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U.S. public vehicle records

Bmw R1200 RT engine problems

10 complaint narratives mention engine terms.

Key facts

145 owner complaints analyzed

6 distinct recall campaigns

25,500 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 2005 to 2018 model years. Data updated: . 134 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Engine operation evidence

10 of 145 complaints match this topic (6.9%). The keyword filter can include complaints that mention a transmission without reporting its failure. View matching rules.

Owner report 10356151 · 2010-09-17 (September 17, 2010)

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 BMW R1200 RT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO DOWN SHIFT BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT GEARS. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT DECELERATE UNTIL THE CONTACT BEGAN TO REPEATEDLY APPLY PRESSURE TO THE CLUTCH. AS THE CONTACT WAS MOVING THE VEHICLE FROM THE ROADWAY, IT STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HIS RESIDENCE AND AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WAS CONTACTED. THE DEALER ADVISED THAT EITHER THE MASTER CYLINDER OR THE SLAY CYLINDER WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WA…

Owner-reported narrative. 77,400 miles reported. Look up ODI 10356151 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10459714 · 2012-05-25 (May 25, 2012)

ENGINE BEGAN STALLING FREQUENTLY AT END OF RIDING SEASON (FALL 2011) WHEN THE ENGINE WAS AT ITS NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERATURE. ENGINE STALLING OCCURRED WHEN DECELERATING WITH CLUTCH ENGAGED OR AT IDLE, ENGINE WOULD NOT RETURN TO NORMAL IDLE SPEED WITHOUT STALLING. THE ENGINE WAS SERVICED/MAINTAINED BY AN AUTHORIZED LOCAL BMW MOTORCYCLE DEALER ON 3/10/2012 ? 3/13/2012 WITH HOPES THAT ENGINE WOULD RETURN TO NORMAL OPERATING BEHAVIOR FOR THE FOLLOWING RIDING SEASON (2012). THIS SERVICE/ MAINTENANCE INCLUDED BUT WAS NOT LIMITED TO BMW INSPECTION W…

Owner-reported narrative. 42,772 miles reported. Look up ODI 10459714 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10758488 · 2015-08-21 (August 21, 2015)

THE MOTORCYCLE STARTED STALLING AFTER I WOULD DISENGAGE THE CLUTCH TO SLOW DOWN OR STOP. IT WOULD NOT START BACK UP UNLESS I TURNED THE THROTTLE AND HELD THE RPM'S ABOVE 1500. THE BIKE WOULD NOT IDLE UNLESS I KEPT THE THROTTLE PARTIALLY OPEN. I BROUGHT THE BIKE TO THE DEALER AND THEY RE-FLASHED THE COMPUTER AND UP-GRADED THE SOFTWARE. THAT LASTED 2 WEEKS AND THE STALLING STARTED BACK AGAIN. ALL RE-CALLS FOR THIS BIKE WERE PERFORMED BY BMW. NO TROUBLE CODES WERE SHOWN TO EXIST ON THE BIKES ECU WHEN TESTED BY THE DEALERS SCAN EQUIPMENT. I HAVE SI…

Owner-reported narrative. 27,456 miles reported. Look up ODI 10758488 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10334368 · 2010-06-02 (June 2, 2010)

2008 BMW R1200RT (MOTORCYCLE) ENGINE STALLS WHILE IN OPERATION. THIS OCCURRED 3 OCCASIONS DURING A COMMUTE. FIRST STALL AFTER ACCELERATION. RESTARTED ENGINE. APPROXIMATELY 1/2 MILE DOWN THE ROAD TRAVELING 45 MPH SECOND ENGINE STALL OCCURS. RESTARTED ENGINE.. THIRD ENGINE STALLS OCCURS WITHIN ANOTHER MILE OF THE SECOND STALL ON A BUSINESS LOOP. RESTARTED ENGINE. EACH TIME THE ENGINE STALLED I WAS FORCED TO ENTER THE SHOULDER OF THE ROAD WHILE AVOID TRAFFIC BEHIND MY MOTORCYCLE. EACH TIME THE STALL OCCURRED THEIR WAS NO VISIBLE OR AUDIBLE CUE T…

Owner-reported narrative. 8,520 miles reported. Look up ODI 10334368 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10499756 · 2013-02-23 (February 23, 2013)

FUEL GAUGE FAILED, AGAIN, CAUSING POTENTIAL STALLING IN TRAFFIC CREATING DANGEROUS SITUATION. *TR

Owner-reported narrative. 7,864 miles reported. Look up ODI 10499756 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

145 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-10-01.

92.4%Usable mileage134 / 145 records
100.0%Valid incident date145 / 145 records
100.0%Valid filing date145 / 145 records
100.0%Ordered incident and filing dates145 / 145 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component2005200620072008200920102011201520172018
Fuel/Propulsion System
940.9%
ODI 10462747 · 42,000 mi

FUEL TANK QUICK DISCONNECT CRACKED SPILLING FUEL WHILE RIDING. *TT

Look up ODI 10462747 at NHTSA ↗

1129.7%
ODI 10459714 · 42,772 mi

ENGINE BEGAN STALLING FREQUENTLY AT END OF RIDING SEASON (FALL 2011) WHEN THE ENGINE WAS AT ITS NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERATURE. ENGINE STALLING OCCURRED WHEN DECELERATING WITH CLUTCH ENGAGED OR AT IDLE, ENGINE WOULD NOT RETURN TO NORMAL IDLE SPEED WITHOUT STALLING. THE ENGINE WAS SERVICED/MAINTAINED BY AN AUTHORIZED LOCAL BMW MOTORCYCLE DEALER ON 3/10/2012 ? 3/13/2012 WITH HOPES THAT ENGINE WOULD RETURN TO NORMAL OPERATING BEHAVIOR FOR THE FOLLOWING RIDING SEASON (2012). THIS SERVICE/ MAINTENANCE INCLUDED BUT WAS NOT LIMITED TO BMW INSPECTION W…

Look up ODI 10459714 at NHTSA ↗

1961.3%
ODI 10485351 · 29,500 mi

AS I WAS DOING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE, I NOTICED SEVERAL SMALL CRACKS ON THE "FLANGE" WHERE THE QUICK DISCONNECT EXITS THE TANK. I USED A RING CLAMP TO CLOSE THE CRACKS. I BELIEVE THIS TO BE POTENTIALLY VERY DANGEROUS, SINCE LEAKING GASOLINE COULD EASILY RUN DOWN THE OUTSIDE OF THE TANK AND END UP ON HOT ENGINE/EXHAUST PARTS, CAUSING A FIRE... *TR

Look up ODI 10485351 at NHTSA ↗

1147.8%
ODI 10472467 · 8,350 mi

BIKE DIED ENTERING INTERSECTION. ONLY SPACING AVERTED ACCIDENT. BOUGHT USED LESS THAN ONE WEEK AGO. FUEL GAUGE SHOWED JUST UNDER 1/2 TANK AND 120 MILES TO EMPTY. GAS TANK WAS EMPTY WITHOUT WARNING. GAS GAUGE STRIPS IN TANK FAIL - BMW HAS KNOWN ABOUT THIS SAFETY ISSUE FOR YEARS, ARE YOU? AND, IF "GERMAN ENGINEERING" IS MORE THAN MARKETING, WHY HAVEN'T THEY FIXED IT? *TR

Look up ODI 10472467 at NHTSA ↗

753.8%
ODI 10485368 · 7,013 mi

THE FUEL LEVEL SENSOR HAS FAILED (TWICE) AND HAS BEEN REPLACED BY THE BMW MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIP. THE LATEST FUEL LEVEL SENSOR IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY EITHER AND WILL EVENTUALLY BE REPLACED AGAIN BEFORE THE WARRANTY EXPIRES IN FEB 2013. *TR

Look up ODI 10485368 at NHTSA ↗

250.0%
ODI 10483688 · 37,520 mi

THIS IS THE SECOND TIME MY MOTORCYCLE RAN OUT OF FUEL EVEN THROUGH THE FUEL GAUGE WAS READING 1/4 TANK. IT OCCURRED AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. THE ENGINE JUST STOPS RUNNING WITHOUT WARNING. THIS IS THE 4TH TIME THAT MY MOTORCYCLE FUEL SENSOR HAS FAILED. WE NEED BMW TO RECALL AND INSTALL A FLOAT SYSTEM SIMILAR TO THE NEW MODELS. BMW HAS BEEN AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM FOR YEARS AND REFUSES TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY. *TR

Look up ODI 10483688 at NHTSA ↗

660.0%
ODI 11006651 · 18,818 mi

FUEL PUMP OUTPUT FLANGE CRACKED, RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKING DOWN THE SIDE OF THE BIKE AND ONTO HOT COMPONENTS WHILE RIDING. THIS ISSUE HAS ALREADY BEEN THE SUBJECT OF A BMW RECALL - BUT APPARENTLY THE "INSPECT AND REINFORCE" SOLUTION ISN'T REALLY ADEQUATE LONG-TERM. THIS PUMP HAD BEEN INSPECTED AND REINFORCED - AND THE FLANGE STILL CRACKED AND CAUSED A DANGEROUS FUEL LEAK WITH THE POTENTIAL FOR BODILY INJURY OR WORSE.

