Last updated: 2026-05-13
1 Buick Enclave Years to Avoid
Years that score significantly below the Buick Enclave average of 75/100
The Buick Enclave years to avoid are 2020 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2020 with a reliability score of 68/100. The best Buick Enclave year to buy is 2023 79/100.
Verdict
The 2020 Buick Enclave scores significantly below the model average of 75/100. The weakest year is 2020 with a score of 68/100 due to engine (9) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2018 75/100.
Buick Enclave Years to Avoid
These model years score significantly below the Buick Enclave average of 75/100.
| # | Year | Score | Rating | Recalls | Complaints | Top Issue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2020 | 68/100 | Good | 6 | 48 | Engine (9) |
Why These Years Should Be Avoided
2020 Buick Enclave
The 2020 Buick Enclave has good reliability. There are 6 recalls and 48 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Buick Enclave. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (9), Electrical System (9), Unknown Or Other (7).
Top issues: Engine (9), Electrical System (9), Unknown Or Other (7), Power Train (6), Engine And Engine Cooling (2), Steering (2)
View full 2020reliability report →What Are Common Buick Enclave Problems?
Top reported issues across all Buick Enclave model years, based on NHTSA owner complaints.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
39 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
POWER TRAIN
35 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
SERVICE BRAKES
34 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2020, 2021
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
28 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
ENGINE
24 complaintsMost reported in 2018, 2019, 2020
SEAT BELTS
6 complaintsMost reported in 2019, 2020, 2023
Best Buick Enclave Year to Buy Instead
2018 Buick Enclave
The 2018 Buick Enclave has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 60 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Buick Enclave. Severity signals include 5 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Power Train (14), Service Brakes (14), Engine (6).
Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car
Even the best Buick Enclave year can have hidden problems. A VIN check reveals past accidents, title issues, and service gaps for the exact car you're considering.
- Accidents
- Open Recalls
- Title History
- Odometer Rollback
All Buick Enclave Years by Generation
All model years ranked by reliability score, grouped by generation.
Buick Enclave Reliability Scores by Year
Second generation (2018) (2018–2024)
2023 Buick Enclave
0 recalls · 17 complaints
2024 Buick Enclave
0 recalls · 7 complaints
2022 Buick Enclave
1 recalls · 12 complaints
2018 Buick Enclave
0 recalls · 60 complaints
2019 Buick Enclave
1 recalls · 38 complaints
2021 Buick Enclave
2 recalls · 21 complaints
2020 Buick Enclave
6 recalls · 48 complaints
Our data covers 2018–2025 model years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Buick Enclave years should you avoid?
What is the best year for the Buick Enclave?
How many recalls does the Buick Enclave have?
Is a used Buick Enclave worth buying?
What are common Buick Enclave problems?
Is the Buick Enclave reliable long-term?
Which Buick Enclave generation is most reliable?
Is the 2023 Buick Enclave a good used buy?
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.
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