I have an r53 with the airbag warning light in the top middle of the speedo, but I'm not getting any codes on my obd port reader. I've checked for chaffed or disconnected wires or connectors under drivers side and passenger side seats but nothing obvious. I've also checked f18 fuse, looks good. I'm at a loss...

Any suggestions would be helpful

 

What code reader are you using? The basic ones will not see all the MINI specific codes.

 

torque app, android tablet

 

I think Torque can't read or clear airbag codes on the MINI. Look around at the other choices and ask the vendors if their product can do this.

I use Autoenginuity (on a windows laptop) and it can do this. It is not the cheapest, but I wanted supported software and not a gray market or bootleg product.

"BMW Scanner" 1.4.0 or 1.4.1 may be one of the cheaper options that should work- there are several sources around the web to get it.

 

can do, does it use a Bluetooth obd port reader? and I wonder if I can use my win phone....

 

The ones I have used are wired and use Windows 7 (and some are stuck in Win XP) on a laptop. There is always new stuff coming out, but make sure to ask the vendor about reading and clearing airbag codes.

 

There are also many inexpensive standalone scan/reset devices. Go to Amazon and search "bmw mini airbag reset".

 

I think my detailed removed the seats to clean the car, so if I reset it I should be good. Could I just disconnect the battery for awhile and that could reset it? I did find a BMW scanner on amazon, it all be a future purchases through.

Also, are there any good salvage websites for mini parts on the west coast? I can find parts here and on eBay, but mostly on the east coast...

 

Here is a thread on NAM with some info about the airbag light, but I believe a tool should be able to do it from what I am reading on the forums.
Another thread here on NAM. Go to www.car-part.com for used parts. We have some good scanners here too.