NHTSA complaint #11724643

Owner complaint summary

The vehicle developed an exhaust leak caused by both weld points on the front exhaust pipe breaking. A dealership inspected the vehicle and confirmed that the exhaust welds had failed, creating a hole in the exhaust pipe and triggering a P0420 catalyst efficiency code. The failure occurred at approximately 31,500 miles. The exhaust leak caused increased exhaust noise and emissions warning codes. The dealership recommended replacement of the front exhaust pipe assembly. This appears similar to known failures on the Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse platform where the front exhaust pipe mounting bracket separates from the pipe due to weld failure. GM has issued special coverage adjustments for similar exhaust pipe bracket weld failures on other model years of these vehicles. The failure occurred at relatively low mileage and appears to be a structural weld defect in the exhaust system.