Known New-Style Starter Switch Problem 2013 F800GS

[Avner]

This is not related to the starting issue thread, so I opened a new one for others to be aware of this:

I traded in my Sertao a month ago for a new 2013 F800GS (LOVE IT!), and I only got 800 miles on it.

This morning was the second time I experienced this issue: I turned the key on and waited for the gauges cycle to finish, and hit the starter button: NOTHING. Not a click or a sound. Bike is in Neutral, and the side stand is up. I have the ADVMonster volt-meter installed so I can see 12.5VDC of power available. Tried a few more times until it finally clicked and as soon as the starter was running the bike started with no problems. This morning it was 35f, but last time it was in the 50's.

Long story short - I called the dealer and they say it is a known issue with the new-style switch, where it is actually engaging the kill-switch at the same time you push the starter button. I just got my oil and filter to do my 600-mile service, but now I have to go to the dealer for them to change the switch anyway. Needless to say - this will be replaced at no cost.

[JRWooden]

Funny how they know it ... and yet ...
Oh never mind it's not nice to rant....

Thanks for passing that on, glad you were not 500 miles into a RTW trip!

[Snowy]

Known issues you say....quelle surprise!!

It's a German bike. It isn't an issue, it's a character trait.

[MikeMike]

Originally Posted by Avner

the new-style switch, where it is actually engaging the kill-switch at the same time you push the starter

Gentlemen, this is not a case of engineering design problems it is a case of geo-political problems.

The starter button is made in Germany, and the kill switch is made in various other member nations of the Euro community: France, Greece, Ireland, and Spain
Hence the conflict.
Rumor has it that the new Motorrad assistence line will actually ring directly into the UN building.

[Endurodude]

Originally Posted by MikeMike

The starter button is made in Germany, and the kill switch is made in various other member nations of the Euro community: France, Greece, Ireland, and Spain

If the kill switches were made in Greece, I appreciate the irony there!

[Avner]

Interesting thread twist...:-)

I'm glad nobody else is experiencing this so far. Yesterday it was 28f when I left for work + I had a few more appointments during the day, and I never had a miss-fire on the starter button. I decided not to bring it in unless I have to. I'll do my own service this weekend and check the switch while at it, but that's it for now.

[MikeMike]

I noticed it froze the nuts off your camel.

[Avner]

Originally Posted by MikeMike

I noticed it froze the nuts off your camel.

No - those were my nuts...

[biodieselandon]

This is good to know. Guess I have to have my dealer look at this and the traction control issue.

[MikeMike]

Even if it's under warranty, skip the nut check.

[qcridgerunner]

I am experiencing exactly what Avner described initially. 2013 F8 with 3 000 kms was left uncovered for the past 3 days in heavy rains. Tried to start it 5 minutes ago with no action whatsoever, even though I have power for the lights and the computer. The rocker switch actually feels funny. Will try to dry it out with a hair drier when the rain stops tomorrow. It is effin snowing right now !!!
Anybody else had that problem ?

[ebrabaek]

Originally Posted by MikeMike

Gentlemen, this is not a case of engineering design problems it is a case of geo-political problems.

The starter button is made in Germany, and the kill switch is made in various other member nations of the Euro community: France, Greece, Ireland, and Spain
Hence the conflict.
Rumor has it that the new Motorrad assistence line will actually ring directly into the UN building.

[Bumbobee]

Is there a recall for this? I'm going in for my first service Tuesday, if I tell my dealer about it can they replace the switch to the new one?