Head-to-head reliability
BMW F 800 S vs Toyota Camry
How the BMW F 800 S and Toyota Camry compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
BMW F 800 S vs Toyota Camry: The F 800 S averages 0.2 complaints per year, while the Camry averages 214.3, reflecting a much higher issue rate. The F 800 S's main problem is fuel pump leaks, whereas the Camry has transmission, brake, and engine complaints. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the BMW F 800 S or Toyota Camry more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
BMW F 800 S
The BMW F 800 S is a niche sport-touring motorcycle with a very low complaint rate over the past decade, averaging just 0.2 complaints per year. The few issues reported center on fuel system leaks, specifically around the fuel pump assembly, which can lead to more serious damage if not addressed. With three recalls, all related to wheels, buyers should verify that any outstanding recall work has been completed. Overall, it appears to be a low-maintenance bike in terms of reported problems, but the fuel leak issue is a critical one to check.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a high-volume sedan with a much higher complaint count, averaging over 214 complaints per year, reflecting its popularity and the breadth of issues reported. Complaints span multiple systems, including powertrain, engine, brakes, and electrical, with some serious incidents involving sudden acceleration and brake failure. While many complaints are minor, the presence of crash-related reports and injuries highlights the importance of thorough inspection. With 31 recalls, including airbag and seat-related issues, buyers should ensure all recalls are addressed.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | BMW F 800 S | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 2 Better | 2,143 |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 3 Better | 31 |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 0 Better | 181 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 0.2 Better | 214.3 |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 163 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 1 |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
BMW F 800 S
- 01FUEL SYSTEM1
- 02GASOLINE1
- 03FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM1
Owners report fuel leaking from around the fuel pump assembly, which can soak the electronic module and cause catastrophic failure of the fuel pump, posing a potential fire hazard. This is a critical safety issue that should be inspected immediately.
Similar to the fuel system complaint, this involves fuel leaking from the fuel pump, often discovered during routine inspection. The leak can lead to fuel odor and risk of fire, so it's essential to check for any signs of fuel seepage.
The fuel pump assembly leak is a recurring theme, with one owner noting it resembles a recall affecting other BMW models. This suggests a possible design flaw that could affect the F 800 S, so buyers should verify if their VIN is included in any related service campaigns.
“The contact owns a 2007 BMW F 800 S. The contact stated that while inspecting the motorcycle in the driveway, the contact became aware that fuel was leaking from the fuel pump. The motorcycle was not taken to a dealer or an independent mechanic to be diagnose…”
Toyota Camry
- 01POWER TRAIN395
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER342
- 03ENGINE315
- 04SERVICE BRAKES290
- 05ELECTRICAL SYSTEM246
Owners report grinding noises from the front end upon acceleration, often diagnosed as transmission issues requiring replacement. Some complaints mention recalls for similar problems on newer Camrys, but not all VINs are covered, so a pre-purchase transmission check is wise.
Serious complaints include sudden unintended acceleration, leading to crashes, and engine maintenance warnings related to coolant valve bypass recalls. These issues can be dangerous, so a thorough engine diagnostic and recall check are essential.
Brake failure incidents are reported, such as no response when pressing the pedal on a hill, which can lead to accidents. Owners also describe issues with braking in parking lots, indicating potential brake system problems that need immediate attention.
While not detailed in the sample, electrical issues are common, with 246 complaints. These may include problems with sensors, wiring, or electronic modules, which can affect various vehicle functions and require professional diagnosis.
“I turned into a restaurant’s parking lot, found a spot and slowly drove into the lot, I eased off the gas pedal and gently applying the brake as the lot has a slight downward slope. When I reach the chunk (the parking block), I added more force to the brake,…”
“Grinding noise coming from front end upon acceleration. Brought to dealership who confirmed noises coming from transmission. Transmission needs to be replaced per dealer recommendation. Recalls on 2021 Toyota Camry for same issue. Transmissions on backorder a…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
BMW F 800 S — 3 recalls
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 F 800 S and F 800 ST motorcycles manufactured August 2006 through January 2009. Due to incorrect tolerances, the rear wheel drive bearing and rear axle may wear.
