2021 Bmw X5 Safety Report

2021 BMW X5 Safety Report

85Complaints
12Recalls
★★★★☆Safety Rating
85/100Reliability Score
9Crash Reports
3Fire Reports
7Injuries
Most reported components: Electrical System (14)Unknown Or Other (8)Power Train (7)Back Over Prevention (6)Engine And Engine Cooling,Electrical System (3)Power Train,Electrical System,Engine (3)Air Bags (3)Engine (2)Power Train,Vehicle Speed Control,Engine (2)Engine And Engine Cooling (2)

Safety Decision Cockpit for the 2021 Bmw X5

This page is the hub for deciding what to inspect next on the 2021 Bmw X5. It connects recall campaigns, owner complaint patterns, service bulletins, sibling model years, component issue hubs, and the model buying guide so a shopper or owner can move from a single report into the wider safety graph.

2021 Bmw X5 Safety Signal Summary
SignalValueWhat to inspect next
Recall burdenHigh (12)Review campaign numbers, affected components, and dealer remedies below.
Owner complaintsModerate (85)Scan complaint narratives for recurring symptoms, mileage, crashes, fires, injuries, and dates.
Crash and fire reports12Treat any crash, fire, injury, or fatality-linked pattern as a priority pre-purchase inspection item.
Primary component hubElectrical SystemCompare electrical system issues across vehicles.
Cleaner nearby model year2023Compare against the 2023 Bmw X5 with 27 complaints and 4 recalls.
Riskier nearby model year2019Check the 2019 Bmw X5 before buying across this generation.

Bmw X5 Year-by-Year Comparison

The safest purchase decision usually comes from comparing neighboring model years, not reading a single page in isolation. The table below uses only validated Bmw X5 years already present in the cleaned NHTSA dataset, so each comparison links to a real vehicle safety report rather than a generated combination.

Nearby Bmw X5 Model Years
Model YearComplaintsRecallsUse case
2022 Bmw X5 51 1 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2020 Bmw X5 88 11 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2023 Bmw X5 27 4 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.
2019 Bmw X5 158 13 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2024 Bmw X5 135 7 Inspect as a potentially higher-complaint year.
2018 Bmw X5 63 5 Compare as a potentially cleaner alternative.

2021 Bmw X5 Complaint Theme Map

Complaint counts become more useful when they are grouped into inspection themes. For the 2021 Bmw X5, these are the component areas with the clearest NHTSA complaint signals. Use each link to jump from this single vehicle into broader component hubs and make-specific issue pages.

Electrical System

14 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Electrical System issues Bmw only

Unknown Or Other

8 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Unknown Or Other issues Bmw only

Power Train

7 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Power Train issues Bmw only

Back Over Prevention

6 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Back Over Prevention issues Bmw only

Engine And Engine Cooling,Electrical System

3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Engine And Engine Cooling,Electrical System issues Bmw only

Power Train,Electrical System,Engine

3 owner complaints mention this component in the current safety profile.

All Power Train,Electrical System,Engine issues Bmw only

AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Bmw X5

The 2021 BMW X5 has accumulated 85 complaints and 12 recalls in the NHTSA database. It received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Among the complaints, 9 involved crashes and 3 involved fires. There have been 7 reported injuries and 0 reported deaths. The most frequently reported problem areas are electrical system (14 complaints), unknown or other (8 complaints), power train (7 complaints). Safety concerns include electrical system failures, power train issues, and back over prevention system malfunctions. Notably, the vehicle has experienced issues with the Push to Start button, engine cooling, and electrical system, leading to unexpected shutdowns and delays in starting. Additionally, there have been reports of abnormal sounds and vibrations during operation. The electrical system has been a frequent issue, with multiple recalls related to the Push to Start button and engine cooling. Power train issues, such as abnormal sounds and vibrations, have also been reported. Back over prevention systems have malfunctioned, posing a safety risk. These issues can be addressed by inspecting the electrical system, power train, and back over prevention system. Key known issues to be aware of include Push to Start Button Failure, Engine Cooling and Electrical System Issues, Back Over Prevention System Malfunction. Be aware of potential electrical system and power train issues, and ensure the back over prevention system is functioning properly.

