Air compressors and air suspension fail

Air compressors and air suspension fail

The air compressors that raise my SUV up and down were defective. Also, the warning light came on for the air suspension. I took the SUV to the auto repair shop and they replaced the compressors. A few months later, the air compressors that are related to the air suspension failed again. Can you tell me what I can explain to an auto repair shop that they can do to permanently fix this?

Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :

This is a common fault that is found with vehicles that have air suspension. Though the compressors were most likely bad the first time, there is another problem causing them to fail. The most common would be a leak in the system or a failed air strut.

When the strut fails or a leak is present, it can cause the air compressors to never shut off as they try to compensate for the leak which causes them to fail prematurely. A qualified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, will be able to inspect your suspension system and make a proper diagnosis on the issue.

How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?

Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced mechanics :

One of the most noticeable symptoms of a potential problem with the compressor is abnormal noises during operation. If you hear any sort of abnormal sounds, such as excessively loud clicking, whining, or grinding, then that may be a sign of a problem with the compressor`s motor or fan.

Failure of the air suspension tubing connecting the air struts or bags to the air system. Air fitting failure resulting from initial fitting or infrequent use. Compressor burn out due to air leaks in the springs or air struts from the compressor constantly engaging to maintain the proper air pressure.

Faulty Air Compressor

Sometimes, it`ll even overwork in the event of a leak. Either way, this causes your car`s compressor to stop working. Or, sometimes, the factory-installed air compressor is faulty from the start. The end-result is a failed air suspension system.

Like driving with completely worn out shocks, struts, or springs, driving with broken air suspension components is not recommended. If your air suspension fails, you can likely drive to your local Advance Auto Parts, mechanic, or home, but you shouldn`t continue to daily drive with the failure.

Without the compressor, your air conditioner absolutely cannot function — which is why AC compressor failure is a huge issue. When your ac compressor fails, less air will come out from the vents, the air coming out could be warm, and the system may continually run without actually cooling your home.

If the vehicle sags at one corner or side, the easiest way to diagnose the air suspension problem is to put the vehicle on a lift and do a visual inspection of the air struts and springs, the ride height sensors, air lines and connections and the compressor (Figure 5).

The LR3 was hailed as a major step forward in reliability, but there are one or two issues to be aware of. Fuel injectors clog and need regular cleaning, the steering tie-rod arms wear and can show play at around 60,000 or 80,000 km, and the front lower control arms bushings wear, ultimately requiring replacement.

Owning a Land Rover with Air Suspension is a smooth and comfortable ride until this Suspension Fault message appears. Don`t panic! This message does mean the electronic air suspension has stored a suspension fault but you can still drive normally on the freeway and surface streets.

During normal operation the pressure in the gallery should be about 15bar – 18bar.

If a part of your suspension fails, the vehicle may be more likely to “wander” around instead of tracking in a straight line, or feel loose as you steer. This can be caused by other issues, too, such as poor steering alignment, which is possible on your vehicle even if the suspension is in great shape.

NOTE: The EAS ECU is located on the left side (driver) of the vehicle for the LR3 and LR4 (L319) and Range Rover Sport (L320). Before You Start: Ensure that the battery is fully charged.

The single most common air suspension control system issue we deal with is poor voltage to the ECU or compressors. Typically this is caused by either poor grounds or a low battery.

Air Compressor – 3-5 Years

While air compressors do not have a specific lifetime, most VIAIR compressors are going to carry a one-year warranty. Looking at reviews and first-hand accounts, most VIAIR compressors are going to last between 3-5 years depending on use and abuse.

Overheating is one of the main reasons why compressors fail, and it is usually caused by not enough refrigerant in the system.

Too Little or Too Much Refrigerant

In the event that the amount of refrigerant in the system is not perfect, it could create too much pressure or strain and lead to compressor failure. Too little refrigerant is most likely caused by an insufficient charge from the last technician, or from a refrigerant leak.

The main purpose of the ride height sensors for the air suspension system is to provide the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with information on the height position of the vehicle body.

It is not recommended. A damaged or collapsed spring can cause sagging and noise and affect alignment angles. While you can still drive, the ride will be rough and the car will be difficult to control in an emergency. Plus, bumps could damage other parts of the car.

Types of Suspension Defects

A defective suspension system can be poorly aligned, comprised of inadequate materials, or experience fluid leakage. Parts of a vehicle`s suspension that can be defective include the springs, dampers, struts, torsion bars, shock absorbers, bushings, and control arms.

Overall, the most common Land Rover problems—across all models and model years—include oil leaks, airbag malfunctions, electrical issues, steering shaft problems, and parking brake failure.

Land Rovers have an average lifespan of 200,000 miles or 13 years when kept to a routine car maintenance schedule.

It can last over 200,000 miles with little to no problems as long as you follow its maintenance and service schedule correctly. The Land Rover LR3 is known for its spacious cabin that guarantees a comfortable ride for you and your passengers.

