What are the most common problems with the 2012 Buick Enclave?

Significant reliability concerns, particularly with the **airbag system** and **engine**.

How many recalls does the 2012 Buick Enclave have?

The 2012 Buick Enclave currently has 7 recalls on file. Review the full recall report to see affected components and available remedies.

Is the 2012 Buick Enclave a good buy used?

Verdict: Proceed with caution. Significant reliability concerns, particularly with the **airbag system** and **engine**. Multiple critical safety recalls, including those for airbags and seat belts, require verification of completion. Common complaints point to issues with the **electrical system** and **steering**. Offers good passenger and cargo space, suitable for families. All-wheel drive provides added confidence in varied weather conditions. Always verify service history, open recalls, and maintenance records before purchasing.

What maintenance costs should I expect for the 2012 Buick Enclave?

Refer to the maintenance cost guide for interval schedules, DIY difficulty ratings, and typical repair cost ranges for the 2012 Buick Enclave.

2012 Buick Enclave Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026Daniel Wilson4 Critical Recalls

Overall Score

Our Verdict

Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

Significant reliability concerns, particularly with the airbag system and engine.
Multiple critical safety recalls, including those for airbags and seat belts, require verification of completion.
Common complaints point to issues with the electrical system and steering.
Offers good passenger and cargo space, suitable for families.

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Overview

2012 Buick Enclave

The 2012 Buick Enclave offers a comfortable and spacious three-row SUV experience, but potential buyers should approach with caution. While it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, its reliability record is marked by numerous complaints and safety recalls, particularly concerning the airbag system. The 3.6L V6 engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission provides adequate power for daily driving and highway cruising, achieving an EPA-estimated 18 MPG combined. However, a high TSB count suggests a history of technical service bulletins that owners should be aware of. Given its age and documented issues, thorough pre-purchase inspection is critical.

Critical Failure Risk

Engine complaints are frequent, ranging from stalling and rough idling to complete failure. This often points to issues with fuel delivery, ignition systems, or internal component wear.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls7

Service Bulletins0

Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

170

Engine22

Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency

Combined

MPG

City

MPG

Highway

MPG

Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

Practicality

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing passenger space and comfort over long-term mechanical predictability.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience with minimal repair risk.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2012 Buick Enclave Reliability Analysis

Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type: Regular
Transmission: Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive
Body Style: Suv
EPA Combined MPG: 18

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Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 22 reports

2. Airbags

Usage: 21 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering)

Est. shop cost: $100 - $200

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist

Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)

Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context

Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it

Full specs and trim-level context

7 recall campaign details & remedy notes

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FAQ

Is the 2012 Buick Enclave reliable?

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2012 Buick Enclave is 7.7/10. Reliability score is 7.7/10. NHTSA recalls: 7. Owner complaints: 170.

How practical is the 2012 Buick Enclave for daily use?

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 18 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2012 Buick Enclave?

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2012 Buick Enclave is 6.8/10. Overall score is 6.8/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.4/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2012 Buick Enclave?

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection - Fluid Level Checks (coolant, brake, power steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $800. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 95,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $1,500 • Max: $4,000).

What engine is in the 2012 Buick Enclave?

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2012 Buick Enclave use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Enclave, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2012 Buick Enclave?

EPA combined estimate is 18 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2012 Buick Enclave?

1 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Tire Pressure Monitoring System.

What body style is the 2012 Buick Enclave?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Enclave, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2012 Buick Enclave use?

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2012 Buick Enclave, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2012 Buick Enclave?

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2012 Buick Enclave?

Top complaint category: engine (22 reports, 12.9% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2012 Buick Enclave?

This model year has 7 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2012 Buick Enclave?

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2012 Toyota Highlander and 2012 Honda Pilot.