Ignition switch problems (merged thread)

[sas-boy]

Did somebody curse you Tim?

My 800GS has been no bother and it's never been on the magic bus. I hope 2010 works out better for you

Year 1 I had done 10k all weather 3to4 hours heavy rain to and from London and it's still faultless still loving my 800GS I hope you have more look this year.

 

[mcbikerider]

Hello,

Today I experienced the exact same problems with my 650 GS 2008 model (twin). Waking up to a beautiful day I decided to wash my bike and then head off for a long trip around the mountains.

Well - I didn't get anywhere I have spent the entire day trying to start my bike and after giving up I read this thread. I have an original BMW battery charger so I know the battery is in top shape (I always charge the battery when the bike is parked). Also, I drove my bike several times yesterday without problems.

I believe some droplets of water have entered the ignition switch when I was washing the bike causing the same problems as decribed above. When playing around with the key I (sometimes) manage to get the instruments to act normal - ie. light up, needles go all the way to the right and then back again etc. etc. Gear is in neutral and everything ready to push the "start engine" button. However, when I press the button everything just dies. There is a click, the instruments shut down and then .... nothing.

Sometimes when I turn the ignition off - the instruments light up, needles points toward 0 with a buzzing noise etc. etc. This even happens when there is no key in the ignition.

So - I guess I have to turn the bike in to my dealer on Monday I really don't want to do this as I guess it will take weeks before I get it back.

Aaarrgggh!

 

[Elmonosabio]

OK, it was a stupid thing to do...

...but in all the excitement of this beautiful weather I washed my 2006 R1200 GSA with a power washer. It worked fine for about an hour afterwards. Now it won't start. The rest of the electrics seem fine, just that nothing happens when I push the start button.

Any suggestions gratefully (and abashedly) accepted...

Many thanks.

 

[GunZenBomZ]

Park it in a garage with a good heater on?

 

[Elmonosabio]

Thanks... I gave up and now it's at the dealer. Holding breath to see what the damage is...

 

[AndyT]

...but in all the excitement of this beautiful weather I washed my 2006 R1200 GSA with a power washer. It worked fine for about an hour afterwards. Now it won't start. The rest of the electrics seem fine, just that nothing happens when I push the start button.

Any suggestions gratefully (and abashedly) accepted...

Many thanks.

Have you checked yur side stand switch!! these can be a little tempramental (sp) and worth checking out.

 

[Jonnie Boy]

My ignition failed today! In a good way sort of! Turned the key to off....... and the bike just kept on running! Doh!

Rang CW's who started blathering on about recovery trucks etc..... no probs sez I I'll ride it there now as it not a problem getting it goin!!

They sorted it there and then (after lunch break of course!)

Apparently, when quizzed if there was a problem with the ignitions on the 800GS....... 'they dont normally fail sir'

Yea right! thats why they knew which part it was that had failed and had one (maybe several) on the shelf!

How oftens this gonna go on for?? I do use my bike in all weathers!!

Anyone know the current situ/standpoint with BMW if theres a proper fix coming? cant be doing with a 'delicate' bike!

 

[StumpyFingers]

The Problem with WD40 is it attracts dirt, a Graphite lube is better.
I would however expect a bike ignition to be sealed against the weather.