Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 Buick Enclave
The 2019 Buick Enclave is a generally reliable vehicle with some issues in power train and engine components. It has a recall related to the transmission's start/stop accumulator, which could impact reliability. Make sure to check for transmission performance and engine issues during inspection.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 Buick Enclave has 1 NHTSA recall campaign and 45 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 2 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #20V668000 Missing Bolts on Start/Stop Accumulator NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 17 complaints
- Electrical System 12 complaints
- Engine 12 complaints
- Unknown or Other 10 complaints
- Steering 4 complaints
- Service Brakes 3 complaints
Of the 45 complaints on file, 2 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 45 complaints, owners report 2 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Missing endcap bolts
How to check: Verify recall completion and check transmission fluid levels.
Frequent stalling
How to check: Listen for stuttering or misfire during idle.
Intermittent failures
How to check: Test all electrical functions for any delay or failure.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual noises or hesitations.
Red flag: Loud knocking or rough idle
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Check for engine misfires or stalling.
Red flag: Repeated stalling or surging
- 03
Low-speed drive
What to check: Feel for transmission shifts and response.
Red flag: Rough or delayed shifting
- 04
Highway acceleration
What to check: Check for smooth acceleration and power.
Red flag: Hesitation or poor acceleration
- 05
Parking maneuver
What to check: Check steering smoothness and ease.
Red flag: Stiff or jerky steering
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the transmission recall been completed?
- Have you experienced any engine stalling?
- Are there any electrical issues noted?
- How often is the vehicle serviced?
- Has it been in any accidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair receipts
- Vehicle history report
- Title and registration
- Warranty information
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 Buick Enclave at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2019 Buick Enclave? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.