Reliability Score

The 2021 Bmw X5 receives a reliability score of 85 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates above-average reliability relative to comparable vehicles.

NHTSA Safety Ratings for the 2021 Bmw X5

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) evaluates vehicles through controlled crash tests and assigns star ratings from 1 to 5, with 5 being the safest.

Overall
★★★★☆
4/5
Frontal Crash
★★★★☆
4/5
Side Crash
★★★★★
5/5
Rollover
★★★★☆
4/5

Known Issues for the 2021 Bmw X5

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Bmw X5:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Push To Start Button Failure
The Push to Start button has failed to function as intended, leading to delays in starting the vehicle and requiring multiple attempts to start.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Engine Cooling And Electrical System Issues
There have been reports of the engine cooling and electrical system failing, causing the vehicle to unexpectedly shut off while driving.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles
Back Over Prevention System Malfunction
The back over prevention system has malfunctioned, leading to safety concerns and potential accidents.
Low Occasional 30k-60k miles
Abnormal Sounds And Vibrations
There have been reports of abnormal grinding, clanking, and shaking sounds and vibrations during operation, which can affect the vehicle's performance and safety.
Medium Common 30k-60k miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Bmw X5:

Electrical System 23% of complaints

Issues with the Push to Start button and engine cooling have been reported.

Power Train 14% of complaints

Abnormal sounds and vibrations have been reported, affecting the vehicle's performance.

Back Over Prevention System 6% of complaints

Malfunctioning back over prevention systems have been reported, posing safety risks.

Seats 4% of complaints

Issues with the mid/rear seat assembly and headrest have been reported.

Recall Details for the 2021 Bmw X5

The following 12 recalls have been issued for the 2021 Bmw X5 by NHTSA:

Visibility:Sun/Moon Roof Assembly
Campaign #22V267000 20/04/2022

Summary: 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. ...

Consequence: A sunroof that closes without the key fob present inside the vehicle can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: Dealers will reprogram the roof function control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 20, 2022. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Seats:Mid/Rear Assembly:Head Restraint
Campaign #21V156000 10/03/2021

Summary: 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.

Consequence: In the event of a crash, the head restraints could detach, and increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the head restraints, and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began May 3, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Back Over Prevention: Sensing System: Camera
Campaign #21V096000 19/02/2021

Summary: 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 x...

Consequence: If the driver relies on only the rearview camera image, the missing or reduced rearview image view can increase the risk of a crash or injury.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rearview camera software and update it if necessary, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Critical Fasteners
Campaign #21V089000 18/02/2021

Summary: 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.

Consequence: A loose brake disc could affect vehicle handling and control, and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the right front brake disc and replace it if necessary, along with the unaffected left side brake disc, free of charge. There are no owner vehicles affected; therefore, owner notification is not necessary and, as such, a planned owner notification date is not entered into the recall schedule. Owners may contact BMW's customer service at 1-800-525-...

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Campaign #21V062000 10/02/2021

Summary: 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 bra...

Consequence: A loss of ABS and a reduction in braking assistance can increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the integrated brake system, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 25, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Steering:Column
Campaign #21V031000 29/01/2021

Summary: 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.

Consequence: A loose steering column shaft universal joint connection can affect vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, depending upon the inspection, either the bolt will be replaced and tightened to specifications, or the steering column shaft, universal joint, and bolt will be replaced and tightened to specifications, free of charge. The recall began March 30, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Electrical System:12v/24v/48v Battery
Campaign #20V761000 09/12/2020

Summary: 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.

Consequence: Increased electrical resistance can increase the risk of a fire.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the connection between the 48-Volt battery and the starter-generator assembly, replacing it if necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 12, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Suspension:Front:Control Arm
Campaign #20V678000 04/11/2020

Summary: 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.

Consequence: If the weld between the front axle support and the right front control arm bearing bracket separates, vehicle handling and control may be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front axle support, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Electrical System:Propulsion System:Traction Battery
Campaign #20V601000 30/09/2020

Summary: 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.

