Last updated: 2026-07-25

2021 Buick Envision Reliability Report
The 2021 Buick Envision scores 74/100 ("Good"). With 2 recalls and 23 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
Recalls
2
Complaints
23
Complaint Rate
5per 10,000 sold
Est. Repair Cost
$573
Annual Fuel Cost
$2,300–$2,400
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
- POWER TRAIN (5)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- TIRES (2)
Generation & Refresh (US)
2021 is the first model year of the Second generation (2021).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2021 model year.
- Refreshed in 2024.
- 2nd generation Envision (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 2021 pricing and recall counts against 2022+ before deciding.
2021: Second generation (2021) Launch
Generation start — new platform.
2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh
Updated features and styling tweaks.
Should You Buy the 2021 Buick Envision?
At 74/100, the 2021 Buick Envision lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Owners log 23 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 (5). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.
Compared to the 2022 Buick Envision, which scored 1 points higher. See also the 2020 Buick Envision for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- +Acceptable reliability score
- +Low recall count
- +Below-average complaint rate for SUV
Cons
- −POWER TRAIN: Slipping and unexpected gear changes (5 complaints)
- −ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Malfunctioning interior lights and fuel pump module failures (5 complaints)
Compare 2021 Buick Envision With

2021 Chevrolet Equinox
Reliability: 74/100

2021 Honda CR-V
Reliability: 77/100

2021 Toyota RAV4
Reliability: 73/100

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB
Reliability: 65/100

2021 Mazda CX-5
Reliability: 83/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
LOW RISK- 2 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
HIGH RISK- POWER TRAIN (5)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
Recall Overview
2
recalls on record
The 2021 Buick Envision carries 2 recalls — a low count. Authorized dealers repair any open recall free of charge, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
5
per 10,000 soldSegment avg: 16.7
Safety Incidents
2
Crashes
0
Fires
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
NHTSA 5/5 Stars
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2021 Buick Envision Recall Details
2 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Buick Envision. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
Consequence
DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-827.
AIR BAGS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles. The communications gateway module incorrectly processes a loss of communication with the sensing diagnostic module (SDM), causing the air bag malfunction indicator light to inconsistently illuminate.
Consequence
The air bag malfunction indicator light may fail to warn the driver of a problem with the air bag, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
The communications gateway module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212338110.
Buying a used 2021 Buick Envision? Check its history first
Every 2021 Buick Envision 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
2021 Buick Envision NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 16.9%
Safety Technologies
Buick EnvisionRepair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$573
Repair Frequency
0.4
unscheduled repair visits per year
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
MPG & Annual Running Costs
Gas
25–26 MPG
Running cost: $2,850–$2,950/yr
Fuel + repair
22–24 city / 29–31 hwy MPG
Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2021 EPA label cycle.
Gas trims
| Trim | Drive | Trans. | City | Hwy | Comb | Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Envision FWD 2.0L 4-cyl | Front-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 24 | 31 | 26 | $2,300 |
| Envision AWD 2.0L 4-cyl | All-Wheel Drive | Automatic (S9) | 22 | 29 | 25 | $2,400 |
Used Buying Checklist
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2021 Buick Envision.
Test for transmission slipping or hesitation during acceleration
Check for any check engine lights or starting issues
Inspect tires for pitting or delaminating, especially Continental Pro Contact
Verify fuel pump control module functionality and check for related recalls
Test interior lights to ensure they turn off properly
2021 Buick Envision Common Problems by Component
23 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
POWER TRAIN
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2021 Buick Envision frequently report issues with the transmission, particularly involving slipping and unexpected gear changes. Common symptoms include the transmission slipping out of gear while driving, hesitation or lurching when accelerating from a stop, and difficulty in maintaining power to the wheels. These issues are noted across various mileages, with one report specifying around 17,500 miles and another at approximately 34,950 miles. A crash is reported in one instance where the transmission slipped from drive to neutral at low speed, highlighting potential safety implications. These complaints suggest that prospective buyers should be aware of potential transmission issues, especially when test driving or considering vehicles with similar mileage ranges.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
5 complaintsOwners report issues with the electrical system of the 2021 Buick Envision, primarily involving malfunctioning interior lights and fuel pump module failures. Multiple complaints describe interior lights that activate unexpectedly while driving and do not turn off, even when the vehicle is turned off. Additionally, there are reports of the fuel pump and fuel control module failing, causing the vehicle to shut off unexpectedly, including one instance on a highway. These issues appear at varying mileages, with one owner noting problems around 53,000 miles. Safety implications include potential vehicle shutdowns in traffic, which could pose a hazard.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
3 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Buick Envision report issues primarily related to check engine lights and starting problems. Common symptoms include the illumination of the check engine light, with one owner specifically mentioning a code 1098, and another describing an issue with the Evap Purge Pump at around 37,588 miles. Additionally, there is a recurring problem where the vehicle fails to start consistently, posing a potential safety risk, especially at night. This starting issue is reported to occur frequently, with no warning lights, and has persisted beyond the vehicle's warranty period. No crashes, fires, or loss of control have been reported in the complaints.
