2013 BMW R 1200 GS
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › BMW › R 1200 GS › 2013
These records cover every 2013 BMW R 1200 GS. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
6 recalls name the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS. Newest first.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2014 S 1000 RR/R/ HP4, R 1200 GS/GS Adventure/R/RT, K 1300 S, K 1600 GT/GTL/GTL Exclusive and 2014 R nine T motorcycles. The fuel pump, and auxiliary fuel pump in certain models, may crack and leak fuel during vehicle operation.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A fuel leak, in the presence of an ignition source, may result in a fire.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain Accessory Windscreens, sold for installation on various motorcycles. Specifically being recalled is Windscreen model number 8531917, sold for use on model year 2012-2018 F700GS motorcycles, Windscreen model number 8544629, sold for use on model year 2015-2018 R1200R motorcycles, Windscreen model number…
Risk and remedy
Risk
The darker windscreen can inhibit the driver's visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the windscreen, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin May 10, 2018. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain accessory turn signals manufactured for 2006-2017 R1200GS, 2007-2008 and 2010-2017 R1200GS Adventure, 2017 F700GS and F800GS, 2013-2017 F800GT, 2015-2016 F800R, 2014-2017 F800GS Adventure, 2014-2016 S1000R, 2015-2017 R1200R, 2016-2017 R1200RS, and 2010-2017 S1000RR motorcycles. As designed, these…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If other drivers cannot easily see the turn signals, there would be an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the turn signals, free of charge. The recall began October 25, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 R 1200 GS motorcycles manufactured November 2012 through August 2013. Pressure inside the transmission may cause the transmission output seal to be pushed out of place.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the output seal ring is pushed out of its proper position, oil may leak from the transmission onto the rear tire, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will fit a bracket to prevent the transmission seal from being pushed out of position, free of charge. The recall began on June 17, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 C 600 Sport, C 650 GT, F 700 GS, F 800 GS, F 800 GS Adventure, F 800 GT, R 1200 R and R1200 GS motorcycles. Water may enter the side-stand switch preventing the motorcycle from starting or potentially shutting off the motorcycle while it is being ridden.
Risk and remedy
Risk
An unexpected shutdown increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the side-stand switch, free of charge. The recall began on April 8, 2014. Owners may contact BMW at 1-800-831-1117.
BMW is recalling certain model year 2013 R1200 GS motorcycles manufactured January 9, 2013, through February 8, 2013. Due to an insufficient torque of a locking bolt, the front fork tube may loosen.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the fork loosens it may hinder the rider's ability to control the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
BMW will notify owners and dealers will reinforce the affected fork locking bolt connections, free of charge. Owners were notified of the safety recall by telephone on April 22 and April 23, 2013. Therefore, an owner notification letter will not be issued for this campaign. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com.
Owner complaints
12 complaints
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Service brakes
The contact owns a 2013 BMW R 1200 GS. The contact stated that while riding the motorcycle at 5 MPH, the brake clutch was engaged; however, the motorcycle failed to stop intendedly. The contact stated that the motorcycle jerked forward. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the…
The contact owns a 2013 BMW R 1200 GS. The contact stated that while riding the motorcycle at 5 MPH, the brake clutch was engaged; however, the motorcycle failed to stop intendedly. The contact stated that the motorcycle jerked forward. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and informed the contact that NHTSA had not associated the contact's VIN with Technical Service Bulletin Number: 21 001 13 (021). The contact was advised to report the failure to the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 70,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Riding at freeway speeds fuel system is spilling out fuel down both sides of the engine. I smelled strong fuel smell while riding but was unable to stop until almost home. At home inspected bike and discovered leak even while at idle but have not dug in to identify exact leak location. having it…
Riding at freeway speeds fuel system is spilling out fuel down both sides of the engine. I smelled strong fuel smell while riding but was unable to stop until almost home. At home inspected bike and discovered leak even while at idle but have not dug in to identify exact leak location. having it trailered into BWM repair facility when appointment available. I do not see a recall for my make year and model of 1200 GS but it does fall in the years listed as a concern?
- Power train
The contact owns a 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Motorcycle. The contact stated while riding at 70 MPH, there was an abnormal clanking sound coming from the motorcycle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact immediately pulled over to inspect the motorcycle but could not determine the cause of…
The contact owns a 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Motorcycle. The contact stated while riding at 70 MPH, there was an abnormal clanking sound coming from the motorcycle. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact immediately pulled over to inspect the motorcycle but could not determine the cause of the failure. The contact started to slowly exit the highway, the drive shaft, rear drive, and swing arm failed and fractured apart with the rear wheel locking up. Due to the failure, the contact had the motorcycle towed to a dealer where the failure was confirmed. The contact was provided an estimate for the repair. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The vehicle remained in the possession of the dealer. The failure mileage was approximately 46,000.
