air bag light question

[huyatgr]

I recently purchased a 2002 325i for my daughter as a first car. i noticed that the air bag light was on (and is red). i will have this checked out, but i was wondering if there is a risk of it going off by itself (or if it defaults to a total shut down mode, like some other cars). also is a scanner available that could tell me what's wrong, or does only the dealer have the proper software for the air bag system. thanks for any info!

[Jack Dabsy]

Generally, it's a failed occupancy sensor, usually under the passenger seat !!
Common fault and don't worry about it !!