2018 Buick Envision

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints reported by owners of the 2018 Buick Envision, categorized by component. The 2018 Buick Envision is a compact SUV that offers a blend of comfort and practicality. For 2018, engine options included a 2.5L inline-4 producing 197 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 producing 252 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (2.5L) or a 9-speed automatic transmission (2.0L Turbo). Owners often praise the Envision for its quiet cabin, comfortable ride, and user-friendly infotainment system. Common complaints include the sometimes sluggish performance of the base engine and reliability concerns.

Engine

2.5L Inline-4

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. This can manifest as the low oil pressure light illuminating or the engine running rough.
  • Solution: The fix can vary from replacing the PCV valve to piston ring replacement. A compression test and leak-down test are typically performed to diagnose the root cause.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (PCV Valve) - $2000+ (Piston Rings)
  • Recalls: None Found

2.0L Turbo Inline-4

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbocharger, loss of power, check engine light.
  • Solution: Turbocharger replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $2500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• High Pressure Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Long crank, engine stall, check engine light.
  • Solution: High Pressure Fuel Pump Replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $750 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.5L Engine)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky gear changes, especially when shifting from 1st to 2nd gear or during downshifts.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and/or software update. In severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission overhaul.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (transmission overhaul)
  • Recalls: None Found

9-Speed Automatic (Paired with 2.0L Turbo Engine)

• Hesitation/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay or hesitation when accelerating, slipping between gears, and occasional hard shifts. This is commonly associated with the earlier versions of the 9-speed transmission.
  • Solution: Software update to transmission control module (TCM) to improve shift timing and clutch engagement. In some cases, replacement of valve body or entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (software update) - $4000+ (transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bumpy ride, excessive bouncing, clunking noises over bumps, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of worn struts or shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: Infotainment screen freezing, unresponsive touch controls, system rebooting unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the infotainment system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (software update) - $1000+ (module replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery overnight or after short periods of inactivity. Can be caused by a parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic draw. Could involve replacing a faulty module or fixing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Power liftgate failing to open or close properly, getting stuck, or making unusual noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of liftgate struts, motor, or latch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters not working, only partially working, or overheating.
  • Solution: Replacement of seat heater element or control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof getting stuck, leaking, or making excessive noise during operation.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of sunroof motor, tracks, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2018 Buick Envision presents a range of potential issues, spanning from relatively minor inconveniences like infotainment glitches to more serious and costly problems such as turbocharger or transmission failures. Engine issues, particularly oil consumption in the 2.5L and potential turbo problems in the 2.0L, are notable. Transmission concerns, particularly with the 9-speed, can lead to driveability issues and substantial repair bills. While not all Envisions will experience these problems, potential buyers should be aware of these common complaints and factor them into their purchasing decision and maintenance planning. The severity and cost of repairs vary widely, with some issues resolvable with software updates or minor parts replacements, while others may necessitate major component overhauls or replacements.