2020 Buick Enclave Engine Problems

The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal ticking sound coming from under the hood. Additionally, there was an abnormal exhaust odor inside the cabin of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who determined that the passenger’s side flex pipe bracket had cracked, causing damages to the catalytic converter. The contact was informed that the flex pipe and catalytic converter needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but informed the contact that there was no recall associated with the VIN. The failure mileage was 52,580.

I am submitting this formal complaint regarding serious mechanical and safety issues with my 2020 Buick Enclave. These issues have created ongoing financial hardship, significant safety concerns, and an urgent need for investigation and resolution. Over the past several months, my vehicle has repeatedly displayed low‑oil notifications, sometimes occurring within one month of receiving a full oil change. During a recent visit to my mechanic for yet another low‑oil alert, he recalled that I had previously brought the vehicle in for the same issue. After conducting a more thorough inspection, he informed me that there was a failure within the engine/transmission assembly. He showed me the area where oil was seeping from the engine. I also inspected the oil filter and oil plug, both of which showed no signs of leakage. Following this diagnosis, I brought the vehicle to Royal Buick GMC. Their service department performed a SAVI Dongle test and a GM‑Certified Multi‑Point Inspection. The service technician informed me that the vehicle requires a complete engine replacement including the following: replacement of the engine, repair of a rear main seal failure, resealing of the oil pan, and replacement of the lower control arm. It is my belief that these issues are consistent with reported problems. In addition to the oil‑related failures, I have experienced sudden acceleration and jerking while driving. These incidents are alarming and pose a serious risk to my safety and the safety of others on the road. I am deeply concerned that this defect could lead to an accident through no fault of my own. This vehicle is my only means of transportation for work and for caring for my family. The cost and severity of the required repairs are catastrophic, and I believe the manufacturer should be held responsible for addressing these defects. I respectfully request that the NHTSA investigate these issues and assist in ensuring that GM/Buick replaces the engine for its safe operation.

The contact owns a 2020 Buick Enclave. The vehicle was reversed out of the driveway; however, after shifting into drive(D) and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle jerked, vibrated, and the check engine warning light and other unknown warning lights illuminated. After several minutes, the vehicle functioned as intended. A short distance later, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone, but no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was taken to a private dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the catalytic converter was clogged, and that the electronic brake control center module and the transmission module had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Front exhaust flex pipes had to be replaced. It’s a common problem and a recall exists for the prior year.

The front exhaust pipe bracket has broken. Upon investigation, this is an ongoing issue for 2018-2019, and 2021-2023 Chevy Traverse and Buick Enclave models, but NOT 2020. All of the models use the exhaust system and same bracket, and it should be included as a special coverage. In fact, the attached picture of my vehicle will show that it is an identical break to those pictures used in the previous bulletins. Any help is appreciated. Reference: N252503850, N242445280, N222385510, N212356540, and photo attached.

Front exhaust bracket detached from exhaust. An issue that has resulted in a hole in my exhaust. This same issue has been identified and warranty extended for 2019 and 2021 enclaves with the same engine and exhaust parts. Dealership wants to change $1000 to fix the issue.

Welds have broken loose from exhaust creating a hole and loud noise & strong exhaust smell

The vehicle's exhaust intermediate pipe mount has broken has caused damage in the intermediate pipe requiring both the be replaced. The cracked exhaust allows exhaust fumes to enter the passenger compartment. A recall (N222385510) for 2021 Chevrolet Traverse has been made however is addressing this on only the 2021 models, even though the same issue is applicable to other models. On the this forum, there are several complaints of this design flaw reported. https://gmauthority.com/blog/2023/06/gm-to-fix-2021-chevy-traverse-front-exhaust-pipe-issue/

2020 Buick Enclave mounting bracket separated from the front exhaust pipe which caused a hole to appear in the exhaust pipe. This is a known issue for 2019, 2021, and 2022 Buick Enclaves. No warning light The exhaust fumes along with Carbon Monoxide were coming through my ac vents for several months. There is no indication on when the mounting bracket separated.

The mounting bracket on the front exhaust pipe separates from the pipe. This issue has been identified on 2019 and 2021 models and special coverage adjustment N212356540 Front Exhaust Pipe has been issued. The same exact defect has occured to my 2020 model Enclave.