Hi, I was wondering if someone on the forum could offer me some advise. The airbag light on my BMW 3 series 318i (2006) airbag warning light stays on. The mechanic told me that he changed an electrical item which he said was under one of the front seats but it turned out that the part he bought was for a four door BMW and hence the light cannot be turned off? he also told me that he had to take out the console to get to the part.

Does anyone know which part he would have replaced as I cannot get in contact with him?

Many thanks Paul.

 

 

Morning Paul

Firstly there have been airbag recalls for some models check with your BMW Dealer they will be able to tell you if there are any outstanding recalls.

Second from your description your "mechanic" hasn't a clue what he is doing which is scary when dealing with airbags and the SRS system stay away from him. If you can't do it yourself go to a Dealer or a BMW specialist at least someone who has (a) the diagnostic software to identify if there is an issue and (b) identify what it is plus reset things if no issue is present. 

 From what I have read in the past if the passenger airbag has been de-activated due to needing to fit a child seat when fitted the airbag light will be on. I believe if you read your hand book there is a method for turning it on and off.

This is taken from BMW Technical information site:

Passenger's airbag deactivation

If a child's seat is fitted on the front passenger's seat, the front passenger's airbags must be disabled. On EU vehicles, disabling is by means of an airbag switch. On US vehicles, disabling is automatic by means of seat occupation detection.

Indicator lamp for passenger airbag deactivation

The indicator lamp is activated and lights up when the front passenger's airbag is disabled. The indicator lamp is monitored by the airbag control unit. If a fault in the power supply or lamp is determined, a fault code memory entry is made in the airbag control unit and the airbag warning lamp in the instrument cluster is activated!

Switch for passenger's airbag deactivation (EU version)

The airbag switch can only be activated/deactivated by means of the ignition key when the vehicle is stationary and the door is open.

Let us know what part of the country you are in and I am sure there are members here who can point you to reliable BMW Dealers/Independents/Specialists in your area.

Someone who hasn't a clue could reduce your pride and joy to a smoldering heap, there is an old saying "If you think Professional is expensive wait until you have paid the full price for Ameteur"

Dave