Remedy: BMW will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery module free of charge. The remedy is currently being developed. Until the remedy is completed, drivers are instructed to not charge their vehicles. Drivers are instructed to not drive in manual mode, sport mode, and to not use the shift paddles. Owners were notified of the safety risk October 23, 2020. The recall began November 24, 2020....

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Exterior Lighting:Headlights
Campaign #20V528000 01/09/2020

Summary: 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."

Consequence: Oncoming drivers may be confused by the blue light of approaching vehicles, which could potentially increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the headlamps and, if necessary, replace them, free of charge. The recall began October 30, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Electrical System:12v/24v/48v Battery
Campaign #20V490000 18/08/2020

Summary: 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.

Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the battery modules, free of charge. BMW issued owners an interim notification on October 16, 2020. Although potentially affected BMW owners received interim owner notification letters, all potentially affected BMW owner vehicles have been remedied; therefore, BMW Final owner notification letters will not be necessary. ...

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC
Tires
Campaign #20V483000 14/08/2020

Summary: 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.

Consequence: A rapid loss of tire pressure while the vehicle is moving can affect vehicle handling and control, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: BMW has notified all of the affected owners, and dealers will replace the defective tires, free of charge. BMW has contacted owners by telephone and those owners have had their cars remedied. Owner notification letters will not be sent. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Manufacturer: BMW of North America, LLC

NHTSA Complaint Summaries for the 2021 Bmw X5

Below are complaint narratives filed by owners of the 2021 Bmw X5 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 4 complaints involved crashes. 1 involved fires. 3 reported injuries or fatalities.

Crash Reports: 4 Fire Reports: 1 Injury/Fatality Reports: 3
Electrical System
03/05/2026

The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the Push to Start button failed to function as intended. After several attempts, the vehicle started. The drivetrain warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the starter had failed and needed to be replaced. The dealer informed the contact to ce...

ODI #11722339
Electrical System
02/23/2026

The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed on the highway, the vehicle shut off. The vehicle was pulled off to the side of the road, but failed to restart after several attempts. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed with starter failure. The dealer referenced NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V761000 (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however,...

ODI #11719875
Electrical System
02/11/2026

the vehicle delays to start and will not recognize that key is in the vehicle. the starter button has to be pushed three times until the vehicle recognizes the key is in the vehicle. the vehicle was inspected at a BMW dealership and no codes or errors were found. battery is still good but possible issues with the starter.

ODI #11717419
Engine And Engine Cooling,Electrical System
01/30/2026

The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V608000 (ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the VIN no longer showed the recall as being open. The local dealer was contacted. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of t...

ODI #11714543
Electrical System
01/23/2026

The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that while attempting to start the vehicle with the Push to START button, the vehicle failed to start. There was a clicking sound coming from under the hood. The failure was intermittent. The contact replaced the hybrid battery; however, the failure reoccurred. The contact stated that after several attempts, the vehicle started. The vehicle was ta...

ODI #11712989
Engine
01/02/2026

The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at undisclosed speeds, unknown warning lights illuminated on several occasions. The failure had occurred while driving and while restarting the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, where it was diagnosed, and determined that the starter had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was m...

ODI #11708344
Power Train
12/15/2025

I am writing to formally file a complaint and request an expansion of recall coverage regarding a starter motor failure on my 2021 BMW X5, which occurred at approximately 38,000 miles. Recently, my vehicle experienced a sudden failure to start. After inspection, the issue was diagnosed as a starter malfunction. I am aware that BMW has issued a recall addressing starter-related defects for certain...

ODI #11705036
Suspension,Engine
12/10/2025

In the middle of driving, multiple warning lights came on in the car and the steering became very stiff, which made it difficult to steer the car. We brought the car to the dealer service station and they identified that the crank pulley system had a failure and the vibration damper needed to be replaced. Apparently, this issue also resulted in the engine not properly charging the car battery, w...

ODI #11704139
Engine
12/09/2025

BMW 2021 X5 Engine starter failed. BMW South Miami dealership troubleshooting found the starter motor faulty and replaced it. This failure is NOT part of the current starter recall for BMW X5. (25V644000) My X5 maufactured date is June of 2021. I purchased the X5 In July of 2021. I paid $2166.35 for repairs and I am seaking a refund.

