Side/window Air Bag problems of the 2005 BMW 5 Series

The contact owns a 2005 BMW 5 Series. The contact stated that the passenger side air bag warning lamp illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who diagnosed that the sensor pressure mat on the passenger side seat was defective and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in any recalls. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure and the current mileage was 34,000.

The passenger side "airbag is deactivated" lamp stays on constantly and the warning lamp on the communication system tells me I have a fault in the passenger side airbag. I was told by a BMW rep that this would be a safety recall eventually if I wanted to wait or I could pay $1400 now out of pocket and have it fixed. The BMW rep told me just not to let anyone ride in the front seat with me. That is very awkward as I am in sales and occassionally must transport customers.