2017-2025 BMW K 1600 Recall 26V214: Control Unit Seal

Recall 26V214 affects 9,160 2017-2025 BMW K 1600 motorcycles for an overheating reverse gear control unit. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.

What's wrong?

The reverse gear control unit on 2017-2025 BMW K 1600 B, K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, and K 1600 Grand America motorcycles is the electrical module that manages the reverse gear feature. On these large touring motorcycles, reverse gear helps the rider move the motorcycle backward at low speed. The control unit needs a sealed housing so its internal contacts stay dry and carry current normally.

The problem is the seal around that control unit deteriorates over time. Once the seal breaks down, humidity can get inside the unit. Moisture then corrodes the internal electrical contacts, especially after long exposure to hot and humid conditions. Corroded contacts can make the unit overheat and, in rare cases, raise the risk of a thermal event.

The warning sign is loss of reverse gear function. If reverse stops working, treat that as a sign that the control unit needs dealer inspection under recall 26V214.

Who's affected?

Spans four K 1600 variants across nine model years, all tied to the reverse gear control unit. VINs become searchable on May 25, 2026; until then, the VIN-by-VIN list is not public.

The year and model narrow the scope, but the VIN decides. Once VINs are searchable, check your VIN to confirm whether your specific motorcycle is included.

What's the safety risk?

An overheated reverse gear control unit increases the risk of a fire. Loss of reverse gear function is the warning sign to treat seriously. If reverse gear stops working, park in a safe place and call a BMW dealer for repair guidance. Repair is free at any franchised BMW dealer.

What should I do?

1. Check your VIN to confirm whether your 2017-2025 BMW K 1600 B, K 1600 GT, K 1600 GTL, or K 1600 Grand America is included.
2. Contact a franchised BMW dealer to schedule the free reverse gear control unit replacement that stops the moisture-damaged unit from overheating.
3. Bring the BMW owner letter if it has arrived. If not, reference recall number 26V214 when you call.
4. Call BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 with questions about timing, parts, or dealer scheduling.
5. Avoid riding until the dealer confirms the repair plan if you notice heat, smoke, or a burning smell near the reverse gear control unit.

What happens at the repair

At the dealer, a BMW technician replaces the reverse gear control unit covered by the recall. The replacement parts and labor are free under the recall. If you've already paid out of pocket for this same remedy before the recall notice, BMW's standard reimbursement plan covers eligible documented expenses. Bring repair invoices, receipts, and proof of payment to the service desk or contact BMW customer service for the claim process.

Timeline

Frequently asked questions

More information

Source documents

• Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF) · RCAK
• Download Recall Report (PDF) · RCLRPT

This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 18, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →