BMW recall: 2021–2024 R 18 – power train
BMW of North America, LLC is recalling 2021–2024 BMW R 18 because of a fire risk – 4,630 vehicles (potentially affected). The recall report reached NHTSA on October 7, 2026. Distributed nationwide.
Lower risk A safety recall: the manufacturer or NHTSA found a vehicle defect that poses a risk to safety, or a failure to meet a federal safety standard. The remedy is free.

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| Product | 2021–2024 BMW R 18 |
| Brand | BMW |
| Company | BMW of North America, LLC |
| Type | Vehicles |
| Classification | Vehicle |
| Report received | October 7, 2026 |
| Published by NHTSA | October 7, 2026 |
| Quantity | 4,630 vehicles (potentially affected) |
| Recall ID | 26V658000 |
Vehicles in this recall
| Make | Model | Model years |
|---|---|---|
| BMW | R 18 | 2021–2024 |
Identifiers and details
- NHTSA campaign number
- 26V658000
- Component
- POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SEALS/GASKETS
- Built
- 2020-09-09 to ?
- Recalled part
- Reverse Gear Control Unit · Reverse Gear Control Unit · 9444031
- Initiated by
- Manufacturer
Why it was recalled
The problem: a fire risk.
NHTSA's defect summary: “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.”
The consequence, according to NHTSA: “An overheated reverse gear control unit increases the risk of a fire.”
What to do
NHTSA: “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.”
Enter your 17-character vehicle identification number (VIN) at nhtsa.gov/recalls or on the manufacturer's site to see whether your vehicle is included. Safety recall repairs are free at an authorized dealer, even if the vehicle is used or out of warranty.
Official notice: NHTSA recall 26V658000.
Other vehicle recalls
| Date | Recall | Problem | Agency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 9, 2026 | a fire risk Lower risk | NHTSA Equipment | |
| Oct 9, 2026 | a crash risk Lower risk | NHTSA Vehicle | |
| Oct 8, 2026 | a fire risk Most serious | NHTSA Vehicle | |
| Oct 8, 2026 | an injury risk Lower risk | NHTSA Vehicle | |
| Oct 8, 2026 | a fire risk Lower risk | NHTSA Vehicle | |
| Oct 7, 2026 | a crash risk Serious | NHTSA Vehicle |
About this recall
Is BMW 2021–2024 BMW R 18 recalled?
Yes. BMW of North America, LLC reported the recall to NHTSA on October 7, 2026; NHTSA published it October 7, 2026 (Vehicle). Only the vehicles listed on this page are included.
Why was it recalled?
Because of a fire risk. 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.
What should I do if I have it?
NHTSA says: 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.
Where was it sold?
Nationwide.
More recalls
Source: recall records published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (openFDA Enforcement Reports), the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service, the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, collected twice a day. Product names, lot codes, dates and model numbers are shown exactly as the agency lists them; the agency's notice is the authority. 77.today is not affiliated with any of these agencies.