2019 Buick Enclave Safety Report

2019 Buick Enclave: Strong Crash Ratings Mask Powertrain and Auto Start-Stop Malfunction Concerns

37Complaints
1Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
2Crash Reports
1Fire Reports
2Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (7)Unknown Or Other (4)Engine (3)Power Train,Electrical System (2)Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (2)Seat Belts (2)Electrical System,Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Unknown Or Other,Engine (1)Electrical System,Engine (1)Seats (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2019 Buick Enclave

The 2019 Buick Enclave presents a mixed safety picture. While it achieved strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, including a 5-star overall rating, 5-star side impact, and 4-star frontal and rollover ratings, its complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. With 37 total complaints, including 2 crashes, 1 fire, and 2 injuries, there are notable issues beyond crashworthiness. A significant portion of complaints, 7 out of 37, are related to the POWER TRAIN, with specific mentions of transmission hesitation, complete vehicle shutdowns, and torque converter issues. The single recall for this model year also pertains to the POWER TRAIN, specifically transmission oil leaks and potential loss of propulsion due to missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap, directly aligning with some owner complaints. Beyond the powertrain, other recurring problems include the auto start-stop system malfunctioning, leading to the vehicle shutting off instead of restarting, and issues with the air conditioning system. There are also reports of unexpected events such as a sunroof exploding, an airbag deploying spontaneously causing burns, and the vehicle's forward collision warning system activating inappropriately, leading to sudden stops. These incidents, though fewer in number, highlight potential defects that could compromise safety in real-world driving conditions, despite the strong crash test performance. The overall safety picture suggests that while the vehicle performs well in controlled crash scenarios, there are underlying reliability and component issues that could lead to unexpected failures or hazardous situations. The concentration of complaints around the powertrain and the auto start-stop system, coupled with the recall in the same area, indicates a systemic vulnerability. Buyers should be aware of these potential operational safety concerns, even with the high crash test scores.

Reliability Score

The 2019 Buick Enclave receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2019 Buick Enclave

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2019 Buick Enclave:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Auto Start-Stop System Malfunction
Vehicle shuts off completely instead of restarting after stopping, leading to loss of propulsion and potential stranding in traffic. Multiple complaints reference this, even after part replacements.		 High Common variable miles
Transmission Hesitation/Failure
Vehicle hesitates when accelerating, feels like it will die, or experiences shuddering at low speeds. Some reports of torque converter replacement needed. Directly related to the POWER TRAIN recall.		 High Common variable miles
Exploding Sunroof
Front sunroof spontaneously exploded while driving, raining glass into the cabin. One complaint reported.		 High Rare variable miles
Spontaneous Airbag Deployment
Passenger side seat airbag exploded while the vehicle was in park and auto-started, causing 1st and 2nd-degree burns to an occupant. One complaint reported.		 High Rare variable miles
Air Conditioning System Failure
AC system consistently blows only hot air, regardless of vehicle motion or speed. Multiple complaints reported.		 Medium Occasional variable miles
Exhaust System Bracket Failure
Exhaust system brackets broke off due to bad welds, with a TSB existing for similar issues in multiple model years.		 Medium Occasional variable miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2019 Buick Enclave:

Power Train 18% of complaints

Hesitation, shuddering, and complete shutdowns, often linked to the auto start-stop system and transmission issues, including torque converter problems. This aligns with the single recall for the vehicle.

Unknown Or Other 10% of complaints

General malfunctions or issues not clearly categorized, sometimes related to the auto start-stop system or other electrical glitches.

Engine 8% of complaints

Issues like the check engine light for purge valve/solenoid, oil leaks (timing chain seal), and general engine stalling.

Electrical System 5% of complaints

Problems with the cooling fan motor assembly shorting out and alternator failure.

Seat Belts 5% of complaints

Seat belt failing to lock securely due to internal part detachment.

Air Bags 2% of complaints

Spontaneous deployment of a passenger seat airbag causing burns.

Structure 2% of complaints

Exploding sunroof and issues with the rear automatic liftgate closing unexpectedly.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2019 Buick Enclave

Is the 2019 Buick Enclave safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2019 Buick Enclave received excellent crash test ratings, including a 5-star overall rating. However, it has 37 owner complaints, 2 crashes, 1 fire, and 2 injuries reported. Common issues include powertrain malfunctions, auto start-stop system failures leading to vehicle shutdowns, and a recall for transmission oil leaks. While it performs well in crash tests, operational reliability and unexpected component failures are concerns.

What are common problems with the 2019 Buick Enclave?

The most reported issues for the 2019 Buick Enclave are related to the POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), including transmission hesitation, shuddering, and complete vehicle shutdowns, often linked to the auto start-stop system. Other common problems include air conditioning system failures, exhaust system bracket issues, and electrical system malfunctions like cooling fan or alternator failures. There's also a recall for a POWER TRAIN issue involving potential transmission oil leaks.

Are there any recalls for the 2019 Buick Enclave?

Yes, there is one recall for the 2019 Buick Enclave. It is for the POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, where missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap could lead to a transmission oil leak and potential loss of propulsion, increasing crash risk.

How does the 2019 Buick Enclave perform in crash tests?

The 2019 Buick Enclave performed very well in NHTSA crash tests, receiving a 5-star overall safety rating. It earned 4 stars for frontal crash, 5 stars for side crash, and 4 stars for rollover resistance.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2019 Buick Enclave?

When considering a used 2019 Buick Enclave, pay close attention to the transmission's performance, especially for any hesitation or shuddering at low speeds. Test the auto start-stop system thoroughly to ensure it functions correctly without causing the vehicle to shut off. Also, check the air conditioning system's functionality and inquire about any past repairs related to the powertrain, electrical system, or exhaust.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be cautious of the 2019 Buick Enclave's documented powertrain and auto start-stop system issues, and ensure all recall work has been completed.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2019 Buick Enclave

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2019 Buick Enclave. The data includes 37 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 1 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 2 reported crashes, 1 fire incidents, 2 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2019 Buick Enclave an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.