Overview
The 2022 Buick Enclave is a midsize three-row SUV designed for families who want a quiet, comfortable ride with near-luxury refinement and easy daily drivability. It sits in the upper end of the mainstream SUV market, competing with models like the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer, but with a more premium cabin feel and a smoother road demeanor. For 2022, Enclave continues the second-generation design introduced for 2018, with an emphasis on passenger comfort, upscale materials, and a calm driving experience. It’s ideal for drivers who prioritize a roomy interior and a high level of standard safety tech over sporty handling.
Key Features
The 2022 Enclave is powered by a 3.6L V6 (approximately 310 hp) paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, offering strong everyday acceleration for a three-row SUV. Front-wheel drive is standard, with available all-wheel drive for drivers in snow-belt states or those wanting extra traction. Seating is typically for seven (second-row captain’s chairs) with an available eight-passenger configuration depending on trim and seating setup, making it flexible for growing families. Many trims include Buick Driver Confidence and available advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring, addressing common shopper questions about family safety. The cabin is known for a quiet ride, with available leather seating, heated/ventilated front seats on higher trims, and a user-friendly infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Common Issues & Reliability
Shoppers frequently search “2022 Buick Enclave reliability” and “2022 Buick Enclave common issues,” and overall the Enclave tends to be reasonably dependable for its class, but there are a few recurring complaints to be aware of. First, some owners report transmission shift quality concerns with the 9-speed automatic, such as hesitation, harsh downshifts, or shuddering—often noticed in low-speed driving or between 20,000 and 50,000 miles, though it can vary. Second, electrical and infotainment issues are commonly mentioned on modern SUVs, and the 2022 Enclave is no exception: reports include screen freezing, Bluetooth/USB connection problems, backup camera glitches, or intermittent warning lights, sometimes occurring early in ownership. Third, air conditioning performance complaints come up, including weak cooling or inconsistent vent temperature; in some cases, this can be related to refrigerant leaks, sensors, or HVAC control components. Finally, some owners note suspension or steering-related noises (clunks or creaks) over bumps, which may involve sway bar links, strut mounts, or other front-end components and can appear anywhere from 15,000 to 60,000 miles depending on road conditions. These issues aren’t universal, but they’re worth checking during a test drive and pre-purchase inspection.