Q: How to adjust the DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) on the BMW S 1000 R?

The DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) of your BMW S 1000 R is adjusted via the riding mode system integrated into the TFT display menu. Here’s how to proceed: Accessing the DTC menu Use the Multi-Controller to navigate through the TFT display menus Go to the Riding Modes section Select from the available modes: Rain, Road, Dynamic, or Dynamic Pro, each offering a different level of DTC intervention Main features The DTC can be temporarily disabled if desired A warning light indicates the status of the DTC and its interventions A rapid flashing of the DTC light indicates an active intervention from the control system For precise step-by-step procedures, refer to Chapter 04 (Usage) and Chapter 09 (Technology in Detail) of your complete manual.

Question 1

What does the error message "traction control failure" mean on a BMW R 1200 GS Adventure?

Accepted Answer

Your BMW R 1200 GS Adventure has two traction control systems:

ASC (Automatic Stability Control) - standard system that detects instability on the rear wheel and automatically reduces engine torque.
DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) - available as an option through Pro riding modes, for more refined regulation.

If you receive a message indicating that traction control has failed, it can mean several things:

Flashing light while driving - The system normally intervenes to correct a loss of grip (a common situation during sudden acceleration on wet surfaces). This is normal operation.
Automatic test at startup - The ABS and ASC perform a self-diagnostic at startup. Wait a few seconds, the message usually disappears.
System manually disabled - Check the left switch. You may have intentionally turned off the system.
Detected fault - If the message persists while driving or the light stays on continuously, an electronic diagnosis is necessary. Consult a BMW Motorrad dealer.

The exact message displayed on your dashboard will help you identify the specific problem. The ASC and DTC systems are fully electronic and controlled by the motorcycle's computer - only a professional diagnosis can confirm a real malfunction.

Question 2

How to adjust the DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) on the BMW S 1000 R?

Accepted Answer

The DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) of your BMW S 1000 R is adjusted via the riding mode system integrated into the TFT display menu. Here’s how to proceed:

Accessing the DTC menu

Use the Multi-Controller to navigate through the TFT display menus
Go to the Riding Modes section
Select from the available modes: Rain, Road, Dynamic, or Dynamic Pro, each offering a different level of DTC intervention

Main features

The DTC can be temporarily disabled if desired
A warning light indicates the status of the DTC and its interventions
A rapid flashing of the DTC light indicates an active intervention from the control system

For precise step-by-step procedures, refer to Chapter 04 (Usage) and Chapter 09 (Technology in Detail) of your complete manual.

Question 3

How to reset the service overdue message after an engine oil change?

Accepted Answer

If you have performed the engine oil change yourself and BMW Nantes refuses to clear the "Service overdue" message, please note that this message can generally only be reset by an authorized BMW dealer via the diagnostic system.

However, a few points to clarify:

Warranty and maintenance: according to the manual, proof of maintenance work performed is a prerequisite for warranty coverage. Performing the oil change yourself with BMW oil is generally not recognized without documented proof.
Service message: the system displays two different alerts - "Service due" (in yellow) and then "Service overdue" when the deadline has passed. These messages are related to mileage and date (service every 10,000 km or once a year).
Oil check: you can check the oil level via the "My vehicle" menu on the TFT screen of the dashboard to confirm that the operation has been completed.

To have this message cleared permanently, you will need to contact another BMW dealer or an authorized BMW workshop specialized in diagnostics. Bring your BMW oil purchase receipt as proof.

Question 4

Why is the anti-theft alarm (DWA) no longer producing sound, even though the turn signals are activating?

Accepted Answer

If the DWA anti-theft alarm is activated (the turn signals are working) but is no longer producing a beep sound, several causes are possible:

Checks to perform

Status of the DWA battery - Check the TFT screen on the dashboard. If the message "DWA battery capacity low" or "DWA battery discharged" appears, the alarm system's battery is depleted. It can no longer emit the sound alert, even if the turn signals continue to function. Visit a specialized BMW workshop to replace this battery.
Failure of the DWA system - If the screen displays "DWA malfunction", the alarm system has a hardware anomaly. The sound alert is not functioning properly. A diagnosis at a BMW workshop is necessary.
Sound alert - The sound alert is located at the left stalk. It may have an electrical or mechanical defect without affecting the rest of the DWA system (the turn signals remain operational).

Recommendation: First, check the error messages displayed on the TFT screen. If no message appears but the sound continues to be absent, an electronic diagnosis via a BMW workshop will help pinpoint the fault (DWA battery, sound alert, or electronics).

Question 5

How to activate the alarm on a BMW R 1250 GS Adventure (2019)?

Accepted Answer

To activate the alarm on your BMW R 1250 GS Adventure (2019), follow the steps below:

Make sure the motorcycle is in the "OFF" position: the ignition key must be in the off position.
Turn the ignition to the "ON" position without starting the engine.
Use the remote control: press the button dedicated to the alarm, usually identifiable by a padlock or alarm symbol.
Activation confirmation: you should hear a beep or see the lights flash, indicating that the alarm is activated.
Check the indicator light on the dashboard, which should light up to confirm activation.

To deactivate the alarm, press the same button on the remote control again. If the alarm does not activate, check the remote control battery or contact a BMW professional for assistance.

Question 6

How to turn on the fog lights on a BMW R 1200 GS Adventure (2017)?

Accepted Answer

On your BMW R 1200 GS Adventure (2017), the fog lights are referred to as additional LED headlights. To turn them on, you must first start the engine and activate the low beam headlights (a prerequisite - the additional headlights only work if the low beam is active). Then, press the button 1 located on the left handlebar control (above the headlight control block). A warning light for the additional headlights will illuminate on the dashboard to confirm their activation.

Be aware that these additional headlights are approved as fog lights and should only be used when weather conditions are poor. Follow the traffic regulations in your country, which precisely define when it is legal to use fog lights. In particular, do not leave them on at all times or in low light without fog.

To turn off the additional headlights, press the same button 1 again. The warning light will turn off, confirming the shutdown of these headlights. They will also automatically turn off when the ignition is switched off, after a short moment.

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