Is it worth having air ride suspension?
Air ride suspension, also known as air suspension, is a type of vehicle suspension system that uses air springs instead of traditional metal coil springs. While air ride suspension offers several potential benefits, whether it's worth the investment depends on your specific needs and preferences as a driver.
What is Air Ride Suspension?
Air ride suspension systems use air-filled bellows or air bags instead of metal coil springs to support the weight of the vehicle. These air springs are connected to an air compressor that can adjust the amount of air pressure in the system, allowing the vehicle to be raised or lowered as needed. This provides a smoother, more comfortable ride compared to traditional suspension systems, especially on rough or uneven roads.
Potential Benefits of Air Ride Suspension
- Improved Ride Quality: Air ride suspension can provide a more comfortable and cushioned ride, especially on bumpy or uneven roads. The adjustable air pressure allows the suspension to adapt to different road conditions.
- Enhanced Handling: Air ride suspension can improve a vehicle's handling and stability, particularly when cornering or navigating tight turns.
- Adjustable Ride Height: The ability to raise or lower the vehicle's ride height can be useful for off-road driving, loading/unloading cargo, or accessing low-clearance areas.
- Improved Towing and Hauling Capabilities: Air ride suspension can help maintain a level ride height when towing a trailer or carrying heavy loads, reducing the risk of sag or uneven weight distribution.
However, air ride suspension systems also have some potential drawbacks, such as higher maintenance costs, increased complexity, and the risk of air leaks or compressor failures. Additionally, the installation and replacement of air ride components can be more expensive than traditional suspension systems.
Is Air Ride Suspension Worth It?
Whether air ride suspension is worth the investment ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences as a driver. If you frequently drive on rough or uneven roads, tow heavy loads, or value a smooth, comfortable ride, the benefits of air ride suspension may outweigh the additional costs. However, if you don't require the specialized features of air ride suspension and are primarily concerned with cost-effectiveness, a traditional suspension system may be a more suitable option.
It's important to carefully consider your driving habits, budget, and maintenance requirements before deciding if air ride suspension is the right choice for your vehicle.
What are the disadvantages of air suspension?
Some of the drawbacks of air suspension systems are because of some of the mechanical issues they can be vulnerable to. Several of the common issues with air suspension systems that can require repair include: Rust or moisture damage from the inside that can lead to the air struts or bags to malfunction.
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 is the life expectancy of air suspension?
The lifespan of an air suspension system varies depending on the component. The air tank, when properly maintained, can last a lifetime. The air lines and air management system's lifespan can vary, while the valve manifold typically lasts between 3-5 years. Air struts or air bags can last between 80,000-100,000 miles.
Can you daily drive air suspension?
Air suspension has been proven to be a great addition to vehicles for daily driving if installed and maintained correctly. If you do not maintain your air suspension system or did not install it correctly, you could have issues that may make air suspension seem like a pain to operate.
What is the best suspension for daily driving?
Consider the type of driving you do as well as your driving habits. Twin-tube shocks are the best choice if you are looking to equip your vehicle for comfortable daily driving. The twin-tube design is the most common suspension design found in cars, light trucks, vans, and SUVs.
How long does air ride suspension 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.
Why is air suspension so unreliable?
Air suspension systems are also prone to mechanical issues. Your suspension may suffer malfunctions from rust or moisture damage from the inside, or an air fitting failure of the air tubing connecting to the air system. Leaks in air springs are also common and could lead to compressor burn out.
Is air suspension really worth it?
Air suspension gives a smoother ride and has a much larger range of adjustability for different driving modes. It's also a less expensive system to build and maintain, but as you pointed out it is not as durable.
Is air suspension hard to maintain?
The good news is that most air bag suspension systems are pretty self-sufficient and require little maintenance. With that being said, there are a few things you will want to check for, and depending on the climate, a few preventative measures can be taken to keep your system in check.
Is air suspension expensive to maintain?
Expense: Air suspension systems have far more components and more expensive components than passive suspensions. This means they're more expensive to buy in the first place and also more costly to repair and maintain.
