Buick known issues by model
By CarWhere Research · Updated
CarWhere documents 55 Buick problems and 55 NHTSA safety recalls across 7 models — Enclave, Envista, Encore GX, Envision, Encore, LaCrosse and Regal — organized by generation. Each entry lists affected model years, symptoms, what to check on a used vehicle before buying, and the sources behind it.
| Model | Generations covered | Documented issues | NHTSA recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buick Enclave problems | Third generation (2025–present), Second generation (2018–2024), First generation (2008–2017) | 13 | 13 |
| Buick Envista problems | First generation (2024–present) | 2 | 2 |
| Buick Encore GX problems | First generation (2020–present) | 5 | 5 |
| Buick Envision problems | Second generation (2021–present), First generation (2016–2020) | 8 | 8 |
| Buick Encore problems | First generation (2013–2022) | 8 | 8 |
| Buick LaCrosse problems | Third generation (2017–2019), Second generation (2010–2016), First generation (2005–2009) | 10 | 10 |
| Buick Regal problems | 2018–2020 Regal (2018–2020), 2011–2017 Regal (2011–2017), 1997–2004 Regal (1997–2004) | 9 | 9 |
Buick Enclave problems
The most serious Enclave recall is 23V-334: 2014–2017 Enclaves, with the Traverse and Acadia, may have a driver air bag inflator that can explode (about 995,085 vehicles). First-generation 2008–2014 models also have side air bag wiring and seat belt cable recalls. Second-generation 2018–2024 recalls are smaller.
Buick Envista problems
The DOT recall dataset lists two Envista recalls. Recall 26V-539 covers 2024–2025 models whose rearview camera may show a distorted or blank image, and 23V-744 covers 2024 models whose instrument display may go blank. Dealers replace the camera as needed and update the display software, both free.
Buick Encore GX problems
The largest Encore GX recall is 26V-539: on 2024–2026 models the rearview camera may show a distorted or blank image, and dealers inspect and replace the camera. 2024 models also had a software recall for a blank instrument display, and 2020–2022 models a recall for an emergency jack that can fracture.
Buick Envision problems
The biggest Envision recalls are on second-generation models: 22V-903 for 2021–2023 daytime running lights that may not switch off with the headlights, and 21V-421 for a 2021 air bag warning light. First-generation 2016–2017 recalls were small, covering a high-pressure fuel pump, brake lines and labels.
Buick Encore problems
The largest recall covering the original Buick Encore is 16V-651: on 2014–2017 models, air bag module software could run a diagnostic test that blocks frontal air bag deployment. 2013–2014 Encores also have front seat weld and lap belt pretensioner recalls. Recalls on 2019–2020 models were smaller.
Buick LaCrosse problems
The largest LaCrosse recall is 14V-355: on 2005–2009 models, a heavy key ring or a jolt can move the ignition switch out of Run, shutting off the engine and air bags. Second-generation 2010–2013 cars in salt-belt states have rear toe link corrosion recalls, and 2018–2019 cars a rear brake caliper recall.
Buick Regal problems
For the 1997–2004 Regal, the major recall is 15V-701: engine oil can drip onto the hot exhaust manifold and cause a fire. 2012–2013 Regals in salt-belt states, including Turbo and GS models, have rear toe link corrosion recalls, and 2018–2020 Sportback, TourX and GS cars have a brake assist software recall.
Confirm how a used Buick was built before you buy.
Engine, transmission and packages decide which issues apply. The CarWhere Buick build sheet reconstructs factory colors, options and packages from licensed VIN-level build data — availability is checked free, and it is $9.99 only when detailed build data is found for that VIN.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most common Buick problems?
They depend on the model and powertrain. Across the 7 Buick models covered here, the most documented items are driver air bag inflator may explode (recalls 23V-334, 21V-782, 22V-246) on the Enclave; rearview camera may show a distorted or blank image (recall 26V-539) on the Envista; rearview camera may show a distorted or blank image (recall 26V-539) on the Encore GX. Each model page lists issues by generation with sources.
How do I check a Buick for open recalls?
Enter the 17-character VIN on NHTSA’s recall lookup or the Buick owner site, or ask a Buick dealer to run it. Recall repairs are free. CarWhere’s known-issues pages list major recall campaign numbers by model and generation.
Are known issues the same as years to avoid?
No. Known-issues pages explain specific, documented mechanical problems and recalls. Years-to-avoid research ranks model years against each other, so the two answer different questions and are linked from each model page where both exist.
Sources
Each model page lists its own sources. Key references:
- NHTSA recalls database — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
- Recalls Data (NHTSA recall campaigns, dataset 6axg-epim) — U.S. Department of Transportation open data
- GM News — Buick news, pricing and specifications — General Motors
More Buick tools
- Buick research hub
- Buick SUV lineup
- Buick trim levels explained
- Chevrolet research hub
- GMC research hub
- Free Buick VIN decoder
- Buick window sticker by VIN
- Buick specs by model
- Buick recalls
- Buick reliability
- How long do Buick models last?
Independent reference compiled by CarWhere — not affiliated with or endorsed by Buick or General Motors. Buick, Avenir and the model names are trademarks of General Motors.