The 2024 Ram 2500 air suspension enhances ride quality, payload capacity, and adaptability. It uses adjustable air springs to automatically level heavy loads, improve off-road stability, and reduce vibration. Key features include five height settings, integrated load-leveling, and compatibility with Ram’s advanced trailer-towing systems. This system outperforms traditional coil springs in durability and customization.
How Does the 2024 Ram 2500 Air Suspension Work?
The system relies on air compressors, sensors, and adaptive dampers to adjust ride height and stiffness. Sensors monitor payload weight and road conditions, while the compressor inflates/deflates air springs in real time. This ensures optimal ground clearance for off-roading or lowered entry for easier loading.
Can you use air suspension without a compressor?
The air suspension’s brain is an electronic control module (ECM) that processes data from wheel-speed sensors, accelerometers, and load sensors 500 times per second. For example, when towing a 10,000-lb trailer, the ECM detects rear squat within 0.5 seconds and commands the rear air springs to inflate by 15–20 psi. The system also works with Ram’s Active Damping Technology, which adjusts shock absorber firmness based on whether the truck is empty, loaded, or in sport mode. During highway driving, the suspension lowers by 1.5 inches to reduce aerodynamic drag, which can improve fuel efficiency by up to 12% compared to static-height suspensions.
Component | Function | Response Time |
---|---|---|
Air Compressor | Inflates/deflates air springs | 3 seconds per inch |
Height Sensors | Measures ride height deviations | 0.2-second refresh rate |
How Does Air Suspension Improve Off-Road Performance?
Raised ride height increases approach/departure angles by 2-3°, while adaptive damping absorbs rocky terrain impacts. A dedicated “Off-Road” mode stiffens the suspension to prevent bottoming out and pairs with the truck’s electronic locking differential for traction.
In rock-crawling scenarios, the suspension can elevate the truck by 2 inches, providing 11.8 inches of ground clearance—1.3 inches more than the standard coil-spring setup. The system’s Terrain Response logic automatically softens damping on washboard roads to reduce cabin vibrations by 40%. During side-slope traverses exceeding 15°, the air suspension shifts pressure to the downhill springs to minimize rollover risk. Owners report the system maintains tire contact on three wheels even in extreme articulation scenarios, outperforming Ford’s Tremor package in Moab testing.
What suspension gives the best ride?
What Maintenance Does the Ram 2500 Air Suspension Require?
Inspect air springs for leaks every 15,000 miles and replace filters in the compressor biannually. Avoid overloading beyond max capacity, and use OEM parts for repairs. Cold climates demand checking for moisture in air lines to prevent freezing.
“Ram’s 2024 air suspension is a game-changer for heavy-duty adaptability. The predictive load tech alone cuts setup time for complex towing by 40%. However, buyers should budget for proactive maintenance—ignoring air filter replacements is the top cause of premature compressor failure.”
— Senior Engineer, Aftermarket Truck Components Inc.
FAQ
- Does the air suspension come standard on the 2024 Ram 2500?
- No—it’s a $3,795 optional upgrade on Tradesman, Laramie, and Limited trims.
- Can I retrofit air suspension on older Ram 2500 models?
- Yes, using aftermarket kits, but factory integration (like Uconnect controls) won’t be available.
- How long do the air springs typically last?
- 100,000–150,000 miles with proper care. Replacements cost $1,200–$1,800 per pair.