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2008 Buick Enclave Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

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Cathleen V | March 31, 2025
The 2008 Buick Enclave marked Buick's entry into the crossover SUV market. It's a full-size crossover with seating for up to eight passengers. The Enclave was produced from 2008 onwards. Key trims included the CX, CXL, and later, Convenience, Leather, and Premium. New, the price ranged approximately from $33,000 to $40,000. Its popularity stemmed from its luxurious features, spacious interior, and smooth ride, offering a premium experience without the premium price tag of some competitors.
The Good

The 2008 Buick Enclave offers a comfortable and spacious ride, appealing to families needing passenger and cargo room. Its elegant design provides a sense of luxury. The V6 engine delivers adequate power for everyday driving. For practical buyers, it provides good value for its size and features, while emotional buyers appreciate the upscale feel and comfortable interior.

The Bad

The 2008 Buick Enclave is known for some potential weaknesses. Common issues include transmission problems, particularly in the early model years. Timing chain issues and water pump failures have also been reported. Premature wear of suspension components can occur. Potential buyers should have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a trusted mechanic.

2008 Buick Enclave: Quick Overview

Key Specs for the 2008 Buick Enclave:

  • Engine Options: 3.6L V6 (LY7)
  • Horsepower: 275 hp @ 6600 rpm
  • Torque: 251 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • FWD: 16 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
    • AWD: 16 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
  • 0-60 mph Time: Approximately 8.2 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 4,500 lbs (when properly equipped)

Trim Level Features:
  • CX: Base trim; includes cloth upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, power driver's seat, and basic audio system.
  • CXL: Upgraded trim; adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, memory settings for the driver's seat, power passenger seat, upgraded audio system with Bose speakers, and available rear-seat entertainment system. Could also include power liftgate.

Additional Notes:
  • All trims came standard with a six-speed automatic transmission.
  • Available all-wheel drive (AWD) provided enhanced traction in inclement weather.
  • Safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags.

2008 Buick Enclave Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2008
Make Buick
Model Enclave
Trim -
Style -
Type CXL
Category Medium Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City WENTZVILLE
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 7000 pounds
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine LY7
Engine Size 3.6L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
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Events
NMVTIS Title
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Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2008 Buick Enclave Have?

The 2008 Buick Enclave has several frequently reported problems. Transmission issues are a significant concern, with reports of rough shifting, slipping, and complete failure. Some owners have experienced these issues before 100,000 miles.
Timing chain failures are another common problem. The timing chain can stretch or break, leading to engine damage. Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup.
Water pump failures are also prevalent. A failing water pump can cause the engine to overheat, potentially leading to further damage. Look for coolant leaks or temperature spikes.
Other reported issues include problems with the air conditioning system, power steering, and electrical components. The 2008 model year, being the first year of production, tends to have more reported issues compared to later years. Recalls have been issued for issues such as faulty windshield wipers and potential airbag malfunctions.
Long-term reliability can be affected by these issues if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are crucial to extending the life of the vehicle. It's important to check the vehicle's history for any recalls or repairs related to these known problems before purchasing a used 2008 Enclave.

How long will the 2008 Buick Enclave last?

A 2008 Buick Enclave, with proper maintenance, can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, the lifespan heavily depends on consistent maintenance and driving habits. Owners who follow recommended service schedules, including regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and coolant replacements, are more likely to achieve higher mileage.
Weaknesses over time include potential transmission issues, timing chain wear, and suspension component degradation. Rust can also be a concern in areas with harsh winters. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance are key to mitigating these issues and extending the vehicle's lifespan.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2008 Buick Enclave came with several built-in tech, entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features. Standard features included a basic audio system with AM/FM radio and CD player. The CXL trim added an upgraded Bose sound system and available rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
For driver assistance, it featured standard antilock brakes (ABS), StabiliTrak electronic stability control, and traction control. Rear parking sensors were available as an option.
Safety features included front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger, as well as side curtain airbags for all three rows of seats. OnStar was also available, providing emergency assistance and vehicle diagnostics.
Optional features included a navigation system (available on the CXL trim), a power liftgate, and heated front seats. The Enclave also offered tri-zone automatic climate control, ensuring comfort for all passengers.
Crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) were generally positive. The Enclave received high marks in frontal and side impact crash tests, providing good overall occupant protection. However, ratings can vary depending on the specific test and model year, so it's important to consult official sources for detailed information.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
White Diamond Tricoat
Carbon Black Metallic
Dark Crimson Metallic
Gold Mist Metallic
Midnight Blue Metallic
Red Jewel Tintcoat
Silver Ice Metallic
Titanium Gold Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony
Light Cashmere
Cocoa

