2003 BMW R 1150 RT recalls and problems

The 2003 BMW R 1150 RT has 1 safety recall and 5 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.

Recalls

Complaints

Crashes / fires

1 / 0

Injuries / deaths

0 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2003 BMW R 1150 RT vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 BMW R 1150 RT recalls

Recall 02V-319: Power Train

Reported Nov 27, 2002 · 515 vehicles affected · BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE

Problem: On certain motorcycles, it is possible that the 3rd and 4th transmission gear (Shift) wheels may not be securely seated on the intermediate shaft. Consequently, when attempting to shift from 5th to 6th gear, engagement of the two gears may occur simultaneously.

Risk: If this happens, the gear wheels could crack resulting in a loss of transmission capability, or, a lock of transmission could occur. The rear wheel could lock which, depending upon traffic and road conditions, and the rider's reaction, could affect the stability of the motorcycle.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the motorcycles and replace the transmission gear box if necessary. Owner notification is expected to begin during december 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117, option #4.

2003 BMW R 1150 RT problems reported by owners

Problem area	Reports
Electrical System	2
Suspension	1
Fuel System, Gasoline	1
Exterior Lighting	1

Most reported parts

Electrical System › Ignition — 1
Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings — 1
Electrical System › Alternator/Generator/Regulator — 1
Exterior Lighting › Headlights — 1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 11,511 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 2003 BMW R 1150 RT complaints

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

Exterior Lighting · at 17,200 miles · reported Oct 9, 2006

During normal operation of the vehicle, the headlights went out completely, leaving only the fog lights to get me home. Dealer replaced the head lamp assembly under warranty.

Electrical System · at 15,840 miles · reported Sep 2, 2004

Actual model is rt1150p not listed on model list. Altenator belt broke, causing altenator failure and low voltage which negated power brakes leaving me with residual braking about 40% of normal breaking at best. I was unable to stop and rolled in front of oncoming truck who was able to avoid me by slowing and going around. Dealer replaced belt and altenator. This does not mean it wont happen again however. The owners manual even explains power loss to brakes calling it residual braking. The manual says apply more pressure to the brake lever, set them so you have more leverage on them, and ride…

Electrical System · at 11,511 miles · reported Apr 25, 2004

Stalling while riding in the rain. Would restart after waiting a few moments. Happened at least 8 times. Dealer could not find problem. Then, while riding in traffic during dry weather stalled and would not restart. Towed to dealer. Ignition coil replaced.

Fuel System, Gasoline · at 11,511 miles · reported Apr 25, 2004

Recall remedy failure. 04v-028. Dealer re-crimped the crimp clamps per bmw's instructions. Still leaked substantially at 4.2 bar when system pressure-checked. Some concern that plastic components deform preventing full crimp clamp load. Replaced oe crimp clamps with ealier version, oe, screw clamps.

Suspension · at 600 miles · reported Feb 3, 2004

2003 bmw r 1150 rt motorcycle pulls to the right, I feel this is a safety hazard if you do not keep pressure to the left on the handle bars it will lean itself to the right and run off the road. Also it has excessive tire wear. I spoke with bmw and they said this is a characteristic of these bikes.

Other BMW R 1150 RT years

No other model years have data.

Compare all BMW R 1150 RT years · All BMW models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 BMW R 1150 RT have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2003 BMW R 1150 RT: 02V-319 (power train). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 BMW R 1150 RT?

Owners report electrical system problems most often (2 reports), followed by suspension (1). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 11,511 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.