Quick & Dirty ABS Reset Procedure for BMW R1100GS & R1150GS

🔧 Quick & Dirty ABS Reset Procedure for BMW R1100GS and R1150GS

If you’re dealing with alternating flashing ABS lights on your R1100GS or R1150GS, it’s likely your ABS system has faulted—possibly due to low voltage during startup, a battery change, or temporary sensor error. Below are two field-tested procedures to reset the ABS system and clear that error. ⚠️

⚠️ IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTES

• Always turn the ignition OFF before probing the diagnostic connector.
• Avoid allowing wires or jumpers to contact unintended terminals—you’re working with electrical systems.

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🔧 Procedure #1 — For R1150GS

Cliff Notes Version:
Ground the Brown/Blue wire in the round diagnostic connector, hold the ABS button, turn on the ignition for 1 minute, turn off ignition, remove ground.

Full Steps:

1. Remove the seat and locate the round 3-pin Diagnostic Connector clipped to the airbox.
2. Prepare a jumper wire (paperclip, test lead, or alligator clip).
3. With the ignition OFF, identify:
   • Pin #2 (Brown/Blue wire) – this is the ABS reset line.
   • Pin #4 (Brown wire) – this is ground.
     (Tiny numbers are molded on the connector where the wires enter.)
4. Jumper Pins 2 and 4 together using the jumper wire.
5. Turn the ignition ON, then press and hold the ABS button on the left handlebar.
6. Wait about 1 minute, then:
   • Release the ABS button.
   • Turn the ignition OFF.
   • Remove the jumper.
7. Turn the ignition back ON.
   If successful, the two ABS lights will now flash together (not alternately).

💡 Troubleshooting tip: If it doesn’t work, try pressing and holding the ABS button before turning the ignition on.

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🔧 Procedure #2 — For R1100GS

Cliff Notes Version:
Remove the blue terminator from the 3-wire plug near the toolkit, ground the center terminal, turn on ignition, hold ABS button for 8 seconds, turn off, remove ground, refit terminator.

Full Steps:

1. Turn the ignition OFF.
2. Remove the rider and pillion seats.
3. Locate the 3-wire diagnostic plug near the toolkit and remove the blue termination cap.
   • (This connector is not plugged into anything—it’s just for diagnostics.)
4. Insert one end of a jumper wire into the center terminal.
5. Clip the other end to a known good ground on the bike.
6. Turn the ignition ON — the ABS lights should begin flashing alternately.
7. Press and hold the ABS button (on left handlebar) for 8 seconds.
   • The bottom ABS light should stay on, and the top one off.
8. Release the ABS button.
   • If successful, both ABS lights will come on briefly.
   • If not, the top light will remain off—check your ground or try again.
9. Turn the ignition OFF, remove the wire, and refit the blue terminator.

💡 Tip: Some riders find that holding the ABS button before turning the ignition on helps ensure a successful reset.

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⚠️ Caveat Emptor

This article contains information based on real-world experience and is offered for educational use. The procedures described may not be officially endorsed by BMW Motorrad. Always use caution when working with electrical systems. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable performing this reset, seek assistance from a qualified technician.

This article may also refer to third-party sources or community-contributed techniques. While every effort is made to present accurate and helpful guidance, the author is not responsible for the outcome of repairs or modifications based on this information.