Air Bag Light On problems of the 2006 Mini Cooper S Convertible

Passenger side seat airbag sensor (recall 15v-205, oc3 seat occupancy mat) in my 2006 Mini Cooper S Convertible has failed. The passenger side airbag light on dash and overhead stay lit at all times. Recall issued by Mini in 2015 covering exact problem described for same make and model for years 2005 - 2008. Dealer ship and Mini USA both say the VIN number for my 2006 s convertible is not included with this recall. How can this be, the exact problem for the exact vehicles identified for this recall. Mini states that this vehicle is the correct type, model and year but not part of the recall because it probably didn't have the same part that has been identified as failing installed. I was told there is nothing they will do for me and what I've been told is that the cost for the fix will be at least $1,200 out of pocket. This cost is ridiculous and should be included under the standing recall from the manufacturer. The fact that this is a manufacturing defect is obvious and is a serious safety issue!.

The seat belt indicator and air bag indicator lights have been intermittently coming on whether or not someone is in the seat. Now the air bag indicator light is always lit and the seat belt indicator is still intermittent. I spoke to the dealer we bought the car from and they will not test the condition under the warranty. We purchased the car on 12/22/2012. It will cost over $100 just for them to tell us if there is a malfunction. Sounds as though the repair will cost well over $1,000. From research on the internet, it sounds as though this is a common problem and BMW recalled the BMW models for a similar issue, but Mini will not fix this known problem. I feel this is a safety issue as we do not know if the airbag system is working properly or not. Thank you for any assistance you can provide.

Pass air bag light stays on.

Passenger airbag light is on even if less then 25 lbs is on the passenger seat.