Reliability
BMW

X5 (G05)

2019-2025 · Midsize SUV · 5 engines

Verdict The plug-in hybrid scores 5.4, on 28 powertrain complaints from an estimated 47,000 vehicles, and the 3.0L six scores 7.9. Have every open recall campaign closed on any X5 before you buy.

726 NHTSA Complaints
37 Recalls
14 Fire Reports
45 Crash Reports
Data covers 3 NHTSA model names
X5X5 HYBRIDX5 M
View all 5 generations of the BMW X5 → Inspection checklist

Reliability Score

7.5 / 10

Reliability score

About as many owner complaints as similar midsize SUVs

The class average is 7.0. Based on complaints owners filed with NHTSA about the engine, transmission or drivetrain.

Owners filed 197 powertrain complaints. A typical midsize SUV fleet of this size and age would have drawn about 238.

Scores this low have often eased: the three years after looked about 0.8 points better in the typical case.

Breakdown
Complaints overall197 complaints against about 238 for similar vehicles
7.5
Last three years172 complaints against about 182 for similar vehicles
7.2
Engine, transmission or drive unit failed or replaced43 complaints against about 52 for similar vehicles
7.5
Oil consumption, fuel in the oil or overheating
n/aNot enough data

Each line scores one view of the same complaints the same way, so the lines overlap. The mark on each bar is the class average. A line needs 20 expected complaints to show a number.

By model year
  • 20197.0
  • 20207.3
  • 20217.5
  • 20228.2
  • 20238.8
  • 2024n/a
  • 2025n/a

Similar vehicles are others in the same class, compared at the same age and in the same years. The score counts complaints owners filed with NHTSA, per vehicle built, which is different from the share of vehicles that fail. How the score is worked out

By engine · 2019, 2023 to 2025 model years only

3.0L 6-cyl turbo 7.9/10
About 55% fewer owner complaints than this generation's other engines, per vehicle built. (61 complaints, about 182,000 built)
3.0L 6-cyl turbo plug-in hybrid 5.4/10
About 3 times as many owner complaints as this generation's other engines, per vehicle built. (28 complaints, about 47,000 built)
4.4L 8-cyl turbo 7.6/10
No clear difference from this generation's other engines. (8 complaints, about 23,000 built)

A complaint counts toward an engine only when its VIN names the engine. Each score is that engine on its own against similar vehicles, worked out the same way as the score above.

On the record

No serious powertrain recall covering 5% or more of this generation and no escalated investigation in NHTSA's files. Warranty extensions and settlements have not been researched.

Complaints by Engine Code

Show

3.0-V6-Gas

3.0L 6-cyl / 335 hp
430 complaints 61.4 per year Gasoline
6 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

