By Josh RosenbergWhile historically high new and used car prices have forced buyers to look for "older" vehicles that may have aged well as a way of saving money, the issues of reliability and dependability have become even more crucial.
And when it comes to the 2010 Enclave and those considering buying one today, while some owners reported positive experiences with minimal issues over many miles of driving, others encountered recurring problems.
Reliability ratings from different sources such as J.D. Power, Consumer Reports, and vehicle owner forums have varied, indicating a somewhat inconsistent reliability track record.
So here, ...
- We'll list areas of possible mechanical problems that some owners have experienced that should be checked before buying one today.
- Next, we'll take a look at the overall pros and cons of buying a 2010 Enclave all these years later.
- Then we'll review its features as it was originally released in 2010.
- And finally, we'll suggest ways of buying one today at the lowest price.
But first, two very important suggestions ...
1. Things To Do When Considering An "Older" Enclave:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
2. Know How To Get The Lowest Used Car Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely important. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
2010 Buick Enclave Mechanical Problem Watchlist:
The 2010 Enclave, like any vehicle, had its share of reported mechanical issues. Here are the more common problems reported by owners and mechanics that should be included in an inspection before purchase:
Transmission Issues: Complaints about rough shifting, transmission failure, or slipping have been reported in some Enclave models, requiring repairs or even replacement.
Power Steering Problems: Some owners experienced issues with the power steering system, such as a loss of power assistance or leaks in the power steering pump.
Engine Problems: Instances of engine misfires have been reported, leading to performance issues and repairs.
Electrical System Malfunctions: Electrical problems like issues with the dashboard gauges, malfunctioning sensors, or failures in the power windows and door locks were reported by some owners.
HVAC System Issues: There have been complaints about problems with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, such as inconsistent temperature control or failure of the blower motor.
Suspension and Strut Problems: Premature wear of suspension components or issues with the front struts leading to a rough ride were reported by some drivers.
Water Leaks: Instances of water leaks into the cabin, often due to poorly sealed sunroofs or windows, causing interior damage and inconvenience.
It's important to note that not every Enclave experienced these issues, and some might have been resolved under warranty or through recalls. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any emerging problems may have also mitigated these issues in many vehicles.
2010 Buick Enclave Pros
Lower Initial Cost: Compared to buying a newer car, a 2010 Enclave would have a significantly lower upfront cost. However, this savings has to be weighed against the increased risk for possibly higher maintenance and repair costs going forward.
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Value for Money: Despite its age, it might still offer a comfortable and spacious cabin with many features found in more expensive vehicles.
Relatively Affordable Maintenance: Older models often have simpler mechanical systems, which can mean lower repair costs compared to newer, more complex vehicles.
Interior Space: The Enclave had a roomy, comfortable cabin with three rows of seating, making it great for families or larger groups.
Smooth Ride: It offered a smooth and comfortable ride, with good suspension that absorbed bumps well.
Luxurious Features: Higher trims had luxurious features like leather upholstery, heated seats, and advanced tech options, making it appealing to those seeking comfort and convenience.
Quiet Cabin: Buick was known for its efforts in soundproofing, providing a quiet cabin even at highway speeds.
Safety: It scored well in safety tests and typically had safety features like stability control, multiple airbags, and optional advanced safety tech.
2010 Buick Enclave Cons
Potential Reliability Issues: Some owners reported issues with mechanical reliability, especially as the vehicle aged, which could lead to higher maintenance costs.
Outdated Technology: The tech features in the 2010 model might feel outdated compared to newer vehicles, lacking the latest safety, convenience, and entertainment options.
Fuel Efficiency: Older vehicles might not have the fuel efficiency of newer models, which could translate into higher fuel costs, especially if gas prices remain high.
Safety Standards: Older vehicles might lack some of the advanced safety features found in newer cars, which could impact overall safety.
Cargo Space: Though roomy for passengers, the cargo space might be limited when all three rows of seats are in use.
Handling: While comfortable, the Enclave's handling isn't as sharp as some rivals, making it less engaging to drive for those seeking a more dynamic experience.
2010 Buick Enclave Review
The 2010 Buick Enclave boasts sleek looks, both interior and exterior, and its spacious third-row makes this crossover SUV widely appealing to those who value minivan versatility but want a sportier look and more luxurious features. Toss in its smooth and quiet drive, overall roominess and top crash-test scores, and you can understand the 2010 Enclave's popularity.
In fact, for a crossover SUV, its three rows made it one of the most popular choices at the time. Built on the same unibody platform as the GMC Acadia and Chevy Traverse, this Enclave trumped them both with its luxurious cabin and sharp looks, resulting in a decidedly more upscale version of this well-regarded trio.
