2008 BMW R1200 RT: problems, recalls and reliability
2 recalls and 23 owner complaints on record; most reports concern fuel/propulsion system; the 2009 model year looks more trouble-free.
Data updated weekly · latest recall Aug 2020
All counts are reports filed with NHTSA in the United States - US market only, not worldwide totals.
Common problems
Computed from 23 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for this exact model year.
“This series of motorcycles has a common problem with cracks in the throttle pulleys on the throttle body. Failure of this plastic part will result in instant loss of power. I have been reading about this problem, and decided to inspect the two throttle bodies on my motorcycle as a precaution. Both of mine were cracked. One of the pulleys has three cracks in it, and would likely have failed within a short time. See photos included with this report.”Owner report · Fuel/Propulsion System · Apr 2019
“Fuel pump leaking from a crack in the high pressure output line sprayed gasoline on the inside of the fairing, motor and my leg. The pump sprays gasoline anytime the key is in the on position.”Owner report · Fuel/Propulsion System · Aug 2017
“ABS pump motor is failing on many of the same model bikes and some other 2006-2008 model bmw bikes with low mileage, because the brush holders in the ABS electrical motor are too tight and brushes get stuck in them - bad design of the ABS pump motor. Bmw will ask you loads of monies for the replacement of the pump, even tho they are fully aware it's a problem with many of the bikes.”Owner report · Service Brakes · Jul 2017
Show 7 more owner reports
“The brake failure light came on, bmw shop said ABS unit is bad $2000 fix. On many bmw motorcycle forums there are many ABS unit failures. Bmw knows about these failures but does nothing.”Owner report · Service Brakes · Jan 2017
“Vehicle has 6000 miles on it. Previous owner had a receipt from the dealer showing the fuel level sensor had been replaced under warranty. Fuel indicator shows 1/4 tank of fuel, and engine computer shows 92 miles range. Vehicle stalled at an intersection, out of fuel. I was able to push the motorcycle out of traffic, but it could have been a dangerous situation.”Owner report · Fuel/Propulsion System · Oct 2016
“Brake failure light came on while riding. Investigation by mechanic shows ABS has failed. Bike only has 26,000 miles. This is unacceptable and should be a recall based on information and reports on the various lists and boards I participate on. Fault codes 24048 (ABS pump motor defective) and 24049 (power supply to pump motor faulty). This is a design defect and based on it being an integral braking system failure should be recalled and repaired by manufacturer.”Owner report · Service Brakes · Aug 2016
“The ABS module failed while it was being driven on a highway. The dealer and bmw asked if it was parked outside and it was for a short time only. They said the module corroded. It is a sealed module and if it corroded it must have been defective in order to all the elements necessary in for it to corrode. Fortunately I am a very experienced rider and quickly released the brake as it locked up (what the ABS system is to prevent. I have never heard of an ABS module failing like this. I discussed this with the dealer and bmw and both declined to help.”Owner report · Service Brakes · Jan 2016
“With just 16124 miles, my motorcycle has a final drive ring bearing failure. The bmw dealer diagnosed the problem when conducting the rear flange recall repair. This failure is so common that it has become endemic. Bmw offers no help with the repair an obvious design error.”Owner report · Power Train · Aug 2015
“I was riding along at about 50 mph when the motorcycle began experiencing a lack of stability and directional control. It felt like I had a flat tire. At the same time there was loud rumbling and a vibration felt throughout the bike. *tr”Owner report · Power Train · Aug 2014
“Tl* the contact owns a 2008 bmw r1200rt motorcycle. The contact stated that while driving 45 mph, the drive shaft fractured and caused the rear wheel to lock. The contact was able to coast on to the road shoulder but suffered scrapes and bruises while doing so. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and current mileage was 52,000. Updated 09-18-13 *bf”Owner report · Power Train · Aug 2013
When filing, owners marked a crash in 0 of these complaints and injuries in 1 - self-reported to NHTSA, not verified accident statistics.
Recalls - 2 campaigns
BMW IS RECALLING 1,535 MY 2007-2009 R1200RT MOTORCYCLES. DUE TO ROUTING AND ASSEMBLY TOLERANCES OF THE FRONT BRAKE LINES, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR THE LINES TO BE UNDER STRAIN. IN COMBINATION WITH VIBRATION DURING RIDING, THE BRAKE LINES COULD DEVELOP A LEAK. THE LEVEL OF FLUID IN THE FRONT BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR COULD DROP RENDERING THE FRONT BRAKES INOPERATIVE.
Remedy: BMW WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPAIR THE MOTORCYCLES WITH NEW FRONT BRAKE LINES, WITH MODIFIED ROUTING FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 5, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BMW AT 1-800-831-1117.
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2009-2011 K1300 (S, GT), 2010-2011 S1000 RR, 2005-2011 R1200 (GS, GS Adventure, R, RT, S, ST), 2006-2010 HP2 (Enduro, Megamoto, Sport), 2005-2008 K1200 (R, R Sport, S, GT), and 2012 K1600 (GT, GTL) motorcycles that were repaired under recall 13V-617 with the support ring remedy and where the fuel pump was not replaced at a later date. This recall involves the fuel pump, and also the auxiliary fuel pump as applicable. The affected motorcycles have a fuel pump flange that may crack, possibly resulting in a fuel leak while the engine is running.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump(s) with an improved version, free of charge. The recall began January 18, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
How other years compare
Check your exact R1200 RT by VIN
Recalls and equipment differ between individual vehicles. Decode your VIN to see what applies to yours.
Open VIN decoderFrequently asked questions
Is the 2008 BMW R1200 RT reliable?
NHTSA has 23 owner complaints and 2 recall campaigns on record for the 2008 BMW R1200 RT. The most complained-about area is fuel/propulsion system.
Does the 2008 BMW R1200 RT have open recalls?
2 recall campaigns have been issued, the latest concerning service brakes, hydraulic. Check your specific vehicle by VIN - recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Source: NHTSA recall campaigns and owner complaints (public domain). Counts reflect reports on file and are not a defect rate.