2024 Buick Enclave Safety Report

The 2024 Buick Enclave presents a strong overall safety picture based on its NHTSA crash test ratings, achieving a perfect 5-star overall rating, including 5 stars for frontal and side crash tests, and a 4-star rating for rollover. This indicates excellent performance in controlled crash scenarios. However, despite being a new model year, there are 6 total NHTSA complaints, with 1 crash and 1 injury reported. Notably, there are no recalls issued for this model year, which is typical for a very new vehicle. Analysis of the 6 complaints reveals a diverse set of issues rather than a single dominant pattern. Components like ENGINE, STEERING, SEAT BELTS, POWER TRAIN, and AIR BAGS have each received one complaint. Specific incidents include a loud engine noise, a whining steering wheel, unexpected mirror retraction, difficult-to-latch seatbelts, a power loss event where the vehicle would not shift out of park, and a critical incident where airbags did not deploy and seatbelts did not lock during a multi-vehicle accident. The lack of airbag deployment and seatbelt locking in a reported crash is a significant concern, directly impacting occupant protection. The complaint data, while limited in volume, points to potential quality control issues across various systems, particularly concerning critical safety features like airbags and seatbelts. The power train issue leading to a loss of power and inability to shift out of park also poses a significant safety risk. While the crash test ratings are excellent, the real-world complaint data, especially the reported injury and non-deployment of safety features in a crash, suggests areas for close monitoring by both consumers and the manufacturer. The absence of recalls means these issues have not yet reached a threshold for mandatory corrective action by the manufacturer.

Our recommendation: While the 2024 Buick Enclave boasts excellent crash test ratings, early complaints, particularly regarding airbag and seatbelt function in a crash, suggest potential quality control issues; buyers should monitor for future recalls or investigations and consider extended warranties.