What Are the Most Common Problems With This Air Suspension?
Frequent issues include air compressor failure (due to moisture or overuse), leaking air springs (cracked rubber diaphragms), and faulty height sensors. Symptoms involve sagging corners, error messages like “Service Air Suspension,” or prolonged leveling times. Repair costs range from $200 for sensor replacements to $1,800+ for compressor and air spring overhauls.
How much does good air suspension cost?
| Component | Common Symptoms | Average Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Compressor | Frequent cycling, overheating, no lift | $900-$1,400 |
| Air Springs | Vehicle leans to one side, audible leaks | $500-$800/pair |
| Height Sensor | Erratic ride adjustments, warning lights | $220-$350 |
Diagnosing these problems often requires specialized tools. A bidirectional OBD-II scanner can retrieve suspension-specific trouble codes like C14A0 (compressor relay circuit) or C14A6 (air spring leakage). Uneven ride height during cold mornings often points to failing air springs, while intermittent “Service Air Suspension” warnings typically indicate corroded height sensor connectors. For compressor issues, listen for extended running times (over 2 minutes) when adjusting ride height—this suggests air leaks or reduced efficiency.
Is air suspension better than shocks?
What Maintenance Extends the Air Suspension Lifespan?
- Monthly inspections for air line cracks or leaks using soapy water
- Replacing the compressor desiccant bag every 50,000 miles to prevent moisture damage
- Avoiding maximum lift modes on paved roads to reduce compressor strain
Proactive maintenance significantly reduces failure risks. During monthly inspections, pay particular attention to the air spring bellows—accumulated dirt can accelerate rubber degradation. When replacing the desiccant bag, always clean the compressor’s intake filter using compressed air. For trucks frequently operating in humid climates, consider upgrading to a dual-stage desiccant system ($120) that doubles moisture absorption capacity. Owners should also avoid “cycling” the suspension height unnecessarily—each full lift/lower sequence consumes approximately 15 compressor rotations, contributing to wear.
What suspension gives the best ride?
| Maintenance Task | Frequency | Critical Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Air line inspection | Monthly | Focus on connections near wheel wells |
| Desiccant replacement | 50,000 miles | Use only RAM-approved silica gel |
| Compressor filter cleaning | 6 months | Never use water-based cleaners |
FAQs
- Does disabling air suspension affect 4WD operation?
- Yes—the Rebel’s 4WD torque distribution relies on suspension height data. Disabling it may default to 50/50 front/rear split instead of adaptive torque vectoring.
- What’s the maximum payload with functioning air suspension?
- 1,530 lbs (25% more than coil-spring Ram 1500 models). Exceeding this stresses the compressor and may collapse air springs.
- Are aftermarket air springs compatible?
- Yes—Arnott AS-2985 replacements ($285/side) use 3-ply rubber vs OEM’s 2-ply, increasing lifespan by ~40%.