How do I tell if my car has air suspension?
If you're unsure whether your car has air suspension, there are a few key signs to look for. Air suspension systems use inflatable air bags instead of traditional metal coil springs to provide a smooth, comfortable ride. Identifying an air suspension system can help you understand your vehicle's maintenance needs and potential repair costs.
Signs Your Car Has Air Suspension
- Ride Quality: Air suspension systems typically provide a more cushioned, floating ride compared to traditional coil springs. The car may feel like it's "gliding" over bumps and uneven roads.
- Adjustable Ride Height: Many air suspension systems allow you to adjust the ride height of the vehicle, either manually or through electronic controls. This can be useful for off-road driving or loading heavy cargo.
- Compressor Noise: Air suspension systems use an electric air compressor to inflate the air bags. You may hear a faint whirring or humming noise from the compressor when the system is active.
- Suspension Sensors: Air suspension systems often have sensors that monitor the pressure and position of the air bags. You may see these sensors or their wiring when inspecting the underside of the vehicle.
If your car exhibits these characteristics, it's likely equipped with an air suspension system. However, the only way to be certain is to consult your owner's manual or have a professional mechanic inspect the vehicle.
Potential Issues with Air Suspension
While air suspension systems offer a smooth, comfortable ride, they can also be more complex and expensive to maintain than traditional coil spring suspensions. Common issues include air leaks, compressor failures, and sensor malfunctions. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are essential to keep an air suspension system functioning properly.
If you suspect your car has air suspension, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the system and its maintenance requirements. Consulting a professional mechanic can also help you understand the specific features and potential issues associated with your vehicle's suspension system.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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 ...
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 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.
