Are you searching for the perfect Buick Enclave to buy? If so, you’ll be excited to hear that all of their model years are known for their sheer dependability. Despite that, it’s also important to realize that problems can come up anyway — even with integral systems, like the transmission.
Are you wondering about which Buick Enclave transmission problems you should know about?
- The issues that come up most often include:
- Premature torque converter failure
- Transmission won’t shift into reverse
- Transmission locks up and fails
Fortunately, in this piece, we will explore all the major Buick Enclave transmission problems in great detail. You can then use that info as you check out all the vehicles for sale that catch your eye.
A Glimpse into the Enclave’s Transmissions
When the Buick Enclave arrived on the showroom floor in 2009, it came equipped with General Motor’s (GM’s) six-speed 6T75 automatic transmission. In an unprecedented move, GM collaborated with Ford to build this transmission from the ground up.
They intended to create a new transaxle that could handle up to 300 horsepower and 280 ft-lb of torque from transverse engines of all kinds.
Although that pursuit was largely successful, the second-generation Enclave received the nine-speed 9T65 automatic transmission. With this move, they were able to further improve the performance and fuel efficiency of their vehicles.
The three extra gears make the driving experience feel much more refined as well. This SUV will continue to use this transmission through the 2022 model year at least, but it might change once they move onto the third generation.
Most Common Buick Enclave Transmission Problems
For the best chance at skipping all the Buick Enclave transmission problems, you have to know just what to look for as you shop around.
That way, you can pass on vehicles that seem like they may need transmission service or replacement in the near future. Here’s a bit of info on the most common issues to help you out.
Torque Converter Failure
When in good working order, the torque converter should smoothly send power to the wheels. As it starts to fail, however, the power comes through intermittently, making the vehicle hesitate. Software updates and fluid flushes can help, but it’s usually necessary to replace the torque converter.
Won’t Shift into Reverse
The 2009 Buick Enclave comes equipped with an automatic transmission that’s prone to gear failure. Usually, this comes to light when the vehicle refuses to shift into reverse and starts slipping while moving between the other gears. To remedy the issue, techs have to replace the transmission.
Transmission Locks Up
If the transmission starts slipping in every gear, it’s important to have it serviced or it could lock up altogether. At that point, the transmission will refuse to move out of the current gear, leaving your car inoperable. When that happens, the fix is either a transmission rebuild or replacement.
Ready to Purchase a Buick Enclave? Remember the Vehicle History Scan
While going on test drives and looking each Buick Enclave over, remember the top problems that can affect this vehicle. That way, you can stay alert for signs of an issue and skip over vehicles that seem like they might cause you a lot of trouble.
