There are no safety recalls for the 2003 BMW R1200C, but owners have filed 13 complaints with NHTSA.
2003 BMW R1200C problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Suspension | 4 | |
| Power Train | 4 | |
| Structure | 2 | |
| Steering | 2 | |
| Wheels | 2 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 1 | |
| Visibility | 1 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
| Fuel System, Gasoline | 1 | |
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Steering › Linkages — 2
- Visibility › Rearview Mirrors/Devices — 1
- Structure › Frame and Members › Underbody Shields — 1
- Suspension › Front — 1
- Wheels › Rim — 1
- Tires › Valve — 1
- Power Train › Driveline › Center Support Bearing — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 5,530 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 R1200C complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Power Train · at 66,000 miles · reported Feb 4, 2012
Final drive failed without warning. No oil leaked before failure. Same failure as described in odi no. 10439549, and currently being investigated under campaign dp12001.
Power Train · at 24,000 miles · reported Feb 3, 2012
An all too common problem with the final drives in our r1200c's and r1200cl's is the dreaded final drive failure. Most of us who have experienced this, first noticed either a lateral wobble of the rear wheel, drops of fluid on our rear wheels, and/or fluid stains sprayed radially on the rear tire. Well, I took a 600 mile jaunt last weekend to make sure the bike could handle the new touring bags and the t-bag I bought. The trip was great - near quincy, ca. When I got home, I noticed some oil spots on the right rear bag, the horror of horrors, radial stripes on the right side of the rear tire. I…
Power Train · at 29,500 miles · reported Feb 3, 2012
I had the same failure as described in odi no. 10439549. The leak of oil caused the side of the tire to become fouled,and the brake was heavily coated as well. I stopped and had the motorcycle taken into the dealership, where a new set of brake pads were required, as well as the rear bearing and seals.
Fuel System, Gasoline · at 20,624 miles · reported Aug 21, 2009
While riding my motorcycle fuel starting spraying from a fuel line disconnect fitting. The male portion broke. I was stopped at a traffic light and noticed fuel just gushing out of one of the side panels and splashing on the exhaust. My entire tank (Aprox 2 gallons) emptied in a matter of 1-2 minutes. This is the first time this has happened to me but from research on online forums www.chromeheads.com it is very common. This could have caused a major fire. The fuel was dripping directly onto my hot exhaust pipes, legs and boots. If the fuel had caught on fire it would have caused me serious…
Tires · at 5,530 miles · reported Aug 23, 2005
Traveling home on two lane divided highway at 55 MPH. I had traveled 40 miles from my starting point prior to event. Heard a loud pop and air escaping from rear tire. The tire went flat and the motorcycle moved violently from side to side and flipped. I tried to control but the bike flipped me off and I sustained injuries. I talked with the repair shop and they found no holes in the tire although felt the valve stem failed due to rubber failure. This motorcycle is only two years old have others failed so early?
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2003 BMW R1200C have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2003 BMW R1200C as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2003 BMW R1200C?
Owners report suspension problems most often (4 reports), followed by power train (4). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 5,530 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.