Air Suspension | Pros & Cons Explained

There are many types of suspension systems available for automobiles and today we will be explaining the most advanced and complex system which is known as the Air Suspension.

What is an Air Suspension?

Instead of leaf springs, an air suspension system consists of an air spring, also known as plastic/airbags, rubber, and an airline system, that is connected to an air compressor, valves, solenoids, and uses electronic controls. The onboard compressor is an electric pump, used to provide air to the airbags through multiple lines. Valves are very important here as they play a major role in air direction control, allowing air to enter different parts of the system. When the system adjusts itself for different driving conditions, the solenoids inflate and vent the airbags by opening and closing, this changes the amount of air entering each airbag. The electronic control module controls the on/off switches, monitors the pressure and changes ride height. They are flexible and have a certain amount of elasticity. The more they are compressed, the more the stiffness increases.

Air springs can provide adjustable suspension and load support by adding air when riding fully loaded, and deflating the air when riding light. You can reduce the height of your vehicle to sit very low to improve its street credibility and rise high enough to handle inconsistencies and rough patches on the road. Air springs are the only adjustable load support product, offering various load and leveling capacities as well as improved ride comfort.

Pros of an Air Suspension :

• Increased driver comfort because of the reduction in noise, harshness, and vibration on the road, that in turn decreases driver fatigue
• Less wear and tear on the suspension system as there is reduced vibration during heavy-duty driving
• Air suspension reduces the bouncing of trucks with a short wheelbase over rough roads when the vehicle is unloaded.
• Higher cornering speeds can be attained as the air suspension is better suited to the conditions of the road.
• Instant tuning: Air suspensions have a wide range of spring rates and load capacity. The adjustability can get the ride load and ride height in a few minutes.
• Adapting to different situations: varying the spring rates along with performance customization provide your vehicle endless potential in performance, enabling real-time tuning and a cushiony ride for increased comfort on a rough patch of road.
• Towing: The system is easier for trucks and large vehicles to handle heavier loads. Drivers can increase the stiffness while towing large loads and improve ride comfort.

Cons of an Air Suspension :

• Leaking is a common vulnerability seen in all air suspensions. The system will go flat when it cannot hold air. Clogged airlines are also common air suspension problems.
• Initial costs: It is an additional cost when buying a car in the first place. Only luxury cars, high-end cars and some SUVs provide air suspension as standard equipment.
• The maintenance costs will be higher than standard coil and shocks.
• It will take more time to install an air suspension because of the complexity of wiring, lines and hose installations. The installation itself requires the use of various tools. So hiring a professional mechanic to do it is the best option to guarantee safety and vehicle integrity.
• Air suspension, if not maintained well, can reach three times the cost in repairs as a leaf suspension system over 10 years’ time.
• Fuel efficiency might be reduced as the weight of the air suspension system is heavier when compared to the weight of leaf suspension.
• Damage due to rust or moisture from the inside can lead to the malfunction of air struts or bags.
• Failure of the air suspension tubing that connects the air struts or bags to the air system.
• Failure of air fitting resulting from the damages during initial fitting or infrequent use

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Here are a few symptoms to help you find out if the air suspension is functioning well or about to fallout :

• Car Sagging :

The coil spring and airbag of your car’s air suspension kit supports the vehicle’s weight and helps to cushion energy from road bumps while traveling. When they start to wear off or get damaged, they no longer support the vehicle’s weight, causing it to sink downwards.

Even if it’s only riding low in one corner, a sagging vehicle can have a drastic effect on your car’s performance. With that said, it’s best to replace and install a new airbag or spring as soon as you notice the car sagging.

• Compressor Keeps Running :

The work of a compressor in an air suspension is to ensure that all of the system’s airbags are properly inflated. Once they reach the appropriate air pressure, the compressor should ideally stop. If it continues to run, you may need to replace it.

This problem is usually caused by a leak in the airbag. However, a technical malfunction could also be responsible for a compressors’ continuous operation.

• The Vehicle has a Bumpier Ride :

With time, the shock absorbers, springs, and airbags in your suspension system will wear out, preventing them from absorbing road energy as you travel. This causes a bumpier ride than usual.

Once you notice that your vehicle is producing a rougher ride, especially when travelling through bumpy road conditions, take a look at your car’s shock absorbers. If they’re worn out or leaking, replace them immediately.

• Car Leans or Rolls While Traveling :

Rolling when braking, squatting when accelerating, or leaning to the side when cornering is the most common warning signs that you need to replace the suspension kit. Usually, they are caused by worn shock absorbers. However, other damaged suspension parts may also be responsible.

Regardless, as soon as you observe your vehicle rolling, squatting, or leaning while travelling, inspect your suspension or have a professional take a look at it. If you see excessively worn suspension parts, then replace the suspension kit immediately to prevent additional damage.

Watch: Airmatic Suspension Of Mercedes-Benz ML 350 Being Converted To Coilovers