2009 BMW F800 GS recalls and problems

The 2009 BMW F800 GS has 1 safety recall and 7 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

0 / 0

Injuries / deaths

0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2009 BMW F800 GS vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2009 BMW F800 GS recalls

Recall 17V-481: Equipment

Reported Jul 28, 2017 · 47,775 vehicles affected · BMW of North America, LLC

Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2013-2017 F800R and F800GT motorcycles, 2014-2018 R1200GS and R1200GS Adventure motorcycles, 2016-2017 S1000XR motorcycles and 2015-2017 R1200R and R1200RS, 2008-2012 F650GS, 2008-2018 F800GS, and 2014-2017 F800GS Adventure motorcycles. When equipped with the optional aluminum luggage cases, the rear reflex reflectors may be partially blocked. The aluminum case mounts for the R1200GS and R1200GS Adventure may also partially block the reflectors. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."

Risk: If the rear reflex reflectors are obscured from view, it can increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will install reflectors on the cases or for the case mounts, an additional bracket with rear reflex reflectors, free of charge. The recall began October 16, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

2009 BMW F800 GS problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Electrical System	2
Suspension	1
Structure	1
Fuel/Propulsion System	1
Exterior Lighting	1
Engine and Engine Cooling	1

Most reported parts

Suspension › Front › Wheel Bearing — 1
Structure › Body — 1
Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Engine Control Module (Ecu/Ecm) — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 28,900 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 2009 BMW F800 GS complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Engine and Engine Cooling · at 36,000 miles · reported Feb 20, 2025

The contact owns a 2009 BMW F800 GS. The contact stated while riding 70 MPH, the motorcycle inadvertently lost motive power. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway and restarted the motorcycle. After restarting the motorcycle, the motorcycle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The motorcycle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with the Engine Control Unit (ECU). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 36,000. The VIN was not…

Exterior Lighting · reported Oct 20, 2014

Headlight reflector has burned causing diminished nighttime visibility. Oem style bulbs have been the only equipment used.

Structure · at 10,250 miles · reported Sep 21, 2013

While cleaning the motorcycle yesterday, I noticed the fuel tank is breaking at its seam on both left and right sides of the tank. The crack in the tank is well over 12 inches on each side. I also noticed today that a number of people have experienced this in the past and even after having the fuel tank replaced, the cracks to the plastic develop once again. The cracks are linear and along the seam of the tank. My warranty expired approximately 2 months ago.

Electrical System · at 31,250 miles · reported Jul 21, 2013

Experienced a failure of the charging system resulting in stalling the inability to restart the motorcycle. This failure happened in heavy traffic, leaving me stranded in the middle of a multilane highway in rush hour traffic. The bike started after jump starting, but a test with a multimeter showed no increase in system voltage with the engine running, resulting in no charge being applied to the battery, preventing the efi and ignition systems from functioning. In the week leading up to this incident I experienced intermittent surging, sputtering, and stalling, although it was not until the…

Electrical System · at 28,900 miles · reported Apr 19, 2013

Riding home at night in traffic, my motorcycle stalled and died locking up all systems including lights. I found myself at a dead stop in traffic with no lights for visibility. It was quite dangerous.

Other BMW F800 GS years

2017 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 201020092008

Compare all BMW F800 GS years · All BMW models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2009 BMW F800 GS have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2009 BMW F800 GS: 17V-481 (equipment). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2009 BMW F800 GS?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (2 reports), followed by suspension (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 28,900 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.