2011 Buick Enclave

2011 Buick Enclave Overview

The 2011 Buick Enclave is a midsize luxury crossover SUV that offers a spacious and comfortable interior, a powerful V6 engine, and a smooth-shifting transmission. It is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and its 3.6-liter V6 engine produces 288 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque.

Despite its positive attributes, the Buick Enclave has experienced several issues that have affected owner satisfaction. These issues range from minor annoyances to more serious mechanical problems.

Engine

3.6-liter V6

• Oil Consumption: Excessive oil consumption, leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
• Description/Symptoms: Low oil level warning light illuminates frequently, excessive oil consumption noticed during oil changes.
• Solution: Replacement of piston rings and oil pan.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Recalls: NHTSA Campaigns 14V217000 and 15V197000

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic

• Hesitation and Shuddering: Transmission hesitation upon acceleration, followed by shuddering or vibration.
• Description/Symptoms: Rough shifting, delayed response to gear changes.
• Solution: Replacement of transmission solenoids or valve body.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
• Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Noise: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, particularly over rough roads.
• Description/Symptoms: Loud noises when driving over bumps, decreased handling performance.
• Solution: Replacement of sway bar bushings or control arms.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
• Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain: Premature battery discharge, leading to difficulty starting the vehicle.
• Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after short periods of non-use, warning lights illuminating even when the vehicle is turned off.
• Solution: Replacement of faulty alternator or battery.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $600
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Handle Malfunction: Difficulty opening the doors, particularly in cold weather.
• Description/Symptoms: Door handles become stuck or frozen, preventing access to the vehicle.
• Solution: Replacement of door handle assembly.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Roof Noise: Excessive wind noise entering the cabin through the panoramic sunroof.
• Description/Symptoms: Loud whistling or wind noise while driving, especially at highway speeds.
• Solution: Adjustment or resealing of sunroof gaskets.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
• Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 Buick Enclave is a popular SUV with a comfortable interior and powerful engine. However, it has experienced several issues, including engine oil consumption, transmission hesitation, suspension noise, battery drain, door handle malfunctions, and roof noise. While some issues are minor and relatively inexpensive to fix, others can be more severe and costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues before making a purchase decision.