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2017 Buick Enclave Report

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

Updated May 30, 2026·Daniel Wilson·4 Critical Recalls
2017 Buick Enclave Report

Overall Score

6.5/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The 2017 Enclave's primary concern is its airbag system, with multiple recalls and a high volume of owner complaints regarding potential defects and delayed repairs.
  • Electrical system issues, including water ingress and battery problems, are also noted, potentially leading to costly repairs.
  • Despite a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, the persistent airbag issues represent a significant ownership risk.
  • Fuel economy is middling for the class, with a combined EPA rating of 17 MPG, contributing to higher fuel costs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2017 Buick Enclave

The 2017 Buick Enclave offers three-row SUV practicality with a comfortable ride, but used buyers must be aware of its significant reliability and safety concerns. While it achieved top marks in NHTSA crash tests (5-star overall), the vehicle is plagued by a high number of complaints and recalls, predominantly focused on the airbag system. The 3.6L V6 engine provides adequate power, and the all-wheel-drive system offers sure-footedness in various conditions. However, the substantial number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) and the dominant airbag issues warrant careful consideration and a rigorous pre-purchase inspection.

Critical Failure Risk

Widespread issues with airbags, including 'service airbag' warnings, non-deployment, and recall-related defects. This is the most frequent complaint category, with significant safety implications.

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

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls4
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

193
Air Bags141
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

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

Reliability

7.0/ 10

Practicality

4.7/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Buyers prioritizing space and comfort over long-term reliability.

+3 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Buyers seeking a trouble-free ownership experience.

+3 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2017 Buick Enclave Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2017 Buick Enclave.

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

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Regular
Seating Capacity
7
Transmission
Automatic
Drivetrain
All-Wheel Drive
EPA Combined MPG
17

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

Most Common Issues

1. Airbags

Most reported

Usage: 141 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 5 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 Inspection - Fluid Level Check (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 (5 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
4 recall campaign details & remedy notes
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2017 Buick Enclave reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2017 Buick Enclave is 7.0/10. Reliability score is 7.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 4. Owner complaints: 193.

How practical is the 2017 Buick Enclave for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 4.7/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 17 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed.

What is the overall score for the 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2017 Buick Enclave is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 4.7/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2017 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 Inspection - Fluid Level Check (Coolant, Brake, Power Steering) at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Airbag System (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,000+).

What is the MSRP range for the 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

Base MSRP is $43,765.

What engine is in the 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.

What transmission does the 2017 Buick Enclave use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Buick Enclave, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

EPA combined estimate is 17 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

10 standard and 1 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Buick Enclave, seating capacity is 7.

What drivetrain does the 2017 Buick Enclave use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2017 Buick Enclave, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2017 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 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

Top complaint category: air bags (141 reports, 73.1% of complaints).

Are there open safety recalls on the 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

This model year has 4 official safety campaigns listed.

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2017 Buick Enclave?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2017 Toyota Highlander and 2017 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

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