MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index
NHTSA crash test of the 2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

0Recalls
39Complaints
13Investigations
ABOUT THE TESLA MODEL X 5-SEAT

The Tesla Model X is a full-size all-electric SUV aimed at tech-forward families who want serious cargo and passenger capacity without sacrificing performance. The 5-seat configuration strips away the third row for a more open, practical cabin. It competes at the premium end of the electric SUV market, drawing buyers who prioritize cutting-edge technology alongside everyday versatility.

VERDICT

The 2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 98 out of 100, an exceptional result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. Its 5-star rollover rating stands out for families and child-seat buyers. No vehicle recalls are on file for this model year.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • families prioritizing rollover safety
  • new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers generally praise the Model X for its impressive real-world performance, spacious and minimalist interior, and advanced driver-assistance technology. Most acknowledge that the Falcon Wing rear doors are a distinctive but polarizing feature. Reviewers tend to note that the ownership experience is closely tied to the Tesla ecosystem, which draws strong opinions in both directions.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 9.3%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15899

Index breakdown

Crash protection70/70
Avoidance tech10/10
Defect record18/20
Forward collision warning: StandardLane departure warning: StandardStability control: Standard

NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images

Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

No vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat at NHTSA as of 2026-07-02. Equipment recalls, if any, are excluded from the safety score.

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

39 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

3reported crash
0reported fire
2reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsSteering 12Unknown Or Other 8Electrical System 6Suspension 6Lane Departure 5Forward Collision Avoidance 5

Rivals in SUV (2021)

Last verified 2026-07-02. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 15899), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for Tesla Model X 5-Seat 2021. Class rank 1 of 118 in SUV 2021. Methodology · Disclosure