What is the Air Springs all about?

While gas shock and strut suspensions might be the most popular and the most widely used, they’re not the only option out there. Many higher end vehicles, as well as European imports, use either an air or liquid-based system. Air suspensions are actually very popular for a number of reasons, including the fact that they provide much better comfort while driving, and can be user adjusted to offer things like a lower entrance height depending on specific needs.

Air springs are the rubber bladders under the vehicle that hold air and are responsible for raising the chassis off the axles. They’re also called airbags or air bellows. They’re relatively uncomplicated, but they do suffer from a few issues. The most notable problem you’ll face is that as the air springs age, the rubber can become dry and brittle, cracking and leaking. Any failure with the air compressor dryer will exacerbate the problem.

Once the air springs have started to degrade, the ride quality will also decrease. Eventually, the air springs will need to be replaced.

Keep in mind:

• Rubber air springs will naturally degrade through normal wear and tear.
• Air springs are not technically part of normal maintenance, but a knowledgeable mechanic will note their condition.
• As springs begin to leak, the suspension will sag, decreasing comfort and performance.

How it's done:

• The air suspension air spring is verified to see if it needs to be replaced
• The defective air spring is removed
• The new air spring is installed
• The air springs are tested for operation
• The vehicle is tested to ensure proper operation of the air suspension system

Our recommendation:

Air springs are critical components of your suspension system, and if they’ve started to leak, or you’ve had one blow out, your ride quality is likely uneven. It will also have a direct impact on the handling and performance characteristics of your car. Not all mechanics are experienced with air suspensions, so have one of our expert mechanics diagnose the problem and replace the air springs if necessary.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Air Springs?

• Sagging suspension
• Compressor continues to run
• Suspension doesn’t reach normal height

How important is this service?

If your air springs are not holding air for long periods, or one or more has blown out completely, it’s vital that you have them replaced as soon as possible. Your vehicle will not handle properly with weak or leaked out air bags and you can get into an accident. Have worn or leaking air springs replaced as soon as possible.