000007 SBBF(seat occupancy, front passenger) control unit fault

[ajacks8]

This is a question for anyone who has dealt with seat occupancy airbag light. Out of nowhere, on my 2006 4.8is, my airbag light illuminated. After a feeble attempt to read and clear with my Autel scanner, the error persisted (shown in thread title) my question is if anyone was successful just replacing the sensor unit (currently on clearance on FCP for $87.00)…versus the whole sensor mat for $200-300? I never knew of the sensor unit, itself…I had only heard of sensor mat issues. Anyways, is there a way to test for one versus the other OR would I have a good chance of success with resolving only with the sensor unit? Any guidance??? Thanks!!!


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[andrewwynn]

Afaik it's for all practical purposes always the mat.

Mat simulator it's the usual fix


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[80stech]

Get a proper scan tool so you can read ALL the codes and be able to reset the air bag light. If the "Air Bag" light is on you could have more going on than the seat sensor. The seat belt light is on as well right?

[ajacks8]

Originally Posted by 80stech

Get a proper scan tool so you can read ALL the codes and be able to reset the air bag light. If the "Air Bag" light is on you could have more going on than the seat sensor. The seat belt light is on as well right?

No seatbelt light, surprisingly. My Autel808BT is semi-proper. I’m sure it pales in comparison to ISTA/INPA…I’m tempted to go with Andrew guidance of mat emulator unless there are any real downsides? I’ll never roll with anyone under 12yrs old in passenger seat and expect to be the final owner.

[andrewwynn]

My understanding is exactly aligned with your thought: the mat simulator will simulate an adult so the air bag will deploy full power so I would def keep small people in the back seat if i used that fix.

That said; i destroyed my passenger seat with a brake fluid spill and was able to find a seat bottom for $50 mat included so I'd at least look into that. The problem of course being age of replacements.


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[ajacks8]

Originally Posted by andrewwynn

My understanding is exactly aligned with your thought: the mat simulator will simulate an adult so the air bag will deploy full power so I would def keep small people in the back seat if i used that fix.

That said; i destroyed my passenger seat with a brake fluid spill and was able to find a seat bottom for $50 mat included so I'd at least look into that. The problem of course being age of replacements.


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I’ve replaced a seat bottom on e36, but never on an e53. I think emulator is the way to go because my passenger seat presents as near-mint condition. These comfort seats appear very challenging to handle - bulky and awkward. Thank you both for all of the input!


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[X5chemist]

Don't forget to add a seat extender. The seat extender turns off the "ding". The passenger side air bag will deploy in an accident. Occupied or not.

[Fifty150hs]

Originally Posted by andrewwynn

Afaik it's for all practical purposes always the mat.

Mat simulator it's the usual fix


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I think there's still an open recall for that problem.

[ajacks8]

Originally Posted by Fifty150hs

I think there's still an open recall for that problem.

WILL check on THAT!!!

[ajacks8]

Originally Posted by Fifty150hs

I think there's still an open recall for that problem.

Alright, my rig (2006 4.8is) is definitely affected (afflicted) by the suggested recall. Upon researching about it…it sounded like I needed to enter my VIN into national safety database website for vehicles…”no open recalls” . I used the info in this thread for guidance:

https://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=924987

Anyways, after an hour on hold, they claimed that they could only tell if open recalls existed or not for the vehicle…no history of recalls. They referred me to BMW NA for this info. So, I waited on hold for another 25mins before speaking to BMW NA. It was one of the least helpful people I’ve ever spoken to on the phone. I had selected the option regarding recalls, but upon finally answering, the rep sounded like she dropped her phone or headset at least 3 times before introdepuding herself. She claimed that she would only be able to verify if open recalls existed, but didn’t even want my VIN to confirm since “it would just give her the same result I saw on the website”. Her only guidance was to call local dealership who would be able to share any recall service history with me. WRONG, I called and spoke to service at local dealer and they could not tell me any service history - but that they were sure that this information was tracked by BMW NA. So, a call back to BMW NA…a very nice and informed rep confirmed that my 4.8is had this recall service performed in 2016. I had purchased the truck a few years later. She said that any costs associated after the recall was serviced would be out-of-pocket unless another recall came out for the issue. Lame, but at least I know the history and can move forward with simulator unit confidently! Thank you for the input offered on this matter!