2 recalls and 1 owner complaint on file with NHTSA for the 2003 BMW R 1150 GS Adventure.
2
recalls
1
owner complaints
0
complaints mentioning a crash
0
mentioning a fire
Recalls apply to specific production ranges. To see whether a particular car still has an open recall, enter its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Repairs for safety recalls are free at authorised dealers.
2003 BMW R 1150 GS Adventure recalls
Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components, hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
NHTSA campaign 03V325000 · reported August 26, 2003 · BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE · 1,397 vehicles potentially affected
The problem
On certain motorcycles, due to the material composition of the rear brake hose, the hose may split open during riding conditions in which a full extension of the rear suspension occurs. In some cases, the hose may also have been routed incorrectly to the caliper aggravating the condition.
The risk
As a result, a loss of brake fluid and brake pressure can occur, possibly resulting in rear brake failure. A crash could occur.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the rear brake hose. It will be rerouted on motorcycles in which a hose of the new material specification has already been installed. The brake hose will be replaced and rerouted on all other affected motorcycles. Owner notification began on september 12, 2003. Owners should contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117, option #4.
Power train: manual transmission
NHTSA campaign 02V319000 · reported November 27, 2002 · BAYERISCHE MOTOREN WERKE · 515 vehicles potentially affected
The problem
On certain motorcycles, it is possible that the 3rd and 4th transmission gear (shift) wheels may not be securely seated on the intermediate shaft. Consequently, when attempting to shift from 5th to 6th gear, engagement of the two gears may occur simultaneously.
The risk
If this happens, the gear wheels could crack resulting in a loss of transmission capability, or, a lock of transmission could occur. The rear wheel could lock which, depending upon traffic and road conditions, and the rider's reaction, could affect the stability of the motorcycle.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the motorcycles and replace the transmission gear box if necessary. Owner notification is expected to begin during december 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact bmw at 1-800-831-1117, option #4.
Most reported problems
Areas named in owner complaints to NHTSA. One complaint can name several areas.
Power train1
What owners report
Recent complaints filed with NHTSA, shortened. These are unverified accounts from owners, not findings.
Oct 7, 2013 · Power train · 92,000 miles
THE THIRD REAR DRIVE FAILURE ON THE MY 2004/2003 1150 GSA MOTORCYCLE. THE LAST ONE HAPPENED IN OCTOBER OF THIS YEAR. AND JUNE OF THIS YEAR THE FIRST TIME THE FINAL DRIVE FAILED IT HAPPENED IN AUGUST IN 2010 ON MY WAY HOME ON INTERSTATE 90 IN WASHINGTON, THIS PAST JUNE 2013 IT HAPPENED IN LOGAN UTAH AND THIS PAST…
Does the 2003 BMW R 1150 GS Adventure have any recalls?
Yes. NHTSA lists 2 recalls for the 2003 BMW R 1150 GS Adventure, the most recent reported on August 26, 2003 (Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components, hoses, lines/piping, and fittings). Check a specific car by its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What are the most common problems with the 2003 BMW R 1150 GS Adventure?
Owners have filed 1 complaint with NHTSA. The most frequently reported area is power train (1 complaints).
How many 2003 BMW R 1150 GS Adventure complaints mention a crash or fire?
0 of 1 complaints report a crash and 0 a fire; 0 injuries were reported in total. Complaints are unverified reports from owners.
Source: NHTSA recall and complaint data, updated October 27, 2026. Latest complaint received October 7, 2013.