2020 Buick Enclave Safety Report

The 2020 Buick Enclave presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but a notable number of recalls and emerging complaint patterns. NHTSA awarded the vehicle an excellent 5-star overall safety rating, including 5 stars for side impact and 4 stars for frontal and rollover tests, indicating robust occupant protection in various crash scenarios. However, the vehicle has been subject to 6 recalls, addressing critical issues such as potential tire failure (two separate recalls), transmission oil leaks leading to loss of propulsion, insufficient fuel supply causing engine stalls, degraded airbag performance, and even a cracked frame rail that could compromise crash performance. These recalls highlight significant manufacturing or design flaws that required corrective action. Despite the high safety ratings, the 2020 Enclave has accumulated 41 NHTSA complaints, with 2 crashes and 2 injuries reported. A concerning pattern of engine-related issues stands out, with 6 complaints, including reports of engine shutdowns while driving and exhaust system failures. Several complaints detail broken exhaust pipe welds and brackets, leading to holes in the exhaust and potential carbon monoxide exposure, an issue that appears to be covered by special adjustments for other model years but not consistently for 2020. Power train complaints, totaling 3, include instances of the vehicle abruptly shifting into park or failing to engage park, and a park solenoid failure. Other recurring issues from complaints include electrical system malfunctions (3 complaints) such as hazard lights illuminating inadvertently and 'Service Electrical Charging System' warnings, and steering problems (2 complaints) like the steering wheel locking and loss of power steering. The recall history directly correlates with some complaints, particularly regarding tires and power train. While the crash test results are reassuring, the volume and nature of the complaints, especially those related to engine and power train, suggest potential long-term reliability and safety concerns that buyers should be aware of.

Our recommendation: While the 2020 Buick Enclave boasts strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the numerous recalls and recurring complaints, especially concerning engine/exhaust system integrity and power train issues. Thoroughly check for all recall completions and consider an independent pre-purchase inspection focusing on the exhaust system and transmission.