2008 Buick Enclave Prices and Market Value

The 2008 Buick Enclave had a starting MSRP of around $33,000 to $40,000 when new, depending on the trim level and options. Currently, used market prices range from approximately $4,000 to $8,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The Enclave has experienced significant depreciation over the years, which is typical for vehicles in this class. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, mileage, maintenance history, and any known mechanical issues. Vehicles with a clean title, well-documented maintenance, and lower mileage will command higher prices. The presence of desirable options, such as leather upholstery and a rear-seat entertainment system, can also positively impact resale value.

2008 Buick Enclave Cost of Ownership

The 2008 Buick Enclave can be relatively costly to own in the long term. Insurance costs are moderate, but fuel economy is below average for its class, leading to higher fuel expenses. Maintenance and repair costs can be significant due to the potential for transmission, timing chain, and water pump issues. Given its age, unexpected repairs are likely, making it more expensive to maintain than newer vehicles. While initial purchase price is low, the long-term costs can add up.

2008 Buick Enclave Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2008 Buick Enclave Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating

2008 Buick Enclave Recalls & Defects

Visibility:windshield Wiper/Washer:linkages
Recall date 2008-08-14
Recall no. 08v410000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 88,809 MY 2008 Buick Enclave, and MY 2007-2008 GMC Acadia and Saturn Outlook Vehicles Currently or Previously Registered IN THE Following States: Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and THE District OF Columbia. IF A Buildup OF Snow or ICE ON THE Windshield or ON THE Wipers Restricts THE Movement OF THE Wiper Arm, THE Windshield Wiper Linkage MAY Become Detached From THE Motor Shaft and THE Wipers MAY Become Inoperative.
Consequence IF This Were TO Occur, Driver Visibility Could BE Reduced, Which Could Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy Dealers Will Install A NEW Wiper Crank Arm, Driver's Side Link, and A Crank ARM Nut. THE Recall Began O October 13, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, or Through Their Website AT <A Href=http://Www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Notes GM Recall NO. 08091.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System
Recall date 2008-08-28
Recall no. 08v441000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 857,735 MY 2006-2008 Buick Lucerne; Cadillac Dts; Hummer H2; MY 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe; GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL, Saturn Outlook; and MY 2008 Buick Enclave Vehicles Equipped With A Heated Wiper Washer Fluid System. A Short Circuit ON THE Printed Circuit Board FOR THE Washer Fluid Heater MAY Overheat THE Control-circuit Ground Wire.
Consequence This MAY Cause Other Electrical Features TO Malfunction, Create AN Odor, or Cause Smoke Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Install A Wire Harness With AN In-Line Fuse Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON September 12, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080; Cadillac AT 1-800-982-2339 or Http://Www.cadillac.com; Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438; Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876 or Http://www.saturn.com, GMC AT 1-866-996-9436; or Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493; or Through Their Website AT <A Href=http://www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Notes GM Recall NO. 08048. Customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System
Recall date 2010-06-04
Recall no. 10v240000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2006-2009 Buick, Lucerne; Cadillac Dts; Hummer H2; Model Year 2008-2009 Buick Enclave; Cadillac Cts; Model Year 2007-2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade Esv, Escalade Ext; Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe; GMC Acadia, Sierra, Yukon, Yukon XL; Saturn Outlook; and Model Year 2009 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Equipped With A Heated Washer Fluid System (Hwfs). A Recall WAS Implemented IN 2008 TO ADD A Fuse TO THE Control Circuit Harness TO Address THE Potential Consequences OF A Printed Circuit Board (Pcb) Electrical Short. However, There Have Been NEW Reports OF Thermal Incidents ON Hwfs Modules After This Improvement WAS Installed. These Incidents Resulted From A NEW Failure Mode Attributed TO THE Device's Thermal Protection Feature. THE Significance Varies From Minor Distortion TO Considerable Melting OF THE Plastic Around THE Hwfs Fluid Chamber.
Consequence IT IS Possible FOR THE Heated Washer Module TO Ignite and A Fire MAY Occur.
Remedy Dealers Will Permanently Disable and Remove THE Heated Washer Fluid Module. AN Updated Page FOR THE Owner Manual Will BE Provided and Inserted IN THE Owner Manual TO Document That THE Feature HAS Been Permanently Disabled and Removed From THE Vehicle. THE Safety Recall Began ON June 11, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, Cadillac AT 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463 and Hummer AT 1-800-732-5493 or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
AIR Bags:side/Window
Recall date 2014-03-17
Recall no. 14v118000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2013 Buick Enclave and GMC Acadia and 2009-2013 Chevrolet Traverse and 2008-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, Increased Resistance IN THE Driver and Passenger Seat Mounted Side Impact AIR BAG (Siab) Wiring Harnesses MAY Result IN THE Siab and Seat Belt Pretensioners NOT Deploying IN THE Event OF A Crash.
Consequence Failure OF THE Side Impact AIR Bags and Seat Belt Pretensioners TO Deploy IN A Crash Increase THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Driver and Front Seat Occupant.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Affected Harness Connections With Soldered Connections, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 16, 2014. Buick Owners MAY Contact THE Owner Center AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Owners AT 1-866-694-6546, Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000, and GMC Owners AT 1-866-996-9463. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 14030. Note: Vehicles Repaired AS Part OF Customer Satisfaction Campaign 10085 and Special Coverage 10335 Have Already HAD THE Subject Condition Repaired and Therefore ARE NOT Included IN THE Safety Recall.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Structure:body:hatchback/Liftgate
Recall date 2015-06-30
Recall no. 15v415000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2012 Buick Enclave Vehicles Manufactured January 3, 2007, TO February 29, 2012, 2009-2012 Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Manufactured July 6, 2008, TO March 9, 2012, 2007-2012 GMC Acadia Vehicles Manufactured September 15, 2006, TO February 29, 2012, and 2007-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles Manufactured August 17, 2006, TO March 18, 2010. THE Affected Vehicles, Equipped With THE Power Liftgate Option, Have GAS Struts That Hold THE Power Liftgate UP When Open. These Struts MAY Prematurely Wear and THE Open Liftgate MAY Suddenly Fall.
Consequence IF THE Open Liftgate Unexpectedly Falls, IT MAY Strike A Person, Increasing Their Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Update THE Software FOR THE Power Liftgate Actuator Motor Control Unit SO That THE Motor Will Prevent THE Rapid Closing OF THE Lift Gate, Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON November 15, 2016. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782, and Saturn Customer Service AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS 15240.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date 2021-10-07
Recall no. 21v782000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR BAG Module, Free OF Charge. Interim Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON November 3, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON January 10, 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 N212349040.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.
AIR Bags:frontal:driver Side:inflator Module
Recall date 2021-10-07
Recall no. 21v782000
Source NHTSA
Summary 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.
Consequence AN Inflator Explosion MAY Result IN Sharp Metal Fragments Striking THE Driver or Other Occupants, Resulting IN Serious Injury or Death.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Driver's AIR BAG Module, Free OF Charge. Interim Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON November 3, 2021. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON January 10, 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 N212349040.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.nhtsa.gov.

