What is the life expectancy of air suspension?
As the owner of Kevin's Autos, I often get questions about various vehicle components and their longevity. One common inquiry is about air suspension systems. Understanding the life expectancy of air suspension can help vehicle owners make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs. In this article, we will explore the factors that influence the lifespan of air suspension systems and provide tips for extending their life.
What is Air Suspension?
Air suspension is a type of vehicle suspension that uses air-filled bags instead of traditional coil or leaf springs. This system provides a smoother ride and allows for adjustable ride height, making it popular in luxury vehicles and trucks. However, like any mechanical system, air suspension has its own set of challenges and maintenance needs.
Average Life Expectancy
The average life expectancy of an air suspension system typically ranges from 8 to 10 years or 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on various factors. However, some systems may last longer with proper care, while others may fail sooner due to neglect or harsh driving conditions.
Factors Affecting Life Expectancy
Several factors can influence the lifespan of an air suspension system:
- Quality of Components: Higher-quality air suspension components tend to last longer. Investing in reputable brands can pay off in the long run.
- Driving Conditions: Frequent driving on rough roads or in extreme weather can accelerate wear and tear on the system.
- Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify issues before they lead to failure. This includes checking for leaks and ensuring the air compressor is functioning properly.
- Load Capacity: Consistently exceeding the vehicle's load capacity can put additional stress on the air suspension, leading to premature failure.
Tips for Extending the Life of Your Air Suspension
To maximize the lifespan of your air suspension system, consider the following tips:
- Regular Inspections: Have your air suspension system inspected regularly by a qualified technician to catch any potential issues early.
- Maintain Proper Air Pressure: Ensure that the air pressure in the suspension bags is maintained at the recommended levels.
- Avoid Overloading: Be mindful of your vehicle's load capacity and avoid carrying excessive weight.
- Drive Carefully: Try to avoid potholes and rough terrain whenever possible to reduce stress on the suspension system.
Conclusion
Understanding the life expectancy of air suspension systems is crucial for vehicle owners who want to maintain their vehicles effectively. By being aware of the factors that affect longevity and following maintenance tips, you can help ensure that your air suspension system lasts as long as possible. If you have any questions or need assistance with your vehicle's air suspension, feel free to reach out to us at Kevin's Autos!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do air suspensions last?
Air struts or air bags in an air suspension system can last between 80,000-100,000 miles. Regular checks for wear and tear can help extend their lifespan. Air suspension kits often include replacement parts for these components. Some kits also include coilovers, which can be a beneficial upgrade for some vehicles.
What is the most common problem with air suspension?
The most common failure for any air suspension issue is going to be a leak. Especially for the age of this vehicle. Make sure to really inspect any connections and lines where they may be rubbing. If nothing found then spray down each bag individually to inspect for leaks as if you are checking a tire for air loss.
How much does it cost 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.
Is air suspension expensive to fix?
The average price of a complete air suspension kit can cost anywhere between about $2,000 up to $7,000, depending on your specific kit.
How durable is air suspension?
In the short term, air suspension cars are reliable but tend to see longer distance travel and time on the road where frequent repairs may become necessary. Not repairing your suspension isn't really an option; if your suspension is broken your car will tilt to one side while driving.
What is the life expectancy of an air suspension compressor?
between 3 to 5 years
Lifespan of Air Suspension Components
Most air compressors last between 3 to 5 years. However, their lifespan can be shortened by frequent use and poor maintenance.
How to prolong air suspension life?
How Do You Maintain Air Bag Suspension?
- Draining Condensation In Your Air Tank.
- Use Air Brake Anti-Freeze In Harsh Winter Climates.
- Ensure Your Air Lines Are Secure.
- Check Lock Collars If Applicable.
- Quick Once Over On All Components.
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.
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.
How often do you need to replace air suspension?
When the vehicle is being inspected, it is recommended that the air sleeves are checked for these small cracks and, if present, replaced to avoid the cracks developing into a bigger leak over time. Typically, a high-quality air spring should be replaced every six to ten years.
