The 2021 Buick Enclave has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 21 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Buick Enclave. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (6), Service Brakes (6), Unknown Or Other (3).
Enclave reliability snapshot
75/100
Latest model-year reliability score
3.5/5
RepairPal rating (good)
Data sourced from Auto Reliability Index, aggregating NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, and RepairPal repair-cost records.
Used-car research
Research the Buick Enclave before checking the VIN
Compare model years, recurring problems, safety campaigns and market value first. Then use the VIN to verify the history of the individual car.
Owner-reported problem categories from NHTSA complaint filings. Counts reflect complaints per category for the most-recent model year on file.
Electrical System6
Service Brakes6
Unknown Or Other3
Latches Locks Linkages1
Fuel Propulsion System1
Seat Belts1
Pre-purchase inspection checklist for the 2021 Buick Enclave
Hands-on checks distilled from real NHTSA complaint patterns and recall histories. Bring this list to a test drive or mechanic inspection.
☐Test tailgate for random opening when parked and driving
☐Check door locks for intermittent failure, especially after rain
☐Listen for brake grinding noises during test drive
☐Inspect exhaust system for signs of repairs or replacements
☐Test auto stop-start feature for hesitation during acceleration
☐Check for unusual noises from windshield or windows at highway speeds
What owners reported
2021 Buick Enclave owner complaints in detail
Owner complaints6
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Owners report recurring issues with the 2021 Buick Enclave's tailgate and door locking systems. Complaints frequently mention the tailgate opening randomly, both while parked and in motion, with some owners unable to manually close it. This often occurs around 38,000 to 62,000 miles. Additionally, the door locks intermittently fail, particularly after rain. Safety implications include potential theft, exposure of trunk contents, and the hazard of the tailgate opening while driving. Multiple owners have been unable to resolve these issues through dealership visits, with some noting the manufacturer has not provided assistance.
Owner complaints6
SERVICE BRAKES
Owners report persistent brake grinding noises in the 2021 Buick Enclave, often described as metal-on-metal sounds, starting as early as 300 to 1000 miles. Complaints frequently mention the need to apply increased pressure to the brakes to achieve effective stopping, with some owners noting a sensation of reduced traction. These issues are documented across a range of mileages, with several owners indicating that dealerships acknowledge the problem as known to General Motors. Although no accidents are reported, the symptoms suggest potential safety implications due to the perceived difficulty in slowing the vehicle. This information may be relevant for used car buyers considering this model.
Owner complaints3
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Owners of the 2021 Buick Enclave frequently report issues with the vehicle's exhaust system, including multiple replacements of the catalytic converter and flex pipes, as well as repeated welding on exhaust pipes. Some owners describe the back tail pipe detaching while driving. Another common complaint involves the auto stop-start feature, which causes hesitation during acceleration from a stop, potentially leading to unsafe driving situations. Additionally, owners note an unusual noise coming from the windshield or window area at speeds above 45 mph, resembling a cracked window sound, although no window movement is detected. These issues are reported without specific mileage indications, and potential buyers may want to consider these recurring problems.
2021 Enclave recalls (2)
Every NHTSA safety recall logged against the 2021 Enclave. A VIN check confirms whether any recall remains unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
AIR BAGSNHTSA 22V210000Mar 31, 2022
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Traverse and 2021-2022 Buick Enclave vehicles. The harness connector to the left or right side roof rail air bag may have incompatible electrical terminals, which could prevent the air bags from deploying in a crash.
Consequence: Roof rail air bags that do not deploy as intended increase the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the harness connector to the roof rail air bags, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 29, 2022. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N212352140.
AIR BAGSNHTSA 21V472000Jun 24, 2021
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave vehicles. During service by dealers, certain vehicles may have received incorrect air bag calibration software that may affect frontal airbag deployment.
Consequence: Air bags that do not deploy as intended can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will update the air bag calibration software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 29, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is N212340220.
Used-market value
2021 Buick Enclave resale snapshot
51.4%estimated value retained after 5 years
175listings in the model-level benchmark
Listing benchmarks establish a market range; trim, mileage, condition, title history and prior damage determine what one vehicle is worth.
The 2021 Buick Enclave demonstrates solid reliability, scoring above the segment average. With only two recalls, the recall count is limited, indicating effective management of widespread defects. The distribution of complaints is relatively even, with electrical system and service brakes issues being the most noted, yet no single category dominates the complaint landscape.
Given its fourth year within the current generation, the Enclave benefits from refinements over time, contributing to its stable performance. While there are some complaints, the overall number remains low, suggesting that the issues are not pervasive or severe enough to significantly impact reliability.
Overall, the 2021 Buick Enclave presents a moderate risk level for buyers, reflecting its solid reliability standing within its segment.
What you get in a 2021 Buick Enclave report
✓Available title brand history
✓Odometer readings & rollback detection
✓Accident & damage records
✓Auction sales with photos
✓Open safety recalls
✓Theft & stolen vehicle check
Check a 2021 Buick Enclave now
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2021 Buick Enclave — Frequently asked questions
Is the 2021 Buick Enclave reliable?
The 2021 Buick Enclave demonstrates solid reliability, scoring above the segment average. With only two recalls, the recall count is limited, indicating effective management of widespread defects. The distribution of complaints is relatively even, with electrical system and service brakes issues being the most noted, yet no single category dominates the complaint landscape.
How many recalls does the 2021 Buick Enclave have?
2 NHTSA safety recalls have been issued for the 2021 Buick Enclave. A VIN check confirms whether any remain unrepaired on a specific vehicle.
What are the most common 2021 Buick Enclave problems?
The most-reported 2021 Buick Enclave problem areas are: Electrical System (6), Service Brakes (6), Unknown Or Other (3).
Should I run a VIN check on a 2021 Buick Enclave?
Yes. A VIN report verifies title brands, odometer history, accident records, and recall completion on a specific 2021 Buick Enclave, complementing the model-year reliability data on this page.
