BMW has rolled out a recall for the R 18, R 18 B and R 18 Transcontinental. The mounting points of the dipped beam reflector can be damaged by vibrations and possibly break.
BMW’s recall concerns the headlight. One or more mounting points to secure the upper and lower parts of the reflector in the headlight can be damaged or broken. If all suspension points break, the reflector can move out of position, causing the light beam to change shape and direction.
A loose reflector could be noticeable by a rattling sound from the headlight, a vibrating low beam and/or a shifted light beam. Inadequate lighting could lead to a crash in a worst-case scenario.
What is going on?
On October 17, 2023, it became clear to BMW that there had been several complaints from customers about the reflector in the headlight being loose, after which an investigation was started. The parts were sent to the factory for examination and the headlight supplier was contacted.
An initial analysis indicated damage due to vibrations, after which the test procedure and performance parameters of the development process were examined. This analysis showed that the vibrations of the R 18 models during driving in practice deviated from the profiles used in the development phase.
Parallel to the research, data from the market was also analyzed. It showed that between May 2022 and December 2023, BMW Motorrad had received approximately 8 customer complaints, 72 warranty claims and 68 dealer reports related to the issue.
The recall concerns the R 18, R 18 B and R 18 Transontinental from the years 2021-2024, which were produced between March 24, 2021 and December 28, 2023. Affected customers will be informed by BMW, a solution is still being worked on.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.