the sunroof explodes unexpectedly. Complaints frequently describe the sunroof shattering with a loud noise likened to a gunshot, leaving a large hole in the glass. These incidents occur while the vehicle is in motion, with one report occurring at approximately 15 mph and another on a highway. Safety implications include potential injury from shattered glass if the sunroof shade is not closed. Buyers considering this vehicle should be aware of these reported sunroof failures, which could affect safety and require repairs.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaintThe 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 (1 complaints)
SEAT BELTS
1 complaintSafety-relatedIn 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)
When Do 2018 Buick Enclave Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Buick Enclave Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Buick Enclave Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Buick Enclave year is 2026 with a reliability score of 81/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2023 (79/100) and 2025 (77/100).
Buick Enclave Years to Avoid
The worst Buick Enclave year is 2020 with a score of 68/100, primarily due to engine (9) issues.
Buick Enclave Reliability Score Trend
Buick Enclave reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 76/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 79/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 77/100 | Good |
| 2026 | 81/100 | Excellent |
Buick Enclave Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2018 Buick Enclave reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2018 Buick Enclave?
How many recalls does the 2018 Buick Enclave have?
Is the 2018 Buick Enclave expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2018 Buick Enclave without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.
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How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Get notified when new recalls or reliability data is added for the Buick Enclave.
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