I only posted build year in the previous response as requested. I bought my 2009 3 years ago through dealer auction via a broker dealer. I was looking for third row seating and a comfortable ride for 2 kids and all the storage space needed that goes with that. Had I been aware of the wave plate failure, I wouldn't have bought the Enclave. I had a VW Touareg prior but it didn't have a 3rd row and so decided I would by an American car. What a big mistake! It is not the fact that I had to pay for a repair that upsets me, it is the fact that GM is clearly aware of this as a problem with the build years that have been previously noted. This isn't a random failure of a handful of vehicles. It is a fairly systemic failure of the same transmission design. I am not trying to entice a political discussion, but I am appalled that GM won't come forward and cover the cost of the repair for those out of warranty. After going to the brink of bankruptcy and being rescued with public funds, you would think that customer care/satisfaction would be important to GM, but apparently not. I won't be buying a GM again.
That said I believe the difference of a $1000K is some of the repair costs may be due to the surcharge that is charged if the transmission housing isn't returned to GM. As I was told by more than one dealer, if the housing isn't returned to GM, there is a surcharge of $1000. Once the housing is returned, GM reimburses the $1000.
Anyone have any suggestions on another vehicle with third row seating that is worthy of a look?