electrical
173
engine
115
brakes
112
safety systems
60
transmission
46

Same engine used in

+88 more
LINCOLN Aviator (2020-2025)BMW 5 Series (2024-2026)BMW X3 (2011-2017)MAZDA Mazda6 (2003-2008)AUDI A6 (2019-2025)AUDI Q7 (2017-2025)BMW X6 (2015-2019)FORD Focus (2000-2007)MERCEDES-BENZ GLS-Class (2017-2019)AUDI A5 (2008-2016)FORD Fusion (2006-2012)FORD Escape (2001-2007)MAZDA B-Series (2000-2009)LINCOLN Town Car (2000-2011)BMW X5 (2014-2018)BMW X7 (2019-2025)AUDI A8 (2019-2025)MITSUBISHI Montero Sport (2000-2004)FORD Five Hundred (2005-2007)AUDI A6 (2005-2011)BMW 3 Series (2012-2018)BMW 4 Series (2014-2020)BMW X3 (2025-2026)BMW 2 Series (2022-2025)JEEP Cherokee (2014-2023)AUDI A7 (2019-2025)AUDI A6 (2000-2004)FORD Windstar (2000-2003)BMW X6 (2020-2025)BMW 5 Series (2011-2016)FORD Taurus (2010-2019)PORSCHE Macan (2015-2024)FORD Taurus (2008-2009)AUDI A6 (2012-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ CLS-Class (2006-2011)MERCEDES-BENZ SL-Class (2013-2020)DODGE Ram (2000-2001)BMW X4 (2015-2018)DODGE Grand Caravan (2001-2007)MERCEDES-BENZ E-Class (2017-2023)FORD Taurus (2000-2007)FORD Escape (2008-2012)AUDI A4 (2009-2016)FORD Flex (2009-2019)BMW 2 Series (2014-2021)BMW X4 (2019-2025)AUDI A7 (2012-2018)SUBARU Legacy (2000-2004)BMW 3 Series (2019-2025)JEEP Patriot (2007-2017)AUDI A4 (2006-2008)MERCEDES-BENZ GL-Class (2013-2016)FORD Escape (2013-2019)BMW 4 Series (2021-2025)LINCOLN LS (2000-2006)BMW 5 Series (2017-2023)FORD Focus (2012-2018)CHRYSLER Pacifica (2004-2008)MITSUBISHI Eclipse (2000-2005)BMW 3 Series (2006-2011)AUDI Q5 (2009-2017)LINCOLN Aviator (2003-2005)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2001-2007)BMW Z4 (2019-2025)AUDI A4 (2017-2025)FORD Freestyle (2005-2007)MAZDA Tribute (2001-2011)BMW 7 Series (2023-2025)LINCOLN MKZ (2013-2020)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2008-2014)AUDI A8 (2011-2018)PORSCHE 911 (2020-2025)FORD Ranger (2000-2011)AUDI Q8 (2019-2025)BMW 7 Series (2016-2022)MERCEDES-BENZ E-Class (2010-2016)BMW 8 Series (2019-2025)FORD Super Duty (2000-2007)MITSUBISHI Lancer (2002-2007)MERCEDES-BENZ CLS-Class (2012-2018)MERCEDES-BENZ C-Class (2015-2021)BMW 6 Series (2012-2018)PORSCHE 911 (2012-2019)PORSCHE Cayenne (2019-2025)FORD F-150 (2000-2003)AUDI A4 (2002-2005)AUDI Q5 (2018-2025)AUDI Q7 (2007-2015)

3.0-V6-PHEV

3.0L 6-cyl / 282 hp
146 complaints 29.2 per year Electric
2 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

electrical
57
transmission
46
engine
29
safety systems
24
brakes
23

3.0-I4-Gas

3.0L 4-cyl / 355 hp
65 complaints 16.2 per year Gasoline
6 fire reports
View details

Complaint Breakdown

electrical
27
engine
24
safety systems
10
other
7
cooling
6

BMW X5 Unidentified Engine

16 complaints 3.2 per year
View details

Complaint Breakdown

electrical
9
brakes
7
steering
3
engine
3
transmission
2

Reliability Overview

The G05-generation BMW X5 stands out in the data for two numbers that point the same direction: 726 complaints and 37 recalls. That recall count is exceptional for a single generation, and the complaint pattern reinforces what the campaigns keep circling back to. Electrical faults lead every other category by a wide margin. For a luxury SUV loaded with electronics, driver aids, and in some trims a plug-in hybrid system, the X5's trouble spots track its complexity rather than its mechanical hardware.

Engine choice shapes the ownership story more than trim level. The 4.4-liter V8 in the M50i and M60i has the fewest complaints among the mainstream engines. The 3.0-liter inline-six that powers most X5s, by contrast, carries the largest share of complaints. The plug-in hybrid version, sold as the xDrive45e and later 50e, layers an electric drive system onto that six and brings its own cluster of electrical complaints. Buyers should also disregard a phantom four-cylinder entry that appears in decoded records. The X5 was a six- or eight-cylinder vehicle across this generation.

The failure categories concentrate in the electronics. Electrical system complaints dominate at 281, well ahead of the engine and brakes categories behind them at 179 and 154. Safety systems and transmission round out the top five, all flagged critical. Fourteen fire reports across the generation are a number worth respecting on a vehicle this complex.

Those 37 recalls span most of the car. Recurring campaigns address electrical controllers, steering, seat attachment bolts, airbags, and stability control, with several arriving on the 2023 through 2025 cars. No single defect defines the generation. The volume itself is the story, and it means recall verification is not optional on a used X5.

