MODEL
Tesla Model X
NHTSA safety across every Tesla Model X model year we cover.
Across the 5 model years of the Tesla Model X we cover (2020 to 2025), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2025 at 96 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2022 at 80. 60 recalls have been issued across those years.
The Tesla Model X is a full-size, all-electric SUV that competes at the premium end of the family hauler market. With its distinctive falcon-wing rear doors and available third-row seating, it targets tech-forward buyers who want maximum passenger capacity without sacrificing performance. The 2020-2025 generation represents Tesla's mature take on a flagship family vehicle, and its safety profile is a central part of the ownership conversation.
The Tesla Model X puts up some genuinely impressive numbers in our safety index, peaking at a 99 out of 100 for the 2024 model year, which lands it firmly in the Exceptional band. Rollover resistance is a particular strength, earning a perfect five stars in that category, which is meaningful for a tall SUV carrying families and cargo. Frontal and side crash-test ratings are listed as not rated under the standard NHTSA star system for the covered years, so shoppers cannot lean on those figures for direct comparison against traditionally tested competitors. The recall picture deserves real attention. Twenty-two recalls across the 2020-2025 span is a high number for any vehicle, and shoppers should verify their specific VIN is clear before purchase or delivery. Tesla has historically addressed many issues via over-the-air software updates, but not every recall resolves that cleanly, and the volume here is notable. Owner complaints total 470 across the covered years, including 49 alleged crashes and 19 reported injuries. These are unverified allegations, but the complaint volume is worth monitoring as a signal of real-world friction points. No deaths are reported in the complaint data, which is worth acknowledging. Bottom line: the Model X earns its Exceptional safety index rating on measurable criteria, but the recall count is high enough that due diligence on open recalls is not optional, it is essential for any serious shopper.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally praise the Model X for its acceleration, technology integration, and premium interior space, while frequently noting that the falcon-wing doors add novelty but can introduce practical concerns. Most professional assessments acknowledge the strong performance envelope but also flag the complexity of the vehicle's systems and the importance of staying current on software and recall updates.
- The 2024 Model X achieved a 99 out of 100 on the MotorCaliber Safety Index, placing it in the Exceptional band, driven in part by a perfect five-star rollover rating.
- Frontal and side crash-test star ratings are listed as not rated for the covered 2020-2025 model years, which limits direct apples-to-apples comparisons with many competing SUVs that carry full NHTSA star scores in those categories.
- Twenty-two recalls across six model years is a high recall count. Buyers should run their specific VIN through the NHTSA recall database before purchase and confirm all open recalls have been resolved, not just flagged for an over-the-air update.
- The 470 owner complaints on record include 49 alleged crashes and 19 reported injuries across the covered years. These are unverified allegations, but the complaint volume is worth tracking and warrants a careful review of owner forums and NHTSA complaint filings relevant to the specific model year you are considering.
Most-recalled year on record: 2022 Tesla Model X with 22 recalls.