2021 Buick Enclave Safety Report

2021 Buick Enclave: Strong Crash Ratings, Two Airbag Recalls, and Recurring Brake & Liftgate Complaints

19Complaints
2Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
Most reported components: Service Brakes (6)Unknown Or Other (2)Electrical System,Structure (2)Electrical System (1)Latches/Locks/Linkages (1)Electrical System,Latches/Locks/Linkages (1)Fuel/Propulsion System (1)Seat Belts (1)Power Train (1)Engine (1)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Buick Enclave presents a mixed safety picture. On one hand, it achieved strong crash test ratings from NHTSA, earning an overall 5-star rating, with 5 stars for side impact and 4 stars for frontal and rollover. This indicates good performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, the vehicle has been subject to two significant safety recalls related to its airbag system. One recall addresses a potential incompatibility in the harness connector for the roof rail airbags, which could prevent proper deployment and increase injury risk. The second recall concerns incorrect airbag calibration software, also posing a risk of improper airbag deployment. NHTSA complaint data, while relatively low with 19 total complaints, reveals some concerning patterns. The most frequently reported component is 'SERVICE BRAKES' with 6 complaints, often describing grinding noises and reduced effectiveness at very low mileages, which dealers reportedly acknowledge as a known issue. Another notable pattern involves the 'LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES' and 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' components, with multiple reports of the power liftgate opening randomly or failing to operate, posing potential security and access issues. While no crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths have been reported in the complaints, the nature of some issues, particularly brake performance and airbag recalls, warrants attention. Overall, while the Enclave performs well in crash tests, the airbag recalls highlight critical safety vulnerabilities that needed correction. The recurring brake issues, even if not directly linked to crashes in the complaint data, suggest a potential quality control concern that could impact driver confidence and safety margins. The random liftgate openings are more of a security and convenience issue but could be a distraction.

Reliability Score

The 2021 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 2021 Buick Enclave

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Buick Enclave:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Brake Grinding/Reduced Effectiveness
Multiple complaints describe grinding noises and a feeling of reduced traction when applying brakes, sometimes starting as early as 300 miles. Dealers reportedly acknowledge this as a known issue.		 Medium Common 300-2100 miles
Random Liftgate Opening/Failure
The power liftgate randomly opens on its own, even when parked and locked, or fails to open/close at all, preventing access to the rear cargo area.		 Medium Occasional unknown miles
Airbag System Recalls
Two recalls address potential issues with airbag deployment: one for incompatible roof rail airbag harness connectors and another for incorrect airbag calibration software.		 High Common N/A miles
Catalytic Converter/Exhaust Issues
One complaint details multiple replacements of catalytic converters and repairs/replacements of flex pipes and exhaust pipes.		 Medium Rare unknown miles
Engine Abrupt Stop/Lock-Up
One complaint describes the engine abruptly stopping and locking up in the middle of the street without warning, preventing gear shifts.		 High Rare unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Buick Enclave:

Service Brakes 31% of complaints

Grinding noises and perceived reduced effectiveness, often at very low mileage, with dealers acknowledging it as a known issue.

Latches/Locks/Linkages 15% of complaints

Power liftgate opening randomly or failing to operate, and door locks intermittently failing.

Electrical System 10% of complaints

Issues related to power liftgate operation and door lock failures.

Engine 5% of complaints

Abrupt engine stop/lock-up and catalytic converter/exhaust problems.

Power Train 5% of complaints

AWD vibration at highway speeds.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Buick Enclave

Is the 2021 Buick Enclave safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 Buick Enclave received excellent crash test ratings (5-star overall). However, it has two recalls for airbag issues that could affect deployment, and several complaints about brake performance and random liftgate openings, which are safety and security concerns.

What are common problems with the 2021 Buick Enclave?

The most reported issues are related to the SERVICE BRAKES (6 complaints), often describing grinding noises at low mileage. Other common problems include the power liftgate opening randomly or failing to operate, and door lock malfunctions (LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES and ELECTRICAL SYSTEM complaints).

Are there any recalls for the 2021 Buick Enclave?

Yes, there are two recalls for the 2021 Buick Enclave, both related to the airbag system. One addresses an incompatible harness connector for the roof rail airbags, and the other concerns incorrect airbag calibration software, both of which could prevent proper airbag deployment.

How does the 2021 Buick Enclave perform in crash tests?

The 2021 Buick Enclave performed well in NHTSA crash tests, earning an overall 5-star safety rating. It received 5 stars for side impact, and 4 stars for both frontal impact and rollover resistance.

Should I be concerned about the brakes on a 2021 Buick Enclave?

Yes, there are multiple complaints (6 out of 19 total) regarding grinding brakes and a feeling of reduced effectiveness, sometimes starting at very low mileage. Dealers have reportedly acknowledged this as a known issue, suggesting it's a recurring concern that potential buyers should investigate.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: While the 2021 Buick Enclave has strong crash test ratings, be aware of two airbag recalls and inquire about the known brake grinding issues and power liftgate malfunctions before purchasing.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Buick Enclave

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Buick Enclave. The data includes 19 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 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.