Look up ODI 11006651 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Power Train
29.1%
ODI 10275008 · 33,700 mi

UPON RETURNING HOME FROM A RIDE ON MY 2005 BMW R1200RT MOTORCYCLE, I ATTEMPTED TO LOWER MY SIDE STAND AND NOTICED THAT THE CENTER STAND ASSEMBLY WAS DANGLING BY MERELY A RETRACTION SPRING. FORTUNATELY, IT HAD NOT COME COMPLETELY UNDONE AND BECOME ENTANGLED IN THE REAR WHEEL, WHICH WOULD MOST CERTAINLY HAVE CAUSED AN IMMEDIATE CRASH. BOTH BOLTS THAT HOLD THIS ITEM TO THE BIKE'S UNDERCARRIAGE HAS SHEARED OFF MID-WAY. I CONTACTED BMW NA ABOUT THIS, AND RECEIVED ONLY A BRIEF APOLOGY, BUT NO ADMISSION OF FAULT OR COMPENSATION. I INVESTED APPROX.…

Look up ODI 10275008 at NHTSA ↗

718.9%
ODI 10244210 · 23,500 mi

IN JULY 2007 I EXPERIENCED SIGNIFICANT PLAY IN THE REAR WHEEL OF MY 2006 BMW R1200RT MOTORCYCLE. THE REAR WHEEL BOLTS TO A FLANGE WHICH IS PRESSED ONTO THE AXLE TUBE OF THE FINAL DRIVE. THIS IS A COMPRESSION FIT, TOGETHER WITH A CIRCLIP. WHEN I DETECTED THE PROBLEM, AFTER REMOVING THE CIRCLIP, I COULD REMOVE THE REAR WHEEL WITH NO RESISTANCE WHATSOEVER, I.E., THERE WAS NO RESISTANCE AS THE SPLINED SURFACE OF THE FLANGE, AND THE SPLINED SURFACE OF THE AXLE TUBE, HAD WORN AWAY TO SUCH AN EXTENT. I TRUCKED THE BIKE TO SALT LAKE CITY WHERE IT W…

Look up ODI 10244210 at NHTSA ↗

412.9%
ODI 10493508 · 46,315 mi

TRAVELING TO DEALERSHIP TO HAVE UNUSUAL VIBRATION IN DRIVE LINE CHECKED. RIDING ALONG AT 55 MPH WHEN REAR WHEEL OF MOTORCYCLE BEGAN TO SWAY AS IF TIRE WAS GOING FLAT. HAULED TO DEALER. DIAGNOSED AS FINAL DRIVE CROWN BEARING FAILURE (ESSENTIALLY A REAR WHEEL BEARING). I FEEL FORTUNATE NOT TO HAVE CRASHED! *TR

Look up ODI 10493508 at NHTSA ↗

313.0%
ODI 10534997 · 52,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2008 BMW R1200RT MOTORCYCLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE DRIVE SHAFT FRACTURED AND CAUSED THE REAR WHEEL TO LOCK. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO COAST ON TO THE ROAD SHOULDER BUT SUFFERED SCRAPES AND BRUISES WHILE DOING SO. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 52,000. UPDATED 09-18-13 *BF

Look up ODI 10534997 at NHTSA ↗

430.8%
ODI 10446392 · 14,000 mi

IN RESPONSE TO A REQUEST FROM OWNERS WITH SIMILAR PROBLEMS TO REPORT THESE TO THE NHTSA, I AM ADDING MY OWN INFORMATION: DURING A TIRE-CHANGE SERVICE, THE DEALER'S MECHANIC NOTED THAT THE BEARING IN THE REAR WHEEL FINAL DRIVE HAD BECOME "CRUNCHY" AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. UPON POINTING OUT THE PROBLEM, I WAS ABLE TO DETECT THE RESISTANCE IN THE WHEEL MYSELF. THE DEALER REPLACED THE BEARING UNDER WARRANTY AND ON COMPARISON WITH A NEW BEARING, THERE WAS DEFINITELY RESISTANCE AND A LACK OF SMOOTH FUNCTION IN THE ORIGINAL BEARING. MY UNDERSTAND…

Look up ODI 10446392 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

110.0%
ODI 10522464 · 10,201 mi

SYMPTOM. REAR OF MOTORCYCLE WEAVES WHEN RIDING IN A STRAIGHT LINE AND IN TURNS. REAR WHEEL HAD APPROXIMATELY 3MM PLAY WHEN HOLDING WHEEL AT 12 AND 6 O'CLOCK AND TWISTING WHEEL SIDE TO SIDE. ANALYSIS. BRAKE CARRIER ON FINAL DRIVE HAS LATERAL PLAY. REMOVED BRAKE CARRIER, SLID OFF FINAL DRIVE BY HAND. FINAL DRIVE NEEDS REPLACED. SAME FAILURE AS DESCRIBED IN ODI 10439549 AND BEING INVESTIGATED UNDER CAMPAIGN DP 12001. BMW PARALEVER. RESOLUTION. DEALER REPLACED FINAL DRIVE BMW PART NUMBER 33117726895, SYNTHETIC GEAR OIL 75 W90…

Look up ODI 10522464 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

150.0%
ODI 11373026 · 20,141 mi

FIRST TIME WHILE PULLING OUT OF A PARKING LOT ON TO A CITY STREET THE MOTORCYCLE SUDDENLY LOST POWER,MISFIRED,CUT OUT AND WOULD BARELY RUN AND WOULD ONLY RUN AT IDLE OR A LITTLE ABOVE CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL. SECOND TIME THE SAME THING HAPPENED IN THE DRIVEWAY WHILE THE MOTORBIKE WAS NOT MOVING.THE THIRD TIME THIS HAPPENED ON A REMOTE HIGHWAY WHILE MOVING AT AROUND 60 MPH IN A CURVE (TURNING).SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER THE ENGINE WENT INTO LIMP MODE.I HAD TO PULL OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY AND RIDE ALONG THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WITH BARELY ENOUGH P…

Look up ODI 11373026 at NHTSA ↗

150.0%
ODI 11428742 · 8,690 mi

The contact owns a 2018 BMW R1200 RT. The contact stated while riding approximately 50 mph, the motorcycle went into a limp mode which resulted in the motorcycle losing power. The motorcycle required a restart to regain functionality. The contact stated that the check engine warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,690.

Look up ODI 11428742 at NHTSA ↗

Fuel System, Gasoline
522.7%
ODI 10240065 · 11,750 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BMW R1200 RT. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED, THE CONTACT SMELLED GAS. HE NOTICED GASOLINE DRIPPING FROM THE TAIL PIPE AND HIS PANTS. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE FUEL CHECK VALVE COVER HIMSELF. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FUEL VALVE COVER FAILING DUE TO THE DEFECTIVE PLASTIC WAS A COMMON ISSUE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 11,750.

Look up ODI 10240065 at NHTSA ↗

513.5%
ODI 10290546 · 37,516 mi

WHILE RIDING SUDDEN UNEXPECTED ENGINE SHUT DOWN HAS HAPPENED ONCE, 10/31/2009 ENGINE DOES NOT RUN, QUIT WHILE RIDING IN TRAFFIC ON HIGHWAY. WAS ABLE TO COAST OFF ROAD WITHOUT ACCIDENT REPLACED FUEL PUMP CONTROLLER, FOUND FAILED CONTROLLER HAD BEEN CONTAMINATED WITH WATER THAT COLLECTS IN FUEL PUMP ACCESS PLATE. OLD PART IS AVAILABLE. *TR

Look up ODI 10290546 at NHTSA ↗

39.7%
ODI 10432269 · 25,000 mi

FUEL TANK FLANGE CRACKED WHERE GAS LINE CONNECTS. I HAVE ANOTHER BMW THAT DID THE EXACT SAME THING. THIS HAS HAPPENED TO MANY BIKES AND IT IS A VERY DANGEROUS FIRE HAZARD TO THE RIDER. *TR

Look up ODI 10432269 at NHTSA ↗

14.3%
ODI 10277690 · 1,800 mi

2008 BMW R1200RT AT HIGHWAY SPEED, THE MOTORCYCLE ENGINE STOPPED WITH NO WARNING. THE CAUSE WAS FOUND TO BE THE FUEL PUMP DRIVER. IT APPEARS THAT THIS IS A VERY COMMON PROBLEM WITH THE R1200RT. *TR

Look up ODI 10277690 at NHTSA ↗

17.7%
ODI 10514560 · 31,200 mi

MOTORCYCLE RAN OUT OF FUEL DUE TO FUEL SENSOR FAILURE. BOTH ANALOG AND DIGITAL GAUGES SHOWED 40+ MILES REMAINING IN THE FUEL TANK. VEHICLE WAS IN FAST LANE OF INTERSTATE HIGHWAY AND MY EMERGENCY STOP REQUIRED STATE PATROL ASSISTANCE DO TO THE LOCATION OF THE STOP. *TR

Look up ODI 10514560 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Service Brakes
14.5%
ODI 10471471 · 21,000 mi

ABS MODULATOR FAILED. $3500 REPAIR. *TR

Look up ODI 10471471 at NHTSA ↗

38.1%
ODI 10617031 · 11,260 mi

WHILE RIDING MY BIKE ON 280 SOUTH, I HAD TO MAKE AN EMERGENCY STOP. THE REAR BRAKES LOCKED UP, & THE BIKE'S REAR SLID OUT. THE ABS WAS INOPERATIVE, DUE TO A FAULTY ABS MODULATOR. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM, WHICH BMW IS WELL AWARE OF. THEY REFUSE TO HAVE A FACTORY RECALL ON THIS PART. *JS

Look up ODI 10617031 at NHTSA ↗

412.9%
ODI 10560728 · 1,254 mi

ABS MODULATOR FAILED TO OPERATE AT VERY LOW MILEAGE. DEALER SAID UNIT HAS FAILED AND IT VERY COMMON FOR THE BRUSHES TO STICK AND CAUSE THIS FAILURE. THE UNIT IS NOT REPAIRABLE AND MUST BE REPLACED. *TR

Look up ODI 10560728 at NHTSA ↗

521.7%
ODI 10860628 · 45,000 mi

THE ABS MODULE FAILED WHILE IT WAS BEING DRIVEN ON A HIGHWAY. THE DEALER AND BMW ASKED IF IT WAS PARKED OUTSIDE AND IT WAS FOR A SHORT TIME ONLY. THEY SAID THE MODULE CORRODED. IT IS A SEALED MODULE AND IF IT CORRODED IT MUST HAVE BEEN DEFECTIVE IN ORDER TO ALL THE ELEMENTS NECESSARY IN FOR IT TO CORRODE. FORTUNATELY I AM A VERY EXPERIENCED RIDER AND QUICKLY RELEASED THE BRAKE AS IT LOCKED UP (WHAT THE ABS SYSTEM IS TO PREVENT. I HAVE NEVER HEARD OF AN ABS MODULE FAILING LIKE THIS. I DISCUSSED THIS WITH THE DEALER AND BMW AND BOTH DECLINED…

Look up ODI 10860628 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

125.0%
ODI 11221451 · 15,000 mi

REAR BRAKE LINE ADAPTER LEAKING BRAKE FLUID. THIS IS AN ALUMINUM FITTING THAT CONNECTS THE STEEL BRAKE LINE TO THE FLEXIBLE LINE GOING TO THE REAR WHEEL. CRACKS FORMED ON BOTH THREADED ENDS. BMW PART NUMBER 34327679297. I REPLACED THIS PART MYSELF . THE REAR BRAKE RESERVOIR WAS EMPTY .

Look up ODI 11221451 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Electrical System
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

12.7%
ODI 11001490

THE FUEL STRIP THAT READS GASOLINE LEVEL IS DEFECTIVE. FIRST REPAIR LASTED LESS THAN 200 MILES. RECENT REPLACEMENT FAILED AS I MADE THE TURN OUT OF THE DEALERSHIP FROM THE LAST REPAIR.

Look up ODI 11001490 at NHTSA ↗

26.5%
ODI 10454190 · 23,456 mi

REPEATED FUEL PUMP FAILURE FROM ELECTRONIC (FAILURE) DUE TO THE DESIGN THAT ALLOWS WATER TO COLLECT IN A "WELL" WHERE THE PUMP'S MODULE IS LOCATED. THIRD FUEL PUMP IN 3 YEARS. THE MOTORCYCLE SHUTS DOWN SUDDENLY, LAST TIME BEING IN HEAVY CITY TRAFFIC WITH NO SHOULDER. I HAD NO ESCAPE ROUTE AND THE VEHICLE BEHIND ME NEARLY REAR ENDED ME, AND REQUIRED EMERGENCY BRAKING TO AVOID COLLISION AND STRIKING ME. *TR

Look up ODI 10454190 at NHTSA ↗

14.3%
ODI 10968858 · 35,000 mi

VEHICLE BEGAN EXHIBITING ENGINE STALLING SYMPTOMS FOR ABOUT A MONTH (ENGINE DIES WITHOUT WARNING AS IF IGNITION HAD BEEN CUT) DURING CITY DRIVING, WHILE TURNING AND PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AT ABOUT 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE ENGINE QUIT ALONG WITH INSTRUMENT PANEL GOING BLANK. ELECTRICAL SMOKE BEGAN TO BILLOW BETWEEN THE FRONT FORKS. THIS LASTED FOR ABOUT 10 SECONDS. AFTER GETTING THE VEHICLE HOME, I DISCOVERED THAT THE FIRE APPEARED TO HAVE ORIGINATED IN THE IGNITION WIRING HARNESS SOMEWHERE BETWEEN THE FRONT FORKS. THE HARNESS WRAP APPEARS…

Look up ODI 10968858 at NHTSA ↗

17.7%
ODI 10485221 · 8,700 mi

THE GAS GAUGE SENSOR STRIP STOPS WORKING AND WILL READ THAT YOU HAVE MORE GAS THAN YOU ACTUALLY DO. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND CAN CAUSE THE RIDER TO RUN OUT OF GAS AND BE STRANDED IN MOVING TRAFFIC. THERE ARE TOO MANY COMPLAINTS FROM BMW MOTORCYCLE OWNERS TO IGNORE THIS PROBLEM ANY LONGER! PLEASE MAKE THE MANUFACTURER ADDRESS THIS PROBLEM INSTEAD OF CONTINUING TO PROFIT OFF OF A SAFETY ISSUE. A GOOGLE SEARCH ON "BMW MOTORCYCLE FUEL STRIP" WILL GIVE YOU ALL THE LEVERAGE YOU NEED. *TR

Look up ODI 10485221 at NHTSA ↗

125.0%
ODI 10892626 · 48,000 mi

I OWN A 2010 BMW R1200RT MOTORCYCLE AND THERE IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE WITH THE HANDLEBAR MOUNTED SWITCH GEAR. THE SAID COMPONENTS HAVE BEEN AN ISSUE CAUSING INOPERABLE HIGH BEAMS, CRUISE CONTROL, TURN SINGLES, AND HORN, BUT THE REAL ISSUE IS THE START/RUN SWITCH AND THE INTERMITTENT FAILURE CAUSING A NO START CONDITION AT THE VERY LEAST THE REAL DANGER IS WHEN THE SWITCH FAILS WHEN UNDER POWER WHICH HAPPENED TO ME TWICE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS! SOMEONE WILL BE KILLED IT IS JUST A MATTER OF TIME.

Look up ODI 10892626 at NHTSA ↗

220.0%
ODI 10435099 · 2,080 mi

THE LEFT COMBINATION SWITCH ON THE VEHICLE HAS FAILED 4 TIMES. THE LEFT COMBINATION SWITCH CONTROLS THE HIGH BEAM LIGHTS, TURN SIGNALS, HORN, CRUISE CONTROL, AND NUMEROUS OTHER ITEMS. THE FOUR FAILURES HAVE INCLUDED FAILURE OF THE HIGH BEAM SWITCH TWICE, THE TURN SIGNAL SWITCH TWICE, THE HORN ONCE, AND CRUISE CONTROL ONCE. *TR

Look up ODI 10435099 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Wheels
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

25.4%
ODI 10244337 · 14,000 mi

THE MOTORCYCLE WAS IN NORMAL USE. I WAS ACTUALLY RETURNING HOME FROM A 3300 MILE TRIP WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. AT FIRST I DETECTED A REAR WHEEL "WOBBLE" WHICH I ATTRIBUTED TO A TIRE PROBLEM. AFTER PULLING OFF THE ROAD AND INSPECTING THE REAR WHEEL I DISCOVERED THAT THE TIRE WAS FINE BUT THE WHEEL ITSELF WAS LOOSE AND COULD BE MOVED NEARLY AN INCH SIDE TO SIDE. THIS IS THE SECOND FAILURE OF THE REAR WHEEL ASSEMBLY ON THIS BIKE. I REPORTED THE FIRST OCCURRENCE IN 2006 AS WELL. AT THE SHOP THE MECHANICS WERE ABLE TO REMOVE THE WHEEL BY SIM…

Look up ODI 10244337 at NHTSA ↗

13.2%
ODI 10493508 · 46,315 mi

TRAVELING TO DEALERSHIP TO HAVE UNUSUAL VIBRATION IN DRIVE LINE CHECKED. RIDING ALONG AT 55 MPH WHEN REAR WHEEL OF MOTORCYCLE BEGAN TO SWAY AS IF TIRE WAS GOING FLAT. HAULED TO DEALER. DIAGNOSED AS FINAL DRIVE CROWN BEARING FAILURE (ESSENTIALLY A REAR WHEEL BEARING). I FEEL FORTUNATE NOT TO HAVE CRASHED! *TR

Look up ODI 10493508 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

17.7%
ODI 10641062 · 60,000 mi

THE BMW MOTORCYCLE WAS BEING RIDDEN AT INTERSTATE SPEEDS WHEN IT BEGAN TO DEVELOP A VIBRATION. THE VEHICLE WAS SLOWED AND THE FIRST AVAILABLE EXIT WAS TAKEN. BY THIS TIME THE REAR WHEEL FELT LIKE IT WAS GOING TO LOCK UP. THE MOTORCYCLE WAS STOPPED AT THE FIRST SAFE PARKING AND A WRECKER WAS DISPATCHED. THE REPAIR FACILITY INFORMED ME THAT THE DRIVESHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT HAD FAILED AND WAS BEATING AGAINST THE SWING ARM WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN A TOTAL FAILURE. THE DRIVESHAFT IS NOT A TEARDOWN AND INSPECT ITEM AND THEREFORE LEAVES THE RIDER WITH N…

Look up ODI 10641062 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

1100.0%
ODI 11208944 · 25,000 mi

MOTORCYCLE HAS LESS THAT 30,000 MILES AND IS LESS THAN FOUR YEARS OLD BUT THE FROM TPMS SENSOR HAS COMPLETELY FAILED AND NO LONGER READS ANY TIRE PRESSURE. I HAVE A CONSTANT TPMS FAILURE LIGHT ON MY DASH BOARD. A REPLACEMENT SENSOR IS OVER $200 NOT INCLUDING LABOR FOR INSTALLATION AND REPROGRAMMING OF THE ON-BOARD COMPUTER.