- Fuel system, gasoline
The contact owns a 2013 BMW R 1200. The contact received a notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V060000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the fuel pump failed and leaked fuel all over the…
The contact owns a 2013 BMW R 1200. The contact received a notification for NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V060000 (Fuel System, Gasoline) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the fuel pump failed and leaked fuel all over the motorcycle and onto the contact. The contact was able pull the motorcycle off the highway and with the assistance of his son; the motorcycle was loaded onto a trailer and taken to a dealer. The dealer was notified about the failure and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact was informed that he would be notified when parts became available. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The failure mileage was 33,169. Parts distribution disconnect. The contact stated that the part needed was finally available and was replaced.
- Suspension
Leaks detected on both left and right forks/suspension. Requires replacing the fork seals and rebuilding the forks when the motorcycle has less than 26,000 miles. *tr
- Power train
Dealer notified me that a "floating shaft" exists in the gearbox, meaning the shaft moves back and forth axially, as opposed to radially. This IS typically caused by incorrect torque procedures or a design flaw to the nut holding the clutch basket on the shaft. The nut would loosen, and causes the…
Dealer notified me that a "floating shaft" exists in the gearbox, meaning the shaft moves back and forth axially, as opposed to radially. This IS typically caused by incorrect torque procedures or a design flaw to the nut holding the clutch basket on the shaft. The nut would loosen, and causes the shaft to start moving back and forth. Catastrophic failure could result in death or serious injury as it can lock the rear wheel during highway speeds in traffic. the "floating shaft" issue IS due to no fault of the rider/owner. Apparently, this same issue has occurred on many other models of BMW motorcycles below 30K miles, and BMW motorrad USA on many occasions have not provided a new gearbox for other owners. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2013 BMW r1200 GS. While the vehicle was parked outside a fuel station, the contact noticed a fuel leak on the fuel pump. The contact also smelled a fuel odor. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The contact associated the failure with nhtsa campaign number…
TL* the contact owns a 2013 BMW r1200 GS. While the vehicle was parked outside a fuel station, the contact noticed a fuel leak on the fuel pump. The contact also smelled a fuel odor. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The contact associated the failure with nhtsa campaign number: 13v617000 (fuel system, gasoline). The motorcycle was taken to BMW motorcycles of escondido (located at 499 n hale ave, escondido, ca 92029, (760) 520-1288) where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump needed to be replaced. The motorcycle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 40,000. *Ln*jb*cw*jb
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2013 BMW r 1200 GS. While driving 35 mph, the contact smelled fuel and noticed that the fuel tank was leaking without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who inspected the vehicle and advised the contact to take it to a BMW dealer. BMW motorcycles of…
TL* the contact owns a 2013 BMW r 1200 GS. While driving 35 mph, the contact smelled fuel and noticed that the fuel tank was leaking without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who inspected the vehicle and advised the contact to take it to a BMW dealer. BMW motorcycles of utah (339 9000 s, sandy, ut 84070, (801) 618-2700) was contacted to schedule a diagnostic appointment. The vehicle was not repaired and the failure recurred. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and provided the contact with case number: 1-15753758911. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign number: 13v617000 (fuel system, gasoline). The failure mileage was 66,000.