This is an SUV for a buyer who wants the badge, the interior, and the powertrain range and is willing to do the paperwork. Confirm every recall is closed, favor the V8 or a well-documented six, and budget for the electronics-heavy maintenance that comes with a complex German luxury vehicle.

Battery & Propulsion Reliability

Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV)

Battery & propulsion complaint analysis for the 2019-2025 BMW X5

26 battery-related complaints 5.2 per year 2 battery-related recalls

That's about 1.9x the typical rate for PHEVs in this dataset (median 2.8 per year). Above peer average — but high-volume models naturally produce more raw complaints, so check the issue mix below before drawing conclusions.

1 fire report

What kind of battery complaint?

Among the 26 battery-related complaints, here's the type mix. These percentages describe what the complaints are about — not how reliable the vehicle is overall.

Electric Propulsion 9 (35%)

Loss of power, drive unit, inverter, traction motor, DC-DC converter.

High-Voltage Battery 9 (35%)

Propulsion battery defects, capacity loss, BMS faults, replacement claims.

Hybrid Drivetrain 5 (19%)

Hybrid system warnings, eCVT, motor-generator, hybrid transaxle.

Thermal Events 3 (12%)

Battery fires, smoke, thermal runaway. Includes any complaint with fire reported.

12V Auxiliary Battery 2 (8%)

Low-voltage battery deaths, common on EVs and hybrids that use a 12V for accessories.

Regenerative Braking 1 (4%)

Regen brake feel, one-pedal driving, B-mode complaints.

Battery & propulsion recalls (2)
20V601000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:PROPULSION SYSTEM:TRACTION BATTERY

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 530e iPerformance and X3 xDrive30e and MINI Cooper Countryman All4 SE, 2020 BMW i8, and 2021 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le xDrive and X5 xDrive45e vehicles. Debris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery cells during their production.

Consequence: The debris could result in a short-circuit, increasing the risk of fire or injury.

20V490000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 330e and X5 xDrive45e, 2020-2021 X3 xDrive30e, and 2020 MINI Countryman SE ALL4 vehicles. Loose welding beads may form a conductive path between the hybrid battery cells which could lead to a short-circuit.

Consequence: A short-circuited hybrid battery may increase the risk of a fire.

