323i SE Saloon, 'Passenger Seat Occu Mat - Airbag Sensor'

I have a 1999, on a 'V', 323i SE Saloon.


I'm wandering if anybody can help with my first real problem..

I have a 'Passenger Seat Occupancy Mat - Airbag Sensor' failure, bringing on the 'Airbag Warning Light' on the dash.

BMW want £73.50 for the part, and £177 labour. £250.50 total cost.

Can anyone help!??

I'm fairly handy with a tool kit, and electrics, but could use any help available in how to locate/ repair/ replace said 'Seat Mat'.
Plus, any other suggestions.. Pointers.. Tips..
Any and All help greatly appreciated!

This is a relatively common fault. You can by-pass this sensor if you wish? It will cost about £20 and is an easy home DIY job. Take a look at this link to see if it interests you... http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170390469515

The advantages of course is no airbag light, the disadvantages are that you wont actually know if the airbag is actually faulty.

If you want to replace the sensor, then it is quite involved. You have to remove the seat cover to locate it.
If you are confident enough to do this then it is well worth doing it yourself, saving you £177 labour!

slinky.

This is AWESOME @ Slinky!

Thanks a whole bunch!

I'll keep you guys posted on how this repair goes!

Update:

After 2 days, £73.50 for the 'mat' and having removed the seat, and every possible seperate section of it, I now have a fully functioning 'Occupancy Sensor'!
A trip to my local specialist, to turn off the 'Airbag Light' and all is well!

Job well done!

Thanks again to Slinky!

This link may help someone

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/BMW-E36-E46-COMPACT-AIRBAG-OCCUPANCY-SENSOR-BYPASS-UNIT_W0QQitemZ170410995119QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM?hash=item27ad496daf