Answer: Replacing the air suspension in a 2015 RAM 1500 involves diagnosing faulty components, removing old air springs, and installing new ones. Costs range from $800 to $3,500, depending on DIY vs. professional service. Common failure symptoms include sagging rear suspension, uneven ride height, and dashboard warnings. Always use OEM or aftermarket kits compatible with RAM’s air suspension system.
How do I choose the right suspension?
How Much Does a 2015 RAM 1500 Air Suspension Replacement Cost?
Replacement costs range from $800 (DIY with aftermarket kits) to $3,500 (dealership service). OEM air springs cost $300-$600 each, while compressors run $400-$800. Labor adds $200-$500 for independent shops or $150-$250/hour at dealerships. Aftermarket brands like Arnott or Air Lift offer budget-friendly kits. Factor in diagnostic fees ($100-$150) if troubleshooting is needed.
Geographic location significantly impacts pricing. Urban dealerships often charge 15-20% more than rural shops due to higher overhead costs. For partial replacements, prioritize compressor repairs first—a faulty compressor accelerates air spring wear. Consider purchasing rebuilt components from certified suppliers to save 30-40% versus new parts. Below is a cost comparison for common replacement scenarios:
| Component | DIY Cost | Professional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Single Air Spring | $320-$450 | $700-$1,100 |
| Compressor | $500-$650 | $950-$1,400 |
| Full System Kit | $1,200-$1,800 | $2,500-$3,500 |
Can You Replace RAM 1500 Air Suspension with Coil Springs?
Yes. Conversion kits from brands like SD Truck Springs ($500-$900) replace air springs with coil or strut systems. Benefits include lower maintenance and costs, but you lose load-leveling capabilities and may trigger dashboard warnings. Reprogramming the ECU is often required to disable air suspension alerts. Confirm compatibility with your trim level before purchasing.
How much does good air suspension cost?
Owners in extreme climates report better durability with coil conversions, as rubber air springs degrade faster in freezing temperatures. However, ride stiffness increases by 20-30% depending on spring rating. Off-road enthusiasts should opt for heavy-duty coils with adjustable dampers. Below are key considerations when converting:
| Factor | Air Suspension | Coil Springs |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Cost | $200/year | $50/year |
| Load Adjustment | Automatic | Manual |
| Lifespan | 6-8 years | 10+ years |
“The 2015 RAM 1500’s air suspension is robust but suffers from dry-rot in air springs after 6-8 years. I recommend annual inspections in humid climates. For DIYers, Arnott’s pre-assembled kits save hours. Never bypass the compressor relay—it’s a fire hazard. If converting to coils, invest in quality shocks to preserve ride quality.”
– Automotive Suspension Specialist, 12+ years experience
FAQ
- Can I drive with a failed air suspension?
- Yes, but avoid heavy loads and speeds over 50 mph. Sagging suspension strains the drivetrain and reduces stability.
- Do aftermarket air springs void RAM’s warranty?
- Only if they directly cause a failure. Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects users, but dealerships may dispute claims.
- How often should air suspension be serviced?
- Inspect every 30,000 miles. Replace air springs every 75,000-100,000 miles. Compressors last 100,000-150,000 miles with proper maintenance.