Sample complaint excerpts
Electric Propulsion
  • [2021] Drivetrain - A drivetrain malfunction message came-up a few weeks back on the high-way indicating “It is safe to drive but with reduced power” and the vehicle suddenly slowed down on the highway with less power to drive putting us in unsafe condition. The vehicle has less than 25,000 miles. The incident was reported to a BMW dealer for reporting to BMW and with a request for investigation and f
  • [2022] I am writing to formally express my concern regarding serious and repeated safety-related failures with my 2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e, VIN [XXX] . I purchased this vehicle in 2022 through a custom build, at a purchase price exceeding $80,000, with the expectation of reliability, safety, and premium quality consistent with the BMW brand. In October 2025, while my wife was driving with my son in the ve
  • [2022] Sudden loss of power. Vehicle warning after starting stating power supply issue even after a brand new battery from the dealership. 3 similar incidents in a month. During the final incident the vehicle was again towed to the dealership where it’s been there for over a week and power supply issues persist. They are changing the whole high voltage box due to some unfixable errors.
High-Voltage Battery
  • [2021] Vehicle was being driven and showed power supply issue and then flashed a drive train warning and lost propulsion power. The vehicle started hopping / jerking. The A/C stopped working and the center console became intensely hot to the touch; so much so it was uncomfortable to keep you hand on the center console. The vehicle is currently at the dealership stating they believe a software update wa
  • [2022] The high-voltage battery system (this is a plug-in hybrid) began intermittently displaying a "battery not properly charging" warning approximately 6 months ago; the issue would resolve after plugging in and charging. On July 14, 2026, while driving, the vehicle displayed a "critical battery failure - pull over immediately and drive slowly" warning. The driver pulled over and shut off the vehicle;
  • [2022] The electric A/C compressor on my 2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e (VIN [XXX] ) failed internally at approximately 59,000 miles, causing metal debris to circulate throughout the refrigerant system. The failed compressor and contaminated components are at BMW of Sterling (Sterling, VA) and available for inspection. This is a safety concern because the A/C refrigerant circuit provides thermal management for th
Hybrid Drivetrain
  • [2021] The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that the AC was inoperable. The vehicle was taken to a dealer and an independent mechanic on several occasions to repair the AC; however, the failure reoccurred after each repair. The AC was not replaced. The contact believed that the issue was caused by Hybrid system.
  • [2022] The electric A/C compressor on my 2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e (VIN [XXX] ) failed internally at approximately 59,000 miles, causing metal debris to circulate throughout the refrigerant system. The failed compressor and contaminated components are at BMW of Sterling (Sterling, VA) and available for inspection. This is a safety concern because the A/C refrigerant circuit provides thermal management for th
  • [2022] I am writing to formally express my concern regarding serious and repeated safety-related failures with my 2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e, VIN [XXX] . I purchased this vehicle in 2022 through a custom build, at a purchase price exceeding $80,000, with the expectation of reliability, safety, and premium quality consistent with the BMW brand. In October 2025, while my wife was driving with my son in the ve
Thermal Events
  • [2021] The cars hybrid batteries caught fire while sitting in garage being charged. After car was removed from garage and fire department had things "under control" which took about 2 hours they left saying it would be towed in the morning. About 30 minutes later the car exploded setting fire to the house. The house was saved the car is nothing more than a burnt shell, a total loss. Thank God no one was
  • [2022] The electric A/C compressor on my 2022 BMW X5 xDrive45e (VIN [XXX] ) failed internally at approximately 59,000 miles, causing metal debris to circulate throughout the refrigerant system. The failed compressor and contaminated components are at BMW of Sterling (Sterling, VA) and available for inspection. This is a safety concern because the A/C refrigerant circuit provides thermal management for th
  • [2022] While driving, the vehicle displayed a 'Drivetrain malfunction' warning on the dashboard and began jerking. I safely pulled over and turned off the vehicle. Immediately after stopping, there was a distinct, strong electrical burning smell coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized BMW dealership. The dealer diagnosed a catastrophic failure of the starter motor.
12V Auxiliary Battery
  • [2022] On July 8, 2026, the vehicle unexpectedly stalled while I was driving in the middle lane on the I-95 highway, creating a safety concern. There was complete loss of engine power and low power to steering. The vehicle had to be towed to BMW of Peabody, Massachusetts. The vehicle had 30850 miles during the incident. During the inspection at service centre, I was informed that the safety fuse box an
  • [2023] I was accelerating from a green light in ELECTRIC only mode, once nearing 25 mph, felt a single strong jolt that caused acceleration to pause, the Hybrid mode automatically kicked in and acceleration continued under engine power. Received several warnings and alerts on the display- Stop Carefully: Power Supply Drivetrain Malfunction Continued Driving possible: Drivetrain Electric drive limited
Regenerative Braking
  • [2024] I purchased this BMW X5 xDrive50e vehicle from BMW showroom in kalamazoo, MI as a pre-owned vehicle. It looks like this particular vehicle had already reported an drivetrain issue based on the NHTSA complaint: [XXX] Looks like Drivetrain malfunction issue is a recurring one in BMW X5 50e and hit with the same issue on [XXX]. Here, i want to file a complaint regarding a safety issues with this 20

Source: classified from NHTSA complaint and recall data. "Battery-related" includes high-voltage propulsion battery, charging system, hybrid drivetrain, electric propulsion, regenerative braking, 12V auxiliary battery, and thermal-event complaints. Other complaints (suspension, steering, brakes, infotainment) appear in the engine and vehicle-level sections. Rates are absolute counts, not normalized per-VIN — high-volume models naturally produce more raw complaints than low-volume ones. Self-reported death and injury counts are capped per complaint to limit form abuse.

Owner Complaints by System

Complaints owners filed with NHTSA about the BMW X5, counted across every engine. A complaint can name more than one system.

