BMW Motorrad North America announced yesterday it will be recalling 50,184 motorcycles ranging from 2005-2012 due to potential fuel leaks. The models affected are the 2005-2011 R-models, 2005-2012 K-models, 2010-2011 S1000RR models, and 2006-2010 HP2 models.
According to BMW, the reason for the recall is the fuel pump flange and auxiliary fuel pump flange may develop cracks and leak, which may result in fires.
The investigation report released by the NHTSA stated that “owners of 2004-2011 R-series reported pressurized fuel loss when the fuel pump was energized.” The report identified the source of the leak as cracks that may develop in the fuel pump housing’s output quick connector which is made of plastic.
According to the NHTSA, this is a problem that BMW has been aware since at least 2011 because they attempted to remedy the issue by reinforcing the fuel pump flange with a metal collar to prevent future leakage.
This may not be news to BMW owners as a nearly identical recall was issued in 2004. In that instance, an o-ring in one of the fuel line quick-connects would often go bad, or one of the fuel line crimps would fail, spraying pressurized fuel.
Although BMW’s assessment of the recall found the fire risk to be low and fuel loss to be minimal, many owners told stories to the contrary. The complaints ranged from fuel soaked pant legs to soaked garage floors.
BMW has announced they will be remedying the situation by notifying owners, and either replace the fuel pump or reinforce the existing pump flange.
The recall is expected to begin in February 2014. Concerned owners may contact BMW customer relations at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRelations@bmwusa.com. As always, the NHTSA is also available at 1-888-327-4236 and safercar.gov.
Source: NHTSA
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