2023 Buick Envision Safety Report

The 2023 Buick Envision presents a mixed safety profile. While it achieved excellent crash test ratings from NHTSA, scoring 5 stars overall, 5 stars for frontal and side impacts, and 4 stars for rollover, the vehicle has accumulated 21 complaints with NHTSA. Notably, there have been no reported crashes, fires, injuries, or deaths associated with these complaints. A significant concern is the single recall (NHTSA ID: 22V828000) related to exterior lighting software, which could cause daytime running lights (DRLs) to remain active, potentially reducing visibility and increasing crash risk. This recall affects 2021-2023 Buick Envision models. Analysis of the 21 complaints reveals several recurring themes, particularly concerning the powertrain and electrical systems. Multiple complaints describe transmission failures, jolting, slipping out of gear, or complete loss of motive power, some occurring at relatively low mileage (e.g., 52,000 miles for a no-start condition, or 1,000 miles for brake failure). Electrical system issues are also prominent, with reports of complete electrical shutdowns, battery drain, and malfunctions affecting multiple systems like brakes, ABS, and steering. Several complaints also highlight issues with safety features not being installed or functional due to semiconductor shortages, such as park assist and blind-spot monitoring, despite being promised retrofits. Brake system failures are another alarming pattern, with multiple owners reporting instances where the brake pedal went to the floor, the vehicle failed to slow down, or RPMs increased when braking, requiring extreme measures like shifting to neutral to stop the vehicle. While the overall crash test performance is strong, these real-world complaints about critical systems like brakes, transmission, and electrical power warrant attention. The low number of total complaints (21) for a relatively new model year is positive, but the nature of the reported issues suggests potential underlying quality control or component reliability concerns in specific areas.

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of reported powertrain, electrical, and brake system issues, and verify that all promised safety features are installed and functional, especially given the recall and complaint patterns.