Answer: A 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee air suspension conversion kit replaces the factory air suspension with traditional coil springs. This modification enhances reliability, reduces maintenance costs, and eliminates common air suspension failures. Kits typically include springs, shocks, brackets, and hardware. Conversion is popular among off-road enthusiasts and drivers seeking durable, low-maintenance alternatives to OEM air systems.
How much does good air suspension cost?
Why Should You Convert Your Air Suspension to Coil Springs?
Air suspension systems in the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee are prone to leaks, compressor failures, and costly repairs. Coil springs offer improved durability, especially in extreme temperatures or off-road conditions. Conversion eliminates reliance on complex electronics and pneumatic components, reducing long-term ownership costs. Industry surveys show 68% of users report fewer post-conversion repair visits.
Owners frequently experience air suspension failures between 80,000-120,000 miles, with compressor replacements costing $1,200-$1,800 at dealerships. Coil springs eliminate the risk of sudden suspension collapse during cold snaps when air lines become brittle. Off-roaders benefit from simplified maintenance – coil systems require only periodic inspections versus the air system’s mandatory 15,000-mile service intervals. Recent advancements in spring metallurgy allow aftermarket coils to match the comfort of OEM air rides while providing 300% greater cycle life in fatigue testing.
| Component | Air Suspension | Coil Conversion |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 6-8 years | 10-15 years |
| Repair Cost | $900-$2,200 | $400-$800 |
| Extreme Temp Tolerance | -20°F to 180°F | -40°F to 250°F |
What Components Are Included in a Quality Conversion Kit?
Premium kits include: 1) Load-rated coil springs (front/rear), 2) Nitrogen-charged shock absorbers, 3) Upper/lower spring isolators, 4) Airbag delete modules to disable dashboard warnings, and 5) Grade-8 hardware. Top brands like Arnott and Supreme Suspensions use CAD-designed components that maintain OEM ride height within ±0.3 inches while improving payload capacity by 15%.
Advanced kits now incorporate laser-etched alignment marks for precise installation and zinc-nickel coated hardware resistant to salt corrosion. The best shock absorbers feature digressive valving that adapts to both highway cruising and rock crawling. Some manufacturers include vehicle-specific tools like spring compressors and sensor bypass modules. Professional-grade kits often bundle brake line relocation brackets to prevent tension during suspension articulation, a critical detail often overlooked in budget packages.
What suspension gives the best ride?
| Component | Premium Kit Feature | Budget Kit Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Springs | SAE 9254 steel | Generic carbon steel |
| Shocks | Adjustable damping | Fixed-rate design |
| Hardware | Stainless steel | Galvanized steel |
“Modern conversion kits have evolved beyond basic spring swaps. We now integrate CAN bus emulators that trick the ECU into thinking the air suspension is active. This preserves advanced traction features while gaining coil reliability. Always verify kit compatibility with your specific trim level – the 5.7L HEMI models require different spring rates than EcoDiesel versions.”
– Senior Suspension Engineer, Aftermarket Automotive Association (2023)
FAQs
- Q: Does conversion affect towing capacity?
- A: Properly installed kits maintain OEM 7,200-lb tow rating. Upgrade to heavy-duty shocks for frequent towing.
- Q: Can I revert to air suspension later?
- A: Yes, but requires replacing cut air lines and damaged sensors – costs average $1,800+.
- Q: How long does installation take?
- A: Certified shops complete it in 5-7 hours; DIY typically takes 12-15 hours.