Fitted predominantly to high-end vehicles, one would imagine that air suspension systems are hideously costly to put right and almost impossible for anyone outside of main dealership networks to even contemplate repairing. These common presumptions are neither correct, nor fair.
If normal spring/damper replacements do not faze you, air suspension diagnostics and repairs should be well within your capabilities. In most cases, you do not require any special tools, no high voltages are involved and they do not operate at super-high pressures.
Even so, air suspension is neither tolerant of neglect, nor ham-fisted repairs. If you have never come across them before, take time to research your particular system and its common foibles, taking into account the general advice contained within this feature.
Why air suspension?
Air suspension offers considerably more flexibility over the conventional coil spring alternative. Self-levelling is a major advantage. This not only prevents the vehicle from looking as though its suspension has collapsed, when heavy weights are carried, but it also preserves optimum suspension geometry and handling characteristics, especially when towing. Some models, such as the pre-2013 Citroën C4 Picasso, employ self-levelling air suspension on the rear axle, only.
Self-levelling systems may also possess a height adjustment facility. While raising the ride height is useful to clear obstacles, without damaging the vehicle’s underbelly, aerodynamics and fuel consumption can be improved, by lowering the height automatically at high speeds.
Ride comfort is another advantage. The cushioning effect of air pressure within a flexible rubber bladder insulates the cabin against bumps, vibration and noise.
