Air suspension systems, which were used in heavy-duty vehicles like trucks, are now commonly used in mainstream automobiles. Earlier air suspension systems essentially replaced the coil springs with air bags. Modern air suspension systems include various components such as the air compressor, dryer, air lines and solenoids to provide a smoother ride and control over the vehicle. This buyer's guide provides a clear understanding about air suspension systems and their components. Buying air suspension parts for your automobile can be a confusing process. Now we make it easy to find the perfect fit for your automobile.

Air Suspension System

An air suspension system is a kind of automobile suspension that replaces steel springs used in conventional suspension systems with air bags/springs. An air compressor, which is an electric pump, delivers compressed air to the springs via a series of compressed air lines. The air suspension system also includes a dryer, usually attached to the compressor, to prevent any moisture from entering the springs. The air suspension systems provide a better ride quality and ease of handling than conventional suspension systems.

Air Spring

An air spring, also called the air bag, is an inflatable balloon-like component that inflates or deflates to adjust the ride height of the vehicle according to its load. It is usually made of rubber and polyurethane. The air bag when inflated causes the automobile to ride high on the suspension, whereas when air is removed from the air bag, it causes the vehicle to ride low on the suspension. These adjustments to the air bags allow drivers to switch between different ride qualities.

Problems: Air spring failure is usually due to age or moisture in the air system. The air bag may also get punctured due to continuous exposure to road debris.

Note: The air bag should be properly installed; otherwise, it may rub against the automobile's frame and other components, resulting in a premature failure.

Air Suspension Compressor

Earlier air suspensions included an external compressor to fill the air bags. Today, most of the air suspension systems include an on-board compressor that is attached to the frame of the automobile. The compressor draws in outside air and compresses it to fill the air bags, whenever needed. The compressor sends air to the bags through a series of compressed air lines. The compressor often includes a dryer to remove any moisture in the air.

Problems: Moisture in the air system often wreaks havoc in the compressor and air springs. The compressor failure may also be due to leaky air bags or struts. Air dryer failure often results in compressor burn-out.

Air Suspension Valve

The air suspension valve is responsible for regulating the air flow within the suspension system. Modern air suspension systems include a series of valves that control the air flow.

Problems: Over time, the valve may get clogged or become leaky, affecting the air flow within the system.

How to find the right parts?

Firstly, provide the vehicle's year,make and model, if cannot find your specific air suspension part,check by VIN and find the part's Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) number, which can be found directly on the part itself.

Advantages of Air Suspension over Traditional Suspension Systems

1) Air suspension has a wider tuning range for the load capacity and air spring rate.

2) Air suspension provides a better handling as the air springs can adjust to various levels of compression.

3) Air suspension provides easy customization of the suspension. Vehicles can be adjusted to various levels of softness and hardness, depending on personal choices.

4) Air suspension decreases the automobile's tire wear.