2008 Buick Enclave Insurance

Insurance for a 2008 Buick Enclave is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a CXL with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2008 Buick Enclave Compare to Other CXL?

The 2008 Buick Enclave competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia (which shared a platform), Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer. In terms of performance, the Enclave's V6 engine was comparable, but some rivals offered more powerful engine options. Features-wise, the Enclave provided a similar level of equipment, with available leather upholstery, navigation, and rear-seat entertainment.
However, the Enclave falls short in terms of reliability compared to the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, which are known for their long-term dependability. The Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia share similar reliability concerns due to the shared platform.
In terms of price, the Enclave was generally positioned competitively. Alternatives to consider include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander for better reliability, or the Acura MDX for a more premium experience. If reliability is a top priority, the Pilot or Highlander would be a better choice, even if they may cost slightly more upfront.

Ranks #1644 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1644 2008 Buick Enclave (0.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Buick Enclave a Good CXL?

The 2008 Buick Enclave is ideal for buyers seeking a spacious and relatively affordable three-row SUV. It's well-suited for families needing ample passenger and cargo space. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential reliability issues and higher long-term ownership costs. Whether it's worth buying depends on the individual's priorities and budget.
If considering a used 2008 Enclave, a thorough pre-purchase inspection is essential. Look for models with well-documented maintenance records and evidence of timely repairs. Lower mileage examples are preferable, but condition is paramount. The CXL trim offers more desirable features. Be prepared for potential repairs and budget accordingly. If reliability is a primary concern, other alternatives might be a better choice.

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Cathleen V

Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.