Look up ODI 11208944 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

110.0%
ODI 10715513 · 9,000 mi

THE COMBINATION ENGINE RUN / START SWITCH DOES NO ENGAGE IN THE RUN POSITION DURING HOT DAYS, THUS NOT ALLOWING THE ENGINE TO START. AFTER COOLING THE SWITCH DOWN WITH AN INSTANT COOLING COMPOUND (IN THIS CASE SUPERFREEZE 2000 FROM LEONARD INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY) THE SWITCH WOULD ENGAGE, BUT THEN DISCONNECT AGAIN. THE DANGER IS THAT IF IT DISCONNECTS WHILE DRIVING THE ENGINE WILL CUT-OFF WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO RESTART IT.

Look up ODI 10715513 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

150.0%
ODI 11604258 · 40,000 mi

The contact owns a 2017 BMW R 1200 RT. The contact stated while at a red light, the engine was making an abnormal sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The motorcycle was ridden back to the residence. The contact inspected the motorcycle and noticed that there was an excessive amount of metallic particles attached to the drain plug. The motorcycle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of this failure and confirmed that the VIN was not associated with an unknown recall for the failure. The contact was referred to NHTSA Hotline…

Look up ODI 11604258 at NHTSA ↗

2100.0%
ODI 11428742 · 8,690 mi

The contact owns a 2018 BMW R1200 RT. The contact stated while riding approximately 50 mph, the motorcycle went into a limp mode which resulted in the motorcycle losing power. The motorcycle required a restart to regain functionality. The contact stated that the check engine warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,690.

Look up ODI 11428742 at NHTSA ↗

Service Brakes, Hydraulic
14.5%
ODI 10143124 · 908 mi

FRONT BRAKES LOCKING UP,AND REAR BRAKES SQUEELING. *NM

Look up ODI 10143124 at NHTSA ↗

12.7%
ODI 10244337 · 14,000 mi

THE MOTORCYCLE WAS IN NORMAL USE. I WAS ACTUALLY RETURNING HOME FROM A 3300 MILE TRIP WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. AT FIRST I DETECTED A REAR WHEEL "WOBBLE" WHICH I ATTRIBUTED TO A TIRE PROBLEM. AFTER PULLING OFF THE ROAD AND INSPECTING THE REAR WHEEL I DISCOVERED THAT THE TIRE WAS FINE BUT THE WHEEL ITSELF WAS LOOSE AND COULD BE MOVED NEARLY AN INCH SIDE TO SIDE. THIS IS THE SECOND FAILURE OF THE REAR WHEEL ASSEMBLY ON THIS BIKE. I REPORTED THE FIRST OCCURRENCE IN 2006 AS WELL. AT THE SHOP THE MECHANICS WERE ABLE TO REMOVE THE WHEEL BY SIM…

Look up ODI 10244337 at NHTSA ↗

13.2%
ODI 10654412 · 35,000 mi

TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEED, ABS SYSTEM FAILED, WHICH SHOWED UP AS A "BRAKE FAILURE" LIGHT ON CONSOLE. ABS PUMP CONTROLLER FAILED. AFTER INITIAL FAILURE, THE "BRAKE FAILURE" LIGHT WOULD COME ON INTERMITTENTLY. I DON'T KNOW IF THIS INDICATED INTERMITTENT FAILURE OR SOMETHING ELSE. FRONT WHEEL OR REAR WHEEL WOULD LOCK UP INSTEAD OF THE ABS SYSTEM OVERRIDING AND CONTROLLING THE BRAKE. ON A BIKE THIS IS PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS.

Look up ODI 10654412 at NHTSA ↗

14.3%
ODI 10308965 · 3,600 mi

2008 BMW R1200RT WITH UNDER 4,000 MILES OF SERVICE. REAR BRAKE PULSES UNPREDICTABLE UPON APPLICATION. NOT RELATED TO ABS. BMW DEALER ANALYSIS DETERMINED THAT IT IS DUE TO IMPROPER SURFACE TEMPERING OF THE BRAKE DISK. THIS CAUSES ALTERNATING PATCHES OF SOFT/HARD SURFACE ON THE DISK. BMW NA REFUSED TO ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY AND PROVIDE COVERAGE UNDER WARRANTY. THIS IS AN UNSAFE CONDITION, SHARED BY OTHER MODEL AND YEAR BMW MOTORCYCLES, FOR WHICH BMW SHOULD PROVIDE RECALL AND RESOLUTION. *TR

Look up ODI 10308965 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Fuel/Propulsion System15,125–40,832 mi27,329 mi62
ODI 10462747 · 42,000 mi

FUEL TANK QUICK DISCONNECT CRACKED SPILLING FUEL WHILE RIDING. *TT

Look up ODI 10462747 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10464617 · 22,000 mi

THIS FAILURE IS NOT LIMITED TO THE 2005 BMW R1200RT. THE SAME FUEL PUMP IS USED FROM 2005-2009 IN THE RT1200RT AND R1200GS. THE FUEL PUMP HOUSING HIGH-PRESSURE FUEL QUICK DISCONNECT REINFORCEMENT FLANGE CRACKS UNDER HIGH PRESSURE CYCLING AND LEAKS, SENDING RAW FUEL DOWN THE LEFT FAIRING IN CLOSE PROXIMITY OF THE VEHICLES LEFT EXHAUST PIPE AND IGNITION SYSTEM COMPONENTS. THE MOTORCYCLE FAIRING EFFECTIVELY CAPTURES THE FUEL VAPORS CREATING A SIGNIFICANT RISK FOR FIRE. IN ADDITION, LEAKING FUEL, STREAMING ALONG THE LEFT FAIRING IS EXHAUSTED ON TH…

Look up ODI 10464617 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10499667 · 32,191 mi

I WAS RIDING MY MOTORCYCLE IN THE RIGHT HAND LANE IN A 50MPH RESIDENTIAL ZONE IN FAIRLY HEAVY EVENING TRAFFIC WHEN THE ENGINE STARTED TO SEVERELY MISFIRE AND STUMBLE / SPUTTER. LUCKILY I WAS IN THE RIGHT HAND LANE BECAUSE THE ENGINE THEN DIED AND I WAS ABLE TO PULL TO THE SIDE WITHOUT TOO MUCH DIFFICULTY ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE BEHIND CAME VERY CLOSE TO ME SINCE THE BIKE SO RAPIDLY SLOWED WITHOUT MY BRAKELIGHT ON TO INDICATE A SLOW DOWN. THE BIKE WOULD NOT RESTART AND I HAD A FRIEND TRAILER IT TO MY HOUSE, SINCE THIS WAS AT NIGHT AND THE DEALER…

Look up ODI 10499667 at NHTSA ↗

Power Train16,124–46,315 mi29,752 mi21
ODI 10275008 · 33,700 mi

UPON RETURNING HOME FROM A RIDE ON MY 2005 BMW R1200RT MOTORCYCLE, I ATTEMPTED TO LOWER MY SIDE STAND AND NOTICED THAT THE CENTER STAND ASSEMBLY WAS DANGLING BY MERELY A RETRACTION SPRING. FORTUNATELY, IT HAD NOT COME COMPLETELY UNDONE AND BECOME ENTANGLED IN THE REAR WHEEL, WHICH WOULD MOST CERTAINLY HAVE CAUSED AN IMMEDIATE CRASH. BOTH BOLTS THAT HOLD THIS ITEM TO THE BIKE'S UNDERCARRIAGE HAS SHEARED OFF MID-WAY. I CONTACTED BMW NA ABOUT THIS, AND RECEIVED ONLY A BRIEF APOLOGY, BUT NO ADMISSION OF FAULT OR COMPENSATION. I INVESTED APPROX.…

Look up ODI 10275008 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10914193 · 110,000 mi

