Front shock leak? (2011 R1200GS w/ ESA)

[leaplizard]

Hi all,

Long-time lurker, first-time poster. I'm hoping you fine gentlemen might be able to help confirm/deny the following issue with my 2011 R1200GS of 21k miles, ESA-equipped.

I took the bike on a short ride in the cold (below freezing) and noticed fluid under it after a break. I looked up under the front shock and found quite a mess of fluid that appears to coming from the hose under the front shock. I've never dealt with shock fluid but what I'm seeing seems cleaner, more transparent, and more colorful (blue/green?) than engine oil. No warnings or faults appeared on the instrument panel.



Am I correct in assuming this is probably fluid from the shock? If so, are there any things to know before hauling this thing off to the dealer for a warranty claim?

If I have overlooked an existing thread covering this, please advise. Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Regards,
leaplizard

[Cogswell]

If the bike is still covered by the warranty, just take it to the dealer.


Mike

[GeorgeinVA]

Originally Posted by leaplizard

Am I correct in assuming this is probably fluid from the shock? If so, are there any things to know before hauling this thing off to the dealer for a warranty claim?

You are correct that it is most likely shock oil. However read your warranty book and call the dealer, leaking shocks are usually not covered. If they say they will cover it get that statement in writing before you leave.

[WoodButcher]

My rear shock did that recently and I got a new shock under warranty. Mine is a 2009 that was purchased in early 2010.

[lufin]

My 2009 R1200GS front shock started leaking at 5000 mi. and the rear shortly there after. The dealer took pictures of both shocks to send to BMW. Less that two weeks later dealer called with the OK from BMW to replace the shocks .

[marty hill]

Originally Posted by GeorgeinVA

You are correct that it is most likely shock oil. However read your warranty book and call the dealer, leaking shocks are usually not covered. If they say they will cover it get that statement in writing before you leave.

Where did this come from? I sprung a leak at 13k on my '09 and it was cheerfully replaced by the dealer.

[GeorgeinVA]

Originally Posted by marty hill

Where did this come from? I sprung a leak at 13k on my '09 and it was cheerfully replaced by the dealer.

It came from working at a dealer (until 2010) and seeing several leaking shock claims denied. I also have seen several shocks covered. What is covered changes year to year.

[GeorgeinVA]

Also read it in this http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com/us/en/equipment/motorcycle_accessories/media/WPPM_MotorradPartsStatement.pdf
Under service and wear items
Or if you are in Canada http://www.bmw-motorrad.ca/common/warranty.php

[Okie Preacher]

I have 19 days until the warranty runs out on my '09. I expect to find that puddle under mine on February 14th.

[everycredit]

Originally Posted by Okie Preacher

I have 19 days until the warranty runs out on my '09. I expect to find that puddle under mine on February 14th.

It can happen on the 15th as well. Especially when you think you're out of danger.

[marty hill]

Amazed at how different dealers can be. Mine saw the leak/told me on the spot that they were ordering a new shock and it arrived the following week.

[leaplizard]

Thank you for the replies. The bike's at the dealer and they said warranty will cover it, no sweat.

Can't help but wonder if I should've skipped the ESA on a bike I'd like to keep for the long haul, though.

[GeorgeinVA]

Originally Posted by leaplizard

Can't help but wonder if I should've skipped the ESA on a bike I'd like to keep for the long haul, though.

You can put non ESA shocks on anytime you want with no issues. If you skipped the ESA you could not (with reasonable expense) add it later.

[2712]

On the last day of my warranty i blew up my rear spring, dealer fixed it under warranty.

Now a year later, i did the same, so i bought hyperpro's

[johnnuke]

The rear shock (ESA) on my 09 R1200GS pissed oil all over the place about 2 weeks ago. Had some non-ESA Ohlins put on it. Much better shocks than the originals.