Can you get a lift kit with air suspension?
Yes. You can buy a lift kit that uses air suspension to raise ride height on demand. These systems replace or augment traditional springs with airbags and an onboard compressor, delivering adjustable height for off-road use or heavy loads.
This article explains what air-suspension lift kits are, how they work, the different types available, their pros and cons, typical costs and installation considerations, and what to consider when choosing one for your vehicle.
What is an air suspension lift kit?
An air suspension lift kit replaces or augments conventional coil- or leaf-spring setups with air springs (bags) at one or more corners, connected to a compressor and a height-management controller. The driver (or a vehicle’s sensors) can adjust air pressure to raise or lower the vehicle, typically offering several inches of lift—often 2 to 6 inches, depending on the kit and vehicle. Some systems are retrofits for leaf or coil springs, while others are designed for vehicles with factory air suspension or integrated coilovers. Brands commonly seen in the market include Air Lift, Arnott, RideTech, and other specialty suppliers.
How air suspension lifts work
Most aftermarket air-suspension systems use air springs at each corner along with compressors, valves, hoses, and a height-management controller. Height is adjusted by changing air pressure in the bags, enabling on-demand lift for off-road clearance or load leveling, and sometimes returning to a lower highway height for improved fuel economy and handling. Some setups use sensors to automatically maintain a chosen ride height, while others are manually controlled via a switch or smartphone app.
Types of air suspension lift kits
There are several approaches depending on vehicle architecture and performance goals:
- Full air-ride systems that replace coil or leaf springs with four-corner airbags, integrated with a multi-pump controller and height sensors for automated control.
- Air-helper kits that add airbags to an existing spring setup to improve load leveling and occasional elevation without a full replacement.
- Integrated coilover-air systems that combine air springs with adjustable dampers for both on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Choosing the right type depends on your vehicle, desired lift range, payload needs, and budget.
Pros and cons of air suspension lifts
Air suspension lift kits offer substantial flexibility but come with trade-offs. Here is a quick look at the main advantages and disadvantages.
- Pros:
- Variable ride height for improved off-road clearance and highway efficiency.
- Enhanced load leveling and stability when towing or carrying heavy cargo.
- Smoother ride at lower heights compared with rigid lift methods, thanks to compliant air springs.
- On-demand height adjustment to match terrain or load conditions.
- Cons:
- Higher upfront cost and greater installation complexity than traditional lifts.
- Ongoing maintenance needs, including potential leaks, compressor wear, and controller issues.
- Electrical requirements and potential fitment challenges with some factory suspensions.
- Reliability and performance can vary by brand, climate, and driving conditions; air lines and components require protection from damage in off-road use.
For many buyers, the benefits of adjustable height and improved load handling justify the investment, but it’s important to balance expectations with budget and maintenance commitments.
Costs, installation, and maintenance
Costs vary widely by vehicle, kit type, and installation complexity. Here is a general guide to what you can expect:
- Kit price (parts only): typically $1,000 to $4,000, depending on how many corners are included and how advanced the control system is.
- Professional installation: commonly $500 to $2,500, influenced by vehicle complexity, wiring needs, and the location of components like the compressor and sensor mounts.
- Total installed cost: often in the $2,000 to $7,000 range, with premium, four-corner, integrated systems potentially higher.
- Maintenance costs: periodic inspections for leaks, hose and bag wear, dryer and compressor service, and occasional controller updates.
Always obtain a detailed quote, verify warranty terms, and understand service availability for your region before purchase.
Compatibility and installation considerations
Not every vehicle is a straightforward candidate for an aftermarket air-suspension lift. Key factors include:
- Vehicle type and chassis configuration (full-size trucks and SUVs are common targets; some midsize models have kits available).
- Existing suspension layout (coil, leaf, or factory air) and whether a retrofit or complete replacement is required.
- Clearance for compressors, air lines, mounting brackets, and sensor positioning; potential conflicts with exhaust routing, fuel lines, or braking components.
- Electrical capacity and space for wiring and the compressor; may require auxiliary power considerations or wiring upgrades.
- Warranty implications and legal restrictions; some areas or manufacturers may limit modifications or driving-height limits on public roads.
Consult a shop with proven experience in air-suspension systems to assess fitment, durability, and compliance for your specific vehicle and use case.
Maintenance and safety considerations
Regular upkeep is essential for reliability and safety with air-suspension lifts. Focus areas include:
- Routine inspection for leaks, hose wear, and bag integrity; replace worn components promptly.
- Maintaining compressor health and ensuring proper venting and cooling for the unit.
- Periodically checking ride-height sensors and ensuring proper alignment to prevent tire rubbing or handling issues.
- Avoiding prolonged operation at extreme lift heights unless the vehicle is designed for it, to minimize component stress and wear.
With attentive maintenance, air-suspension systems can provide reliable height control and enhanced capability.
Bottom line and what to consider before buying
Yes, lift kits with air suspension are available and can offer meaningful height adjustability, improved payload handling, and a smoother ride at various heights. They require careful selection, proper fitment for your vehicle, and a commitment to maintenance. If you regularly drive off-road, tow heavy loads, or want adjustable styling and stance, an air-suspension lift can be a strong option; otherwise, a simpler leveling kit or traditional lift may be more practical.
Summary
Air-suspension lift kits provide adjustable ride height, improved load leveling, and off-road versatility for many trucks and SUVs. They come with higher upfront costs and ongoing maintenance requirements, and fitment depends on vehicle type and existing suspension. Do thorough research, get expert installation, and weigh the benefits against the long-term costs to decide if an air-suspension lift is right for you.
How much lift does air suspension give?
Well, for air suspension, it refers to the amount of travel from the lowest point your car can go to the highest point it can go! The average amount of lift found on Super Low is around 3.5 inches, depending on the chassis.
How much does air lift suspension cost?
The average price of a complete air ride kit can cost anywhere between about $2,000 up to $7,000, depending on your specific kit.
Why is air suspension illegal?
Some states have limits based on various measurements, like a certain number of inches off the ground or the lowest point of a wheel rim. Raised vehicles may also be subject to height limits. Any air or hydraulic suspension systems that violate these limits or make the car unsafe are also illegal.
What not to do with air suspension?
Don't
- Adjust your setup excessively while driving. Look, distracted driving is a problem even in a stock ride, but it can be worse with air suspension.
- Forget to fix that line.
- Put too much pressure into your system.
- Overload your bags.
- Take apart your setup when there's pressure in the system.
