2016 Buick Enclave Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Overall Score
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.
2016 Buick Enclave
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.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.
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.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Transmission
- Automatic 6-spd
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 17
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Most Common Issues
1. Airbags
Most reportedUsage: 109 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 7 reports
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
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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.