2015 BMW R1200 GS recalls and problems

The 2015 BMW R1200 GS has 2 safety recalls and 10 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any BMW dealer.

Recalls
2
Complaints
10
Crashes / fires
1 / 0
Injuries / deaths
1 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2015 BMW R1200 GS vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2015 BMW R1200 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.

Recall 17V-438: Suspension

Reported Jul 10, 2017 · 14,626 vehicles affected · BMW of North America, LLC

Problem: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2014-2017 BMW R1200GS and BMW R1200GS Adventure motorcycles. The motorcycle fixed fork tube may separate from the pressed in seal plug that secures the tube to the upper triple clamp.

Risk: If the fork tube detaches from the sealing plug, the handling and stability of the motorcycle will be affected, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will add an additional fixed fork tube bush. A fork that is sufficiently damaged will be replaced with a modified new part. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall began August 31, 2017. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

2015 BMW R1200 GS problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Service Brakes4
Suspension3
Vehicle Speed Control2
Electrical System1
Engine1
Steering1
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)1
Wheels1

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 7,000 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 2015 BMW R1200 GS complaints

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

Service Brakes · reported Dec 14, 2024
It is not clear which brake component is failing. It seems to be either the master cylinder or the ABS control module, but nothing seems to be conclusive. The failure alters the power of and force required to apply the rear brakes, changing the riding characteristics of the motorcycle that could lead to serious injury or miscalculations in application of both front a rear brakes to minimize stopping distance. Apparently the component has been inspected by the manufacturer, however there has been no concrete solution that would guarantee a permanent solution. There are no warning lamps or…
Service Brakes · reported Aug 10, 2023
While riding the 1200GS yesterday, the rear brake calliper somehow came off! Has anyone encountered such a problem before. After the caliper came off, it got stuck in the wheel spokes and completely shattered the spokes and wheels. I was very lucky not sure how the wheels did not completely jam or freeze as this would have been deadly. I as was on a freeway with cars travelling over 70-MPH! Luckily enough motorists behind me and in other lanes observed what had happened and provided me space to pull over.
Service Brakes · reported Apr 10, 2023
Rear brake pedal gets soft and braking performance is lost. Feels like air is getting into the system. Bleeding the brake fixes the problem, but it comes back after a few thousand miles. Seems this isn't an isolated icindent based on forum information: https://www.advrider.com/f/threads/bmw-r1200gs-lc-rear-brake-failures.1264712/ https://www.gs-forum.eu/threads/umfrage-wer-ist-von-luft-im-hinteren-bremskreis-betroffen.153022/
Service Brakes · at 7,000 miles · reported Jul 10, 2018
Rear brake requires more and more travel untill it hit the stop..no rear brake. Bleeding brake solves for a month or two, then cycle begins again. Bmw says bleed brakes every 2 years, I have to do it at least every oil change (6000 miles). Dealer is aware of problem, has no solution
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) · at 21,200 miles · reported Jun 5, 2018
Control buttons on left handlebar failing affecting cruise control, suspension settings, and ride mode which affects engine performance. Button failures occur just outside of warranty and when motorcycle is in operation and suspension and engine control systems are operational.

Other BMW R1200 GS years

Compare all BMW R1200 GS years · All BMW models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2015 BMW R1200 GS have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2015 BMW R1200 GS: 17V-481 (equipment), 17V-438 (suspension). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2015 BMW R1200 GS?

Owners report service brakes problems most often (4 reports), followed by suspension (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 7,000 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.