Low air pressure

A possible sign you need to replace your air compressor is that you find yourself with little to no air pressure coming from your AC unit. Low pressure may come from displaced belts, but a lack of air pressure might also come from damaged controls.

Air Compressor – 3-5 Years

Relevant Questions and Answers :

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

Air compressors and air suspension fail

ANSWER : This is a common fault that is found with vehicles that have air suspension. Though the compressors were most likely bad the first time, there is another problem causing them to fail. The most common would be a leak in the system or a failed air strut.

Read Full Q/A … : Air compressors and air suspension fail

’08 Nav Needing Air Suspension Help

ANSWER : It is possible that you could have a restriction in the line that goes from the compressor to the rear air spring. This resriction would prevent the air from reaching the air spring. I would recommend dis connecting the line at the compressor and at the air bag and shooting compressed air through the line to make sure it is not restricted. If something comes out of the line, you should be able to reconnect the lines and the air suspension system should work properly again.

Read Full Q/A … : Air compressors and air suspension fail

Hot air mixed with cold blows from air conditioning

ANSWER : Hey there. You will most likely have to have a mechanic bypass the heater coolant lines to have this resolved. Your A/C may not be controlling the air flow inside the evaporator correctly out of the vents and may be the blend door actuator stuck in the heat position. Have the AC system diagnosed first before bypassing the heater.

Read Full Q/A … : Air compressors and air suspension fail

what is the aluminum block with pipes to the brake filler just above the air suspension compressor and do I have to remove it to r

ANSWER : Hello. We will be happy to assist you. It should not be necessary to remove the aluminum canister completely. You may have to move it to the side for clearance purposes but it should be able to stay attached to the vehicle. A technician such as one from YourMechanic will be able to come and install the air compressor for you. You are able to find a technician and schedule an appointment here

https://www.yourmechanic.com

Here is an overlook of the factory instructions for replacing the Air compressor on your vehicle

WARNING: The electrical power to the air suspension system must be turned off prior to hoisting, jacking or towing an air suspension vehicle. Failure to do so can result in unexpected inflation or deflation of the air springs, which can result in shifting of the vehicle during these operations. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

Turn the air suspension service switch to the OFF position.
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Section 100-02.
Remove the air cleaner. For additional information, refer to Section 303-12.
Remove the air compressor drier cover.
Remove the pushpins.
Remove the air compressor drier cover.

Remove the canister pushpin and remove the canister.

Disconnect the air compressor.
Compress the quick connect locking ring and pull out the air tube.
Disconnect the air compressor electrical connector.
Remove the 3 air compressor bracket nuts.
To install, tighten to 7 Nm (62 lb-in).
Remove the air compressor assembly.
NOTE: To correctly reinstall the air tubes into the compressor drier, a minimum of 3 mm (1/8 in) of visible white tube must be inserted into the fitting.

To install, reverse the removal procedure.

Read Full Q/A … : Air compressors and air suspension fail

The clutch on my ac air compressor went out. I want to replace the whole air compressor. What would it costs?

ANSWER : Hi there. The AC compressor has several moving parts (including pistons and valves). These internal parts can fail, causing the AC compressor to stop working. It is common for the internal parts of the compressor to come apart and disperse metallic debris throughout the system. Consequently, it is a requirement to replace the orifice tube and the receiver dryer when replacing the compressor since some of the debris may have ended up there. To receive an estimate for this service, please click this link and then click the Get a Quote button. Once we receive your information we will provide an estimate for services. Thanks.

Read Full Q/A … : Air compressors and air suspension fail

Cold mist/smoke like air comes out of the air vents when cold air is on.

ANSWER : If you are using regular outside air a/c instead of recirculated air you may be getting a large amount of outside air humidity and can cause a mist to come out of the a/c vents. You should make sure the a/c evaporator drain is cleared and drains freely or the water in the a/c cannot drain fast enough and the blower will pick up the water and blow it out the vents.

Read Full Q/A … : Air compressors and air suspension fail

the left front air suspension dropped, No codes, compressor works. Bag fills but not enogu to lift

ANSWER : You have great diagnostic skills! In addition to the components you have listed, it’s also possible the air line to that corner has a leak, or the solenoid itself has a leak. Unfortunately, this is a chronic problem with model – causing many to abandon the air suspension, and revert to traditional spring/strut packages. If you’d like, YourMechanic can dispatch a certified professional mechanic to your location to perform a Suspension system inspection and repairs.

Read Full Q/A … : Air compressors and air suspension fail

How much would it cost to convert a 98′ range rover from air suspension to spring suspension?

ANSWER : The cost of conversion varies depending in part on where you purchase the conversion kit from. I suggest finding a kit with all the components needed rather than piecing it together. Cost will also vary depending on the quality of the components. To get an idea of the cost to install, YourMechanic can provide you with a quote for a suspension springs replacement. You will need to enter information about your vehicle and your location. You may need to call our service line at 1-800-701-6230 to clarify the job you want us to do and to determine the final cost of labor. Many kits will state the time needed for installation.

Read Full Q/A … : Air compressors and air suspension fail