A Guide to Replacing Shocks and Struts on the 2008-2018 Buick Enclave
Fix the clunks, bouncing, and sloppy handling to restore your Enclave's signature smooth ride.
- Always replace shocks and struts in pairs (front pair or rear pair) to maintain vehicle safety and stability.
- For front replacement, buy complete 'quick strut' assemblies to avoid the dangerous task of compressing the coil spring.
- Aftermarket brands like KYB offer OEM-quality performance, while Bilstein is a premium upgrade and FCS is a budget option.
- A four-wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing the front struts to prevent rapid tire wear.
Is Your Buick Enclave's Suspension Failing?
As your Enclave ages, the shocks and struts wear out. This happens slowly, so you might not notice the ride getting worse over time. Typically, these parts need replacement every 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on your driving habits and road conditions. Ignoring worn-out suspension can lead to unsafe handling, longer stopping distances, and cause other parts like tires and ball joints to wear out faster.
Common Symptoms of Bad Shocks & Struts
- Clunking or Knocking Noises: Loud sounds from the front or rear of the vehicle when driving over bumps, dips, or making slow turns are a classic sign of a worn-out strut or shock.
- Bouncy, Floating Ride: If your Enclave continues to bounce up and down long after hitting a bump, the shocks are no longer able to control the spring movement.
- Nose Dives and Body Roll: The front of the vehicle dipping down hard when you brake, or the feeling that the vehicle sways and leans too much on corners, points to failed front struts.
- Visible Fluid Leaks: A visual inspection may show oily fluid leaking down the side of the strut or shock body. This is a definite sign of failure and requires immediate replacement.
Known Issues: Driving Suspension vs. Liftgate Struts
There have been no major safety recalls for the driving suspension shocks or struts on the 2008-2018 Buick Enclave. However, a widely known recall (NHTSA #15V415) was issued for the power liftgate gas struts on 2008-2012 models, which could fail and cause the rear hatch to fall unexpectedly. 🎬 See how to safely replace your liftgate gas struts. These are completely separate from the suspension parts that affect your ride and handling.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Shocks & Struts
When shopping for new parts, you'll find different brands at different price points. For a heavy vehicle like the Enclave, the quality of the part makes a noticeable difference in ride comfort and longevity.
Front vs. Rear: Remember, the front uses complete strut assemblies, while the rear uses individual shock absorbers. It is highly recommended to buy 'complete' or 'quick' strut assemblies for the front. This includes a new spring and mount, making the job much safer and easier than disassembling the old unit.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide for replacing front strut assemblies.Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium (Bilstein): Generally considered a performance upgrade over the original factory parts. Bilstein shocks often provide firmer, more controlled handling and are built for longevity. They are an excellent choice if you want to improve your Enclave's stability, especially if you tow or carry heavy loads.
- OEM-Equivalent (KYB): KYB is a highly respected brand that often manufactures the original parts for automakers. They are widely considered to be equal to or better than the factory originals, offering a great balance of performance and price. Many professional mechanics prefer KYB for a reliable, long-lasting repair that restores the original ride feel.
- Standard (Monroe): Monroe is one of the most recognized names in the aftermarket. Their parts are designed to restore the original factory ride. While they are a functional replacement, some users find them to be softer and less durable than KYB. Their complete strut assemblies are a popular choice for DIY projects.
- Economy (FCS): FCS is a budget-friendly brand. While the low price is appealing, their quality can be inconsistent. They can be a reasonable choice if you are on a very tight budget or plan to sell the vehicle soon, but they may not last as long or provide the same ride quality as more premium brands.
Cost of Replacing Buick Enclave Shocks & Struts
The total cost will depend on the brands you choose and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Rear Shocks (Pair) | $50 - $220 |
| New Aftermarket Front Strut Assemblies (Pair) | $200 - $300 |
| Professional Labor (Per Axle) | $170 - $290 |
| Total Professional Job (Front or Rear) | $250 - $590 |
| Wheel Alignment (Required after front strut replacement) | $80 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I replace just one shock or strut?
No. Shocks and struts must be replaced in pairs on the same axle (both front or both rear) to ensure the vehicle remains stable and handles predictably. A new part will have different damping characteristics than the old one on the other side, which can be dangerous.
Is this a good DIY job?
For an experienced DIY mechanic, yes. Replacing the rear shocks is relatively straightforward. The front struts are more difficult and require more tools. Using complete strut assemblies is crucial for safety, as it eliminates the need for a spring compressor. If you are not comfortable with heavy suspension work, it's best to leave this job to a professional. A wheel alignment is mandatory after front strut replacement.
My Enclave has air suspension. Does this guide apply?
This guide is for the standard suspension found on most Enclaves. Some models were equipped with an optional rear air suspension system to assist with leveling. If your Enclave has this system and it fails (e.g., the rear of the car sags), you will need specific air suspension components like air springs or a compressor, which are different from the parts discussed here.
What other parts should I inspect?
When replacing shocks and struts, it's a good time to inspect other suspension components. On the Enclave, pay close attention to sway bar links, which can also cause clunking noises when worn. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose clicking noises from bad sway bar links. Also check control arm bushings, tie rod ends, and ball joints for any signs of wear or play.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 349125
The front suspension consists of MacPherson strut assemblies. The rear suspension uses separate twin-tube or monotube shock absorbers. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) models typically use the same shocks and struts for this generation.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Buick Enclave:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Buick Enclave's Suspension Failing?
- Common Symptoms of Bad Shocks & Struts
- Known Issues: Driving Suspension vs. Liftgate Struts
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Shocks & Struts
- Brand Quality Tiers
- Cost of Replacing Buick Enclave Shocks & Struts
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off