Interior 2nd Gen Most liked posts in thread: Airbag Warning - Only active when ECU does not see airbag?

You are correct. If you trip the warning light, you will have to have a "factory" tool to reset it, even if you replace the airbag. If you look at the write up I did for installing sparco seats, I believe I covered the resistor necessary for the seats.

I have also changed the steering wheel and hence removed the airbag. There are 2 airbag circuits in there.. just FYI. If you measure the resistance you should be OK. I dont think the ECU is overly sensitive to the variations you might see between resistors.

 

Be sure to disconnect the battery before starting. Do not reconnect until complete.

In the event you do trip the light it does not require a dealer to reset. Any BMW/MINI shop with a GT1 or similar can reset the light. Since you are in the neighborhood, Chad has the proper tool to reset the light if need be.

 

+1 for unhooking the battery. You also need to know that there is a safety short on the airbag plugs to protect them from ESD. You will need to separate the short before you measure resistance, otherwise you will see 0 Ohms.