DRIVE SHAFT U-JOINT FAILURE RIDING ON INTERSTATE 5. BIKE STARTED TO VIBRATE AND WHEN CLUTCH WAS DEPRESSED, VIBRATION STOPPED. RELEASED CLUTCH AND VIBRATION STARTED AGAIN. DEPRESSED CLUTCH AGAIN AND PULLED TO SIDE OF THE ROAD BEFORE DRIVE SHAFT LOCKED UP. PULLED BACK REAR BOOT ON FINAL DRIVE AND THERE WAS SMOKE COMING OUT OF THE SWING ARM SHAFT. BMW DEALER DIAGNOSED IT AS A FAILED U-JOINT BUT COULD NOT REPAIR UNLESS THEY REMOVED TRANSMISSION TO REMOVE U-JOINT STUCK ON TRANSMISSION SPLINE. PRICE FOR DRIVE SHAFT ALONE WAS $1,100 DOLLARS PLUS LABOR…

Look up ODI 10914193 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10244210 · 23,500 mi

IN JULY 2007 I EXPERIENCED SIGNIFICANT PLAY IN THE REAR WHEEL OF MY 2006 BMW R1200RT MOTORCYCLE. THE REAR WHEEL BOLTS TO A FLANGE WHICH IS PRESSED ONTO THE AXLE TUBE OF THE FINAL DRIVE. THIS IS A COMPRESSION FIT, TOGETHER WITH A CIRCLIP. WHEN I DETECTED THE PROBLEM, AFTER REMOVING THE CIRCLIP, I COULD REMOVE THE REAR WHEEL WITH NO RESISTANCE WHATSOEVER, I.E., THERE WAS NO RESISTANCE AS THE SPLINED SURFACE OF THE FLANGE, AND THE SPLINED SURFACE OF THE AXLE TUBE, HAD WORN AWAY TO SUCH AN EXTENT. I TRUCKED THE BIKE TO SALT LAKE CITY WHERE IT W…

Look up ODI 10244210 at NHTSA ↗

Fuel System, Gasoline21,978–57,659 mi25,000 mi15
ODI 10240065 · 11,750 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BMW R1200 RT. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED, THE CONTACT SMELLED GAS. HE NOTICED GASOLINE DRIPPING FROM THE TAIL PIPE AND HIS PANTS. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE FUEL CHECK VALVE COVER HIMSELF. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FUEL VALVE COVER FAILING DUE TO THE DEFECTIVE PLASTIC WAS A COMMON ISSUE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 11,750.

Look up ODI 10240065 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10435984 · 75,076 mi

FUEL WAS LEAKING FROM THE FLANGE AROUND THE FEMALE QUICK-DISCONNECT FITTING. PLASTIC FLANGE IS LOCATED ON TOP OF FUEL TANK. REPLACED PLASTIC FITTING WITH METAL ONE BUT LEAKS CONTINUED. PLACED ORIGINAL FITTING BACK AND USED A FUEL-RESISTANT SEALING COMPOUND TO STOP LEAKS. HAVE NOT EXPERIENCED ANY LARGE LEAKS RECENTLY BUT AM CONCERNED THIS PATCH WILL START LEAKING AGAIN. IT WAS A FRIGHTENING EXPERIENCE TO BE RIDING AND SEEING GAS SPLATTER ON YOUR CLOTHES - COULDN'T WAIT UNTIL I GOT HOME. THE FLANGE DESIGN IS AT FAULT BECAUSE IT PREVENTS A S…

Look up ODI 10435984 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10444876 · 24,000 mi

MULTIPLE CRACKS IN FUEL PUMP HOUSING AT FLANGE WHERE FUEL LINE CONNECTS. ODOR AND GAS LEAKAGE. *TR

Look up ODI 10444876 at NHTSA ↗

Service Brakes21,250–39,750 mi27,500 mi14
ODI 10471471 · 21,000 mi

ABS MODULATOR FAILED. $3500 REPAIR. *TR

Look up ODI 10471471 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10617031 · 11,260 mi

WHILE RIDING MY BIKE ON 280 SOUTH, I HAD TO MAKE AN EMERGENCY STOP. THE REAR BRAKES LOCKED UP, & THE BIKE'S REAR SLID OUT. THE ABS WAS INOPERATIVE, DUE TO A FAULTY ABS MODULATOR. THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM, WHICH BMW IS WELL AWARE OF. THEY REFUSE TO HAVE A FACTORY RECALL ON THIS PART. *JS

Look up ODI 10617031 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10639539 · 43,000 mi

WHILE CHANGING MY REAR BRAKES, I NOTICED THAT THE REAR SPACER FLANGE THAT ATTACHES THE WHEEL TO THE ROTOR IS CRACKED IN 3 DIFFERENT MOUNTING AREAS. I DO NOT RIDE OFF ROAD OR OTHERWISE ABUSE THE BIKE. *TR

Look up ODI 10639539 at NHTSA ↗

Electrical System8,850–41,500 mi23,456 mi7
ODI 10454190 · 23,456 mi

REPEATED FUEL PUMP FAILURE FROM ELECTRONIC (FAILURE) DUE TO THE DESIGN THAT ALLOWS WATER TO COLLECT IN A "WELL" WHERE THE PUMP'S MODULE IS LOCATED. THIRD FUEL PUMP IN 3 YEARS. THE MOTORCYCLE SHUTS DOWN SUDDENLY, LAST TIME BEING IN HEAVY CITY TRAFFIC WITH NO SHOULDER. I HAD NO ESCAPE ROUTE AND THE VEHICLE BEHIND ME NEARLY REAR ENDED ME, AND REQUIRED EMERGENCY BRAKING TO AVOID COLLISION AND STRIKING ME. *TR

Look up ODI 10454190 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10535046 · 92,841 mi

YET ANOTHER FUEL LEVEL SENSOR STRIP [FUEL GAUGE] FAILURE. THIS IS NUMBER 6. NOW NO LONGER COVERED AND COST $350 TO REPLACE AT THE DEALER - 250 MILES FROM MY HOME. I THINK THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE HERE IN THE WESTERN US WHERE IT'S POSSIBLE TO TRAVEL OVER 100 MILES WITHOUT SEEING ANOTHER SMILING FACE, RUNNING OUT OF FUEL IS A SERIOUS THREAT TO YOUR SAFETY. *TR

Look up ODI 10535046 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10968858 · 35,000 mi

VEHICLE BEGAN EXHIBITING ENGINE STALLING SYMPTOMS FOR ABOUT A MONTH (ENGINE DIES WITHOUT WARNING AS IF IGNITION HAD BEEN CUT) DURING CITY DRIVING, WHILE TURNING AND PULLING INTO A PARKING SPACE AT ABOUT 5 MPH, THE VEHICLE ENGINE QUIT ALONG WITH INSTRUMENT PANEL GOING BLANK. ELECTRICAL SMOKE BEGAN TO BILLOW BETWEEN THE FRONT FORKS. THIS LASTED FOR ABOUT 10 SECONDS. AFTER GETTING THE VEHICLE HOME, I DISCOVERED THAT THE FIRE APPEARED TO HAVE ORIGINATED IN THE IGNITION WIRING HARNESS SOMEWHERE BETWEEN THE FRONT FORKS. THE HARNESS WRAP APPEARS…

Look up ODI 10968858 at NHTSA ↗

Wheels25,000–46,315 mi43,000 mi5
ODI 10244337 · 14,000 mi

THE MOTORCYCLE WAS IN NORMAL USE. I WAS ACTUALLY RETURNING HOME FROM A 3300 MILE TRIP WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. AT FIRST I DETECTED A REAR WHEEL "WOBBLE" WHICH I ATTRIBUTED TO A TIRE PROBLEM. AFTER PULLING OFF THE ROAD AND INSPECTING THE REAR WHEEL I DISCOVERED THAT THE TIRE WAS FINE BUT THE WHEEL ITSELF WAS LOOSE AND COULD BE MOVED NEARLY AN INCH SIDE TO SIDE. THIS IS THE SECOND FAILURE OF THE REAR WHEEL ASSEMBLY ON THIS BIKE. I REPORTED THE FIRST OCCURRENCE IN 2006 AS WELL. AT THE SHOP THE MECHANICS WERE ABLE TO REMOVE THE WHEEL BY SIM…

Look up ODI 10244337 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10639539 · 43,000 mi

WHILE CHANGING MY REAR BRAKES, I NOTICED THAT THE REAR SPACER FLANGE THAT ATTACHES THE WHEEL TO THE ROTOR IS CRACKED IN 3 DIFFERENT MOUNTING AREAS. I DO NOT RIDE OFF ROAD OR OTHERWISE ABUSE THE BIKE. *TR

Look up ODI 10639539 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10493508 · 46,315 mi

TRAVELING TO DEALERSHIP TO HAVE UNUSUAL VIBRATION IN DRIVE LINE CHECKED. RIDING ALONG AT 55 MPH WHEN REAR WHEEL OF MOTORCYCLE BEGAN TO SWAY AS IF TIRE WAS GOING FLAT. HAULED TO DEALER. DIAGNOSED AS FINAL DRIVE CROWN BEARING FAILURE (ESSENTIALLY A REAR WHEEL BEARING). I FEEL FORTUNATE NOT TO HAVE CRASHED! *TR

Look up ODI 10493508 at NHTSA ↗

EngineToo few reports for a range9,000 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10715513 · 9,000 mi

THE COMBINATION ENGINE RUN / START SWITCH DOES NO ENGAGE IN THE RUN POSITION DURING HOT DAYS, THUS NOT ALLOWING THE ENGINE TO START. AFTER COOLING THE SWITCH DOWN WITH AN INSTANT COOLING COMPOUND (IN THIS CASE SUPERFREEZE 2000 FROM LEONARD INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY) THE SWITCH WOULD ENGAGE, BUT THEN DISCONNECT AGAIN. THE DANGER IS THAT IF IT DISCONNECTS WHILE DRIVING THE ENGINE WILL CUT-OFF WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO RESTART IT.

