Is RAM air ride suspension worth it?
For many buyers, RAM’s air ride suspension is worth it, especially if you regularly tow, haul heavy payloads, or want a consistently level ride. For those who mostly drive with light loads and on smooth pavement, the added cost and potential maintenance may not justify the upgrade.
How RAM air ride suspension works
RAM’s air ride system relies on adjustable air springs (instead of traditional coil springs) at the corners of the truck. An electric compressor fills and bleeds air to the springs to change ride height in response to load, speed, and terrain. Height sensors monitor the vehicle’s stance, and an electronic control module makes real-time adjustments to keep the truck level whether it’s unloaded, towing a trailer, or carrying a heavy payload. The system can also provide higher clearance off-road or lower stance for highway efficiency, depending on the configuration.
Key components
- Air springs (bagged suspension) at one or more corners
- Onboard air compressor and reservoir
- Height sensors and control modules
- Valves and plumbing to adjust spring pressure
In practice, the setup is designed to automatically manage ride height, comfort, and stability, while offering selectable presets for different loads or driving conditions.
Pros and cons
The following list highlights the main advantages and drawbacks often cited by RAM owners and automotive reviewers.
- Pros:
- Smoother ride on rough pavement and imperfect surfaces
- Automatic load leveling for trailers and heavy payloads
- Adjustable ride height for ground clearance and loading ease
- Potential improvements in handling and stability under load
- Better aerodynamics when the suspension is lowered at highway speeds (depending on setup)
- Cons:
- Higher upfront cost compared with conventional coil springs
- Additional components that can wear or fail (compressor, air lines, bags)
- Potential maintenance and repair complexity, often with higher part/labor costs
- Some marginal gains in everyday driving if the truck isn’t regularly loaded or towed
Overall, the system tends to deliver tangible benefits when loads and towing are part of the regular routine, while everyday commuting with light use offers less dramatic improvement.
Who should consider it
If your RAM sees frequent heavy payloads, long highway towing, or off-road excursions where ground clearance and ride consistency matter, air ride suspension is worth evaluating. Fleet operators and owner-operators who demand level stance and predictable handling under variable load often find significant value. Conversely, buyers who mostly drive solo, on smooth roads, and want to minimize ownership complexity may opt for a traditional coil-spring setup with a simpler, lower-maintenance profile.
Costs and maintenance
Before listing the practical costs, it helps to understand where the investment shows up: parts, installation, and potential ongoing maintenance. The following list outlines typical considerations for RAM’s air ride systems.
- Upfront cost: Adding RAM air suspension as an option or retrofit generally adds several thousand dollars to the vehicle’s price, depending on year, trim level, and dealer packaging.
- Installation: Some setups require more complex installation, which can add to labor charges and timing.
- Maintenance and repairs: Expect periodic maintenance such as filter service, line inspections, and potential air spring or compressor replacements if leaks or failures occur.
- Warranty considerations: Coverage for air suspension components varies by model year and trim; confirm with the dealer what is included and for how long.
Because costs can vary widely, prospective buyers should obtain a detailed quote and ask for dealer-specific warranty coverage before purchasing.
Real-world reliability and updates
In recent RAM models, air ride systems have generally performed well when properly maintained. Most issues tend to be related to air leaks, compressor life, or sensor calibration, similar to other air-spring setups across the industry. Modern RAM trucks with this feature typically include diagnostic alerts if a fault arises, enabling owners to address problems before they affect safety or drivability. As with any optional technology, checking for service history, pursuing a dealer-approved maintenance plan, and staying current with software updates can improve long-term reliability.
Bottom line
RAM air ride suspension is a compelling option for buyers who regularly haul, tow, or venture off-road and want a consistently level, smoother ride. For those who drive light-duty, on well-maintained roads, the extra cost and potential maintenance risk may outweigh the benefits. Prospective buyers should weigh their typical use, budget, and willingness to manage added maintenance when deciding.
Summary
RAM’s air ride suspension can deliver meaningful ride quality and load-leveling benefits for heavy-duty use, but it comes with higher upfront costs and possible maintenance needs. If towing and payload are a regular part of your driving, the feature is worth strong consideration; if your driving is primarily light and highway-based, you may prefer sticking with a conventional suspension and allocating funds elsewhere.
Is air suspension worth it on a Ram 1500?
Easier Cargo Loading: The air ride system can lower the truck, making it easier to load cargo into the bed, which is especially helpful when handling heavy items. Better Towing: When towing a trailer, the air ride suspension helps keep the truck pulled level and improves trailer handling and stability.
What years to avoid with Ram 1500?
If you're looking for reliable trucks, steer clear of the 2003 Dodge RAM 1500, as well as the 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2019 RAM 1500. These models are plagued by problems in critical components, like engines, steering, braking, airbags, electrical systems, and fuel systems.
Is it worth having air ride suspension?
Air suspension is worth it for those who prioritize ride quality and adjustable ride height, but it comes with drawbacks like higher initial cost and potential for more expensive repairs. It is particularly beneficial for luxury car owners, those who need to navigate obstacles like speed bumps or uneven roads, or truck owners who tow frequently. For performance-focused drivers, coilovers may offer better handling for a similar or lower cost.
You can watch this video to learn more about the pros and cons of air suspension: 59sFitment IndustriesYouTube · Jan 16, 2021
Benefits
- Enhanced ride comfort: Air suspension provides a smoother, "gliding" ride by absorbing bumps better than traditional steel springs.
- Adjustable ride height: You can manually raise or lower the vehicle's height for better ground clearance on rough roads or a lower profile at higher speeds.
- Improved handling and towing: The system can be firmed up for a more performance-oriented feel or to better handle heavy loads when towing.
- Convenience: Adjusting ride height is easy, making it simpler to get over steep driveways or speed bumps.
- Consistent weight distribution: It can help maintain a more consistent weight distribution, which can improve steering and braking control.
Drawbacks
- Higher cost: The initial purchase and installation are more expensive than traditional suspension systems.
- Potential for failure: Components like airbags, air lines, and compressors can leak or fail, potentially leaving you stranded.
- Higher maintenance and repair costs: Because there are more parts, the cost of repairs can be significantly higher than for conventional springs.
- Complexity: A properly executed installation is critical. Improper installation is a major cause of system failures and leaks.
- Noise: The air compressor can be noisy when it is actively adjusting the air pressure.
Who should consider it
- Luxury vehicle owners: Those who want the smoothest possible ride and appreciate the ability to adjust the suspension.
- People who frequently tow: Truck and SUV owners can use the system to level the load and improve handling when towing heavy items.
- Drivers who need to navigate obstacles: People who frequently drive on rough roads, over speed bumps, or have steep driveways will benefit from adjustable height.
- Performance enthusiasts: Some drivers use it for the ability to switch between a comfortable ride and a firmer setup for spirited driving.
Who should avoid it
- Budget-conscious buyers: The initial and long-term costs may be prohibitive.
- Drivers seeking the highest performance: For pure track performance, coilovers are often a lighter and cheaper alternative.
- Those who prioritize simplicity and reliability: If you don't want to deal with potential leaks or compressor failures, a traditional system is a safer bet.
What are the downsides 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.