- Structure
My 2013 BMW r1200gs had a frame failure where the front suspension/handle bars are mounted to. Frame tore at the triple tree mount on a bike used as a commuter for 54K. The bike was at idle on the driveway and fell. The only point of contact was the engine guard. The force of me picking up the bike…
My 2013 BMW r1200gs had a frame failure where the front suspension/handle bars are mounted to. Frame tore at the triple tree mount on a bike used as a commuter for 54K. The bike was at idle on the driveway and fell. The only point of contact was the engine guard. The force of me picking up the bike by the handle bars was the last amount needed to tear the already fatigued frame. I was fortunate it did fall that day, had it not and I rode it I wouldn't be hear today to write this. *Js
- Vehicle speed control
The vehicle speedometer malfunctioned and records a speed 20 mph below actual speed. this led to both a safety risk due to excessive speed and an inability to accurately comply with the speed limit. excessive speed IS the #1 cause of motorcycle accidents. I nearly experience an accident due to inaccurate speedometer reading on a curvy road. I called BMW and complained about this safety risk
- Fuel/propulsion system
In june 2014 my motorcycle wouldn't start. I towed the motorcycle to the local BMW dealership. they had informed me that my gasoline was stale. I had not ridden the motorcycle for about 3 months. they replaced the fuel pump under warranty. they suggested that I purchase fuel stabilizer if I do…
In june 2014 my motorcycle wouldn't start. I towed the motorcycle to the local BMW dealership. they had informed me that my gasoline was stale. I had not ridden the motorcycle for about 3 months. they replaced the fuel pump under warranty. they suggested that I purchase fuel stabilizer if I do not intend to ride it regularly. I purchased the fuel stabilizer and then rode the bike monthly for the next few months. last weekend it would not start again. I towed the bike to the dealer where they again claimed the bike had stale gasoline. they claimed that since they replaced the fuel pump last time, they would not replace it again and I would have to pay out of pocket. I explained that this time, I had ridden my bike more often and had used fuel stabilizers and that it was impossible for the gasoline to be stale. more likely there IS some sort of defect in the fuel system. they are claiming its my responsibility and refusing to help. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system
After about 20-30 minutes of riding the bike at highway speeds, this motorcycle's fuel system starts to have trouble idling. For example, after the engine IS hot the bike seems have problems idling properly. For example, while slowing for lights and traffic control systems, the bike has a tenancy…
After about 20-30 minutes of riding the bike at highway speeds, this motorcycle's fuel system starts to have trouble idling. For example, after the engine IS hot the bike seems have problems idling properly. For example, while slowing for lights and traffic control systems, the bike has a tenancy to stall. this motorcycle intermittently stalls when the motor IS warm and the while breaking after down-shifting quickly. It happened over 20 times in the last year. The bike stalls in both cold weather and in hot weather. However, it appears to stall more in hot weather. normally, the bike stalls while decelerating at traffic signals. The bike has 9000 miles on it now. Stalls put the rider at risk of being run over from behind at traffic control devices. here IS a video of the last time I had it happened: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hit1mg351li&feature=c4-overview&list=uup6q_dha0juk5wa9vrdy5zw. *tr
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10249027The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few years. This has led to increased demands being placed on the battery. This document covers important information for the dealer on how to handle discharged battery complaints.
- 10248094Since October 2023, a new maintenance schedule is valid for all K5x models. For the first time, maintenance positions for the cardan shaft (Driveshaft) are included. NOTICE: 1. The new maintenance schedule is not limited to vehicles affected by the SI 33 02 22 (SERVICE ACTION: Swingarm Drain retrofit and Driveshaft Check), but is valid for all K5x models - including retroactively. In case of retroactive validity (model year 2023 and older), affected customers will be informed about the change. This will be in the form of a direct-to-customer letter with a description of the new maintenance schedule, specific owners manual insert, and consumer warranty book insert. 1. For vehicles affected by SI 33 02 22 (SERVICE ACTION: Swingarm Drain retrofit and Driveshaft Check), this service action must be performed first. All conditions described in this bulletin apply after the open Service Action has been completed. No additional communication is required for K5x models model year 2024 and onwards. Those models have the new maintenance schedule in their owners manual.
- 10245433BMW Motorrad USA has become aware of a potential durability issue with the film type fuel level sender Fuel Strip equipped on certain model year 2005 to 2013 R and K series motorcycles.
- 10236237Multiple factors may cause the driveshaft to become damaged; among them are corrosion in certain parts ofthe driveshaft, and wear and tear exacerbated by certain climatic conditions.
- 10228448BMW Motorrad is aware of a number of cases in which the screw connections of the Paralever link and/or the rear brake caliper have loosened in customer vehicles while driving.
- 10218351Multiple factors may cause the driveshaft to become damaged; among them are corrosion in certain parts of the driveshaft, and wear and tear exacerbated by certain climatic conditions.
- 10215025Shipping specific non-deployed vehicle safety devices to lighting resources, llc. This service Information bulletin provides information on shipping "specific" noin-deployed vehicle safety devices that are classified as Dangerous Goods (DG) to Lighting resources, LLC
- 10215024The engine?s intake charge-air duct limited warranty extension to 10 years/120,000 miles applies to ?eligible USspecification
- 10215023Visual Inspection of Brake discs/Rotors for new car deliveries
- 10205109Stress corrosion cracks may occur on the studs of certain milled footrests from the BMW Motorrad special accessories catalog for the GS models.
