Summary
The BMW R1200GS has 18 recalls covering 2004 through 2013 model years, with the most serious being a 2006 clutch assembly that can fail while riding, sending fragments through the engine block and posing a risk of serious injury or death to the rider.
The 2013 model year carries several mechanical concerns. A gearbox sealing ring can displace under internal pressure changes, leaking oil into the rear swingarm and onto the rear tire, which reduces traction. On the front end, the threaded plugs securing the fork tubes to the upper triple clamp can loosen over time, allowing a fork tube to detach and causing sudden loss of steering. The upper fork seal plugs can also work loose after a hard impact, leading to oil leaks and unstable handling. A separate software issue on 2013 models means the Automatic Stability Control system can stay deactivated after off-road use in Enduro-Pro mode without illuminating a warning lamp, leaving the rider unaware. Also on 2013 models, a transmission output shaft seal can leak oil ahead of the rear tire, making the motorcycle unstable.
The 2011 model year has a fuel pump flange that can crack while the engine is running and leak fuel, which creates a fire risk.
On 2007 models, water can enter the fuel pump control unit and cause it to fail over time, stalling the engine and cutting drive to the rear wheel.
The 2005 model year has a brake fluid leak at the rear brake line connection that can result in rear brake failure.
Several recalls cluster around the 2004 model year. A cracked fuel pump flange can leak fuel and create a fire risk. Moisture can corrode the fuel pump controller plug, causing the pump to fail and the engine to shut off. A damaged o-ring between the anti-lock brake sensor and the rear axle housing can leak differential oil onto the rear wheel and brake disc. The rear wheel flange's threaded holes can crack if wheel bolts are overtightened during service, eventually allowing the bolts to back out and the wheel to come loose. On the braking side, a misrouted front anti-lock brake sensor cable can interfere with proper ABS function after certain service work, and unusually hard repeated braking can cause a temporary loss of ABS function. A hand protector that gets twisted into contact with the handlebar lever can hold the lever in a partially applied position and interfere with braking. The 2004 model year also has front turn signals installed in an incorrect location that may not clearly signal the rider's intentions to other traffic, and certain dealer-installed accessory turn signals with undersized lenses that may not meet Canadian lighting standards.
