How do I tell if my car has air suspension?
Air suspension systems are becoming increasingly popular in modern vehicles due to their ability to provide a smoother ride and improved handling. However, not all cars are equipped with this feature. If you're unsure whether your car has air suspension, this guide will help you identify the signs and features to look for.
What Is Air Suspension?
Air suspension is a type of vehicle suspension powered by an air pump or compressor. Instead of traditional coil springs, it uses air-filled rubber or polyurethane bags to support the vehicle's weight and absorb shocks. This system allows for adjustable ride height and improved comfort, making it a popular choice for luxury cars, SUVs, and even some trucks.
Signs Your Car Might Have Air Suspension
Here are some common indicators that your car may be equipped with air suspension:
- Adjustable Ride Height: If your car has a button or switch that allows you to raise or lower the vehicle, it likely has air suspension. This feature is often used to improve ground clearance or enhance aerodynamics.
- Noticeable Compressor Noise: When starting your car or adjusting the ride height, you might hear a faint humming or buzzing sound. This is the air compressor working to inflate or deflate the air springs.
- Dashboard Indicators: Some vehicles with air suspension have a dedicated dashboard light or message indicating the system's status. Check your owner's manual for specific symbols related to air suspension.
- Uneven Ride Height: If one side of your car sits noticeably lower than the other, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning air suspension system.
How to Confirm If Your Car Has Air Suspension
If you're still unsure, follow these steps to confirm whether your car has air suspension:
- Check the Owner's Manual: Your vehicle's manual will list all the features and specifications, including the type of suspension system.
- Inspect the Suspension Components: Look under your car for air springs or bags near the wheels. These are distinct from traditional coil springs or leaf springs.
- Consult a Professional Mechanic: If you're unable to determine the type of suspension, a trusted mechanic can inspect your vehicle and provide a definitive answer.
Why Knowing Matters
Understanding whether your car has air suspension is important for maintenance and repair purposes. Air suspension systems require specific care, and repairs can be more complex and costly compared to traditional suspension systems. Regular inspections and timely repairs can help you avoid expensive breakdowns and ensure a smooth driving experience.
If you suspect issues with your air suspension or need professional advice, feel free to contact us at Kevin's Autos. With years of experience in car maintenance and repair, we’re here to help keep your vehicle in top condition!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it expensive to replace air suspension?
The average cost for an air suspension system can range from $500 to $2,000+, depending on your vehicle and location. For those simply having air suspension helper springs added to their truck, you can expect to be on the lower end of the cost spectrum.
How do you diagnose air suspension?
To identify the source of an air leak, it's best to have a professional mechanic put the air suspension system through a series of tests. They will use specialised tools to pressurise the system and then spray soapy water along all air lines and connections to check for escaping air bubbles.
Can you drive a car with broken air suspension?
No. It needs to be repaired as soon as possible. A strut works by absorbing the bounce of your car driving over bumps in the road. Struts on the front-end of your vehicle are also crucial for steering and alignment.
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.
Is air suspension bad for daily driving?
One of the main benefits of air suspension cars is the improved comfort behind the wheel, making it good for daily driving. The adjustable air suspension makes for a more comfortable ride on poor quality roads and can improve control when off-roading.
How to tell if a car has air suspension?
If your vehicle has air suspension you usually will have a button under the heater controller on the dash to raise the vehicle,it would be a picture of the vehicle outline with an arrow pointing up. This is air suspension.
How long does air suspension usually last?
80,000-100,000 Miles
Air Struts/Air Bags - 80,000-100,000 Miles
Air springs normally last 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Over this time, the rubber bladder dries out, and cracks appear around the bottom piston. Compressors usually wear out because of leaky air springs.
What is the difference between suspension and air suspension?
A compressor inflates the bags to a certain pressure in order to behave like springs. Air suspension also differs from hydropneumatic suspension because it uses pressurized air instead of pressurized liquid.
Which cars come with air suspension?
Vehicle marques that have used air suspension on their models include: Audi, Acura, Bentley, BMW, Cadillac, Citroën, Ford, Genesis, Hummer, Hyundai, Jaguar, Jeep, Land Rover, Lamborghini, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercedes-Benz, Mercedes--Maybach, Porsche, Ram, Rivian, Rolls-Royce, SsanYong, Subaru, Tesla, Volkswagen, Volvo, and ...
Do you have to refill air suspension?
With motorhomes, caravans, and basic van kits, you can to go to a workshop or petrol station and use a tyre inflator to fill the system with air – this is great for a van or motorhome needing a fill once a month or so but we would always recommend a compressor to ensure you never run out of air.
