All models from 2005 onward have been recalled, yet earlier models have the same problems with non functioning airbags. The airbag warning light is on continually, and there are known problems with wiring, pressure mats and connectors in these vehicles. BMW is intentionally ignoring these issue. My own personal vehicle has this problem and as a government mandated safety device I believe that earlier models of MINIcoopers should be included in the recall!

- Punta Gorda, FL, USA

Airbag light comes on and stays illuminated. We are unsure if the system is working properly. We have not run diagnostic codes on the system.

- Punta Gorda, FL, USA

The airbag light is on for the passenger side pressure mat but the dealership indicates there is no open recall on this particular car even though many cars with similar problem were recalled. Scan tool indicates passenger side pressure mat. The dealership indicated this model was outside of the recalled vins. We don't know whether the airbag would work or not if it were needed.

- Selma, OR, USA

The contact owns a 2004 MINICooper S. the contact noticed that the vehicle's air bag warning indicator was constantly illuminated and both front windows hesitated to roll up and down. Also, the air bag indicator would illuminate when the front seat belts were buckled or unbuckled. The dealer stated that there was a positive cable in the fuse box that malfunctioned. The contact was informed that the failure could destroy the electrical system, cause a fire, and keep the air bag from deploying in a crash. The seat belt buckles were repaired, but the failure recurred. The dealer also discovered that the cable was being stretched and the center switch pack case was separated, which could cause the windows to detach from the vehicle while driving high speeds. The vehicle was not repaired and the manufacturer was not notified. The approximate failure mileage was 124,500.

- Glendale, CO, USA

My 2004 MINICooper S has a passenger seat belt/air bag light that is illuminated at all times. Originally, it was sporadic, and connecting the seat belt would cause the light to go off. Now it is lit all the time, whether there is a passenger in the seat or not. I was told today that the sensor is bad and will cost $1600 to fix, which includes completely replacing the entire passenger seat. My mechanic says that the air bag will not deploy in the event of an accident. This is most concerning. Obviously, the default should be for the airbag to deploy. What if I am in an accident and my passenger is gravely injured (or killed!)"? unacceptable! I have read that BMW has issued a recall for BMW models with a similar problem. MINIcooper should be included in the recall, as they are made by BMW, often using the same parts! where is the oversight?!"

- Belfast, ME, USA

Air bag light came on. Shutting off and restarting car, the light will go out but comes back on within seconds. This occurred after adjusting passenger seat.

- Phoenix, AZ, USA

2004 MINICooper S air bag light came on for no reason. Dealer wants $1000 to fix.

- Monterey Park, CA, USA

On March 5, 2005, a 2 inch X 2 inch L shaped crack was first developed at the mid bottom section of the windshield of my 2004 MINICooper S. the short arm of the L originated from the bottom of the windshield. On the next day, after parking inside my garage overnight, the long arm of the L propagated another 2 inches. Today, while driving, the crack further extended another 1/4 inch. The problem is that the crack started with no obvious reasons. The only sensible explanation is due to design of the body struture or defect from MINIcoopers, and subsequently causes stress to the windshield. It does not take long to learn from the internet message board that many similar complaints or recurring incidents were also reported. One of the message board participant who installs windshield for car suggested us to file a complaint at this site because windshield problem can be fatal because of the followings: 1. act as a support for the roof. 2. act as a barrier to prevent passenger from ejecting of the car.. cause airbag malfunctioned. I strongly urge the NHTSA to investigate this problem immediately.

- Saratoga, CA, USA