This page covers 6 recalls, 28 owner complaints and NHTSA crash-test ratings for the 2023 BMW X5.
4/5 Overall
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating
Complaints on the 2023 BMW X5 cluster most heavily around the powertrain and electrical system, with visibility-related issues appearing at lower volume. On the powertrain side, owners report recurring drivetrain malfunction warnings, particularly on plug-in hybrid models, that trigger error messages, cut power, and require repeat dealer visits within short ownership periods. Electrical complaints often tie into these same drivetrain events, with owners describing cascading fault messages affecting the brake system and chassis. The panoramic moonroof draws a couple of reports: one describes the glass shattering spontaneously while driving, and another describes a leaking sunroof seal allowing water to enter the cabin near the roof area. The moonroof shattering appears to be an isolated report, while the drivetrain malfunction pattern is the most consistent theme across multiple owners.
28
Total Complaints
3
Crash-Related
1
With Injuries
By System
The 2023 BMW X5 has 6 recalls, the most serious being a transmission control unit that can allow oil to seep in, causing the gears to seize and cutting drive power without warning.
A separate windshield concern affects certain trims: the glass may not be properly bonded to the body, letting water reach electrical components and potentially causing a short circuit that can lead to a fire. Two recalls address occupant restraint issues in the second row: the outboard head restraints may lack proper locking tabs and can shift during a crash rather than holding an occupant's head in place. On the driver's seat, a mounting bolt on the backrest may not have been correctly installed, which can prevent the seat from properly restraining the driver in a crash. Note that trim applicability varies across these recalls, so not every vehicle is affected by every issue.
At a glance
What can fail
A faulty weld on the transmission control unit's cover may allow transmission fluid to leak into the control unit.
What the fix does
Dealers will replace the transmission mechatronics module and automatic transmission fluid as needed at no cost.
We may earn a commission for purchases made through these links.
Ratings from NHTSA's New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). Based on 2 tested variants; worst-case ratings shown.
Complaints are owner-reported and reflect individual experiences, not confirmed defects. They are distinct from recalls. Data sourced from the national vehicle safety complaint database. See trending complaints →
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The transmission control unit may not seal properly, allowing transmission oil to leak inside. This can cause the transmission gears to lock up, resulting in loss of power to the wheels.
What the fix does
BMW will mail you instructions to visit a dealership. The dealer will replace the transmission control unit and inspect and replace the transmission fluid if needed.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The second-row outboard seats may have incorrect head restraint guide sleeves installed, preventing the head restraints from locking in place and allowing them to move during a crash.
What the fix does
BMW will mail instructions to bring your vehicle to a dealership to inspect and replace the second-row outboard seat head restraint guide sleeves if necessary.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The second-row side head restraints may lack locking tabs in their guide sleeves, allowing them to move improperly and not meet safety standards.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect and replace the second-row side head restraint guide sleeves as needed, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
One of the four bolts connecting the driver's seat backrest to the frame may not be correctly installed, potentially affecting seat stability.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the driver's seat backrest and install the attachment bolt if needed, at no cost.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
At a glance
What can fail
The windshield may not be properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing water to seep in and contact electrical components, which could cause a short-circuit.
What the fix does
Dealers will inspect the windshield seal and, if needed, remove and reinstall the windshield with a new seal at no charge.
Summarized — see the official notice for exact wording, dates, and contacts.
