2018 Buick Enclave Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The 2018 Enclave is rated 'Below Average' for reliability, with significant owner complaints focused on brakes and the powertrain.
- Inspect the service brakes thoroughly; this is the most reported issue, with potential for costly repairs.
- Engine and powertrain concerns, including issues with the auto stop/start feature, are also common and warrant careful examination.
- The vehicle achieved a strong 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, indicating good crash protection.
2018 Buick Enclave
The 2018 Buick Enclave offers a spacious and comfortable three-row SUV experience, aiming for a premium feel. However, for the used car shopper, its appeal is tempered by a concerning reliability record. Despite a strong 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, the Enclave garners a 'Below Average' reliability verdict, largely driven by a high volume of owner complaints. The most frequent issues reported involve the service brakes, engine, and powertrain, with many owners experiencing problems early in the vehicle's life. A substantial number of Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) further suggest underlying quality concerns. Buyers should be prepared for potential repair costs, particularly related to the braking and engine systems.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints indicate issues with the braking system, including loss of braking power and unintended parking brake engagement. These can occur early in the vehicle's life.
Early detection can help you avoid a $800-$2,500 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 or a vehicle with a proven track record of high reliability.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Buick Enclave Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Buick Enclave.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
CarFocal account required
See the full 2018 Buick Enclave buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. Braking System
Most reportedUsage: 20 reports
2. ENGINE
Usage: 12 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Brake System Inspection
Est. shop cost: $100 - $200
Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.
Free • Takes 20 seconds • Saves Thousands $
Already have an account? Log in
FAQ
Is the 2018 Buick Enclave reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Buick Enclave is 8.6/10. Reliability score is 8.6/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 80.
How practical is the 2018 Buick Enclave for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.1/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 7. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Buick Enclave?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Buick Enclave is 7.1/10. Overall score is 7.1/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.1/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 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 at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $700 - $1,200. Repair prediction highlight: Brake System (typical at 45,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $1500).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Buick Enclave?
Base MSRP is $44,300.
What engine is in the 2018 Buick Enclave?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2018 Buick Enclave use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick Enclave, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Buick Enclave?
EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Buick Enclave?
9 standard and 3 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Buick Enclave?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick Enclave, seating capacity is 7.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Buick Enclave use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Buick Enclave, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2018 Buick Enclave?
NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 4/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.
What are the most common service brakes problems on the 2018 Buick Enclave?
Top complaint category: service brakes (20 reports, 25% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Buick Enclave?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Toyota Highlander and 2018 Honda Pilot.