2008 BMW R1200 GS recalls and problems
The 2008 BMW R1200 GS has 5 safety recalls and 18 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2008 BMW R1200 GS vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2008 BMW R1200 GS recalls
Recall 20V-471: Fuel System, Gasoline
Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2011 K1300 (S, GT), 2010-2011 S1000 RR, 2005-2011 R1200 (GS, GS Adventure, R, RT, S, ST), 2006-2010 HP2 (Enduro, Megamoto, Sport), 2005-2008 K1200 (R, R Sport, S, GT), and 2012 K1600 (GT, GTL) motorcycles that were repaired under recall 13V-617 with the support ring remedy and where the fuel pump was not replaced at a later date. This recall involves the fuel pump, and also the auxiliary fuel pump as applicable. The affected motorcycles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, possibly resulting in a fuel leak while the engine is running.
Risk: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source can increase the risk of a fire.
Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump(s) with an improved version, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Recall 09V-319: Fuel System, Gasoline
Problem: Bmw is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2008 r1200 gs motorcycles manufactured between august 2006 and january 2008. The sealing of the fuel pump control unit housing might be insufficient and water could intrude into the control unit housing creating a humid atmosphere. Under such conditions, the fuel pump could corrode and then fail.
Risk: Failure of the fuel pump will cause inadequate fuel to reach the engine and cause the engine to stop running. A loss of engine power without warning could increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Bmw will notify owners and replace the fuel pump control unit free of charge. The safety recall began on november 9, 2009. Owners may contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117.
Recall 09V-129: Electrical System
Problem: Bmw is recalling model year 2008 r1200 gs and r1200 gs adventure motorcycles. In certain situations, such as high generator speeds combined with large demands for electrical current, spurious signals could emerge within the motorcycle's electrical system. If this were to occur, it could affect the pressure sensor signals of the anti-lock brake system (Abs) control unit. If this happened, the ABS could switch off; however, in such a situation, a warning lamp would illuminate. Normal braking would still be available to slow and stop the motorcycle.
Risk: Any time vehicle control is compromised a crash may occur.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and repair or replace the necessary components free of charge. The recall began on october 26, 2009. Owners may contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117.
Recall 08V-290: Power Train
Problem: Bmw is recalling 46 my 2008 r1200 r, r1200 gs, and r1200 gs adventure motorcycles. Due to a material defect in the intermediate shaft of the transmission, the shaft could break. If this occurred, it is possible for the transmission to seize.
Risk: If this happened, lock-up of the rear tire could occur. It is also possible for the transmission housing to break. If this happened, oil could leak onto the rear whee, increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will replace the gearbox. The recall began during august 2008. Owners should contact bmw at 1-800-331-1117.
Recall 08V-254: Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Problem: Bmw is recalling 4,922 my 2007-2008 r1200r, my 2006-2007 r1200 gs, my 2007 r1200 st, and my 2008 r1200 gs adventure motorcycles. Due to the current routing of the front brake lines, it is possible that during riding, the brake lines could be under strain. If the vibration/strain is significant, the brake lines could split and start to develop a leak. If the leak became significant, brake fluid could escape. If this happened, the level of fluid in the reservoir of the front brake system could drop.
Risk: If fluid level drops significantly, the front brakes could fail increasing the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will inspect and install new brake lines with a modified routing free of charge. The recall began during august 2008. Owners may contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117.
2008 BMW R1200 GS problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 8 | |
| Power Train | 4 | |
| Electrical System | 3 | |
| Fuel System, Other | 2 | |
| Engine | 2 | |
| Service Brakes | 1 | |
| Steering | 1 | |
| Suspension | 1 | |
| Unknown or Other | 1 |
Most reported parts
- Fuel System, Other › Storage › Fuel Gauge System — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 26,200 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2008 BMW R1200 GS complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other BMW R1200 GS years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2008 BMW R1200 GS have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 5 recalls for the 2008 BMW R1200 GS: 20V-471 (fuel system, gasoline), 09V-319 (fuel system, gasoline), 09V-129 (electrical system), 08V-290 (power train), 08V-254 (service brakes, hydraulic). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2008 BMW R1200 GS?
Owners report fuel/propulsion system problems most often (8 reports), followed by power train (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 26,200 miles.
Are BMW recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized BMW dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.