2013 BMW R 1200 GS
Only 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 6 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 2004 | 0 |
| 2005 | 14 |
| 2006 | 5 |
| 2007 | 16 |
| 2008 | 14 |
| 2009 | 12 |
| 2010 | 2 |
| 2011 | 6 |
| 2012 | 10 |
| 2013 | 6 |
| 2014 | 9 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
2 of 6 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
The contact owns a 2013 BMW R 1200 GS Motorcycle. The contact stated while riding at 70 MPH, there was an abnormal clanking sound coming from the motorcycle. There was no warning light illuminated.
NHTSA ODI report, 20240719
DEALER NOTIFIED ME THAT A "FLOATING SHAFT" EXISTS IN THE GEARBOX, MEANING THE SHAFT MOVES BACK AND FORTH AXIALLY, AS OPPOSED TO RADIALLY.
NHTSA ODI report, 20200626
2 of 6 total reports mention: fuel/propulsion system.
Show complaint excerpts
Riding at freeway speeds fuel system is spilling out fuel down both sides of the engine. I smelled strong fuel smell while riding but was unable to stop until almost home.
NHTSA ODI report, 20241029
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2013 BMW R 1200 GS. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE CONTACT SMELLED FUEL AND NOTICED THAT THE FUEL TANK WAS LEAKING WITHOUT WARNING.
NHTSA ODI report, 20190808
1 of 6 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
LEAKS DETECTED ON BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT FORKS/SUSPENSION. REQUIRES REPLACING THE FORK SEALS AND REBUILDING THE FORKS WHEN THE MOTORCYCLE HAS LESS THAN 26,000 MILES. *TR
NHTSA ODI report, 20200626
1 of 6 total reports mentions: fuel system, gasoline.
SAFETY TIMELINE
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2013 R 1200 GS motorcycles manufactured November 2012 through August 2013. Pressure inside the transmission may cause the transmission output seal to be pushed out of place.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will fit a bracket to prevent the transmission seal from being pushed out of position, free of charge. The recall began on June 17, 2014. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Campaign 14V211000 — check if this car was fixed
BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2011-2014 S 1000 RR/R/ HP4, R 1200 GS/GS Adventure/R/RT, K 1300 S, K 1600 GT/GTL/GTL Exclusive and 2014 R nine T motorcycles.
Remedy: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began March 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.
Campaign 21V060000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2013 BMW R 1200 GS — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for fuel/propulsion system issues (2 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 14V211000 (power train) has been completed.
- Verify recall 21V060000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2013 BMW R 1200 GS have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.