2016 Buick Enclave Problems: 3 Known Issues
2016 model year · NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports · Updated November 2026
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2016 Buick Enclave has 3 documented known issues. None of the listed issues is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $495 to $1,500. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
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All 3 Known Issues
NHTSA Recalls11 recalls
AIR BAGS:SENSOR:FRONTAL IMPACT
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.
AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN
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.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:DRIVER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014-2017 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
AIR BAGS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2010-2015, 2017 Buick Enclave, 2010-2019 Chevrolet Traverse, and 2011-2016 GMC Acadia vehicles. The side curtain air bags may not be properly attached.
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2008-2017 Buick Enclave and 2013-2017 Chevrolet Traverse vehicles. The driver's air bag inflator may explode during deployment, due to a manufacturing defect.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Buick Enclave problems?
According to Au7o's research across NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports, the 2016 Buick Enclave has 3 documented issues. Documented issues include: Rear A/C Evaporator Corrosion & Refrigerant Leaks, Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Shudder, Water Pump Leak / Coolant Loss on 3.6L V6. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
Is the Buick Enclave reliable?
The 2016 Buick Enclave has 3 known issues compiled from NHTSA recalls, manufacturer TSBs, and owner forum reports. None of the matching records is rated critical; this is not a complete reliability assessment. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Buick Enclave problems?
Repair costs for known Buick Enclave issues range from $495 to $1,500, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2013-2016 Buick Enclave Rear A/C Evaporator Corrosion & Refrigerant Leaks?
Many 2013-2016 Enclaves lose air conditioning because fine copper particles ejected from the rear blower motor settle on the rear evaporator and, combined with condensation, corrode it and cause pinhole refrigerant leaks. High-pressure A/C lines can also leak at connections from… Repairs typically run $600-$1,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2021 Buick Enclave Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Shudder?
Both the 6-speed (first-gen) and the 9-speed 9T65 (second-gen, 2018+) Enclaves are prone to a torque converter clutch shudder felt as a vibration or 'chuggle' during light acceleration, low-speed lockup, or while climbing grades. On 2018 models GM addressed low-speed TCC shudder… Severity: medium.
What is the 2008-2017 Buick Enclave Water Pump Leak / Coolant Loss on 3.6L V6?
The 3.6L V6 in the Enclave is known for water pump failure: GM bulletins describe leaks from the water pump shaft seal, often made worse by running the engine with a low coolant level, which can lead to pump failure. Owners frequently find coolant puddling after the car is parked… Repairs typically run $495-$1,100. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.