3 Major Reasons for Air Suspension Failure
Posted on: 25 July 2023
Air suspension systems have become increasingly popular due to their excellent performance and safety features. Vehicles with air suspension provide a smoother ride and greater handling capabilities, thanks to the air-filled bags that replace the conventional suspension springs.
But your air suspension system can still fail and cause significant discomfort or even a dangerous situation. Understanding the possible reasons for air suspension failure is essential to prevent breakdowns and ensure that your air suspension system works properly. Discover three major reasons that can lead to air suspension failure.
Leakages
The air suspension system relies on pressurized air to support the vehicle's weight. The pressurized air is contained within the airbags, so any leakage will cause a decrease in pressure and a drop in performance.
Leakages can occur due to punctures, tears, or cracks in the airbags or the airlines. The airbags are basically rubber, which can become brittle due to extreme temperatures or contact with certain chemicals. Metal airlines can also become damaged because of rust or corrosion.
If your vehicle is lower than usual or the air compressor is constantly running, it may indicate a leak in your air suspension system. You should immediately have a professional mechanic inspect and repair the system before further damage occurs.
Compressor Malfunction
The air suspension system is powered by a compressor, which inflates the airbags when necessary. The engine drives this compressor and incorporates several components, such as valves and pressure switches. The valves help maintain the airbag's correct pressure, while the pressure switches allow for changes in suspension height.
If any of these parts fail or malfunction, it will cause a drop in the performance of your air suspension system. The compressor may also stop working altogether, and you'll have no support from the airbags.
Be aware of any changes in the performance of your air suspension system, especially if you hear strange noises or detect a loss of pressure in the airbags.
Electrical Problems
The air suspension system consists of numerous sensors, wires, and control modules that regulate and adjust the airbag's pressure.
For example, level sensors detect changes in the vehicle's height and inform the control module, which then adjusts the airbag's pressure accordingly. Similarly, speed sensors measure the vehicle's velocity and inform the control module to adjust the air suspension accordingly to avoid things like body roll.
If any of these components fail or become disconnected, they will not be able to communicate with the control module, leading to a drop in the performance of your air suspension system.
Usually, most electrical failures are easy to detect. You might even get warning lights on the dashboard to alert you of a problem. Talk to a professional mechanic for mercedes benz auto repair if you suspect any electrical malfunctions to make sure you're safe on the road.
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