NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2023 BMW X3
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The BMW X3 is a compact luxury SUV that has anchored the premium crossover segment for years, targeting buyers who want European driving refinement alongside the practicality of a raised ride height and available all-wheel drive. Competing against the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Audi Q5, the X3 pitches itself at affluent families and driving enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on either dynamics or daily usability.
The 2023 BMW X3 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 83 out of 100, an strong result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Both frontal and side crash protection reached the full 5 stars. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally regard the BMW X3 as one of the more rewarding compact luxury SUVs to drive, praising its composed handling and well-appointed cabin. Most acknowledge it faces stiff competition in a crowded segment. Opinions on value relative to its price point tend to be more divided, though the driving experience consistently earns favorable mention across professional assessments.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 18359
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY26V056000
Risk: Fire increases the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed on March 27, 2026. Owners will receive another letter once the remedy is available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beg
Reported 2026-01-30
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LOCK25V106000
Risk: Doors that can be inadvertently unlocked and unlatched may open unexpectedly, increasing the risk of injury to rear seat occupants.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the second-row seat side door locking modules, free of charge. A letter informing owners of the safety risk was mailed on April 21, 2025. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 800-525-7417.
Reported 2025-02-20
STRUCTURE24V534000
Risk: Interior cargo rail detachment during a rear crash can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the rear cargo rail attachment bolts, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 2, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Reported 2024-07-17
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)23V821000
Risk: Transmission oil that leaks into the control unit can lead to a seizure of the transmission gears, causing a sudden loss of drive power and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the transmission mechatronics module and the automatic transmission fluid, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 26, 2024. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Reported 2023-12-06
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
10 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.