MINI Cooper Recalled Over Airbag Issue
MINI is recalling its older Cooper and Cooper S models for a possible airbag issue.
The British automaker is recalling a total of 91,800 Cooper compacts because of a faulty sensor that could cause the front passenger airbag to not deploy in an accident. The issue appears to be similar to what’s currently under investigation with Nissan and Subaru. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the sensor in the detection mat meant to determine whether someone is in the front passenger seat might not be working properly, causing the airbag to not deploy even though there is a front passenger.
SEE ALSO: MINI Augmented Vision Concept Gives you X-Ray Vision
Affected models include the 2005-2006 MINI Cooper and Cooper S built between January 5, 2005 and November 28, 2006. Also affected are the 2005-2008 MINI Cooper convertible and Cooper S convertibles manufactured between January 5, 2005 and July 31, 2008. The recall is expected to begin May 1 and according to parent company BMW, it is estimated that 10 percent of the recalled vehicles are actually affected with the issue. There has been reports of an injury possibly connected with the defect.
Discuss this story at our MINI forum
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
More by Jason Siu
Comments
Join the conversation
So does this mean that if the owner (me) has already spent close to $1000.00 to date dealing with this problem going to be reimbursed? Had my 2007 Conv. S in the shop 2 times for this problem and both times it was not covered by the warranty. Had the seat sensor replaced both times...at my cost!
These dealership a-holes quoted me about 5K to fix my broken sensor last year. All eyes on airbag safety. somebody is scared of a class action