The vehicle has a faulty seat sensor that causes the vehicle to default to having a non-occupied seat with warning lights. In this situation, a passenger will not have an air bag deploy even if they-€™re heavy enough to otherwise trigger the weight sensor. This is happening on my vehicle and, based on internet research, most other R56 models to the point of a market existing for electronic bypass modules. Mini will not repair for a reasonable cost.

- Lansing, MI, USA

The passenger seat OC3 Occupancy Sensor has malfunctioned, leading to the ECU to believe the seatbelt is unbuckled and disabling the passenger airbag while the car is in motion. This is a frequent occurrence which can be seen across all of the Mini/BMW forums for an untold number of owners of this build.

- Flagstaff, AZ, USA

I took my car in for servicing for an oil change and because the passenger airbag warning was displayed. Technician said the passenger seat occupancy has a sensor fault. No guarantee the airbag would inflate in an accident. $1123 plus tax to replace. Is there a recall notice on this" if so I have not seen it. Can not afford to replace that, it is a serious safety concern. Can you help me with this in some way" seems mandatory to me that MINICooper would cover this. My car has less than 35K on it mileage. I am very concerned for my passengers in front seat.

- Sarasota, FL, USA