2021 Buick Envision

Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data

Engine
2L I4 Turbo
Oil Type & Capacity
5W-30 Full Synthetic (5 qts)
Transmission
Automatic 9-spd
Wheel Torque
140
ft-lbs

The 2021 Buick Envision maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Buick Envision.

For oil changes, the 2021 Buick Envision takes 5W-30 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 5 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Dex-Cool (OAT), and transmission fluid is Dexron VI. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.

When mounting wheels on the Buick Envision, torque the lug nuts to 140 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.

Owners of the 2021 Buick Envision have reported 5 common issues including "Daytime Running Lights Fail to Deactivate", "9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shifting Issues" and "Windows Rolling Down on Their Own". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.

There are 2 NHTSA safety recalls on file for the 2021 Buick Envision. Check the Recalls tab below for full details.

Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.

The 2021 Buick Envision uses 5W-30 Full Synthetic motor oil (5 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 140 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.

2021 Buick Envision Specifications
Motor Oil5W-30 Full Synthetic
Oil Capacity5 qt
Lug Nut Torque140 ft-lbs
Brake FluidDOT 3
CoolantDex-Cool (OAT)
Transmission FluidDexron VI
Transmission Fluid
Fluid Type
Dexron VI
Shop
Coolant
Fluid Type
Dex-Cool (OAT)
Shop
Brake Fluid
Fluid Type
DOT 3
Shop
Washer Fluid
Windshield
Shop

Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2021 Buick Envision. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.

Service Item
Interval
Engine Oil & Filter
7,500 mi / 12 mo
Dexos1 Gen3 0W-20 synthetic, 5.3 qt (2.0L turbo I4)
Tire Rotation
7,500 mi / 6 mo
Rotate every oil change
Cabin Air Filter
22,500 mi / 24 mo
Located behind glove box
Engine Air Filter
45,000 mi / 48 mo
Inspect at 22,500 mi
Brake Fluid
45,000 mi / 36 mo
DOT 3
Transmission Fluid
45,000 mi
9-speed automatic; Dexron HP
Coolant
150,000 mi
Dex-Cool OAT; then every 30,000 mi
Spark Plugs
60,000 mi
Iridium-tipped
Serpentine Belt
90,000 mi
Inspect at 60,000 mi
Battery
60 mo
Inspect annually
DTC Code Lookup

Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2021 Buick Envision.

Common problems reported by 2021 Buick Envision owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.

1

Daytime Running Lights Fail to Deactivate

The DRLs may not turn off when the headlights are switched on, affecting 2021-2023 Buick Envision models. Having both DRLs and headlights active creates excessive forward glare that reduces visibility for oncoming traffic, violating federal safety standards and increasing crash risk on dark roads.

Solution

NHTSA recall for BCM software update. Dealers update the body control module software, or the fix may be applied via OTA update. The repair is free of charge.

Est. Cost: $0 (recall repair)
2

9-Speed Automatic Transmission Shifting Issues

The 9-speed automatic transmission paired with the 2.0L turbo engine exhibits rough shifting, gear hunting during highway driving, and delayed downshifts when passing. Some owners report the transmission failing to engage gears correctly, with RPMs climbing excessively before a harsh shift occurs.

Solution

Transmission fluid service and TCM software update. Adaptive learning reset. For persistent issues, internal transmission inspection and potential replacement of the valve body or torque converter.

Est. Cost: $250 (fluid service) - $4,000 (major transmission repair)
3

Windows Rolling Down on Their Own

Multiple owners report finding their windows rolled down without input, including while the vehicle is parked and locked. This is a body control module software glitch that inadvertently activates the power window motors. The issue poses a security risk and can lead to water damage to the interior during rain.

Solution

BCM software update at the dealer to correct the power window control logic. In some cases, the driver's door master window switch module may need replacement if it is sending phantom signals to the BCM.

Est. Cost: $0 (software update) - $400 (switch replacement)
4

Safety Restraint System Warning Light

The safety restraint system (SRS) warning light may illuminate on the dashboard without an apparent cause. Inspection has revealed defective SRS panels and wiring issues in some vehicles. A lit SRS warning indicates the airbag system may not function properly in a crash, which is a critical safety concern.

Solution

Dealer diagnostic scan of the SRS system to identify the specific fault code. Common repairs include replacing the clock spring in the steering column, repairing wiring harness connectors, or replacing a faulty seat-mounted side airbag module.

Est. Cost: $300 - $1,200
5

Auto Stop/Start System Erratic Behavior

The automatic engine stop/start feature can behave erratically, with the engine failing to restart promptly, restarting with a harsh vibration, or the system refusing to engage when conditions are appropriate. In some cases, the engine will auto-stop at inopportune moments, such as when creeping forward in traffic.

Solution

Ensure the 12V battery meets AGM specifications and is fully charged. ECM and BCM software updates to improve stop/start calibration and operating parameters. In some cases, the enhanced starter motor may need replacement due to premature wear from frequent cycling.

Est. Cost: $200 (battery) - $800 (starter replacement)

2 NHTSA safety recalls for the 2021 Buick Envision. Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov

1

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE

Campaign: 22V903000 Date: 08/12/2022

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Consequence

DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy

The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-827.

2

AIR BAGS:SRS MALFUNCTION WARNING LAMP/LIGHT

Campaign: 21V421000 Date: 10/06/2021

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Buick Envision, Cadillac CT4, CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Corvette, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles. The communications gateway module incorrectly processes a loss of communication with the sensing diagnostic module (SDM), causing the air bag malfunction indicator light to inconsistently illuminate.

Consequence

The air bag malfunction indicator light may fail to warn the driver of a problem with the air bag, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy

The communications gateway module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 1, 2021. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212338110.

Have the VIN?

Decode your VIN for even more detailed specs including trim-level data.

Decode a VIN
Envision — Other Model Years
2026202520242023202220202019201820172016
See Also
2021 Buick Envision Lug Nut TorqueBest Oil for 2021 Buick EnvisionAll Vehicles Using 5W-30 Full Synthetic OilAll Vehicles Using DOT 3Oil Change Guide: 2021 Buick EnvisionWiper Replacement: 2021 Buick Envision