The 2010 Buick Enclave is a full-size crossover SUV, marking its third year in production after its introduction in 2007 as a 2008 model. It's available in CX, CXL, and CXS trims. Its popularity stems from its spacious three-row seating, comfortable ride, and upscale features. New, prices ranged from approximately $35,000 to $45,000. It stands out for its near-luxury features at a more accessible price point than some competitors.
The Good
The 2010 Enclave offers a smooth and comfortable ride, making it ideal for families. Its spacious interior provides ample room for passengers and cargo. While not a sports car, its V6 engine delivers adequate power. Its attractive design appeals to those seeking a stylish SUV. For practical buyers, it's a value proposition due to its features and relatively affordable price, while emotional buyers appreciate the Buick name and perceived luxury.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2010 Buick Enclave include potential issues with the timing chain, transmission, and air conditioning systems. Some owners have reported electrical problems and issues with the power liftgate. It's important to check for these potential problems during a pre-purchase inspection and review the vehicle's maintenance history carefully. Also, the turning radius can be a bit wide.
2010 Buick Enclave: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 3.6L V6
- Horsepower: 288 hp
- Fuel Economy:
- City: 17 mpg (FWD), 16 mpg (AWD)
- Highway: 24 mpg (FWD), 22 mpg (AWD)
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 8.2 seconds
- Towing Capacity: 4,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
- Trim-Level Features:
- CX: Cloth upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, rear parking sensors, CD player, satellite radio, OnStar.
- CXL: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power-adjustable front seats, rearview camera, auto-dimming rearview mirror, premium sound system. Available options included navigation, sunroof, and rear-seat entertainment system.
- CXS: (Though primarily aesthetic and feature-focused) Generally included all CXL features as standard, plus potentially unique styling cues or additional optional packages. It focused on luxury and amenities.
- Key Features:
- Spacious three-row seating
- Available all-wheel drive
- Comfortable ride
- Quiet cabin
- Decent cargo space
2010 Buick Enclave Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2010 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Enclave |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SILAO |
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 | LLT |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Vehicle
Specifications
Specifications
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2010 Buick Enclave Have?
The 2010 Buick Enclave has a history of reported problems, most notably concerning its timing chain. The timing chain issue can lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly; symptoms include engine noise and potential engine failure. Transmission issues, such as rough shifting or complete failure, have also been reported. Some owners have experienced problems with the air conditioning system, including compressor failure.
Recalls have been issued for various issues, including problems with the side airbag wiring and potential fuel leaks. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to see if all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned timing chain and transmission issues, as well as potential electrical problems that can develop over time. Water pump failure is also something to be aware of. Overall, while the Enclave offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior, potential buyers should be aware of these potential reliability concerns and thoroughly inspect any used model before purchasing.
Recalls have been issued for various issues, including problems with the side airbag wiring and potential fuel leaks. It's important to check the vehicle's VIN with the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) to see if all applicable recalls have been addressed. Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned timing chain and transmission issues, as well as potential electrical problems that can develop over time. Water pump failure is also something to be aware of. Overall, while the Enclave offers a comfortable ride and spacious interior, potential buyers should be aware of these potential reliability concerns and thoroughly inspect any used model before purchasing.
How long will the 2010 Buick Enclave last?
With good maintenance habits, a 2010 Buick Enclave can realistically reach 150,000-200,000 miles or more. However, achieving this lifespan heavily depends on consistent oil changes, timely replacement of wear-and-tear items (brakes, tires, etc.), and addressing any mechanical issues promptly.
The timing chain is a known weak point, and its replacement might be necessary around 100,000 miles or later, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. Transmission issues can also shorten the vehicle's lifespan if not properly maintained. Rust can become a concern in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Regular washing and undercarriage cleaning can help mitigate this.
The timing chain is a known weak point, and its replacement might be necessary around 100,000 miles or later, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. Transmission issues can also shorten the vehicle's lifespan if not properly maintained. Rust can become a concern in regions with harsh winters and road salt. Regular washing and undercarriage cleaning can help mitigate this.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2010 Buick Enclave offered a decent array of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included OnStar, which provided communication, navigation assistance, and emergency services. Entertainment options included a CD player, satellite radio, and available rear-seat DVD entertainment system. Higher trims included a rearview camera.
Safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. Optional features included rear parking sensors and a navigation system. There weren't many advanced driver-assistance systems available at the time; features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning were not common on vehicles in this class.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA generally scored well, with overall 5-star ratings in some categories. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also gave it good ratings in many of their crash tests. The Enclave was designed with safety in mind, offering a strong body structure and a comprehensive airbag system to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These safety features contributed to its appeal as a family vehicle.
Safety features included antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. Optional features included rear parking sensors and a navigation system. There weren't many advanced driver-assistance systems available at the time; features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning were not common on vehicles in this class.
Crash test ratings from the NHTSA generally scored well, with overall 5-star ratings in some categories. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) also gave it good ratings in many of their crash tests. The Enclave was designed with safety in mind, offering a strong body structure and a comprehensive airbag system to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These safety features contributed to its appeal as a family vehicle.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Dark Crimson Metallic
Quicksilver Metallic
Carbon Black Metallic
Gold Mist Metallic
White Diamond Tricoat
Red Jewel Tintcoat
Dark Blue Metallic
Interior Colors
Cocoa/Ebony
Light Titanium/Dark Titanium
Ebony
2010 Buick Enclave Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2010 Buick Enclave ranged from approximately $35,000 to $45,000, depending on the trim level and options. As of today, used market prices typically range from around $5,000 to $12,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
The Enclave has depreciated significantly over the years, which is typical for most vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (maintenance history, accident records), trim level, and demand in the local market. Vehicles with higher mileage, accident history, or deferred maintenance will have lower resale values. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage will command higher prices. A clean title history is extremely important.
The Enclave has depreciated significantly over the years, which is typical for most vehicles. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition (maintenance history, accident records), trim level, and demand in the local market. Vehicles with higher mileage, accident history, or deferred maintenance will have lower resale values. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage will command higher prices. A clean title history is extremely important.
2010 Buick Enclave Cost of Ownership
Insurance costs for a 2010 Buick Enclave are typically moderate, aligning with other SUVs in its class. Fuel costs can be relatively high due to its V6 engine and weight. Maintenance and repair costs can be moderate to high, especially if major repairs like timing chain or transmission work are needed. Given the potential for these significant repairs and its fuel consumption, the 2010 Enclave might be considered moderately costly to own in the long term, especially compared to more fuel-efficient or reliably built alternatives.
2010 Buick Enclave Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2010 Buick Enclave Safety Rating
NHTSA
2010 Buick Enclave Recalls & Defects
Seat Belts
Recall date
2010-08-12
Recall no.
10v375000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2010 Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, GMC Acadia, and Saturn Outlook Vehicles. THE Second ROW Seat Side Trim Shield Restricts THE Upward Rotation OF THE Safety Belt Buckle When THE Seat Back IS Returned TO A Seating Position After Being Folded Flat. IF THE Buckle Contacts THE Seat Frame, Additional Effort IS Required TO Return THE Seat TO A Seating Position. IF Sufficient Force IS Applied, THE Buckle Cover Could BE Pushed Down THE Strap, Exposing and Partially Depressing THE RED Release Button.
Consequence
THE Safety Belt MAY NOT Restrain THE Occupant AS Intended During A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury TO THE Seat Occupant.
Remedy
Dealers Will Modify THE Second ROW Seat Side Trim Shields. IF A Safety Belt Buckle IS Damaged, Dealers Will Replace IT Free OF Charge. THE Safety Recall Began ON August 18, 2010. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, Buick AT 1-866-608-8080, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, and Saturn AT 1-800-972-8876, or AT THE Owner Center AT Www.gmownercenter.com.
Notes
Gm's Recall NO. N100243.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.
Seat Belts
Recall date
2014-05-20
Recall no.
