2020 Buick Enclave Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- Significant concerns exist regarding powertrain and electrical system reliability, with some failures reported at extremely low mileage.
- Verify completion of all 14 safety recalls, particularly those concerning airbags and fuel systems.
- Expect average fuel economy for its class, rated at 20 MPG combined.
- The transmission is a critical area to inspect, given reports of hard shifting and potential failure.
2020 Buick Enclave
The 2020 Buick Enclave offers three-row SUV practicality with a comfortable ride, but its below-average reliability verdict warrants careful consideration for used-car shoppers. While it boasts a 5-star overall NHTSA safety rating, a notable number of recalls (14) and complaints (47) point to potential ownership challenges. The primary concerns revolve around the engine and powertrain, with reports of transmission issues at very low mileage. Electrical system glitches are also common. Despite these issues, its spacious interior and comfortable ride remain appealing, provided a pre-purchase inspection addresses the known weak points.
Critical Failure Risk
Complaints detail severe transmission issues including jerking, hard shifting, and complete failure to engage gears, sometimes occurring at very low mileage. This points to potential systemic issues with the 9-speed automatic transmission.
Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$6,000 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
Drivers who demand top-tier reliability and minimal unexpected repair bills.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2020 Buick Enclave Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2020 Buick Enclave.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 7
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- All-Wheel Drive
- Body Style
- Suv
- EPA Combined MPG
- 20
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Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 8 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 7 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $80 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2020 Buick Enclave reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2020 Buick Enclave is 7.0/10. Reliability score is 7.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 14. Owner complaints: 47.
How practical is the 2020 Buick Enclave for daily use?
Practicality score is 4.3/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 20 MPG. Seating capacity is 7.
What is the overall score for the 2020 Buick Enclave?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2020 Buick Enclave is 6.5/10. Overall score is 6.5/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.0/10. Practicality 4.3/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2020 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 at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $500 - $1,000. Repair prediction highlight: Transmission (typical at 50,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $6,000).
What is the MSRP range for the 2020 Buick Enclave?
Base MSRP is $48,400.
What engine is in the 2020 Buick Enclave?
Engine specs list 6 • 3.6.
What transmission does the 2020 Buick Enclave use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Buick Enclave, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2020 Buick Enclave?
EPA combined estimate is 20 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2020 Buick Enclave?
10 standard and 4 optional driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2020 Buick Enclave?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Buick Enclave, seating capacity is 7.
What body style is the 2020 Buick Enclave?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Buick Enclave, body style is suv.
What drivetrain does the 2020 Buick Enclave use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2020 Buick Enclave, drivetrain is All-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2020 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 2020 Buick Enclave?
Top complaint category: engine (8 reports, 17% of complaints).
Are there open safety recalls on the 2020 Buick Enclave?
This model year has 14 official safety campaigns listed.
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2020 Buick Enclave?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2020 Toyota Highlander and 2020 Honda Pilot.