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Why is my air suspension so bouncy?

If your air suspension system is feeling overly bouncy or unstable, there could be a few potential causes. The most common reasons for a bouncy air suspension include worn-out air shocks, low air pressure, and issues with the compressor or other air suspension components. Let's dive into the details to help you identify and address the problem.


Worn-Out Air Shocks


Over time, the air shocks that are part of your air suspension system can wear out and lose their ability to properly dampen the ride. Worn-out air shocks will cause your vehicle to feel overly bouncy, especially when driving over bumps or uneven terrain. This is one of the most common causes of a bouncy air suspension. Replacing the air shocks is often the best solution in this case.


Low Air Pressure


Your air suspension system relies on maintaining the correct air pressure in the air springs. If the air pressure is too low, the system won't be able to properly cushion the ride, leading to a bouncy and unstable feel. This could be due to a leak in the air lines or a problem with the air compressor. Checking the air pressure and addressing any leaks or compressor issues can help resolve a low-pressure problem.


Air Suspension Component Failures


Other potential causes of a bouncy air suspension include:


  • Faulty air compressor: If the air compressor isn't working properly, it can't maintain the necessary air pressure in the system.

  • Damaged air springs: Cracks, holes, or other damage to the air springs themselves can cause air leaks and suspension instability.

  • Electrical issues: Problems with the sensors, control modules, or wiring in the air suspension system can also contribute to a bouncy ride.


Diagnosing and addressing any issues with these key air suspension components can help resolve a bouncy ride.


In summary, the most common reasons for a bouncy air suspension are worn-out air shocks, low air pressure, and problems with the air suspension components. Properly maintaining and repairing your air suspension system is crucial for a smooth, stable ride.

How do I make my suspension ride smoother?


Swapping them out for smaller wheels and higher-profile tires will allow for a smoother ride since the taller tires can absorb more impact from the road. Replacing your shocks and springs – or your struts – for aftermarket versions that provide a softer ride is an option on many cars. Some components are adjustable.



How do you soften air ride suspension?


When a softer spring rate is required, the solenoid opens. Another way of altering spring rate is to interconnect the springs at one end of the car. Because most road bumps are one-wheel bumps, taking this approach softens the ride because when one wheel rises over a bump, the air can flow to the other spring's volume.



How to make an air ride less bouncy?


3 easy steps to eliminating the bounce and sway from airbags

  1. DEFLATE YOUR AIRBAGS. It is typical to run about 70-80 pounds of air pressure or more in the airbags to support a load like a truck camper.
  2. INSTALL YOUR STABLELOADS.
  3. LEVEL YOUR RIDE.



How to fix a bouncy suspension?


REPLACE BAD STRUTS AND SHOCK ABSORBERS
Struts and shock absorbers are the most common reasons behind vehicle bounce. Diagnose the vehicle suspension and look for any signs of damage to these components. Replace the components at the earliest to avoid further deterioration.



How do I make my suspension less stiff?


Swapping the shock absorbers built for firmness with ones that are made for comfort is an easy way to soften the suspension. Depending on what suspension system is on your vehicle, you can also opt to install Air Suspension.



Why is air suspension bumpy?


The usual culprit is improper inflation of the air springs. Both over inflated or under inflated air bags will result in significant ride quality issues.



Why is my ride bouncy?


One of the most common reasons why a car may feel bouncy is worn or improperly inflated tires. If your tires are low on air, it can cause them to deform, leading to a bumpier ride than you're used to. Additionally, if your tires are worn or have uneven wear, it can also cause your car to feel bouncy.



How do you stiffen air suspension?


By increasing the pressure in each air spring, the springs rate is increased (becomes stiffer), and at a certain point, the vehicle gains ride height; the opposite is true when the air springs are deflated.



Is suspension supposed to bounce?


Their primary function is to control the up-and-down movement of the vehicle's suspension. Shocks dampen the spring oscillation, preventing excessive bouncing or jolting. Signs of worn-out shocks include: Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps or uneven road surfaces.



Why is my air suspension bouncy?


You may notice your car bouncing more than usual when your suspension needs to be repaired. Excessive bouncing is caused by worn-out shocks. You'll usually notice your car bouncing when driving over bumps or even tiny dips in the road. You can also perform a bounce test to see if your suspension needs to be repaired.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.