NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2023 BMW X5
Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.
The BMW X5 is a midsize luxury SUV that has anchored BMW's crossover lineup since the late 1990s. Covering model years 2019 through 2025, it targets affluent buyers who want a blend of premium cabin quality, capable performance, and genuine utility. It competes directly with the Mercedes-Benz GLE, Audi Q7, and Volvo XC90, and it carries serious expectations in a segment where safety reputation matters.
The 2023 BMW X5 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 77 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 4 recalls on record, reflected in the score.
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
Reviewers generally praise the X5 for its polished driving dynamics, upscale interior, and strong engine options, positioning it as one of the more driver-focused choices in the midsize luxury SUV segment. Most acknowledge it as a well-rounded machine but note that rivals with stronger safety ratings and fewer recall incidents may be more compelling for safety-first shoppers.
NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 18364
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record
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
SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT23V253000
Risk: A head restraint without a locking tab may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the second-row outboard seat head restraint guide sleeves, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 31, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Reported 2023-04-06
SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS22V942000
Risk: A loose driver's seat backrest may not properly restrain the occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the driver's seat backrest and if necessary, install an attachment bolt, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed February 17, 2023. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Reported 2022-12-19
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD22V820000
Risk: An electrical short-circuit increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect the windshield seal and as necessary, remove and reinstall the windshield with a new seal, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed December 30, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Reported 2022-11-02
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints
29 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.