TIRES (2 complaints)
TIRES
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Buick Envision report issues with tire integrity, specifically with Continental Pro Contact tires. Complaints frequently mention pitting, delaminating, and rubber detachment on all four tires, as well as a blowout incident. One owner describes a blowout occurring at approximately 6,389 miles, resulting in damage to the wheel, fender, and door, with repair costs reaching $5,484.66. Safety implications are evident in the blowout that caused vehicle damage, though no crashes or injuries are reported. Used car buyers should be aware of these tire-related issues, especially considering the relatively low mileage at which they occur.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (2 complaints)
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
2 complaintsOwners of the 2021 Buick Envision report issues with the fuel pump control module that cause the vehicle to unexpectedly stop running while in motion. Symptoms include the engine shutting down without warning, preventing the vehicle from restarting immediately, and making it difficult to shift into neutral due to electronic shifting limitations. These problems occur at relatively low mileage, with one owner mentioning 11,200 miles. Safety implications are significant, as one owner describes being stranded in a busy freeway lane, unable to move the vehicle, while another reports the vehicle stopping in traffic at 45 mph. These patterns suggest potential safety risks, particularly in high-traffic situations.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (1 complaints)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2021 Buick Envision. The contact stated that while his wife was driving at an undisclosed speed on the freeway, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated around a corner, with the floor mat stuck under the pedal. The driver depressed the brake pedal for an extended time, but the vehicle continued accelerating. The driver pressed the park button, which slowed the vehicle, and the driver was able to pull over safely. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, and the owner was informed about a possible recall. The dealer determined the failure was due to a stuck floor mat and sudden unintended acceleration. The front and rear brakes were replaced along with the floor mat. The floor mat was PN: 84734211. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 37,000. The VIN was not available.
AIR BAGS (1 complaints)
AIR BAGS
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2021 Buick Envision. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the air bag warning light illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 80,000.
VISIBILITY/WIPER (1 complaints)
VISIBILITY/WIPER
1 complaintWhen driving 2021 Buick Envision, the windshield and side windows do not defrost with HVAC set to defrost mode. Service Climate system is displayed on dash. Vehicle was inspected by dealer finding replacement of HVAC case half housing required on 1/22/24 ( a year ago). GM (OEM) has been in contact but has failed to provide a solution after 1 year of trying to obtain a part from their system. This condition results in immediate fogging condition of all windows without warning presenting a visibility safety hazard for the driver and surrounding vehicles. Sorry GM, but a rag to wipe the window is not a good solution. It has been a year with no urgency from GM to remedy the issue. This is deemed a critical function for safety and GM does not take it seriously.
SUSPENSION (1 complaints)
SUSPENSION
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2021 Buick Envision. The contact stated that while operating the vehicle, the contact heard a popping sound coming from the front end of the vehicle, and the vehicle became difficult to steer. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who determined that the front driver’s and passenger’s side ball joints, and control arms were faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure reoccurred, and the control arms were replaced a second time. Also, while driving the odor of fuel was present inside the cabin of the vehicle and the vehicle hesitated and jerked while depressing the accelerator pedal. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer who diagnosed that the fuel injector and fuel sensor were faulty. The fuel injector and fuel sensor were replaced but the failure persisted. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 24,000.
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintWhen I push on the accelerator the car hesitates and then surges forward. I took the vehicle to the dealership where they recreated the problem however it was not throwing any codes. After examination they determined that the problem was turbo lag. I was advised to continue driving the car as usual until it throws a code or turbo fails. I believe that the vehicle randomly hesitating could leave you stranded in an intersection with oncoming traffic, and when if surges puts you at risk for a rear end collision. When I asked the service rep what will happen if the turbo fails, she said pull over and call on-star. I'll be traveling through the mountains for the holidays, it worries me that if the turbo fails I could be stuck on the side of the road in winter weather.
When Do 2021 Buick Envision Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst Buick Envision Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Buick Envision Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Buick Envision year is 2025 with a reliability score of 82/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2020 (78/100) and 2019 (78/100).
Buick Envision Years to Avoid
No Buick Envision years are statistical outliers in our data.
All model years score consistently well. The Buick Envision maintains one of the highest industry standards for long-term durability across its entire production span.
Buick Envision Reliability Score Trend
Buick Envision reliability has remained consistent across model years, averaging 77/100.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 78/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 74/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 75/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 76/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 82/100 | Excellent |
| 2026 | 77/100 | Good |
Buick Envision Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2021 Buick Envision reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Buick Envision?
How many recalls does the 2021 Buick Envision have?
Is the 2021 Buick Envision expensive to maintain?
Don’t buy a 2021 Buick Envision 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 Envision.
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