2022 Buick Enclave

The 2022 Buick Enclave is a mid-size SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly technology. The sole engine option for the 2022 Enclave is a 3.6L V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the Enclave’s quiet cabin, smooth ride, and ample cargo space. Criticisms often center around its fuel economy compared to competitors and the sometimes-hesitant shifting of the 9-speed transmission. Some find the exterior styling somewhat bland.

Engine

3.6L V6 (LGY)

• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher-than-normal oil consumption. This can manifest as needing to add oil between scheduled oil changes, low oil level warnings, and, in severe cases, potential engine damage.
  • Solution: In some cases, a revised PCV valve or valve cover is installed. In other cases, more extensive engine work, such as piston ring replacement, is required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain can stretch or fail prematurely. Symptoms include a check engine light, rough idling, and engine noise.
  • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, guides, and tensioners.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

9-Speed Automatic (9T65)

• Harsh Shifting/Hesitation
  • Description/Symptoms: The 9T65 transmission can exhibit harsh or jerky shifting, particularly during low-speed acceleration and deceleration. Some owners also report hesitation or delays in shifting between gears.
  • Solution: A software update to the Transmission Control Module (TCM) might resolve the issue. In more severe cases, valve body replacement or complete transmission replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (for software update) - $5,000+ (for transmission replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Torque converter shudder or vibration at highway speeds.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Rear Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, instability, and clunking noises from the rear suspension, indicating worn shocks or struts.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear shocks or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Glitches
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or unexpected reboots of the infotainment system. Loss of connectivity with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or, in some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (for software update) - $1,200+ (for unit replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The vehicle’s battery drains overnight or within a few days of non-use.
  • Solution: Diagnostic testing to identify the source of the parasitic draw. Common culprits include faulty modules or accessories.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Failure of various sensors such as the blind spot monitoring sensors or parking sensors.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of the malfunctioning sensor and replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Automatic Liftgate Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: The automatic liftgate fails to open or close properly, or it makes unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the liftgate struts, motor, or sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Heater Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters fail to warm up or only heat intermittently.
  • Solution: Replacement of the heating element or control module within the seat.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per seat.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof fails to open or close properly, or it makes unusual noises during operation.
  • Solution: Adjustment or replacement of the sunroof tracks, motor, or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2022 Buick Enclave, while generally a reliable vehicle, exhibits some common issues. Engine problems like excessive oil consumption and timing chain issues can lead to costly repairs. The 9-speed transmission may suffer from harsh shifting and torque converter problems. Electrical gremlins related to the infotainment system and battery drain can also be frustrating. Suspension and interior issues are generally less severe and costly to address. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor them into their purchasing decision, particularly when considering extended warranties or pre-purchase inspections.