Look up ODI 10715513 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11604258 · 40,000 mi

The contact owns a 2017 BMW R 1200 RT. The contact stated while at a red light, the engine was making an abnormal sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The motorcycle was ridden back to the residence. The contact inspected the motorcycle and noticed that there was an excessive amount of metallic particles attached to the drain plug. The motorcycle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of this failure and confirmed that the VIN was not associated with an unknown recall for the failure. The contact was referred to NHTSA Hotline…

Look up ODI 11604258 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 11428742 · 8,690 mi

The contact owns a 2018 BMW R1200 RT. The contact stated while riding approximately 50 mph, the motorcycle went into a limp mode which resulted in the motorcycle losing power. The motorcycle required a restart to regain functionality. The contact stated that the check engine warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,690.

Look up ODI 11428742 at NHTSA ↗

Service Brakes, HydraulicToo few reports for a range8,800 mi4 (sparse)
ODI 10143124 · 908 mi

FRONT BRAKES LOCKING UP,AND REAR BRAKES SQUEELING. *NM

Look up ODI 10143124 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10244337 · 14,000 mi

THE MOTORCYCLE WAS IN NORMAL USE. I WAS ACTUALLY RETURNING HOME FROM A 3300 MILE TRIP WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. AT FIRST I DETECTED A REAR WHEEL "WOBBLE" WHICH I ATTRIBUTED TO A TIRE PROBLEM. AFTER PULLING OFF THE ROAD AND INSPECTING THE REAR WHEEL I DISCOVERED THAT THE TIRE WAS FINE BUT THE WHEEL ITSELF WAS LOOSE AND COULD BE MOVED NEARLY AN INCH SIDE TO SIDE. THIS IS THE SECOND FAILURE OF THE REAR WHEEL ASSEMBLY ON THIS BIKE. I REPORTED THE FIRST OCCURRENCE IN 2006 AS WELL. AT THE SHOP THE MECHANICS WERE ABLE TO REMOVE THE WHEEL BY SIM…

Look up ODI 10244337 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10654412 · 35,000 mi

TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEED, ABS SYSTEM FAILED, WHICH SHOWED UP AS A "BRAKE FAILURE" LIGHT ON CONSOLE. ABS PUMP CONTROLLER FAILED. AFTER INITIAL FAILURE, THE "BRAKE FAILURE" LIGHT WOULD COME ON INTERMITTENTLY. I DON'T KNOW IF THIS INDICATED INTERMITTENT FAILURE OR SOMETHING ELSE. FRONT WHEEL OR REAR WHEEL WOULD LOCK UP INSTEAD OF THE ABS SYSTEM OVERRIDING AND CONTROLLING THE BRAKE. ON A BIKE THIS IS PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS.

Look up ODI 10654412 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-112026-10

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-041None
ODI 11655713

Motorcycle stops randomly and goes into Limp Mode . BMW dealer does not seem to be able to fix . This has happened several times on the freeway . very dangerous .

Look up ODI 11655713 at NHTSA ↗

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-10 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 21 reports

2017: 0 complaints · 2018: 0 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
2017000
2018000
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
2017200
2018200

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentFuel/Propulsion SystemPower TrainFuel System, GasolineService BrakesElectrical SystemWheelsEngineService Brakes, Hydraulic
Fuel/Propulsion System—000
1
ODI 10535046 · 92,841 mi

YET ANOTHER FUEL LEVEL SENSOR STRIP [FUEL GAUGE] FAILURE. THIS IS NUMBER 6. NOW NO LONGER COVERED AND COST $350 TO REPLACE AT THE DEALER - 250 MILES FROM MY HOME. I THINK THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE HERE IN THE WESTERN US WHERE IT'S POSSIBLE TO TRAVEL OVER 100 MILES WITHOUT SEEING ANOTHER SMILING FACE, RUNNING OUT OF FUEL IS A SERIOUS THREAT TO YOUR SAFETY. *TR

Look up ODI 10535046 at NHTSA ↗

000
Power Train0—0
1
ODI 10704833 · 29,752 mi

REAR DRIVE ASSEMBLY OIL LEAKING AFFECTING TIRES TRACTION AND BRAKING - LOSS OF REAR BRAKES FROM OIL AND NO ABS ACTIVE. *TR

Look up ODI 10704833 at NHTSA ↗

0
2
ODI 10493508 · 46,315 mi

TRAVELING TO DEALERSHIP TO HAVE UNUSUAL VIBRATION IN DRIVE LINE CHECKED. RIDING ALONG AT 55 MPH WHEN REAR WHEEL OF MOTORCYCLE BEGAN TO SWAY AS IF TIRE WAS GOING FLAT. HAULED TO DEALER. DIAGNOSED AS FINAL DRIVE CROWN BEARING FAILURE (ESSENTIALLY A REAR WHEEL BEARING). I FEEL FORTUNATE NOT TO HAVE CRASHED! *TR

Look up ODI 10493508 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10641062 · 60,000 mi

THE BMW MOTORCYCLE WAS BEING RIDDEN AT INTERSTATE SPEEDS WHEN IT BEGAN TO DEVELOP A VIBRATION. THE VEHICLE WAS SLOWED AND THE FIRST AVAILABLE EXIT WAS TAKEN. BY THIS TIME THE REAR WHEEL FELT LIKE IT WAS GOING TO LOCK UP. THE MOTORCYCLE WAS STOPPED AT THE FIRST SAFE PARKING AND A WRECKER WAS DISPATCHED. THE REPAIR FACILITY INFORMED ME THAT THE DRIVESHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT HAD FAILED AND WAS BEATING AGAINST THE SWING ARM WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN A TOTAL FAILURE. THE DRIVESHAFT IS NOT A TEARDOWN AND INSPECT ITEM AND THEREFORE LEAVES THE RIDER WITH N…

Look up ODI 10641062 at NHTSA ↗

1
ODI 11428742 · 8,690 mi

The contact owns a 2018 BMW R1200 RT. The contact stated while riding approximately 50 mph, the motorcycle went into a limp mode which resulted in the motorcycle losing power. The motorcycle required a restart to regain functionality. The contact stated that the check engine warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,690.

Look up ODI 11428742 at NHTSA ↗

0
Fuel System, Gasoline00—0
1
ODI 10454190 · 23,456 mi

REPEATED FUEL PUMP FAILURE FROM ELECTRONIC (FAILURE) DUE TO THE DESIGN THAT ALLOWS WATER TO COLLECT IN A "WELL" WHERE THE PUMP'S MODULE IS LOCATED. THIRD FUEL PUMP IN 3 YEARS. THE MOTORCYCLE SHUTS DOWN SUDDENLY, LAST TIME BEING IN HEAVY CITY TRAFFIC WITH NO SHOULDER. I HAD NO ESCAPE ROUTE AND THE VEHICLE BEHIND ME NEARLY REAR ENDED ME, AND REQUIRED EMERGENCY BRAKING TO AVOID COLLISION AND STRIKING ME. *TR

Look up ODI 10454190 at NHTSA ↗

000
Service Brakes0
1
ODI 10704833 · 29,752 mi

REAR DRIVE ASSEMBLY OIL LEAKING AFFECTING TIRES TRACTION AND BRAKING - LOSS OF REAR BRAKES FROM OIL AND NO ABS ACTIVE. *TR

Look up ODI 10704833 at NHTSA ↗

0—0
1
ODI 10639539 · 43,000 mi

WHILE CHANGING MY REAR BRAKES, I NOTICED THAT THE REAR SPACER FLANGE THAT ATTACHES THE WHEEL TO THE ROTOR IS CRACKED IN 3 DIFFERENT MOUNTING AREAS. I DO NOT RIDE OFF ROAD OR OTHERWISE ABUSE THE BIKE. *TR

Look up ODI 10639539 at NHTSA ↗

00
Electrical System
1
ODI 10535046 · 92,841 mi

YET ANOTHER FUEL LEVEL SENSOR STRIP [FUEL GAUGE] FAILURE. THIS IS NUMBER 6. NOW NO LONGER COVERED AND COST $350 TO REPLACE AT THE DEALER - 250 MILES FROM MY HOME. I THINK THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE BECAUSE HERE IN THE WESTERN US WHERE IT'S POSSIBLE TO TRAVEL OVER 100 MILES WITHOUT SEEING ANOTHER SMILING FACE, RUNNING OUT OF FUEL IS A SERIOUS THREAT TO YOUR SAFETY. *TR