- 10204679BMW Motorrad has ascertained that in isolated cases the fuse for the voltage regulator is not correctly secured in the holder by the threaded fasteners.
- 10204674BMW Motorrad has ascertained that in rare cases the throttle twistgrip sends an implausible signal to the engine management system when the throttle valve is closed.
- 10204667One of the following situations can occur when connecting to BN2000 motorcycles: 1. The installed control units cannot be found when reading out with ISTA. 2. Control units initially communicate after connecting to the vehicle, but communication later stops.
- 10201170When diagnosing fault codes (0x3A13D7, 0x3A13D9), technicians erroneously condemn the electronic throttle grip, which analyses show is rarely the culprit.
- 10201169Vehicle battery not charged despite the battery charger being connected to the on-board socket (manufactured before 2009)Headlights and rear lights light up intermittently despite the ignition being switched off and the battery charger being connected to the on-board socket.
- 10200500The hill start control operation may be sporadic.
- 10200499Service distance cannot be set in miles in ISTA for TFT-type instrument clusters
- 10200496During operation of the rear wheel foot brake lever, the rider feels a soft pressure point or perceptibly longer lever travel
- 10200495BMW Motorrad has ascertained that vehicles fitted with option code 0190 "Enduro ASC + BMW Motorrad has ascertained that vehicles fitted with option code 0190 "Enduro ASC + Riding Modes" can experience functional problems in the Enduro PRO mode. Effective March 06, 2013, BMW Motorrad has a software solution available. Once the coding plug has been fitted and the software update performed, the customer can use all the riding modes
- 10200269The bike does not shut down with a short press of the keyless ride button. The keyless Ride button must be pressed for several seconds to shut the bike down
- 10194316The complaint of leaking telescopic forks is the top warranty claim in many current models,
- 10193510Oil leak immediately after replacing cylinder head cover seal set.
- 10193495The customer complains of rattling noises from the rear window when driving on rough roads.
- 10193494Butt connector for repairing a plug connection. The ?top up coolant? message is displayed in the central display (CC message ID 166). When checking the cooling system there are no leaks found and the expansion tank is filled to the proper level.
- 10165274Ticking noises from the cylinder hood.
- 10165251Ticking noises from the cylinder hood.
- 10160232During the course of quality analysis, it was determined by BMW Motorrad that in the production period from February 2018 to end of June 2018, cross-spoked wheels with reduced spoke tension have been produced.
- 10159164Which charger should be used to charge the Li-ion HP and/or M batteries.
- 10151430Shift assist does not function after performing SIB 23 001 15 (017) DME software upgrade. This is due to a progrm fault in ISTA/p version 3.56.0.
- 10151392BMW Motorrad has determiend in th ecourse of quality observation that in a few cases clutch fluid may leak between the clutch slave cylinder and the braided stainless steel clutch line. The cause is a burr in the clutch slave cylinder which may damage the gasket of the clutch line.
- 10151297During programming ith ISTA/P software version3.58.2.001. a programming abort occurred. Afterwards the vehicle is inoperative and can no longer be started. Repeated programming is not possible with this tversion. Software bug.
- 10151295Grinding noises from rear drive - individual cover screws on rear drive are coming undone,screw chafes against the brake disk and makes noises.
- 10151238BMW Motorrad has determined in the course of quality observation that in a few cases clutch fluid may leak between the clutch slave cylinder and the braided stainless steel clutch line. The cause is a burr in the clutch slave cylinder which may damage the gasket of the clutch line. A vehicle with high mileage can show signs of gradual impairment of the clutch function. The separating action of the clutch can worsen gradually over a period of time.
- 10150155Incorrect anti-theft alarm (DWA) operating instructions
- 10150153Swinging arm gaiter to gearbox is split or collapsed.
- 10149289Heated handlebar grips intermittently not working
- 10149288Navigator V maintains a Bluetooth connection to a mobile phone for a short period.
- 10149276During the course of the quality analysis carried out by BMW Motorrad, it has been determined that for the R 1200 models with the gearshift assistant (SA X222A) OE, a few faulty gearshift assistants have been installed in the production period from 09/02/2016 to 09/05/2016. Over the service life of the vehicle, there can be impairment of functions up to a loss of function of the gearshift assistants. In the case of a loss of function, a gear change (without the gearshift assistant) is possible only with the actuation of the clutch lever.
- 10149274Customer complains about an operating failure on the left or right multifunction switch.
- 10149207The cruise control system is not working in the Enduro/Pro mode
Every BMW R 1200 GS model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.