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Spring Strut Adjustment Faulty and other info

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fleabag

fleabag

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R 18B

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This error has been popping up over the last few rides. Today, there were times when I would clear it an it would pop right back up. And today, along with that error was a distance something error. There were so many today that one of them finally threw a fault code that was saved. A quick scan shows that the faults were the result of an over voltage. I did notice when riding that the voltage display on the dash was jumping around from 12.x to 15.x. I’ll have to pull the battery and make sure there are no connection issues and perhaps replace the battery. The bike is a ‘22 model so it would not surprise me if it’s time.

Oh, this all happened after I got the bike back from the reverse recall. Coincidence? :-O
 
What was the fault code(s)?

Does the Reverse function?

The Reverse Recall does require that power be removed from the bike; perhaps, check the Negative (-) connection and make sure the Ground is tight.

Same on the (+) terminal; however, removing the Ground is typically the move when power needs to be removed.

My R18 B FE is also a YR22; battery is still strong, also had the Reverse Recall Campaign completed on the bike.
 
Star-Lord said:
What was the fault code(s)?

Does the Reverse function?

The Reverse Recall does require that power be removed from the bike; perhaps, check the Negative (-) connection and make sure the Ground is tight.

Same on the (+) terminal; however, removing the Ground is typically the move when power needs to be removed.

My R18 B FE is also a YR22; battery is still strong, also had the Reverse Recall Campaign completed on the bike.
Click to expand...
There are over voltage fault codes on multiple systems, ABS, distance control, and others. I also notice the voltage fluctuating as shown on the dash when riding. I’m pretty sure that it’s normally a pretty steady voltage reading on the dash. Take a peek at your voltage display when you get a chance and let me know if it’s steady. If I recall, mine was normally around 14.1 volts when riding, but with this error it was jumping around by a couple of volts.
 
fleabag said:
There are over voltage fault codes on multiple systems, ABS, distance control, and others. I also notice the voltage fluctuating as shown on the dash when riding. I’m pretty sure that it’s normally a pretty steady voltage reading on the dash. Take a peek at your voltage display when you get a chance and let me know if it’s steady. If I recall, mine was normally around 14.1 volts when riding, but with this error it was jumping around by a couple of volts.
Click to expand...
Agreed.. my bike is typically 13.8 V to 14.1 V

A loose connection will create high current through resistive arching ... High voltage would indicate low current conditions... I'm not sure how much current the strut and or the ABS pump draws, but I would think it is on the higher side when compared to other systems..

Are you able to reproduce the errors and or behavior?

Check the battery connections, as well as poke around on the Reverse module; if everything looks good, try replacing the battery...
 
This is what AI says when I asked if an over voltage error can be generated from a loose battery connection. Apparently it “remembered’ that I also have a R1200RT. I didn’t say anything about the model in my question.

Yes, you can get an over-voltage fault from a loose battery connection—especially on vehicles like motorcycles with sensitive electronics (e.g., your BMW R1200RT).

🔧 Why This Happens
When a battery terminal is loose or corroded, it can cause intermittent contact, leading to:
  • Voltage spikes: The alternator may briefly “overcharge” when it sees the battery as disconnected.
  • Regulator confusion: The voltage regulator depends on solid battery feedback. If the connection is weak, it may try to compensate, unintentionally spiking system voltage.
  • ECU error detection: Modern ECUs will flag any voltage out of the normal range (usually >15V) as an over-voltage condition.
⚠️ Signs of This Problem
  • Over-voltage fault codes (e.g., “battery voltage too high”).
  • Flickering lights, strange dash warnings, or accessory malfunctions.
  • Battery not charging properly even when the alternator is fine.
  • Burnt smell near the battery or regulator if prolonged.
✅ What to Do
  1. Tighten the terminals: Make sure both are snug and clean (no white or green corrosion).
  2. Clean contacts: Use a wire brush or terminal cleaner.
  3. Check ground wires: A poor ground can act just like a loose positive.
  4. Reset faults: Clear the code (with a GS-911, Motoscan app, or dealer tool) after the fix to see if it returns.

If you’re consistently seeing over-voltage errors even after fixing the battery connection, the voltage regulator/rectifier or battery itself may be failing.
 
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