ODI #11703980
Unknown Or Other
12/05/2025

I was driving 75mph on the highway and my sunroof exploded while driving. It sounded like a gunshot above my head and shattered while going 75mph. This vehicle and other bmws that share the same sunroof glass are not fit to drive on the road until investigated further. There has been recalls and lawsuits for this. This a supplier or install issue when the car was manufactured. It’s not safe while...

ODI #11703190
Power Train
11/28/2025

The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, there was an abnormal grinding and clanking sound coming from the front end of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the front differential was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, but no assistan...

ODI #11701920
Power Train,Vehicle Speed Control,Engine
11/08/2025

The vehicle shakes at low speeds with a jolt and vibration when turning. When I pressed the accelerator from a standstill, the gas pedal broke off from its floor mounted bracket.

ODI #11698378
Engine And Engine Cooling,Electrical System
10/22/2025

The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal sputtering sound coming from the vehicle. After several attempts, the vehicle was able to start. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with starter failure. The contact was provided with the following DTC: 0012240600. The vehicle was not repaired due to the cost. The conta...

ODI #11695040
Engine And Engine Cooling
10/16/2025

The contact owns a 2021 BMW X5. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the coolant warning light illuminated with the message "Coolant Dangerously Low - Fill Right Away" displayed on the instrument panel. The message was displayed on several occasions. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the dealer discovered coolant leaking from the bottom of the vehicle and diagnosed ...

ODI #11693874
Unknown Or Other
10/15/2025

What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? The engine/transmission mounts were diagnosed by Sterling BMW (Newport Beach, CA) as “sagging” and in need of replacement at only 38,437 miles. The components remain on the vehicle and are available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? If engine mounts are in fa...

ODI #11693718
Power Train
10/08/2025

The front differential on my BMW failed at just 47,000 miles. There were no warning lights—only a faint grinding noise that gradually worsened. After inspection, the dealership confirmed the failure and quoted $9,000 for replacement. In speaking with other BMW owners, I’ve discovered this issue isn’t isolated. Many have experienced front differential failures around the 50,000-mile mark, suggesti...

ODI #11692077
Power Train
09/29/2025

Around September, 2025 several small puddles was under the vehicle. Made an appointment with BMW to have a 2021, X5 inspected. The BMW dealership technicians diagnosed the problem as a Water pump -Engine coolant. There was no previous warning messages notifying a problem with the vehicle cooling system. Vehicle total mileage was around 58,000 miles at the time of problem found.Cost of damage was o...

ODI #11690421
Steering,Power Train
09/23/2025

Steering the vehicle in a low gear causes the vehicle to tremble or shudder. The dealership identified the problem to be the transfer case fluid. In manufacturing, BMW put a fluid which did not meet the specifications of the vehicle. The transfer case fluid is documented in the manual of BMW X5 M50i (2021) to be something which does not require replacement in the lifetime of the vehicle. I raised ...

ODI #11689259
Power Train,Engine
09/23/2025

Component Failed: Water pump (engine cooling system) - Part has been superseded by BMW with upgraded version, indicating manufacturer awareness of defect. Failed component retained and available for inspection upon request. Safety Risk: Complete water pump failure at 56,611 miles created immediate risk of catastrophic engine overheating and potential engine seizure while driving. BMW-certified mec...

ODI #11689062
Air Bags,Seat Belts,Seats
09/19/2025

Described by BMW as a "malfunctioning passenger restraint system", the sensor detecting weight in the seats is faulty without any external factors. The safety of both minors and adults is placed at risk when a system like this malfunctions, either keeping the airbag on or off. The automatically-adjusting seatbelt is also affected by this. There was a warning message for this displayed.

ODI #11688338

Showing 20 of 85 complaints. Additional complaints are available via the NHTSA database.

NHTSA Defect Investigations for the 2021 Bmw X5

NHTSA defect investigations are higher-signal than ordinary complaints because they indicate the agency opened a formal review of a potential safety defect. Some investigations later connect to recall campaigns; others close without a recall after review.