Electrical System: 281 owner complaints
Engine: 179 owner complaints
Brakes: 154 owner complaints
Transmission: 122 owner complaints
Safety Systems: 108 owner complaints

Buyer's Guide

On a used G05 X5, recall history matters more than mileage. With 37 recalls across the generation, pull the VIN through BMW's recall lookup and confirm every open campaign is closed before you commit, paying particular attention to the electrical, steering, and airbag recalls that recur across model years. On this generation, have outstanding recall work finished before you buy.

For engine choice, the 4.4-liter V8 in the M50i and M60i has the fewest complaints among the mainstream engines, and per vehicle built the 3.0-liter six has drawn fewer than the generation's other engines. If you want the more common 3.0-liter six, favor a well-maintained example with full service history, since that engine carries the largest complaint share. Approach the plug-in hybrid xDrive45e and 50e with extra care around their electrical and charging systems, which add complexity and a distinct complaint cluster.

At inspection, exercise everything electrical: the iDrive system, the driver aids, the power seats and tailgate, the lighting, and every sensor-driven feature, because electrical faults are the single largest problem area by a wide margin. Test the brakes across a range of stops, and on a hybrid confirm the charging system and battery behave. A pre-sale inspection at an independent BMW specialist is worth the cost here more than on most SUVs.

What to check on a used 2019-2025 BMW X5

On a used 2019-2025 BMW X5, the systems with the most NHTSA owner complaints are the electrical system (281), the engine (179) and the brakes (154). Each one has an inspection step below, with counts as of 2026-10-12. A complaint is an owner report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.

  1. Switch on every electrical item in turn: lights, windows, locks, wipers, climate fan, screen and power outlets.Costly repair. NHTSA has 281 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 BMW X5 about the electrical system.
  2. Start the engine cold and listen for the first 30 seconds, then again at idle once it is warm.Costly repair. NHTSA has 179 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 BMW X5 about the engine, all engines combined.
  3. On an empty road, brake firmly from 40 mph with a light grip on the wheel.Safety. NHTSA has 154 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 BMW X5 about the brakes.
  4. Accelerate gently through every gear, then once at full throttle. Shift into Reverse and back to Drive.Costly repair. NHTSA has 122 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 BMW X5 about the transmission and drivetrain, all engines combined.
  5. Switch the ignition on and watch the airbag light. On the drive, check the backup camera and any collision or lane warning.Safety. NHTSA has 108 owner complaints on the 2019-2025 BMW X5 about the airbags and driver-assist systems.
Open the full inspection checklist for the 2019-2025 BMW X5

Recalls (37)

26V422000Jul 1, 2026serious
Service Brakes

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2025 Mini Cooper S, Mini Countryman S All4, X2, 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre, 2023-2025 i7, 7 Series, X7, 2024-2025 i5, 5 Series, 2023-2024 XM, X1, 2024-2025 X6, and X5 vehicles. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.

25V644000Sep 25, 2025serious
Electrical System

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 340I, X6, 2020-2025 840I, 2020-2022 740LI, 2019-2020 X7, and X5 vehicles. After repeated attempts, the starter motor may overheat from an electrical overload.

24V739000Oct 2, 2024serious
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)

BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 X1, X5, X6, X7, XM, 530i, i5, 740i, 760i, i7, and 750e vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.

24V697000Sep 18, 2024serious
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)

BMW of North America (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2024 X1, 2024-2025 X5, 2025 X6, 2023-2025 X7, 740i, 760i, 2024 XM, 530i, 540i, i7, 750e, X2, 2024-2025 i5, 2024 Rolls Royce Spectre, 2025 MINI Countryman S ALL4, JCW Countryman ALL4, and 2025 MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, Cooper S) vehicles. Please refer to the recall report for the complete list of models. The welds in the servomotor of the integrated brake control module may break, causing a loss of power brake assist and rear brake function. In addition, the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system may not function.

24V576000Aug 1, 2024serious
Electrical System

BMW of North America, LLC is recalling certain 2019-2020 X5, X7, 2020 3 Series Sedan, X6, 2020-2021 7 Series Sedan, 2020 8 Series Convertible, 8 Series Coupe, and 2020 8 Series Gran Coupe vehicles. Please see the recall report for the complete list of models. In the event the starter motor fails, repeated attempts to start the vehicle can cause the starter motor to overheat from an electrical overload.

