Last updated: 2026-03-04

2023 BMW X5 Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2023 BMW X5 scores 65/100 ("Good"). With 4 recalls and 24 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2023 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (G05/G18/F95).
Recalls
4
Complaints
24
Complaint Rate
3.3
per 10k sold
Below avgEst. Annual Cost
$1166
About avgMajor Repair Risk
17%
NHTSA Rating
4/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
4 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2023 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (G05/G18/F95).
- Final-year models are typically the most refined version of a generation.
- 4th generation X5 (US).
What this means for buyers
Final-year models are usually the most polished version of a generation, but resale value may dip as buyers anticipate the next redesign.
Fourth generation (G05/G18/F95)
Should You Buy the 2023 BMW X5?
The 2023 BMW X5 scores 65/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. 2023 is the last model year of the Fourth generation (G05/G18/F95).
With 24 owner complaints, some reported issues may need attention, but we don't yet see evidence of a single dominant failure mode.
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to electrical system (5). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2024 BMW X5, which scored 8 points lower. See also the 2022 BMW X5 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- Below-average complaint rate for SUV
- Well-established generation
- Only 24 complaints reported
Cons
- Frequent unscheduled repairs
- Moderate recall count
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: Several issues with the electrical system of the 2023 BMW X5 (5 complaints)
Compare 2023 BMW X5 With
2023 Lexus RX
Score: 85/100
2023 Toyota 4RUNNER
Score: 82/100
2023 Toyota Venza
Score: 80/100
2023 Acura MDX
Score: 79/100
2023 Chevrolet Blazer
Score: 78/100
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 4 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (5)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (5)
- POWER TRAIN (4)
- VISIBILITY (2)
- SERVICE BRAKES (1)
- STRUCTURE (1)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1)
- FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1)
- TIRES (1)
- ENGINE (1)
- STEERING (1)
- SUSPENSION (1)
Recall Overview
4
recalls on record
The 2023 BMW X5 has 4 recalls on record. This is a moderate number. Each recall represents a safety or compliance issue identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships, regardless of warranty status.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
3.3
per 10k soldSegment avg: 12.7
Safety Incidents
Crashes
3
Fires
0
Injuries
1
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2023 BMW X5 Recall Details
4 recalls have been issued for the 2023 BMW X5. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
POWER TRAIN
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.
Consequence
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.
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."
Consequence
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.
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.
Consequence
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.
2023 BMW X5 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 15.9%
Safety Technologies
Gas / HEV Powertrain
Rollover risk: 0.0%
Safety Technologies
BMW X5 Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
2Maintenance rating: 2 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Est. Annual Maintenance
$1166
vs $1127 avg for luxury fullsize SUVs
vs $652 avg for all vehicles
Repair Frequency
0.8
unscheduled repair visits per year
Severe Repair Probability
17%
chance of a major repair
Annual Cost Comparison
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2023 BMW X5
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect sunroof for signs of stress or damage
- Test infotainment system for screen flickering or shutdown
- Check for drivetrain error messages during test drive
- Verify electrical system protection near console and shifter
- Inspect tires for bulges or abnormal wear
Check Any 2023 BMW X5's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2023 X5 in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific BMW X5 with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2023 BMW X5 Common Problems by Component
24 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several issues with the electrical system of the 2023 BMW X5. Commonly described problems include the car's computer ceasing to function and failing to recognize key fobs, as well as unexpected vehicle shutdowns accompanied by flashing error messages and unresponsive gas pedals. Additionally, there are concerns about water intrusion into the electrical compartment from minor spills, leading to drivetrain warnings and shifting issues. One complaint involves a crash due to the vehicle rolling away when left in Neutral without the parking brake applied, highlighting a potential safety risk. These issues appear across varying mileage ranges, with some occurring shortly after purchase.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
5 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2023 BMW X5 frequently report issues with the panoramic sunroof and moon roof, describing instances where the glass unexpectedly explodes outward while driving, creating a potential safety hazard. This problem is noted without any prior warning or impact from external objects, and typically occurs at highway speeds. Another reported issue involves unintended acceleration, where the vehicle accelerates on its own, requiring the driver to control speed using the brakes, with no dashboard warnings present. Additionally, there is a report of a drivetrain failure notification, though the vehicle continues to drive without breaking down. These complaints highlight potential safety concerns, including a crash related to unregistered open doors, with no alert or automatic stop function.
POWER TRAIN
4 complaintsOwners of the 2023 BMW X5 frequently report drivetrain malfunctions characterized by fluid leaks, sudden loss of power, and the inability to exceed low speeds. Symptoms include warning lights and messages such as "Drivetrain Malfunction" and "Four wheel drive limited," with some owners experiencing unexpected shifts from drive to neutral and erratic engine behavior. These issues often occur at varying mileages, with one report at approximately 50,900 miles. Safety implications are noted, as some owners describe losing power while driving, which may necessitate pulling over suddenly. This information may be particularly relevant to potential buyers considering the vehicle's reliability and safety history.
VISIBILITY (2 complaints)
VISIBILITY
2 complaintsOwners report two distinct visibility-related issues with the 2023 BMW X5. One complaint describes an information LED screen flickering and going black, accompanied by malfunctions in other electronic components like the radio and air conditioning, attributed to corrosion in the Head Unit High at approximately 51,000 miles. Another complaint involves the sunroof exploding while driving at about 60 MPH, with no warning lights prior to the incident, occurring around 6,000 miles. Both issues have safety implications, as the first affects critical safety systems linked to the screen, and the second could lead to driver distraction or injury from shattered glass. These patterns may be relevant for potential buyers considering the reliability of the vehicle's electronic and structural components.
