The 2014 Ram 1500’s air suspension system improves ride quality through adaptive load-leveling and five height settings. This factory-installed option automatically adjusts to payload weight and road conditions while offering superior towing stability compared to coil spring systems. Key benefits include improved off-road capability, reduced body roll, and enhanced braking performance through real-time damping adjustments.
What Are the Key Features of the Ram 1500 Air Suspension System?
The system features five operational modes: Normal Ride Height, Off-Road 1, Off-Road 2, Aero, and Park. Using pneumatic springs and electronic sensors, it maintains consistent ride height regardless of cargo load. The automatic leveling function compensates for up to 1,200 lbs payload while preserving optimal headlight alignment and center of gravity.
How Does Air Suspension Compare to Conventional Coil Springs?
Unlike static coil springs, the air suspension provides 1.2″ greater articulation in off-road modes and reduces body lean by 18% during cornering. The system’s variable damping rates improve braking efficiency by 15% compared to steel spring configurations, while the Park Mode lowers the truck 2.5″ for easier cab access.
What Maintenance Prevents Air Suspension Failures?
Bi-annual compressor filter replacements and annual air spring inspections are critical. Use Mopar® Air Suspension Fluid (P/N 68055673AA) for compressor maintenance. Common failure points include dried O-rings in the valve block (replace every 60k miles) and moisture buildup in air lines – install aftermarket desiccant kits to prevent corrosion.
Extended maintenance protocols should include quarterly visual checks of air springs for cracking or abrasions. Owners towing heavy loads frequently should shorten the compressor filter replacement interval to every 4 months. A common symptom of impending failure is extended compressor runtime – if the pump takes longer than 90 seconds to lift the truck from Park to Normal height, inspect for leaks immediately. Using ethanol-free compressed air in moisture-prone climates can extend component life by 30-40% according to third-party studies.
Can you use air suspension without a compressor?
| Component | Maintenance Interval | Recommended Product |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor Filter | 6 months | Mopar 68362398AA |
| Air Spring Pistons | 12 months | Silicone Grease 4318066AA |
| Valve Block O-rings | 60,000 miles | Dorman 904-210 |
How to Diagnose Common Air Suspension Fault Codes?
Use a DRBIII scan tool to interpret B1498 (compressor overheat) or C1720 (height sensor) codes. Pressure testing with a Mityvac MV8500 gauge kit reveals leaks exceeding 0.5 PSI/minute. Check the 40A fuse in Position 21 of the Totally Integrated Power Module before replacing components. Most electrical faults originate in the height sensor wiring harness near the rear axle.
Advanced diagnostics require monitoring the system’s pressure decay rate. A healthy system should maintain 150-160 PSI for at least 45 minutes after shutdown. When troubleshooting C1720 codes, focus on the sensor’s 5V reference circuit – corrosion at the connector accounts for 73% of cases according to dealership repair logs. For persistent B1498 errors, upgrading to the revised 2016-model compressor (P/N 68229832AB) often provides better thermal management than the original 2014 unit.
| Fault Code | Probable Cause | Diagnostic Procedure |
|---|---|---|
| B1498 | Compressor overheating | Check cooling fins for debris |
| C1720 | Height sensor malfunction | Test sensor voltage output |
| U0401 | Data communication error | Inspect CANbus wiring |
Can You Retrofit Aftermarket Air Suspension Components?
Yes – the WK2 Ram chassis accepts Air Lift 88299 kits without drilling. However, aftermarket compressors require reprogramming the Body Control Module with AlfaOBD software. Retrofitting demands CANbus-compatible components to avoid triggering U0401 (invalid data) errors. Always maintain the OEM 5-mode selector switch functionality when installing third-party systems.
What Are the Towing Benefits of Air Suspension?
The system automatically compensates for tongue weight up to 1,500 lbs, maintaining 0.5° maximum squat angle. Integrated trailer sway control uses suspension adjustments to counter oscillations – reducing trailer swing by 40% compared to standard setups. The load-leveling function keeps headlights properly aimed even with maximum payload.
“The Gen 4 Ram air suspension’s Achilles heel is moisture intrusion. We recommend annual dryer cartridge replacements and installing auxiliary coalescing filters. Most 2014 models need complete air spring overhauls at 85k miles – look for polyurethane replacements rather than OEM rubber bladders.”
– Heavy Duty Trucking Systems Analyst
Conclusion
The 2014 Ram 1500’s air suspension remains a benchmark in adaptive truck suspension technology. While requiring meticulous maintenance, its combination of payload management, terrain adaptability, and integrated safety features justifies the premium over conventional systems. Owners should prioritize moisture prevention and use OEM-grade repair components for optimal longevity.
FAQs
- How often should I lubricate the air springs?
- Apply silicone grease (Mopar 4318066AA) to spring pistons every 25k miles.
- Can I manually adjust ride height?
- Only through preset modes – manual override requires dealer-level software.
- What’s the repair cost for compressor failure?
- $980-$1,400 including module reprogramming at dealerships.