The problem
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."
The risk
A head restraint without a locking tab may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
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.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 23V-253 (23V253000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Component | Seats › Mid/rear assembly › Head restraint |
| Report date | April 6, 2023 |
| Owners notified | May 31, 2023 |
| Vehicles affected | 235 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 23V-253 repair free?
Yes. BMW dealers will fix the problem at no cost: 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.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 235 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.