The risk: Bearing and axle wear may affect handling and control of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wheel bearing, and if necessary, replace the bearing and rear axle, at no charge. The recall began on January 10, 2014. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRela…
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 F 800 S and F 800 ST motorcycles manufactured August 2006 through January 2009. Due to incorrect tolerances, the rear wheel drive bearing and rear axle may wear.
The risk: Bearing and axle wear may affect handling and control of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wheel bearing, and if necessary, replace the bearing and rear axle, at no charge. The recall began on January 10, 2014. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRela…
The defect: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2009 F 800 S and F 800 ST motorcycles manufactured August 2006 through January 2009. Due to incorrect tolerances, the rear wheel drive bearing and rear axle may wear.
The risk: Bearing and axle wear may affect handling and control of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the wheel bearing, and if necessary, replace the bearing and rear axle, at no charge. The recall began on January 10, 2014. Owners may call BMW at 1-800-525-7417 or email BMW at CustomerRela…
Toyota Camry — 31 recalls
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short cir…
The risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The lug nuts that attach the wheels to the vehicle may be loose, which can result in wheel detachment.
The risk: A wheel that detaches from a moving vehicle can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Dealers will inspect and tighten the lug nuts, and replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
Buyer analysis
BMW F 800 S or Toyota Camry: which should you buy?
The BMW F 800 S has far fewer complaints per year (0.2) compared to the Toyota Camry (214.3), indicating a lower rate of reported issues. However, the Camry's higher numbers reflect its larger owner base and more complex systems. In practice, the F 800 S may offer fewer headaches, but the Camry's issues are more varied and potentially more serious, so a thorough inspection is critical for either.
Key differences
- The F 800 S has a single dominant issue: fuel pump leaks, which can be a fire hazard, while the Camry has a wider range of problems across powertrain, brakes, and engine.
- The Camry has a much higher complaint rate (214.3/yr) and includes crash-related incidents, whereas the F 800 S has zero crash-related complaints.
- The F 800 S has only 3 recalls (all wheels), while the Camry has 31 recalls covering airbags, seats, and other components.
- The Camry's sample complaints include sudden acceleration and brake failure, which are safety-critical, while the F 800 S's fuel leak is also serious but less frequent.
- Inspect the fuel pump area for any signs of fuel leakage or wetness, as this is the most reported issue and can lead to fire.
- Check if the motorcycle's VIN is included in any BMW recall for fuel pump issues, even though the listed recalls are for wheels.
- Test the brakes thoroughly, especially on slopes, and listen for any grinding noises from the transmission during acceleration.
- Verify that all recalls, especially those for airbags and seats, have been performed, and check for any engine warning lights related to coolant valve issues.
Before you buy
- For the BMW F 800 S: have a mechanic inspect the fuel pump and fuel lines for leaks, and confirm all wheel recalls are completed.
- For the Toyota Camry: get a transmission fluid check and test drive to detect any grinding or shifting issues.
- For the Camry: check brake responsiveness and have the brake system inspected, especially if the car has high mileage.
- For both: obtain a vehicle history report to see if any complaints or recalls are outstanding.
- For the Camry: verify the VIN against NHTSA recalls to ensure all safety-related recalls are done.
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific BMW F 800 S or Toyota Camry in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- BMW F 800 S vs Toyota Camry
- BMW F 800 S total complaints
- 2
- Toyota Camry total complaints
- 2,143
- BMW F 800 S total recalls
- 3
- Toyota Camry total recalls
- 31
- BMW F 800 S avg complaints/year
- 0.2
- Toyota Camry avg complaints/year
- 214.3
- More reliable overall
- BMW F 800 S
- BMW F 800 S top complaint area
- FUEL SYSTEM
- Toyota Camry top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN