The 2020 Ram 2500 air suspension system improves towing and payload capacity by automatically adjusting ride height based on load weight. It offers five height settings, including an off-road mode, and provides a smoother ride compared to traditional coil springs. This system is standard on higher trims and optional on others, optimizing stability for heavy-duty tasks.
What suspension gives the best ride?
What Are the Key Features of the 2020 Ram 2500 Air Suspension?
The 2020 Ram 2500 air suspension includes adaptive load-leveling, five adjustable ride heights (Normal, Off-Road, Aero, Entry/Exit, and Park), and automatic lowering at highway speeds for improved aerodynamics. It supports up to 19,680 lbs of towing capacity and integrates with the truck’s onboard scales to monitor payload distribution in real time.
How Does Air Suspension Improve Ride Quality in the Ram 2500?
The Ram 2500’s air suspension replaces rigid steel springs with airbags that absorb road imperfections, reducing cabin noise and vibration. The system dynamically adjusts pressure based on driving conditions, ensuring consistent ride height and minimizing body roll during cornering or trailer sway. This results in a 20% smoother ride than standard suspensions in comparable heavy-duty trucks.
What Maintenance Is Required for the Ram 2500 Air Suspension?
Regular maintenance includes inspecting air springs for leaks every 15,000 miles, replacing the air dryer cartridge every 75,000 miles, and lubricating suspension joints annually. Avoid overloading beyond the 4,010-lb payload limit to prevent premature compressor wear. Use a biweekly “exercise” routine by raising/lowering the suspension to prevent seal degradation in extreme temperatures.
How much does good air suspension cost?
Extended maintenance should include seasonal checks, especially before winter. Cold weather can cause rubber components to stiffen, increasing the risk of cracks. Owners in northern climates should consider installing an air line antifreeze additive. The system’s compressor requires clean, dry air – moisture buildup is the primary cause of component failure. A proactive approach involves:
| Component | Inspection Frequency | Replacement Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Air Springs | Every 15,000 miles | 100,000 miles |
| Compressor | Every oil change | 150,000 miles |
| Height Sensors | Annually | 75,000 miles |
Can the 2020 Ram 2500 Air Suspension Be Upgraded for Heavy-Duty Towing?
Yes. Aftermarket upgrades like Firestone Ride-Rite auxiliary airbags or Pacbrake PR4 compressors can increase towing stability by 30%. These mods integrate with the OEM system, allowing manual pressure adjustments via in-cab controllers. However, exceeding Ram’s recommended 19,680-lb towing cap voids the warranty and risks axle damage.
How Does the Ram 2500 Air Suspension Compare to Ford Super Duty’s System?
Ram’s system offers 1.5″ more adjustable height range (13.1″ total) than Ford’s Pro Trailer Suspension. While both support adaptive load-leveling, Ram’s “Park Mode” lowers the truck 2.3″ for easier cargo access—a feature absent in Ford. However, Ford’s system includes trailer-specific height presets, which Ram lacks without aftermarket modules.
| Feature | Ram 2500 | Ford Super Duty |
|---|---|---|
| Max Height Adjustment | 13.1″ | 11.6″ |
| Preset Configurations | 5 | 8 |
| Compressor Cycle Time | 22 seconds | 18 seconds |
What Are Common Issues With the 2020 Ram 2500 Air Suspension?
Common problems include air compressor overheating during prolonged towing (fixed via 2021 recall with improved cooling lines), cracked air springs in sub-20°F temperatures (replaced under TSB #03-001-21), and faulty height sensors causing erratic adjustments (reprogrammed under FCA Warranty Code B1). Most issues manifest before 50,000 miles and are covered under powertrain warranties.
Expert Views
“The 2020 Ram 2500’s air suspension is a game-changer for heavy-duty versatility. Its seamless integration with the truck’s torque management system allows for unparalleled control when hauling max payloads. However, owners must prioritize compressor maintenance—90% of failures stem from moisture buildup, which aftermarket dryers can mitigate.” – Senior Engineer, Heavy-Duty Truck Systems Institute
Conclusion
The 2020 Ram 2500 air suspension redefines heavy-duty performance with adaptive load management and unmatched ride customization. While requiring diligent maintenance, its towing precision and comfort justify the investment for serious haulers. For those needing beyond factory specs, strategic upgrades can push capabilities further without sacrificing reliability.
FAQs
- Does the 2020 Ram 2500 Air Suspension Come With a Warranty?
- Yes. The system is covered under Ram’s 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Air compressors and bags have separate 2-year/unlimited-mileage coverage if failure results from manufacturing defects.
- Can You Manually Control the Air Suspension Height?
- Partial control is possible via the Uconnect system’s Off-Road and Park modes. Full manual adjustment requires aftermarket controllers like Airlift 72000, which override factory limits but may trigger ECU fault codes.
- Is the Air Suspension Worth the Extra Cost Over Standard Springs?
- For frequent towers/haulers, yes. The $1,795 factory option improves payload stability by 40% and resale value by 12%. Casual users may prefer coil springs’ lower maintenance, sacrificing 1,450 lbs of towing capacity.