NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2023 BMW X1 Safety Ratings
The 2023 BMW X1 scores 76 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Average), with a 4-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 6 recalls, and 70 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2023 BMW X1 achieves a NHTSA Safety Index of 77/100, landing it in the Average performance band. While its crash-test results are strong, this is tempered by a low score in avoidance technology and the presence of five separate recall campaigns. Its safety performance for this model year is capable, yet does not stand out among its peers.
The 2023 BMW X1 received a NHTSA Safety Index of 77 out of 100 and an overall NHTSA crash-test rating of 4 out of 5 stars, based on federal NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 139 SUVs from 2023 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2023 BMW X1 ranks 118 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 76 / 100 (Average) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 4 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 4 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 17.4% |
| Recalls on file | 6 |
| Owner complaints | 70 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 118 of 139 SUVs tested for 2023 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2023 BMW X1?
The 2023 BMW X1 presents a mixed safety profile, notably impacted by its limited standard safety technology. While the crash-protection sub-score of 61 out of 70 is competitive, bolstered by a 5-star side impact rating, the vehicle's overall NHTSA Safety Index of 77/100 falls into the Average band. This contrasts with the 2022 model, which achieved the same numerical score but was categorized as Strong. The distinction arises from the 2023 model's avoidance-tech sub-score of 2 out of 10. Federal data indicates the 2023 X1 lacks standard forward collision warning or lane departure warning, leaving electronic stability control as the sole recognized safety technology in this category. This omission significantly lowers the overall Safety Index. Further review of the defect record reveals a sub-score of 14 out of 20, influenced by five recall campaigns. Two of these recalls specifically address the electronic stability control system, which also accounts for 31 unverified owner complaints. This convergence of recall activity and owner reports concerning a single critical safety component is the defining safety concern for the 2023 BMW X1.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2023 BMW X1 perform in crash tests?
The 2023 BMW X1 achieved an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars from NHTSA. Its side-impact protection is particularly strong, earning a full 5-star rating. Frontal crash protection and rollover resistance both registered 4 stars. The rollover risk was measured at 17 percent, with the dynamic tip-test concluding in a No Tip result.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 18355
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2023 BMW X1 have any recalls?
Yes. Five recall campaigns cover this model year. Two separate actions target the Electronic Stability Control system or its control module. A third ESC-related recall spans a broad range of BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles. A fourth addresses rear seat belts on X1 xDrive28i and M35i variants, where belts may not function correctly. A fifth covers frontal air bags on 2022-2023 X1 xDrive28i vehicles. No park-outside or do-not-drive directive is noted in the supplied data, but shoppers should verify remedy status by VIN.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:ELECTRIC:CONTROL MODULE26V422000
Risk: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The Integrated brake system will be inspected and, if necessary, replaced, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed August 21, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Rolls-Royce customer service at 1-877-877-3735. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning August 21, 2026. Vehic
Reported 2026-07-01
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)24V739000
Risk: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the integrated brake module, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed November 22, 2024. Second letters will be mailed once the parts are available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicles in this recall were previously repaired under recall number 24V-104 and will need to have
Reported 2024-10-02
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC):CONTROL MODULE24V697000
Risk: A loss of brake power assist or rear brake function can result in extended stopping distance. A loss of ABS or DSC can cause a loss of vehicle handling and control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 13, 2024. Owners can contact BMW Customer Service at 1-800-525-7417.
Reported 2024-09-18
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC)24V104000
Risk: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, malfunctioning ABS and/or DSC systems can cause a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed between June and December 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Rolls Royce customer service at 1-877-877-3735.
Reported 2024-02-12
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER23V260000
Risk: A pinched seat belt may not function properly, increasing the risk of injury during a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and adjust the interior trim panel, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 9, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Reported 2023-04-12
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL23V079000
Risk: A driver's air bag that does not deploy as intended during a crash increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the driver's air bag, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 14, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Reported 2023-02-14
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2023 BMW X1?
Owners have filed 70 unverified complaints with NHTSA for the 2023 X1. The most frequently alleged problem components are Service Brakes with 53 reports, Electronic Stability Control with 31 reports, and Hydraulic systems with 22 reports. Two alleged crashes are included among these unverified allegations.
70 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2023 BMW X1?
Five open or recently issued recall campaigns mark the 2023 BMW X1, necessitating a VIN check through NHTSA's free recall lookup for any prospective buyer. Remedy completion is not guaranteed on a used vehicle, making it crucial to confirm all five campaigns are closed before finalizing a transaction.
- The 2023 X1 Index dropped from the Strong band of the 2022 model year to the Average band, driven primarily by an avoidance-tech sub-score of just 2 out of 10 due to the absence of standard forward collision warning and lane departure warning.
- Two of the five 2023 X1 recall campaigns target the Electronic Stability Control system or its control module, and unverified owner complaints list ESC as the second most frequently alleged problem component with 31 reports.
- The rear seat belt recall, specific to 2023 X1 xDrive28i and M35i variants, is a restraint-system safety action that used-vehicle buyers should confirm has been remedied by VIN before driving the vehicle.
- The 5-star NHTSA side-impact rating is the strongest single crash-test result for this model year and is the primary contributor to the crash-protection sub-score of 61 out of 70.
RANKINGSWhere the 2023 BMW X1 places
The 2023 BMW X1 qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2023 BMW X1 safety questions
Was the 2023 BMW X1 crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2023 BMW X1, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 76 out of 100, placing it in the Average band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2023 BMW X1 crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2023 BMW X1 earned 4 out of 5 stars for overall, 4 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 17.4%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2023 BMW X1 have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 6 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2023 BMW X1. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2023 BMW X1?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 70 owner complaints are on file for the 2023 BMW X1. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other X1 years
Rivals in SUV (2023)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 Tesla Model X Later Release | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2023 Tesla Model Y Later Release | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Tesla Model Y Rwd Early Release | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Tesla Model Y Rwd Later Release | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2023 Buick Envision | 96/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
| 2023 Lexus Rz 450e | 96/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 18355), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the BMW X1 2023.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 118 of 139 in the SUV class for 2023.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.