SERVICE BRAKES (1 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
1 complaintSafety-relatedWhile driving the vehicle at highway speed, the vehicle did not respond as expected during braking. Upon attempting to slow the vehicle, control was lost, the vehicle became unstable, left the roadway, and rolled. As a result of the incident, the driver sustained serious injuries requiring emergency transport and hospitalization. No warning lamps, messages, or brake-related alerts were observed prior to the incident. After the crash, the BMW mobile application displayed a brake system malfunction warning indicating an integrated system brake failure, with a timestamp shortly after the incident. The vehicle has not yet been inspected or diagnosed by a BMW dealer or independent service center. The vehicle remains available for inspection following the crash and has been retained post-incident pending salvage processing.
STRUCTURE (1 complaints)
STRUCTURE
1 complaintMy sunroof spontaneously exploded yesterday, which sounded like a loud shotgun blast going off. Fortunately my vehicle was stopped at the time, but no rocks or debris had hit it to cause this then or previously, and nothing had fallen on it. No warning or other symptoms prior to this happening, the car was in mint condition and always garaged, 34,750 miles. Could have been much worse had I been driving at highway speeds and not stopped at a traffic light.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (1 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaintOn the driver's side the headlight's smaller light stopped working. I brought the car to BMW and they said the LED burned out, which also caused burn marks on the headlight assembly, so the entire headlight assembly needs to be replaced.
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
1 complaintThe car model I have includes an additional fee for a "drivers" assistance package; this feature doesn't work as designed. BMW likes to call it 'limitations of the system', but will not offer any repair, correction or refund for this "issue". Unfortunately, this issue is such a hazard and pops up so spontaneously, if there were any cars around I would have collided with them. BMW says this is called "greying". The systems doesn't recognize or sense the terrain and attempts to warn the driver, BUT the car will veer on it's own into the second lane or try to cruise into the median. I have this incident on video. It will also not slow to stop when exciting the highway offramp; there have been many times where it has actually dangerously accelerated. I will attach the slip from the dealership, which I have been to 3 times, with no solution. I have communication with the dealership stating that they agree it's a hazard, but don't know how to fix it due to the "limitations of the actual system". Asking for the feature to be removed and get my money back is apparently not something BMW is interested in doing. They would rather keep unsafe and unpredictable vehicles on the road in the name of profit. I am deeply concerned that there are other models like mine on the road that will cause a fatal accident.
TIRES (1 complaints)
TIRES
1 complaintThe contact owns a 2023 BMW X5 equipped with Continental Tires, Tire Line: Premium Contact 6 SSR, Front Passenger's Side Tire Size: 275/40R/21, DOT Number: A349D74A, Rear Passenger's Side Tire Size: 315/35/R21 YXL, DOT Number: A372D74B. The contact stated while driving 25 MPH, there was an abnormal clunk while the tires were rotating, and a message indicating that the tire pressure was low was displayed. The contact pulled in front of the residence and parked the vehicle. Upon inspecting the tires, the contact noticed that there was a large bulge on the tread of the front passenger's side tire. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, where the front passenger's side tire was replaced. The tire was original equipment. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle on another occasion a message indicating that the tire pressure was low, was displayed. Upon inspecting the vehicle, the contact noticed that there was a bulge on the tread of the rear passengers' side tire. The vehicle was taken to another dealer, BMW of Sarasota (5151 Clark Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233), where the tire was replaced. The tire was original equipment. The vehicle manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the tire manufacturer. The tire manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The front passenger's side tire failure mileage was approximately 5,700. The rear passenger's side tire failure mileage was approximately 7,400.
ENGINE (1 complaints)
ENGINE
1 complaintOn Nov 1, 2023 while accelerating on a freeway entrance ramp so as to merge into traffic on the interstate, vehicle suddenly lost all engine acceleration power and was steered to the side of the ramp so traffic behind could proceed. Vehicle stayed "on" but no engine response from the accelerator pedal being depressed, just idling of the motor. There were no messages or warning lights illuminated prior to, during or after the event. Vehicle was switched off and restarted, function resumed as normal. Dealer has not been able to reproduce the issue and no electronic trace of the incident was recorded by the vehicle on subsequent dealer inspection.
When Do 2023 BMW X5 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst BMW X5 Years
Best BMW X5 Years to Buy
The best BMW X5 year is 2022 with a reliability score of 67/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2023 (65/100) and 2025 (64/100).
2022
1 recall · 51 complaints
2023(this page)
4 recalls · 24 complaints
2025
4 recalls · 49 complaints
BMW X5 Years to Avoid
The worst BMW X5 year is 2019 with a score of 52/100, primarily due to electrical system (45) issues.
See full BMW X5 years-to-avoid analysis →BMW X5 Reliability Score Trend
BMW X5 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 63/100 compared to 56/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 59/100 | Mixed |
| 2019 | 52/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 56/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 57/100 | Mixed |
| 2022 | 67/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 57/100 | Mixed |
| 2025 | 64/100 | Good |
BMW X5 Reliability Compared to Other Years
2023 BMW X5 Reliability by Powertrain
The 2023 BMW X5 is available with 2 powertrain options. Here's how they compare on reliability.
| Powertrain | Complaints | Recalls | Incidents* | Crash Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas | 24 | 4 | 3 | 4 out of 5 |
| Gas / HEV | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/T |
| Total | 24 | 4 | 3 |
NHTSA tracks complaints separately for each powertrain configuration. Totals reflect the sum across all variants. N/T = Not tested by NHTSA.
* Incidents = crash + fire reports. A single complaint can include multiple incident types.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 BMW X5 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2023 BMW X5?
How many recalls does the 2023 BMW X5 have?
Is the 2023 BMW X5 expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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