Show 32 older recalls
24V345000May 15, 2024serious
Seat Belts

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024 XM, 2025 BMW X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 M60i, X5 M, X5 xDrive50e, X6 xDrive40i, X6 M60i, X6 M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 M60i, and Alpina XB7 vehicles. The seat belt system may inaccurately detect that passengers are belted, preventing the seat belt warning light from illuminating and possibly causing the supplemental restraint system to not deploy as intended during a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."

24V327000May 10, 2024serious
Equipment

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024-2025 X5 xDrive40i vehicles. The tire information placard may indicate an incorrect tire size and tire pressure. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."

24V138000Feb 23, 2024serious
Structure

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The instrument panel may not have been manufactured properly, which can result in improper air bag deployment or the panel separating during air bag deployment.

24V104000Feb 12, 2024serious
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)

BMW of North America, LLC. (BMW) is recalling certain 2023-2025 BMW, MINI, and Rolls-Royce vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models and model years. The integrated brake (IB) system may malfunction and result in a loss of power brake assist or cause the Antilock Brake (ABS) and Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) systems to not function properly.

23V821000Dec 6, 2023serious
Powertrain

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 Toyota GR Supra, 3 Series Sedan (330i xDrive, M340i xDrive, M3), 5 Series Sedan (530i, 530i xDrive, M5), 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive), 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 4 Series Convertible (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive), 8 Series Coupe (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Convertible (840i, M850i xDrive, M8), 8 Series Gran Coupe (850i xDrive, M8), X3 SAV (X3 xDrive30i, X3M), X4 SAV (X4 xDrive30i), X5 SAV (X5 xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X5M), X6 SAV (X6 xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M), and Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i vehicles. The weld seam of the integrated transmission control unit's cover may not have been manufactured properly, which could allow automatic transmission oil to leak into the transmission control unit.

23V622000Sep 7, 2023serious
Air Bags

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 BMW XM, 2024 BMW X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 M60i, X5 M, X5 xDrive50e, X6 xDrive40i, X6 M60i, X6 M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 M60i, and Alpina XB7 vehicles. The front passenger knee air bag may not deploy as intended.

23V471000Jul 10, 2023serious
Air Bags

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2024 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 M60i, X5 M, xDrive 50e, 2024 X6 xDrive40i, X6 M60i, X6 M, 2024 X7 xDrive40i, X7 M60i, Alpina XB7, and 2023 XM vehicles. The knee air bag (driver and/or passenger) may not have been manufactured correctly, which can result in the knee air bag not deploying as intended.

23V253000Apr 6, 2023serious
Seats

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X5 M and X5 xDrive45e vehicles. The head restraints for the second-row outboard seats may have been improperly manufactured without locking tabs in the guide sleeves. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 202, "Head Restraints."

22V942000Dec 19, 2022serious
Seats

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 X5 sDrive40i, X5 M50i and X5 xDrive 45e vehicles. One of the four bolts that connects the backrest to the driver's seat frame may not have been correctly installed.

22V820000Nov 2, 2022serious
Visibility

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2023 X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive45e, and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle which could allow water to enter the vehicle and contact electrical components, possibly resulting in a short-circuit.

22V267000Apr 20, 2022serious
Visibility

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2022 4 Series Gran Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive); 2019-2022 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M; 2021-2022 X5 xdrive45e; 2020-2022 X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6M and 2019-2023 X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, X7 xDrive60i, X7 M60i, X7M, Alpina XB7 vehicles. The roof function control unit may be programmed incorrectly, allowing the sunroof to close without the key fob present inside the vehicle. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118, "Power-Operated Window Systems."

21V520000Jul 8, 2021serious
Air Bags

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling one 2019 X5 xDrive 40i vehicle. The instrument panel may not have been manufactured correctly, which could prevent the passenger side air bag from deploying properly in a crash.

21V156000Mar 10, 2021serious
Seats

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5 xDrive45e, 2021 X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i, and XB7 vehicles. The head restraints on the second-row outer seats may be the incorrect type for the vehicle.