Pedestrian alert sounds
NHTSA DP22005 Closed Recall 22V063000

Component: Electrical System:Propulsion System

Opened 2023-01-27 · Closed 2023-08-07

NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-spe...

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Bmw X5

Has the 2021 BMW X5 been recalled?

Yes, the 2021 BMW X5 has 12 recalls on record with NHTSA. Each recall addresses a specific safety defect identified by the manufacturer or NHTSA.

How many complaints does the 2021 BMW X5 have?

The 2021 BMW X5 has 85 complaints filed with NHTSA. Of these, 9 involved crashes. 7 injuries and 0 deaths have been reported.

What is the safety rating for the 2021 BMW X5?

The 2021 BMW X5 received an overall NHTSA safety rating of good (4/5). Frontal crash: 4/5. Side crash: 5/5. Rollover: 4/5.

What are the most common problems with the 2021 BMW X5?

The most commonly reported problems with the 2021 BMW X5 involve electrical system (14 complaints), unknown or other (8 complaints), power train (7 complaints). Other affected components include back over prevention, engine and engine cooling,electrical system, power train,electrical system,engine.

How many crash reports does the 2021 BMW X5 have?

There are 9 crash reports associated with the 2021 BMW X5 out of 85 total complaints (10.6% of complaints involved crashes).

How many fire reports does the 2021 BMW X5 have?

There are 3 fire reports for the 2021 BMW X5 out of 85 total complaints. Fire reports are among the most serious safety concerns tracked by NHTSA.

Are there any deaths reported for the 2021 BMW X5?

No deaths have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 BMW X5.

How many injuries are reported for the 2021 BMW X5?

7 injuries have been reported in NHTSA complaints for the 2021 BMW X5. These are self-reported by vehicle owners as part of their safety complaints.

Should I buy a 2021 BMW X5?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 BMW X5 is acceptable with caveats. It has 85 complaints, 12 recalls, and a good (4/5) safety rating. Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified mechanic.

What components fail most on the 2021 BMW X5?

The components with the most failures on the 2021 BMW X5 are: 1. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (14 complaints), 2. UNKNOWN OR OTHER (8 complaints), 3. POWER TRAIN (7 complaints), 4. BACK OVER PREVENTION (6 complaints), 5. ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (3 complaints). ELECTRICAL SYSTEM is the single most-reported problem area with 14 complaints.

What should I know before buying a 2021 BMW X5?

Be aware of potential electrical system and power train issues, and ensure the back over prevention system is functioning properly. The 2021 BMW X5 has 85 NHTSA complaints and 12 recalls on record. NHTSA rates it good (4/5).

How reliable is the 2021 BMW X5?

The 2021 BMW X5 receives a reliability score of 85/100, indicating above-average reliability. This is based on 85 owner complaints, 12 recalls, and 12 crash/fire reports in the NHTSA database. Key known issues include Push to Start Button Failure and Engine Cooling and Electrical System Issues.

What are the known issues with the 2021 BMW X5?

Known issues with the 2021 BMW X5 include: Push to Start Button Failure, Engine Cooling and Electrical System Issues, Back Over Prevention System Malfunction, Abnormal Sounds and Vibrations. These are based on patterns found across 85 NHTSA complaints. 12 of these patterns resulted in formal recalls.

What are the most common issues reported with the 2021 BMW X5?

Common issues include electrical system failures, power train problems, and back over prevention system malfunctions.

Are there any recalls related to the 2021 BMW X5?

Yes, there have been recalls related to the Push to Start button, engine cooling, and electrical system.

What should I do if I experience issues with my 2021 BMW X5?

Contact BMW customer service or visit an authorized dealership for inspection and repair.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Be aware of potential electrical system and power train issues, and ensure the back over prevention system is functioning properly.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Bmw X5

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Bmw X5. The data includes 85 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 12 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 3 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2021 Bmw X5 an overall safety rating of 4 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 4 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.

Disclaimer: This analysis is AI-generated from NHTSA public data and does not constitute professional automotive or safety advice. Always verify recall status at NHTSA.gov and consult a qualified mechanic.

Analysis last updated: 2026-05-13