Airbag warning light on a 2004 2.5i E85

[Sailorman]

The airbag warning light is permanently on. I have read that the fault is probably with a sensor under the passenger seat, costly to repair.

I have also read that there is a cheap work-around whereby you can kid the system that a passenger is sitting on that seat by inserting a small component into the electrics under the seat. The upside is it's cheap and a DIY fix (except for turning the light off) The downside is that in the event of a crash which causes the airbags to deploy the passenger side bags will go off even without a passenger in the car.

My questions are: Have I got all this right?
If so, what is the necessary component called and where do I get one?
Can anyone who has carried out this process offer any tips, please?

Next, to turn off the warning light. Without an OBD11 scanner I think I have to find a repair shop that will oblige. Should I buy a scanner, and if so, can anyone suggest which one. I read that the cheaper ones don't provide the facility to clear faults.

Thanks in advance.

Sailorman

[Bear]

I got an AUTOPHIX 7910 to clear the airbag code (came up as passenger seat etc) and it's not been back since. If you're anywhere near Leeds you're welcome to use it.

[Sailorman]

Thanks, Bear. Sadly I'm on the south coast!

[Bear]

Ah, no problem. If you post where you are, maybe someone will be able to help more locally.

[BumpyZ4]

I would scan the car first to see which airbag code has been thrown before replacing parts. I've got the Creator 310+ and it will reset airbag lights.

[Sailorman]

Thanks for that. It's cheaper than the Autophix equivalent over here.

[Lance]

I would scan the car first to see which airbag code has been thrown before replacing parts. I've got the Creator 310+ and it will reset airbag lights.

Yep, cleared an airbag light last week with the same scanner.

[Sailorman]

Thanks. I'll get one