21V096000Feb 19, 2021serious
Back Over Prevention

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 X3 sDrive30i, X3 xDrive30i, X3 M40i, X3M, X4 xDrive30i, X4 M40i, M550i, X4M, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5M, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, Alpina XB7, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, and 8 Series Coupe, Convertible and Grand Coupe, 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8, 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le, 745Le xDrive, X5 xDrive45e, X3 xDrive30e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xDrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 740i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, M760i Drive, M760Li xDrive, 750Li xDrive Alpina, Alpina B7 xDrive, and 2021 4 Series Coupe 430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive vehicles. When shifting into Reverse, a small portion of the rearview image may be obscured, or the screen may not illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."

21V089000Feb 18, 2021serious
Service Brakes

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X5 sDrive40i and X5 xDrive40i vehicles. The right front brake disc may have been assembled with incorrect fasteners, which over time, could result in the front brake disc becoming loose.

21V062000Feb 10, 2021serious
Service Brakes

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 8 Series Coupe, Grand Coupe and convertible 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, M8 and 740 Li, 740 Li xDrive, 750 Li xDrive, M760 Li xDrive, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 xdrive50i, X6 M50i, X6M, and 2019-2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive50i, X7 M50i, and 2021 M3, M3 Competition, M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, X5 xDrive45e, 745 Le xDrive. The rotor and shaft within the integrated brake system may not have been welded properly and could separate during a hard braking event, possibly resulting in a loss of the Antilock Brake System (ABS) and braking assistance.

21V031000Jan 29, 2021serious
Steering

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5M, X5 xDrive45e, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i vehicles. The steering column shaft's universal joint connection may not have been tightened to specifications, and can become loose.

20V761000Dec 9, 2020serious
Electrical System

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 M340i xDrive, M440i xDrive Coupe, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 840i Gran Coupe, 840i xDrive Gran Coupe, X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X6 sDrive40i, X6 xDrive40i, and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator may not have been assembled properly, which can cause increased electrical resistance at the connections.

20V678000Nov 4, 2020serious
Suspension

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X5M, X7 xDrive40i, X7 M50i, X6 xDrive40i, X6 M50i and X6M vehicles and 2021 X5 xDrive45e vehicles. The weld between the front axle support and the right front control arm bearing bracket may separate.

20V601000Sep 30, 2020serious
Electrical System

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 530e, 530e xDrive, 530e iPerformance and X3 xDrive30e and MINI Cooper Countryman All4 SE, 2020 BMW i8, and 2021 330e, 330e xDrive, 745Le xDrive and X5 xDrive45e vehicles. Debris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery cells during their production.

20V528000Sep 1, 2020serious
Exterior Lighting

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 X5 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, xDrive50i, X5 M50i, X5M, X6 sDrive40i, xDrive40i, X6 M50i, X6M, X7 M50i and 2021 X5 xDrive45e vehicles. The headlamps may allow a blue light to illuminate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

20V490000Aug 18, 2020serious
Electrical System

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 330e and X5 xDrive45e, 2020-2021 X3 xDrive30e, and 2020 MINI Countryman SE ALL4 vehicles. Loose welding beads may form a conductive path between the hybrid battery cells which could lead to a short-circuit.

20V483000Aug 14, 2020serious
Tires

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 X6 (sDrive40i, xDrive40i and M50i) and X5 (sDrive40i, xDrive40i and M50i) vehicles equipped with certain Pirelli tires. The tires may have a damaged inner layer, possibly resulting in a rapid loss of pressure while the vehicle is moving.

20V465000Aug 7, 2020serious
Powertrain

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X5 sDrive 40i, X5 xDrive 40i and one X7 xDrive 40i vehicle. The starter motor may have an extra bolt that could potentially fall into the transmission housing and cause an engine stall.

20V434000Jul 28, 2020serious
Steering

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2020 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i and X5 xDrive50i vehicles and 2020 X6M vehicles. The steering column shaft bearing plate may not have been properly attached to the vehicle, allowing it to loosen.