Look up ODI 10535046 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 10454190 · 23,456 mi

REPEATED FUEL PUMP FAILURE FROM ELECTRONIC (FAILURE) DUE TO THE DESIGN THAT ALLOWS WATER TO COLLECT IN A "WELL" WHERE THE PUMP'S MODULE IS LOCATED. THIRD FUEL PUMP IN 3 YEARS. THE MOTORCYCLE SHUTS DOWN SUDDENLY, LAST TIME BEING IN HEAVY CITY TRAFFIC WITH NO SHOULDER. I HAD NO ESCAPE ROUTE AND THE VEHICLE BEHIND ME NEARLY REAR ENDED ME, AND REQUIRED EMERGENCY BRAKING TO AVOID COLLISION AND STRIKING ME. *TR

Look up ODI 10454190 at NHTSA ↗

0—0
1
ODI 10715513 · 9,000 mi

THE COMBINATION ENGINE RUN / START SWITCH DOES NO ENGAGE IN THE RUN POSITION DURING HOT DAYS, THUS NOT ALLOWING THE ENGINE TO START. AFTER COOLING THE SWITCH DOWN WITH AN INSTANT COOLING COMPOUND (IN THIS CASE SUPERFREEZE 2000 FROM LEONARD INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY) THE SWITCH WOULD ENGAGE, BUT THEN DISCONNECT AGAIN. THE DANGER IS THAT IF IT DISCONNECTS WHILE DRIVING THE ENGINE WILL CUT-OFF WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO RESTART IT.

Look up ODI 10715513 at NHTSA ↗

0
Wheels0
2
ODI 10493508 · 46,315 mi

TRAVELING TO DEALERSHIP TO HAVE UNUSUAL VIBRATION IN DRIVE LINE CHECKED. RIDING ALONG AT 55 MPH WHEN REAR WHEEL OF MOTORCYCLE BEGAN TO SWAY AS IF TIRE WAS GOING FLAT. HAULED TO DEALER. DIAGNOSED AS FINAL DRIVE CROWN BEARING FAILURE (ESSENTIALLY A REAR WHEEL BEARING). I FEEL FORTUNATE NOT TO HAVE CRASHED! *TR

Look up ODI 10493508 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10641062 · 60,000 mi

THE BMW MOTORCYCLE WAS BEING RIDDEN AT INTERSTATE SPEEDS WHEN IT BEGAN TO DEVELOP A VIBRATION. THE VEHICLE WAS SLOWED AND THE FIRST AVAILABLE EXIT WAS TAKEN. BY THIS TIME THE REAR WHEEL FELT LIKE IT WAS GOING TO LOCK UP. THE MOTORCYCLE WAS STOPPED AT THE FIRST SAFE PARKING AND A WRECKER WAS DISPATCHED. THE REPAIR FACILITY INFORMED ME THAT THE DRIVESHAFT UNIVERSAL JOINT HAD FAILED AND WAS BEATING AGAINST THE SWING ARM WHICH COULD HAVE BEEN A TOTAL FAILURE. THE DRIVESHAFT IS NOT A TEARDOWN AND INSPECT ITEM AND THEREFORE LEAVES THE RIDER WITH N…

Look up ODI 10641062 at NHTSA ↗

0
1
ODI 10639539 · 43,000 mi

WHILE CHANGING MY REAR BRAKES, I NOTICED THAT THE REAR SPACER FLANGE THAT ATTACHES THE WHEEL TO THE ROTOR IS CRACKED IN 3 DIFFERENT MOUNTING AREAS. I DO NOT RIDE OFF ROAD OR OTHERWISE ABUSE THE BIKE. *TR

Look up ODI 10639539 at NHTSA ↗

0—0
1
ODI 10244337 · 14,000 mi

THE MOTORCYCLE WAS IN NORMAL USE. I WAS ACTUALLY RETURNING HOME FROM A 3300 MILE TRIP WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. AT FIRST I DETECTED A REAR WHEEL "WOBBLE" WHICH I ATTRIBUTED TO A TIRE PROBLEM. AFTER PULLING OFF THE ROAD AND INSPECTING THE REAR WHEEL I DISCOVERED THAT THE TIRE WAS FINE BUT THE WHEEL ITSELF WAS LOOSE AND COULD BE MOVED NEARLY AN INCH SIDE TO SIDE. THIS IS THE SECOND FAILURE OF THE REAR WHEEL ASSEMBLY ON THIS BIKE. I REPORTED THE FIRST OCCURRENCE IN 2006 AS WELL. AT THE SHOP THE MECHANICS WERE ABLE TO REMOVE THE WHEEL BY SIM…

Look up ODI 10244337 at NHTSA ↗

Engine0
1
ODI 11428742 · 8,690 mi

The contact owns a 2018 BMW R1200 RT. The contact stated while riding approximately 50 mph, the motorcycle went into a limp mode which resulted in the motorcycle losing power. The motorcycle required a restart to regain functionality. The contact stated that the check engine warning lights was illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 8,690.

Look up ODI 11428742 at NHTSA ↗

00
1
ODI 10715513 · 9,000 mi

THE COMBINATION ENGINE RUN / START SWITCH DOES NO ENGAGE IN THE RUN POSITION DURING HOT DAYS, THUS NOT ALLOWING THE ENGINE TO START. AFTER COOLING THE SWITCH DOWN WITH AN INSTANT COOLING COMPOUND (IN THIS CASE SUPERFREEZE 2000 FROM LEONARD INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY) THE SWITCH WOULD ENGAGE, BUT THEN DISCONNECT AGAIN. THE DANGER IS THAT IF IT DISCONNECTS WHILE DRIVING THE ENGINE WILL CUT-OFF WITHOUT BEING ABLE TO RESTART IT.

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Service Brakes, Hydraulic00000
1
ODI 10244337 · 14,000 mi

THE MOTORCYCLE WAS IN NORMAL USE. I WAS ACTUALLY RETURNING HOME FROM A 3300 MILE TRIP WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. AT FIRST I DETECTED A REAR WHEEL "WOBBLE" WHICH I ATTRIBUTED TO A TIRE PROBLEM. AFTER PULLING OFF THE ROAD AND INSPECTING THE REAR WHEEL I DISCOVERED THAT THE TIRE WAS FINE BUT THE WHEEL ITSELF WAS LOOSE AND COULD BE MOVED NEARLY AN INCH SIDE TO SIDE. THIS IS THE SECOND FAILURE OF THE REAR WHEEL ASSEMBLY ON THIS BIKE. I REPORTED THE FIRST OCCURRENCE IN 2006 AS WELL. AT THE SHOP THE MECHANICS WERE ABLE TO REMOVE THE WHEEL BY SIM…

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Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

5 patterns with matching reports.

Fuel smell or leak mentions

24 mentions · 16.6% of complaints

Median mileage: 24,400 mi (23 usable records).

ODI 10240065 · 11,750 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 BMW R1200 RT. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STOPPED, THE CONTACT SMELLED GAS. HE NOTICED GASOLINE DRIPPING FROM THE TAIL PIPE AND HIS PANTS. THE CONTACT REPLACED THE FUEL CHECK VALVE COVER HIMSELF. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE FUEL VALVE COVER FAILING DUE TO THE DEFECTIVE PLASTIC WAS A COMMON ISSUE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 11,750.

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ODI 10444876 · 24,000 mi

MULTIPLE CRACKS IN FUEL PUMP HOUSING AT FLANGE WHERE FUEL LINE CONNECTS. ODOR AND GAS LEAKAGE. *TR

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ODI 10445779 · 66,051 mi

CRACKS HAVE DEVELOPED IN THE FUEL QUICK DISCONNECT REINFORCEMENT FLANGE ON THE FUEL PUMP HOUSING. THIS COULD LEAD TO A FUEL LEAK (AND HAS IN MANY CASES) ON TO THE EXHAUST PIPE, IGNITION SYSTEM COMPONENTS, AND MY LEFT LEG. *TT

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Matching rule\b(fuel leak\w*|gas leak\w*|gas(?:oline)? smell|smell\w* (?:of )?(?:fuel|gas))\b

Stalling or loss of power

10 mentions · 6.9% of complaints

Median mileage: 23,799 mi (10 usable records).

