The new BMW R 1300 GS experiences strange and dangerous technical malfunctions, including fires. Trigger: the starter relay. BMW measures: delivery blocks and a “service campaign” – i.e. the first recall for the new R 1300 GS.
BMW delivered the new R 1300 GS to dealers from the beginning of November 2023, but vehicle handovers to customers were initially held back in November (delivery block) - and at the end of November there was a spectacular incident at our colleagues from 1000PS in Austria.
Smoking BMW R 1300 GS with 1000 HP
The test vehicle loaded into the transporter, the BMW R 1300 GS, suddenly turned the starter on its own in November 2023, as a result of which heat and fire developed with corresponding smoke and burn marks on the motorcycle. By quickly disconnecting the battery, something worse could probably have been prevented.
First statement from BMW in November 2023
BMW's first statement at the time: "On November 9, 2023, as part of a service campaign (BMW R 1300 GS, check starter relay and replace if necessary), a temporary delivery ban was imposed for the affected vehicles, which was linked to the implementation of this technical campaign The reason for this action is isolated damage to the plastic coating of the starter relay during initial installation. This can cause moisture to enter and lead to failure of the starter relay."
Problems with the starter relay seemed to be solved early on
According to BMW, 854 vehicles in Germany and 85 vehicles in Austria were affected at the time. “Since November 6, 2023, only vehicles without this error pattern have been delivered in series,” said BMW in a statement at the end of November. And further: "At the time of the delivery ban, all affected vehicles were still before handover or before registration, with the exception of a few demonstration vehicles, and will be fitted with new starter relays at short notice that do not show any damage. The R 1300 given to 1000PS for test purposes GS was one of the affected vehicles that had not yet been converted to a new starter relay."
New statement from BMW in January 2024
But apparently BMW still doesn't have the problems with the starter relay on the R 1300 GS under control at the end of January 2024. There were further fire-threatening incidents involving stationary and even moving motorcycles. The only effective countermeasure: disconnect the battery as quickly as possible. Latest statement from BMW: "For vehicles before delivery, the starter relays will be replaced before handover to the customer. For vehicles that have already been delivered, customers will be informed of the matter and asked to carry out the service campaign. Since January 16, 2024, only Vehicles delivered without this error pattern."
Another delivery ban and first recall campaign for the BMW R 1300 GS
In plain language this means: There is another delivery block and a recall campaign - this is the first for the new R 1300 GS. MOTORRAD inquiry regarding scope, duration and technical details is ongoing.