19V684000Sep 27, 2019serious
Back Over Prevention

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2018 540d, 2018-2020 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, M550i xDrive, M5, 530e, 530e xDrive, X3 sDrive, X3 xDrive, X3 M40i, X3 M, and 2019-2020 X4 xDrive, X4 M40i, X4 M, X7 xDrive, X7 M50i, 740Li, 740Li xDrive, 750Li, 750Li xDrive, 8 Series Convertible and Coupe 840i, 840i xDrive, M850i xDrive, X5 sDrive, X5 xDrive, X5 M50i, X6 xDrive, X6 M50i, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, Z4 sDrive, Z4 M40i, 740Le xDrive and 745Le xDrive, 2018-2019 640i xDrive Gran Turismo and Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2019 M850i xDrive Gran Coupe and Rolls-Royce Cullinan and 2020 Toyota Supra vehicles. The back-up camera and display settings can be adjusted such that the rear view image is no longer visible and the system will retain that setting the next time the vehicle is placed in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rearview Mirrors."

19V631000Aug 28, 2019serious
Steering

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 X5 sDrive40i, X5 xDrive40i, X5 M50i, X7 xDrive40i and X7 M50i vehicles. The steering rack pinion teeth may break under load, resulting in a loss of steering control.

19V541000Jul 23, 2019serious
Wheels

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019 X5 xDrive50i and X7 xDrive40i vehicles. The left side wheel bolts may have been insufficiently tightened and may loosen over time.

19V513000Jul 3, 2019serious
Fuel System, Other

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 750i xDrive, 2019 M850i xDrive Coupe, M850i xDrive Convertible, X5 xDrive50i, X7 xDrive50i, and M5 vehicles. The high pressure fuel pump may not have been properly attached to the engine, which may cause the fuel pump flange to crack, resulting in a fuel leak.

19V096000Feb 13, 2019serious
Seats

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019 X5 xDrive40i and xDrive50i vehicles. The attachment bolts for the driver's seat and/or seat belt may not have been properly tightened.

18V918000Dec 19, 2018serious
Equipment

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i and X5 xDrive50i vehicles. The driver and/or passenger sun visor may have an incorrect air bag warning label, or the label may be missing. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 208, "Occupant crash protection."

18V732000Oct 17, 2018serious
Electrical System

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i vehicles. The capacitors within the Body Domain Controller (BDC) may short circuit and overheat.

NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings

Overall ★★★★★ 4/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (15.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
—
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall ★★★★★ 4/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (15.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
—
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall ★★★★★ 4/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (15.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
—
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall ★★★★★ 4/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (15.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
—
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall ★★★★★ 4/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (15.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
—
ESC: Standard FCW: Standard LDW: Standard
Overall Not Rated
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
—
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall ★★★★★ 4/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (15.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No
Overall ★★★★★ 4/5
Frontal Crash
4/5
Side Crash
5/5
Rollover
4/5 (15.9% risk)
ESC: Standard FCW: No LDW: No

Alternatives in Midsize SUV

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common 2019-2025 BMW X5 complaints?

Owners have filed 726 complaints with NHTSA about the 2019-2025 BMW X5. The systems they name most often are the electrical system, the engine and the brakes.

Is the 2019-2025 BMW X5 a good used car?

That depends on the model year, the mileage and the maintenance history of the car in front of you. Owners have filed 726 complaints with NHTSA about the 2019-2025 BMW X5. Check which systems they name most often and whether a recall is still open on that car.

How many NHTSA complaints does the 2019-2025 BMW X5 have?

NHTSA has 726 owner complaints on file for the 2019-2025 BMW X5 as of the latest data pull. A complaint is an owner's report, not a confirmed defect, and counts rise with sales.

What recalls affect the 2019-2025 BMW X5?

NHTSA lists 37 recalls covering some 2019-2025 BMW X5 vehicles. Which ones apply depends on the VIN: enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see the open campaigns on a specific car.

What should I check before buying a used BMW X5?

Run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup and confirm every open recall has been done. Look hardest at the electrical system, the engine and the brakes, the systems owners complain about most. Ask for maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the car and run a vehicle history report for prior accidents and title issues.

What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the X5?

The 2025 BMW X5 received an overall 4-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 4 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (15.9% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: No. Lane Departure Warning: No. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 726 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-10-12.

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