The first-generation 2008 Buick Enclave might not look like the latest ones, but it’s still quite similar especially when it comes to its purpose. Like the one seen at Buick dealers today, the 2008 Enclave was a mid-size SUV that could seat seven passengers. Another similarity comes in the form of its engine layout and capacity.
Like the 2008 Buick Enclave, the 2022 version uses a 3.6 V6. That said, these engines are quite different and the engine on the former wasn’t as reliable. We’ll be discussing that and more in this buyers’ guide. One thing to take note of before we go ahead is that the 2008 Enclave, the Saturn Outlook, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia all shared the GM Lambda platform.
Taking a Look At The 2008 Buick Enclave
While multiple vehicles used the GM Lambda platform, the 2008 Enclave was the first to do so. The SUV was first showcased as a concept at the 2006 North American International Auto Show. It drew inspiration from the Buick Centieme concept from the 2003 Detroit Auto Show but came out to be a
The SUV came equipped with a seven-seat configuration as standard, but it could be fitted with a bench seat in the rear to increase the seating capacity to eight. The large proportions of the 2008 Buick Enclave also gave it an impressive amount of cargo space. The SUV was also known for its refinement and high-quality interior. This version of the Enclave also had a wood-grain interior as standard.
The base trim level of the 2008 Buick Enclave also came equipped with 18-inch wheels, navigation, dual-zone A/C, stability control, and curtain airbags. More expensive trim levels, meanwhile, got an impressive amount of equipment including a heads-up display, three-zone A/C, a 10-speaker Bose sound system, and a large sunroof. The 2008 Buick Enclave could also be optioned with 19-inch wheels.
The 2008 model could be had with a front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive layout. The all-wheel-drive configuration did increase the weight from 4,780 to 4,985 pounds. Regardless of the configuration, the SUV had only one engine option – GM’s 3.6 LY7 V6. This engine made 275 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque. There was only one transmission available – a six-speed automatic. The 2008 Enclave had an impressive towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds.
The vehicles based on the Lambda platform were manufactured at GM’s Delta Township Assembly plant near Lansing, Michigan. The 2008 Buick Enclave was such a success that the high demand required GM to add a third shift to the Delta Township plant.
2008 Buick Enclave STS Updates
It wasn’t long before this generation of the Buick Enclave witnessed its first update. For the next model year (2009), Buick replaced the 3.6 LY7 V6 with the 3.6 L LLT V6. Not only did this engine add direct injection, but also increased the power and torque numbers. The engine seen on the 2009 Buick Enclave made 288 hp and 270 lb-ft. That’s not all, the LLT V6 had a broader torque curve and improved fuel economy.
The company also addressed the issue with the transmission that caused it to be hesitant during downshifts in 2008. After this update, the Buick Enclave remained largely unchanged until it received a refresh in 2013. This refresh included changes to the exterior and interior.
2008 Buick Enclave – What Made It Special
Buick wanted an offering that would help establish them as a premium carmaker. The company was looking for something that would offer more than their previous vehicles. And while the 2008 Buick Enclave doesn’t look like it could be that product at first glance, it did turn out to be. Sure, its Lambda platform and V6 engine weren’t the most advanced out there, where it managed to shine was the overall package it brought to the table.
The high-quality interior is what made the 2008 Buick Enclave special. The materials were top-notch, and the seats proved to be quite comfortable. Buyers also admired the shape of the dashboard and other components on the side. The third-row seats were large enough for adults and not just kids like many other vehicles. Its huge cargo capacity was considered to be a plus. Another highlight was the impressive ride quality, it is supple without being overly soft.
Are Buick Enclaves Reliable?
While Buick Enclaves have proven to be quite reliable, the one from 2008 has had some issues. As with other platforms that share the GM 3.6 LY7 V6 engine, this generation of Buick Enclave had to deal with the same engine issues. This motor is infamous for its timing chain problems.
As mentioned earlier, in 2009, Buick replaced this engine with a newer version that proved to be better in terms of reliability and performance. That being said, it’s not the end of the world if you acquire a 2008 Buick Enclave. Just make sure it either doesn’t have the following issues or has had them addressed at some point.
What Problems Does a 2008 Buick Enclave Have?
The 2008 Buick Enclave has its fair share of problems. The list includes issues with the water pump, ignition coils, and more.
Power Steering Pump
The power steering pump is responsible for delivering the power steering assist. There are times when either a lack of fluid or a failing power steering pump can cause the steering to stiffen up. Inspecting the pump is fairly straightforward as you can tell it has failed if it has developed a leak.
However, if there isn’t a leak at the pump and the fluid is still low it is probably leaking from elsewhere. It is recommended to check the hoses the fluid passes through.
Climate Control Actuators
Like we said earlier, the 2008 Buick Enclave could be had with either dual-zone or three-zone climate control systems. Sometimes, the doors that allow this system to work stop functioning because of failing actuators. The actuators are located behind the dashboard and will require some disassembly to replace.
Ignition Coils
The GM 3.6 LY7 V6 engine in the 2008 Buick Enclave requires its ignition coils to be replaced more frequently compared to other cars. Reports suggest that excess heat causes these ignition coils to get damaged and fail. Symptoms include a check engine light and an engine that isn’t running smooth. To avoid any of this, it’s best to swap in a brand-new set of high quality ignition coils such as Bosch 0221604112 or similar. Keep in mind, that replacing the ignition coil towards the front of the engine may require you to disassemble the intake as it might get in the way.
Water Pump
A typical symptom of a failing water pump is a coolant leak. It will be seen on the ground below the engine area. If you notice it early, you could get away without encountering something more troublesome like an overheating engine. There’s only one way to fix this issue and that’s by replacing the water pump.
Timing Chains
The GM 3.6 LY7 V6 High Feature has a bad reputation when it comes to its timing chains. The timing chains could stretch and cause all kinds of timing issues. Depending on how much stretch there is, the engine could skip timing. Good thing is that most timing chain problems happen gradually. A stretch chain will make a rattling noise on startup, which is fairly easy to spot if you know what to listen for. That being said, considering the mileage on these cars nowadays, you might want to get one that has had its timing chain replaced.
Transmission
The 2008 Buick Enclave comes equipped with a six-speed transmission that could slip or have harsh third and fifth gear shifts. These problems will also be accompanied by a check engine light and other error codes. This occurs because of a broken ‘35R’ clutch plate inside the transmission. Fixing this is quite an extensive job as it requires the entire unit to be disassembled.
What to Look For When Shopping For One?
Besides looking to see if all of the aforementioned issues have been fixed, make sure to inspect the 2008 Buick Enclave like with any other vehicle. Also, make sure to check if the wear on components like the steering wheel and seats correspond with the mileage. So you can be sure that it hasn’t been tampered with. The original MSRP ranged between 33,000-and 37,000 USD, depending on the trim level. Today’s price though should be between 4,000 and 6,000 USD.
Your New Parts Are a Few Clicks Away!
If you are buying or have already acquired a 2008 Buick Enclave, it’s best to get it running on some new parts. We at Newparts.com have OEM-quality spares that will ensure trouble-free service life. Go to the Shop section at the top of this webpage, enter the make and model and get shopping!
