Which suv reigns supreme? highlander vs. enclave reliability showdown revealed
What To Know
- Both the Highlander and the Enclave have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
- The Highlander gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the Enclave gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
- While the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge in terms of reliability, both the Highlander and the Buick Enclave are reliable SUVs that offer a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.
When it comes to choosing a reliable midsize SUV, the Toyota Highlander and the Buick Enclave are two popular options. Both vehicles offer a spacious interior, ample features, and a comfortable ride. However, when it comes to reliability, which one comes out on top? This blog post will delve into the Toyota Highlander vs Buick Enclave reliability comparison, providing you with a comprehensive analysis of their dependability ratings, common problems, and maintenance costs.
Reliability Ratings
According to J.D. Power’s 2023 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the Toyota Highlander ranks higher in reliability than the Buick Enclave. The Highlander received a score of 83 out of 100, while the Enclave received a score of 77. This indicates that the Highlander is less likely to experience problems and require repairs compared to the Enclave.
Common Problems
Toyota Highlander:
- Transmission issues: Some Highlanders may experience transmission problems, such as slipping gears or shuddering.
- Fuel pump failures: The fuel pump can fail, causing the vehicle to stall or have difficulty starting.
- Water pump leaks: The water pump may leak, leading to overheating and engine damage.
Buick Enclave:
- Fuel injector problems: The fuel injectors can become clogged or fail, causing the engine to run rough or stall.
- Suspension issues: The suspension components, such as struts or shocks, may wear out prematurely, leading to a rough ride.
- Electrical problems: Some Enclaves may experience electrical issues, such as flickering lights or malfunctioning electronics.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance costs can vary depending on factors such as driving habits, location, and the age of the vehicle. However, based on data from RepairPal, the estimated annual maintenance cost for the Toyota Highlander is around $550, while the Buick Enclave‘s annual maintenance cost is estimated at $650. This indicates that the Highlander may be slightly more affordable to maintain than the Enclave.
Other Factors to Consider
Safety: Both the Highlander and the Enclave have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Fuel Economy: The Highlander offers slightly better fuel economy than the Enclave. The Highlander gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, while the Enclave gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
Resale Value: The Toyota Highlander typically holds its value better than the Buick Enclave. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Highlander has a higher resale value after five years of ownership compared to the Enclave.
Which One is More Reliable?
Based on the reliability ratings, common problems, and maintenance costs, the Toyota Highlander appears to be more reliable than the Buick Enclave. The Highlander has a higher J.D. Power VDS score, fewer reported common problems, and slightly lower annual maintenance costs.
Final Verdict: Beyond Reliability
While the Toyota Highlander has a slight edge in terms of reliability, both the Highlander and the Buick Enclave are reliable SUVs that offer a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as safety, fuel economy, resale value, and the specific features that are important to you.
Popular Questions
1. Which SUV has a better safety rating between the Highlander and the Enclave?
Both the Highlander and the Enclave have received high safety ratings from the NHTSA and the IIHS.
2. Is the Highlander more fuel-efficient than the Enclave?
Yes, the Highlander offers slightly better fuel economy than the Enclave.
3. Which SUV has a higher resale value?
The Toyota Highlander typically holds its value better than the Buick Enclave.
4. What are the common problems with the Toyota Highlander?
Some common problems with the Highlander include transmission issues, fuel pump failures, and water pump leaks.
5. What are the common problems with the Buick Enclave?
Some common problems with the Enclave include fuel injector problems, suspension issues, and electrical problems.
