Failed reverser mechanism recall. Dealer replaced the module and claimed reverese is still inoperable and I needed to pay to have it diagnosed. Even though the problem started with less than 1000 miles on the bike. Being unable to back the heavy bike up without assistance forces me to either try to push it when needed or have someone, or multiple people, try to push the bike manually creating risk of injury and property damage.
The worst 2021 BMW R 18 problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
- Transmission1
Problems by type
Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.
- Transmission1
Recalls 2
Power train: manual transmission: seals/gaskets
- What is wrong
- BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2024 R 18 motorcycles equipped with the optional reverse gear. The seal for the reverse gear control unit may deteriorate and allow moisture inside the control unit, which can result in the unit overheating.
- Risk
- An overheated reverse gear control unit increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the reverse gear control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 27, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1‑800‑525‑7417. Motorcycles in this recall were previously recalled under 24V716. Motorcycles previously repaired under the prior recall will need the new repair completed.
Recall number 26V658000 · Recall details
Power train: manual transmission: seals/gaskets
- What is wrong
- BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2024 BMW R18 motorcycles. The seal for the reverse gear control unit may deteriorate and allow moisture inside the control unit, which can result in the unit overheating.
- Risk
- An overheated reverse gear control unit increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy
- As an interim remedy, the reverse gear control unit will be disconnected from the electrical system of the motorcycle, free of charge. Dealers will install an electrical relay between the battery and the reverse gear control unit, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on April 7, 2025 Owners may contact BMW Customer Service at 1‑800‑525‑7417.
Recall number 24V716000 · Recall details
Technical service bulletins for the 2021 BMW R 18 12
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
- The taper spline between the driveshaft and the rear drive assembly were assembled dry on certain vehicles
- The electrical system of BMW vehicles has been subject to an ongoing development process over the last few...
- Replace emission control information
- Replace emission control information.
- On K34 and K35 motorcycles, the battery must be removed to access and test the wiring at the DME (engine...
- In an effort to continuously improve Motorrad connectivity capabilities, an important software update for...
- Customer may complain of a noisy fuel pump
- When diagnosing fault codes (0x3A13D7, 0x3A13D9), technicians erroneously condemn the electronic throttle...
- In very rare instances, only the dipped beams (low beams) may be functional; during that time, other...
- Brackets holding the front LED turn signals are susceptible to rust with exposure to moisture.
What 2021 BMW R 18 owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
Compare the 2021 BMW R 18
Other model years
20212022
Questions about the 2021 BMW R 18
Is the 2021 BMW R 18 reliable?
Owners have filed 1 complaint about the 2021 BMW R 18, fewer than a typical R 18 model year.
What is the most common problem with the 2021 BMW R 18?
Transmission and drivetrain, with 1 complaint.
How many recalls does the 2021 BMW R 18 have?
2 recalls, covering power train.
Was there a recall on the 2021 BMW R 18 transmission?
Yes, 2 recalls: 26V658000, 24V716000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.
VIN decoder
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