2018 Buick Enclave Avenir
2018 Buick Enclave Avenir
Overview
The 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir, a premium three-row SUV, generally offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. As a first-year model for the second generation, it introduced updated styling and technology. While the Enclave Avenir aims for a luxury feel, like any vehicle, it can encounter specific issues. This report focuses on documented technical reliability concerns beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential problem areas for owners and prospective buyers. The data aims to highlight common mechanical and electrical faults that have been reported, along with their typical symptoms, solutions, and estimated repair costs.
Engine
3.6L V6
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Transmission
9-Speed Automatic (9T65E)
Hesitation and Shifting Issues
- Symptoms: Jerky shifts, delayed engagement, hesitation during acceleration, or rough downshifts.
- Solution: Software updates for the transmission control module (TCM) are often the first step. In more severe cases, internal transmission repairs or replacement may be necessary.
- Cost: $300 - $1,500 (Software Update/Minor Repair), $2,500 - $5,000 (Major Repair/Replacement)
Suspension
Standard Chassis
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Electrical
Infotainment System
Screen Freezing or Unresponsiveness
- Symptoms: The touchscreen display may freeze, become unresponsive to touch inputs, or reboot unexpectedly.
- Solution: Software updates for the infotainment system are often available. A hard reset or, in persistent cases, replacement of the infotainment module may be required.
- Cost: $100 - $300 (Software Update/Reset), $800 - $1,500 (Module Replacement)
Battery Drain
Premature Battery Discharge
- Symptoms: The battery may drain quickly, leading to starting problems, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a period.
- Solution: Diagnosis to identify parasitic draw from modules or accessories. Replacement of faulty modules or repair of wiring issues.
- Cost: $150 - $500
Exterior
Body Panels and Trim
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: No widespread issues reported.
- Solution: No widespread issues reported.
- Cost: N/A
Interior
Climate Control System
HVAC Blower Motor Failure
- Symptoms: The HVAC system may stop blowing air, or the fan speed may be inconsistent.
- Solution: Replacement of the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
- Cost: $200 - $500
Seat Actuators
Power Seat Malfunction
- Symptoms: Power seats may become slow, stop moving, or fail to adjust in specific directions.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the faulty seat motor or control module.
- Cost: $300 - $700
Summary Verdict
The 2018 Buick Enclave Avenir demonstrates a generally solid reliability record for its powertrain, with the 3.6L V6 engine showing no significant widespread issues. The primary concerns tend to be concentrated in the transmission, particularly the 9-speed automatic, which can exhibit shifting anomalies requiring software updates or more involved repairs. Electrical systems, including the infotainment screen and potential battery drain issues, are also areas to monitor. Interior components like the HVAC blower motor and power seat actuators have seen some reports of failure. While not plagued by major systemic flaws, prospective buyers should be aware of these potential electrical and transmission-related repairs, which can incur moderate costs.