CARFOCALvehicle research
Research CarsCompareRankingsArticles
  1. Home›
  2. Manufacturers›
  3. Buick›
  4. Enclave›
  5. 2016

2016 Buick Enclave Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·3 Critical Recalls
2016 Buick Enclave Report

Overall Score

6.7/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2016 Enclave has a below-average reliability verdict, largely due to persistent safety recall concerns and powertrain issues.
  • Airbag system issues are the most frequent complaint, often tied to recalls with extended remedy timelines.
  • Transmission problems, including shifting issues and potential failures, have been reported at low mileage.
  • Engine complaints include abnormal noises and excessive oil consumption, warranting careful inspection.
See the 5 checks before you buyFree • Takes 20s • Saves Thousands $
OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2016 Buick Enclave

The 2016 Buick Enclave offers a spacious and comfortable cabin, making it a practical choice for families. However, used car shoppers should be aware of its below-average reliability rating. The vehicle has a notable number of recalls, particularly concerning the airbags, with documented delays in parts availability. Beyond safety systems, complaints also highlight potential issues with the engine and powertrain, including transmission problems that can arise at relatively low mileage. While it earns high marks in crash tests, potential buyers must approach this model with caution and a thorough inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Complaints indicate transmission issues including failure to shift, loss of reverse gear, and internal component failure, sometimes at relatively low mileage. This can lead to loss of propulsion.

Early detection can help you avoid a $2,500-$5,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls5
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

151
Air Bags109
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
17
MPG
City
15
MPG
Highway
22
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

7.5/ 10

Practicality

5.0/ 10

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 certainty.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

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

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2016 Buick Enclave Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2016 Buick Enclave.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Transmission
Automatic 6-spd
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
17

CarFocal account required

See the full 2016 Buick Enclave buyer report before you decide

Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 109 reports

2. ENGINE

Usage: 7 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 - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Suspension Components

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
5 recall campaign details & remedy notes
Create free account

Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $

Already have an account? Log in

FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2016 Buick Enclave reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2016 Buick Enclave is 7.5/10. Reliability score is 7.5/10. NHTSA recalls: 5. Owner complaints: 151.

How practical is the 2016 Buick Enclave for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.0/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG.

What is the overall score for the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2016 Buick Enclave is 6.7/10. Overall score is 6.7/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.0/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes - Inspect Suspension Components at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $600 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 85,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $2,500 • Max: $5,000+).

What engine is in the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2016 Buick Enclave use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Buick Enclave, transmission is Automatic 6-spd. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

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

What body style is the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Buick Enclave, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2016 Buick Enclave use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2016 Buick Enclave, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic 6-spd.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

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

What are the most common air bags problems on the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (109 reports, 72.2% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

This model year has 5 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2016 Buick Enclave?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2016 Toyota Highlander and 2016 Honda Pilot.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

We may earn a commission if you buy parts through our links. Learn more.