Since I usually drive solo, I never noticed that I apparently have a passenger airbag fault. Since I recently have a passenger, I noticed that the airbag light on the info display tag is lighting up as well as on the Speedo, getting the message on the roof saying that the passenger airbag is off and the seatbelt light remains on.

I have playing around with it and if I am alone driving along everything is normal with no warning lights. Other times even alone I get the annoying warning multiple times. I made a video of me testing the passenger seat by sitting with seat belt fastened and without (Sorry for the low light, it was late and getting dark.).

I checked the cables under the seat and they seem fine. Some out of focus pictures here.

I have an ELM327 OBDII connector using Dash Command on my phone, but did not get any DCT codes.
I also have a K+DCAN cable with INPA on my laptop, but haven't had a chance to play with it.

What could be the cause of this fault?

 

Go back and do a little searching and you'll find that this problem has been with us for a number of years. The passenger side seat sensor mat will get a broken connection setting off the lights. The only thing you can do is get it replaced. Mine's been that way for 4 or 5 years. If those lights went out I'd think something was wrong. Any BMW/MINI shop can get that taken care of for you. Check with your local MINI club for a reliable shop.