Malfunction after update
The E-Call system is designed to automatically notify emergency services in the event of an accident and transmit the location of the motorcycle. However, due to the programming error, this automatic emergency call may not be triggered. In rare cases, a one-time warning message is supposed to appear in the cockpit indicating the failure – but this could be overlooked by the rider.
Affected models
According to BMW of North America, a total of around 33 motorcycles are affected in the US, which corresponds to 100 percent of the 2025 models equipped with E-Call there. The following series are affected:
- BMW R 1300 GS (2025)
- BMW R 1300 GS Adventure (2025)
- BMW K 1600 GT (2025)
- BMW F 900 GS (2025)
- BMW F 800 GS (2025)
- BMW S 1000 R (2025)
- BMW S 1000 RR (2025)
Timeline of the recall
BMW submitted a safety report to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on July 25, 2025. As of July 16, 2025, the company had not received any reports of accidents or injuries related to the defect. Dealers were informed on July 23, 2025. Owners are to be notified in writing from around September 12, 2025.
Remedy and costs
The problem will be remedied via an over-the-air (OTA) update of the affected control units. Owners will be informed in the letters how they can check the function of their eCall system themselves. If necessary, the update can also be carried out free of charge at an authorized BMW dealer.
Contact information
Affected customers in the US can contact BMW Customer Service at 1-800-525-7417. Alternatively, the NHTSA hotline is available at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-888-275-9171). Further information is available at www.nhtsa.gov.
Since motorcycles are usually built in one factory for the global market, other regions may also be affected.