14v266000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
General Motors IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2014 Buick Enclave Vehicles Manufactured April 14, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, Chevrolet Traverse Vehicles Manufactured June 6, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, and GMC Acadia Vehicles Manufactured April 9, 2008, Through MAY 14, 2014, and 2009-2010 Saturn Outlook Vehicles Manufactured April 14, 2008, Through March 18, 2010. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE Flexible Steel Cable That Connects THE Seatbelt TO THE Front Outboard Seating Positions MAY Fatigue and Separate Over Time.
Consequence
IF THE Steel Cable Becomes Fatigued and Separates, THE Seatbelt MAY NOT Properly Restrain THE Seat Occupant Increasing THE Risk OF AN Injury IN A Crash.
Remedy
General Motors Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Repair and Replace THE LAP Pretensioner, Free OF Charge. Parts ARE NOT Currently Available. AN Interim Notice Will BE Mailed TO Owners IN July 2014. A Second Notice Will BE Mailed TO Owners Once Parts Become Available. THE Recall FOR THE 2009-2010 Model Years Began ON July 11, 2014. THE Interim Letter FOR THE 2011-2014 Model Years Were Distributed ON July 11, 2014. Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-462-8782 (gmc), 1-800-553-6000 (saturn). General Motors Recall Number FOR This Campaign IS 14187.
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.
AIR Bags:critical Fasteners
Recall date
2021-04-08
Recall no.
21v246000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
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.
Consequence
Unsecured Side Curtain AIR Bags MAY NOT Perform AS Intended, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy
GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect And, IF Necessary, Realign or Replace THE Weld Nuts, Free OF Charge. Owner Notification Letters Were Mailed ON MAY 24, 2021. Owners MAY Contact Buick Customer Service AT 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet Customer Service AT 1-800-222-1020, and GMC Customer Service AT 1-800-462-8782. Gm's Number FOR This Recall IS N202321200.
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.
2010 Buick Enclave Insurance
Insurance for a 2010 Buick Enclave is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2010 Buick Enclave Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2010 Buick Enclave competed with vehicles like the Acura MDX, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse.
In terms of **performance**, the Enclave's V6 engine was comparable to most of its rivals, although some offered slightly more powerful engine options.
In terms of **features**, the Enclave offered a good selection, particularly in higher trim levels, but some competitors, like the Acura MDX, had more advanced technology.
**Reliability** is where the Enclave fell short compared to the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, which have reputations for better long-term reliability.
Regarding **price**, the Enclave was often positioned competitively, offering more features for the money than some of its luxury-branded rivals.
**Alternatives:** If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander would be better choices. If a more luxurious experience is desired and budget allows, the Acura MDX could be considered. The Chevrolet Traverse, being mechanically similar to the Enclave, offers a more budget-friendly option but may share similar reliability concerns.
In terms of **performance**, the Enclave's V6 engine was comparable to most of its rivals, although some offered slightly more powerful engine options.
In terms of **features**, the Enclave offered a good selection, particularly in higher trim levels, but some competitors, like the Acura MDX, had more advanced technology.
**Reliability** is where the Enclave fell short compared to the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, which have reputations for better long-term reliability.
Regarding **price**, the Enclave was often positioned competitively, offering more features for the money than some of its luxury-branded rivals.
**Alternatives:** If reliability is a top priority, the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander would be better choices. If a more luxurious experience is desired and budget allows, the Acura MDX could be considered. The Chevrolet Traverse, being mechanically similar to the Enclave, offers a more budget-friendly option but may share similar reliability concerns.
Ranks #1576 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★) |
| 1576 | 2010 Buick Enclave | (0.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2010 Buick Enclave a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
The 2010 Buick Enclave is ideal for families needing a spacious three-row SUV with a comfortable ride and a touch of luxury without the premium price tag of some competitors. Whether it's worth buying depends on its condition and price. A well-maintained example with a thorough service history and no signs of the common problems (timing chain, transmission) could be a good value, especially if found at a lower price point than its more reliable rivals. However, due to the potential for costly repairs, a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is essential. If budget allows, a newer vehicle or a more reliable alternative might be a better long-term investment. Avoid models with unclear maintenance history or any indication of serious mechanical issues.
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.