ODI 10356151 · 77,400 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2006 BMW R1200 RT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO DOWN SHIFT BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT SHIFT GEARS. AS A RESULT, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT DECELERATE UNTIL THE CONTACT BEGAN TO REPEATEDLY APPLY PRESSURE TO THE CLUTCH. AS THE CONTACT WAS MOVING THE VEHICLE FROM THE ROADWAY, IT STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HIS RESIDENCE AND AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WAS CONTACTED. THE DEALER ADVISED THAT EITHER THE MASTER CYLINDER OR THE SLAY CYLINDER WAS THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WA…

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ODI 10459714 · 42,772 mi

ENGINE BEGAN STALLING FREQUENTLY AT END OF RIDING SEASON (FALL 2011) WHEN THE ENGINE WAS AT ITS NORMAL OPERATING TEMPERATURE. ENGINE STALLING OCCURRED WHEN DECELERATING WITH CLUTCH ENGAGED OR AT IDLE, ENGINE WOULD NOT RETURN TO NORMAL IDLE SPEED WITHOUT STALLING. THE ENGINE WAS SERVICED/MAINTAINED BY AN AUTHORIZED LOCAL BMW MOTORCYCLE DEALER ON 3/10/2012 ? 3/13/2012 WITH HOPES THAT ENGINE WOULD RETURN TO NORMAL OPERATING BEHAVIOR FOR THE FOLLOWING RIDING SEASON (2012). THIS SERVICE/ MAINTENANCE INCLUDED BUT WAS NOT LIMITED TO BMW INSPECTION W…

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ODI 10758488 · 27,456 mi

THE MOTORCYCLE STARTED STALLING AFTER I WOULD DISENGAGE THE CLUTCH TO SLOW DOWN OR STOP. IT WOULD NOT START BACK UP UNLESS I TURNED THE THROTTLE AND HELD THE RPM'S ABOVE 1500. THE BIKE WOULD NOT IDLE UNLESS I KEPT THE THROTTLE PARTIALLY OPEN. I BROUGHT THE BIKE TO THE DEALER AND THEY RE-FLASHED THE COMPUTER AND UP-GRADED THE SOFTWARE. THAT LASTED 2 WEEKS AND THE STALLING STARTED BACK AGAIN. ALL RE-CALLS FOR THIS BIKE WERE PERFORMED BY BMW. NO TROUBLE CODES WERE SHOWN TO EXIST ON THE BIKES ECU WHEN TESTED BY THE DEALERS SCAN EQUIPMENT. I HAVE SI…

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Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Brake response concerns

7 mentions · 4.8% of complaints

Median mileage: 24,564 mi (7 usable records).

ODI 10606706 · 8,735 mi

I WAS CRUISING ALONG ON MY BMW R1200 RT AT THE 70MPH SPEED LIMIT WHEN ALL THE SUDDEN THE BRAKE FAILURE LIGHT FLASHED REPEATEDLY ON THE DASH, ALONG WITH A RED WARNING TRIANGLE. I IMMEDIATELY LOOK FOR THE NEXT EXIT, BUT BEFORE I GET TO THE EXIT, I ENCOUNTER A HEAVY RAIN. WHEN I TRY TO SLOW THE BIKE, THE BRAKES ARE NUMB, AND VERY DIFFICULT TO PRESS. THIS CAUSES AN IMMEDIATE PANIC, BUT I'M ABLE TO SLOW THE BIKE AFTER A VERY LONG INTERVAL. I PARK THE BIKE AND READ THE OWNERS MANUAL ABOUT THE FAILURE. IT IS DESCRIBED AS A SERIOUS FAILURE WHICH W…

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ODI 10654412 · 35,000 mi

TRAVELING AT HIGHWAY SPEED, ABS SYSTEM FAILED, WHICH SHOWED UP AS A "BRAKE FAILURE" LIGHT ON CONSOLE. ABS PUMP CONTROLLER FAILED. AFTER INITIAL FAILURE, THE "BRAKE FAILURE" LIGHT WOULD COME ON INTERMITTENTLY. I DON'T KNOW IF THIS INDICATED INTERMITTENT FAILURE OR SOMETHING ELSE. FRONT WHEEL OR REAR WHEEL WOULD LOCK UP INSTEAD OF THE ABS SYSTEM OVERRIDING AND CONTROLLING THE BRAKE. ON A BIKE THIS IS PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS.

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ODI 10683489 · 24,080 mi

ABOUT 1 YEAR AGO, THE 'BRAKE FAILURE" LIGHT CAME ON THE DASHBOARD OF MY BMW R1200RT MOTORCYCLE. EVEN THOUGH THE BRAKES SEEM TO WORK FINE, I PRETTY MUCH STOPPED USING THE MOTORCYCLE BECAUSE I WAS AFRAID OF IT. BECAUSE OF INACTIVITY, THE ENGINE WOULDN'T START SO I RENTED A U-HAUL TRAILER AND BROUGHT THE BIKE TO A BMW DEALER SO THEY COULD GET IT RUNNING AGAIN. BECAUSE I HADN'T USED THE BIKE FOR AWHILE, I FORGOT TO TELL THEM ABOUT THE BRAKE FAILURE LIGHT. WHEN THEY TEST RODE MY BIKE, THEY SAW THE LIGHT AND TRIED TO RESET (CLEAR) A CODE TO SEE IF…

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Matching rule\b(brake fail\w*|brakes fail\w*|brake pedal|braking distance|unintended braking|phantom braking)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

4 mentions · 2.8% of complaints

Median mileage: 32,282 mi (4 usable records).

ODI 10767426 · 48,150 mi

WHEN I BEGAN A RIDE THE RED ABS BRAKE FAILURE WARNING LIGHT CAME ON AND REMAINED ON. A SHOP READ THE CODE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE AS ABS PUMP MOTOR FAILURE. I LEARNED THROUGH ON-LINE RESEARCH THAT IT IS A COMMON PROBLEM RELATING TO POOR DESIGN OF THE ABS PUMP MOTOR BRUSHES THAT FAIL TO MAKE GOOD CONTACT RESULTING IN A LOW VOLTAGE SITUATION AND PUMP FAILURE. THE RESULT - THE ABS SYSTEM DOES NOT WORK. THE ESTIMATED COST OF REPLACING THE UNIT IS APPROX. $2200. THE MECHANIC TAPPED ON THE MOTOR HOUSING AND FREED UP THE BRUSHES BUT IT WAS A TEMPORARY …

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ODI 11092807 · 24,564 mi

CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL (FINAL DRIVE). THE DRIVE BEGAN MAKING GRINDING AND SQUEALING NOISES. I THEN FELT THE REAR WHEEL LOOSING TRACTION. I PULLED TO THE SHOULDER IMMEDIATELY. I NOTICED AT THAT TIME A BRAKE FAILURE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. MY REAR BRAKE WAS INEFFECTIVE. UPON EXAMINING THE DRIVE AREA THERE WAS GEAR OIL ALL OVER THE REAR BRAKE CALIPER, DISC AND REAR WHEEL, INCLUDING THE TIRE. THE FINAL DRIVE WAS SERVICED APPROXIMATELY 1200 MILES PRIOR TO THIS FAILURE, IT HAD BEEN FILLED WITH THE COR…

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ODI 11604258 · 40,000 mi

The contact owns a 2017 BMW R 1200 RT. The contact stated while at a red light, the engine was making an abnormal sound. There was no warning light illuminated. The motorcycle was ridden back to the residence. The contact inspected the motorcycle and noticed that there was an excessive amount of metallic particles attached to the drain plug. The motorcycle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of this failure and confirmed that the VIN was not associated with an unknown recall for the failure. The contact was referred to NHTSA Hotline…

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Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Battery drain and no-start mentions

2 mentions · 1.4% of complaints

Median mileage: 37,728 mi (2 usable records).

ODI 10758488 · 27,456 mi

THE MOTORCYCLE STARTED STALLING AFTER I WOULD DISENGAGE THE CLUTCH TO SLOW DOWN OR STOP. IT WOULD NOT START BACK UP UNLESS I TURNED THE THROTTLE AND HELD THE RPM'S ABOVE 1500. THE BIKE WOULD NOT IDLE UNLESS I KEPT THE THROTTLE PARTIALLY OPEN. I BROUGHT THE BIKE TO THE DEALER AND THEY RE-FLASHED THE COMPUTER AND UP-GRADED THE SOFTWARE. THAT LASTED 2 WEEKS AND THE STALLING STARTED BACK AGAIN. ALL RE-CALLS FOR THIS BIKE WERE PERFORMED BY BMW. NO TROUBLE CODES WERE SHOWN TO EXIST ON THE BIKES ECU WHEN TESTED BY THE DEALERS SCAN EQUIPMENT. I HAVE SI…

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ODI 10892626 · 48,000 mi

I OWN A 2010 BMW R1200RT MOTORCYCLE AND THERE IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE WITH THE HANDLEBAR MOUNTED SWITCH GEAR. THE SAID COMPONENTS HAVE BEEN AN ISSUE CAUSING INOPERABLE HIGH BEAMS, CRUISE CONTROL, TURN SINGLES, AND HORN, BUT THE REAL ISSUE IS THE START/RUN SWITCH AND THE INTERMITTENT FAILURE CAUSING A NO START CONDITION AT THE VERY LEAST THE REAL DANGER IS WHEN THE SWITCH FAILS WHEN UNDER POWER WHICH HAPPENED TO ME TWICE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS! SOMEONE WILL BE KILLED IT IS JUST A MATTER OF TIME.

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Matching rule\b(parasitic drain|battery drain\w*|dead battery|won.t start|would not start|no.start)\b