The Enclave also makes a more budget-minded alternative to top-of-the-line Lexus, BMW, Acura and Mercedes-Benz crossovers, while those looking for more maneuverable choices, albeit smaller, may want to consider the Ford Flex or Hyundai Veracruz.
New for the 2010 model year were quicker automatic transmission downshifts, a new top-level CXL2 model, standard 19 inch wheels, optional 20 inch wheels, a USB jack for the optional Bose audio system as well as some minor equipment adjustments.
Trims, Standard Features And Options:
The 2010 Enclave is a large crossover SUV available in three trims: CX, CXL1 and CXL2. Each offers seven passenger seating by way of second-row captain's chairs and a third-row bench seat. Seating capacity can be increased to eight via the optional second-row bench seat (no additional charge).
Standard features on the already well-equipped base CX model include partial power front seats, a power liftgate, tri-zone automatic climate control, 19-inch alloy wheels, heated exterior mirrors, fog lamps, bi-xenon HID headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a tilt-and-telescoping leather/wood steering wheel, OnStar telematics, Bluetooth and a 6-speaker CD/MP3 sound system with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Moving up to the CXL1 adds remote ignition, leather upholstery, power front seats (8-way driver,4-way passenger), driver-seat memory settings, heated front seats and a back-up camera with a rearview-mirror display.
The top-of-the-line CXL2 adds cooling front seats, power-folding and heated exterior mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming and integrated turn signals, active headlamps, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 115-volt power outlet and a 10-speaker surround-sound Bose stereo with a USB audio jack.
Stand-alone optional features that can be found on some CX models include the Bose stereo, remote ignition, rear parking sensors and the back-up camera. Some CXL1 and CXL2 models can be found with a dual-pane "SkyScape" sunroof and a second-row storage console with a 12-volt power outlet. All models could get towing preparation as well.
There were also several optional high-tech packages only available on the CXL1 and CXL2 models. There's a rear entertainment package with a DVD player, an 8 inch flip-down screen and rear audio controls. There's also a navigation package featuring a navigation system with back-up camera display, rear audio controls and Bose. And lastly, there's a package that combines both of these packages.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
All 2010 Buick Enclave models are available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and under the hood is a 3.6-liter V6 engine that's good for 288 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that was updated this year with faster downshifts. With the available towing package, the Enclave has a tow capacity of 4,500 pounds.
The EPA-estimated gas mileage for a front-wheel-drive Enclave stands at 17 mpg city and 24 mpg on the highway. The ratings for all-wheel-driver Enclaves dip slightly to 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.
Safety:
Standard safety features for all 2010 Enclaves include 4-wheel antilock (ABS) disk brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, a tire pressure monitor and OnStar.
In government crash testing, the Enclave scored perfect five-out-of-five-star-ratings across the board in all frontal and side impact protection categories.
Interior:
The Enclave's interior is modern and slick with an overall upscale look and feel. The dashboard is particularly stylish, as are the wood-grain inlays. The gauges and displays are easy to read and user-friendly, while the seating is comfortable and supportive with ample legroom all-around. Long trip comfort is not much of an issue in the Enclave. In addition, access to the third-row is made easier with a second-row seats that both tilt and slide.
Storage capacity is a premium attribute as well. As one of the most spacious crossover SUVs available, the Enclave offers 19 cubic feet of usable space behind the third-row and 68 cubes with the third row's 60/40 sections folded into the floor. While not quite minivan-like, with the second-row folded the cargo capacity gets boosted to an enormous 116 cubic feet.
Drive:
Despite a 5,000 pound curbweight with all-wheel drive, the 2010 Enclave's 3.6-liter V6 still provides ample power in most situations. Overall handling is competent and comfortable for such a large vehicle, but not at all inspiring. The suspension is tuned for a smooth ride that handles rough roadspots well and the cabin is well-insulated from road and engine noise.
Also, Always Know The Value Of Your Trade-In
Whether you are trading or selling on your own, it's just a good idea ... even whether you are in the market or not at the moment. You can then use this important information for a number of purposes ... to negotiate with a dealer, or to know how to price your car in the retail market, or simply to know the value of one of your assets, which is always a good idea.
Getting trade-in values online tend to vary a lot from site to site. But I've found the one at Edmunds Trade-In Quotes is particularly comprehensive and accurate.
It's free and just takes a couple of minutes. I think what helps its accuracy is the inputs will include either your plate# or VIN# followed by many simple, but specific, yes/no questions. It really focuses in on the detail of the specific vehicle.