2016 Buick Enclave

Introduction:

The 2016 Buick Enclave is a luxurious SUV that offers a comfortable and spacious interior, along with a powerful engine and a smooth ride. It is available with two engine options: a 3.6-liter V6 with 288 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.4-liter inline-four with 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Drivers appreciate the Enclave’s comfortable ride, spacious interior, and refined powertrain, but some have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

3.6L V6

• Intake Valve Deposits: Buildup of carbon deposits on the intake valves can cause a decrease in engine performance and fuel efficiency. Symptoms include rough idling, hesitation during acceleration, and decreased power output. The solution involves cleaning or replacing the intake valves and related components. Estimated cost to fix: $500-$1,000.
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner may fail, causing the timing chain to skip or break. This can lead to catastrophic engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, difficulty starting, and loss of power. The solution is to replace the timing chain tensioner and related components. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500-$2,500+.
• Oil Leaks: Oil leaks can occur from various locations in the engine, such as the oil pan gasket or valve cover gaskets. Symptoms include oil puddles under the vehicle, a burning oil smell, or low oil levels. The solution involves replacing the leaking gaskets or seals. Estimated cost to fix: $200-$500.

2.4L Inline-Four

• No Issues Found

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slipping: The transmission may slip or shudder during gear changes. This can be caused by worn clutches or other internal components. Symptoms include rough or delayed gear changes, slipping out of gear, or hesitation during acceleration. The solution involves repairing or rebuilding the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500-$3,000.
• Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter may fail, causing a loss of drive or shuddering during acceleration. Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, slipping out of gear, or a harsh engagement. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000-$1,500.

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure: The front strut mounts can fail, causing a clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension. Symptoms include a rough ride, uneven tire wear, or difficulty steering. The solution is to replace the strut mounts. Estimated cost to fix: $300-$500.
• Rear Shock Absorber Failure: The rear shock absorbers can fail, causing a bouncy or rough ride. Symptoms include excessive body roll, poor handling, or a dipping rear end during acceleration. The solution is to replace the shock absorbers. Estimated cost to fix: $200-$400.

Electrical

• Battery Drain: The battery may drain excessively, even when the vehicle is turned off. This can be caused by a faulty alternator, parasitic drains, or a malfunctioning electrical component. Symptoms include difficulty starting the vehicle, dim headlights, or electrical system malfunctions. The solution involves testing the battery, alternator, and electrical system to identify the source of the drain. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the issue.
• Power Window Failure: The power windows may fail to operate or become stuck. This can be caused by a faulty switch, motor, or wiring. Symptoms include difficulty raising or lowering the windows, intermittent operation, or complete failure. The solution involves diagnosing and repairing the faulty component. Estimated cost to fix: $100-$500.

Exterior

• Roof Rack Crossbar Corrosion: The roof rack crossbars may corrode over time, especially in areas with high salt exposure. Symptoms include pitting or rust on the crossbars. The solution is to replace the corroded crossbars. Estimated cost to fix: $300-$500.
• Door Lock Cylinder Failure: The door lock cylinder may fail, making it difficult or impossible to unlock the door. Symptoms include jamming or sticking of the key, difficulty turning the key, or a broken lock cylinder. The solution is to replace the door lock cylinder. Estimated cost to fix: $100-$200.

Interior

• Instrument Cluster Failure: The instrument cluster may fail, causing loss of display functionality. Symptoms include flickering or blank gauges, loss of trip information, or complete failure of the display. The solution is to replace the instrument cluster. Estimated cost to fix: $400-$600.
• Infotainment System Glitch: The infotainment system may experience glitches or malfunctions, such as frozen or lagging screens, unresponsive inputs, or Bluetooth connectivity issues. The solution involves updating the software or replacing the infotainment system. Estimated cost to fix: $500-$1,500.
• Seat Heater Failure: The seat heaters may fail to operate or become intermittent. This can be caused by a faulty heating element, switch, or wiring. Symptoms include lack of heat or uneven heating in the seat. The solution involves diagnosing and repairing the faulty component. Estimated cost to fix: $200-$500.

Summary

The 2016 Buick Enclave is a generally reliable vehicle, but it is not immune to certain issues. The most common issues reported by owners include engine intake valve deposits, transmission slipping, and front strut mount failure. Other issues, such as roof rack corrosion and instrument cluster failure, are less frequent. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but overall, the Enclave is a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable and reliable SUV.