Air suspension systems offer enhanced comfort and handling, but proper maintenance and repair are essential to ensure they function optimally. Working on air suspension components involves handling high-pressure systems, so it’s crucial to prioritize safety and follow the correct procedures.
Here are six essential tips for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing your vehicle’s air suspension system.
1. PRIORITIZE SAFETY & PREPARATION Before beginning any work on an air suspension system, always prioritize safety. Wear protective gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection, as air suspension systems can operate at pressures as high as 18 bar. Disconnect Power: Ensure that the compressor’s power supply is disconnected and that pressure has been released before removing any hoses or components. Vehicle Stability: Properly lift and immobilize the vehicle to prevent accidents. 2. HOW TO DETECT FAULTY COMPONENTS Early identification of defective air suspension components can save time and money. Here’s how to spot common issues: Leaks: If your vehicle drops by 2.5 cm or more overnight, it likely has a leak. Spray a water and soap mixture around the system—bubbles will indicate a leak. Faulty Valve Block: If one corner of the vehicle is lower than the others or if the car isn’t leveled, the issue may also lie with the valve block. Leaking Struts and Shocks: Oil leaks from struts or shocks can damage the rubber of the air bellows, reducing their lifespan. Secondly, if the shock absorber no longer absorbs impacts properly, the air spring overworks and can get damaged. Burned-out Compressor: A burnt smell, melted air lines or connectors, discoloration of the compressor’s metal body, or labels are signs of a malfunctioning compressor. 3. PROPER DEPRESSURIZATION Depressurizing the system is crucial before removing any components. Here’s how to do it safely: Depressurize Gradually: Whether you are working on the compressor or air bellows, never remove the air fittings abruptly. Do it gradually to slowly relieve pressure. Some vehicles require a diagnostic tool to activate solenoids and depressurize the air bellows. You can recognize this by the presence of a connector on the air spring. “Jack Mode” Feature: If your vehicle has a “jack mode,” it needs to be activated to prevent air from being released from the bellow when lifting the vehicle. Some systems automatically recognize that the car is jacked and retain the desired amount of pressure in the air springs. Support vehicle: When the air suspension system is depressurized, ensure the lifting device always supports the vehicle. Fully lowering the vehicle can cause the air spring to unfold improperly, potentially damaging the crimp ring. Additionally, the compressor may fail to generate enough pressure to raise the vehicle, risking damage to the relay or even burning out the compressor. Do not stretch/pressurize air springs: Never stretch or pressurize the air springs to make the installation easier. During inflation, it could fold out incorrectly and get damaged. 4. OVER-TIGHTENING VOSS CONNECTORS VOSS connectors usually do not need tightening. Over-tightening can cause damage to the thread, leading to air leaks. Therefore, always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications to avoid a damaged thread. 5. IDENTIFY THE ROOT CAUSE OF FAILURE When your air suspension system fails, it’s crucial to pinpoint the underlying issue rather than just replacing components. For example, leaking struts and shocks can damage the air springs, and both need to be replaced in such cases. Similarly, a burned-out compressor is often a symptom of a larger issue, such as a significant leak elsewhere in the system. Always address the source of the leak in addition to replacing the compressor. Additionally, when installing a new compressor, be sure to replace the relay as well. An old or sticky relay can cause the compressor to run continuously, ultimately leading to premature failure. 6. DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS & UPDATES Once you’ve completed repairs, ensure that everything is functioning correctly: Height Sensor Calibration: Use a diagnostic tool to check and adjust the height sensor parameters if needed. This ensures that the system responds appropriately to driving conditions. Software Updates: Follow the installation manual and perform necessary software updates to ensure proper system function. Failing to update the software can lead to compressor malfunctions or system failure. Check for Fault Codes: After a test drive, verify that no fault codes have been re-entered into the system. Working on an air suspension system requires a careful approach, proper tools, and an understanding of the components involved. By prioritizing safety, using the right diagnostic tools, and following these tips, you can maintain and repair your air suspension system effectively, ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. This information is provided by Arnott Suspension Products, a leader in the design and manufacturing of high-quality suspension components for the aftermarket. With over 35 years of experience, Arnott is an expert in suspension systems. Arnott’s products are crafted with high-quality OE components, ensuring perfect form, fit, and function. Each product is rigorously tested at Arnott’s American and European facilities and custom-tuned to suit specific vehicle makes and models. |