Air Suspension System- Pros & Cons Explained

Air suspension helps any automobile to balance its weight with compact construction. Now with time, the process of air suspension has changed a bit. So this system is now being used for heavy trucks and even for some cars. However, this suspension system has several benefits as well as some drawbacks.

An air suspension system acts as a cushion between the vehicle body and the wheel to reduce the weight and vibration levels. Modern age air suspension is considered as the replacement for the old age spring suspension setup. Steel coil springs above the vehicle get replaced by airbags in this system. These airbags are made up of rubber and polyurethane. Just like the traditional springs, the airbags are amplified by an on-board electric pump. This creates a certain pressure in a vehicle to perform well. The air valves control the air direction to go on different paths to inflate the system.

There are vehicles where using air suspension is a must. These models are the Maybach, Rolls-Royce, Jeep, Ram, Lexus, Volkswagen and Tesla. These models feature the height-adjustable suspension, making it easier for them to enter into rough terrain. Some other models have an air suspension system that offers a controlled and smooth ride.

Over the decades, the air suspension system has become popular for use in customized automobiles. The adjustable suspension allows the vehicle to cope with obstacles on paved surfaces. However, in cases of a radical air suspension setup, high pressured industrial gas bottles are necessary. After briefly discussing air suspension, it is time to see the advantages and disadvantages of an air suspension system.

Air Suspension Advantages

Comfort

One of the prime benefits that a person can get from the air suspension is the level of comfort that air suspension offers. It adds comfort behind the wheel, making it good enough to drive. The adjustable air suspension helps get a comfortable ride on poor quality roads, and while you are off the road, it helps in maintaining control.

Reduce noise and vibration

The vehicle components and the suspension system wear and tear due to the harshness and vibration is often experienced while driving on the roads. The air suspension compensates for lower wear and tear while the car goes through potholes and harsh surfaces.

Fuel economy

As discussed earlier, the air suspension system can be adjusted as per the road quality. As a result, it helps to use less fuel and comes with better fuel economy. For example, the lower ride height can help to reduce the wind system and an air suspension that suits a particular road, for higher speed and saving time.  

Air Suspension Disadvantages

Costly

One of the biggest disadvantages of the modern air suspension is that it is costlier than the old age spring system. Only the expensive and luxurious cars have an air suspension system as the default mode. The cost of installing air suspension as an extra feature in a normal car can be a pocket trimmer.

Maintenance

If you own a vehicle, it becomes your responsibility to maintain it thoroughly. However, the maintenance cost of this air suspension is a bit higher than the usual spring system. Air suspension cars tend to go longer distances, but sometimes on the road, frequent repairs become necessary. Not repairing the suspension can never be the solution. Rather not changing it can become a real headache for a later period.

Mechanical Problems

Air suspension systems are susceptible to mechanical issues. If you do not maintain the system on a regular basis, it can suffer malfunctions. Rust or moisture is the general reason behind the damage to this system. Sometimes the air fitting failure or the poor air tubing connection can be the reason for the system's failure.

Conclusion

There are good and bad sides to everything. The air suspension system has both. However, one must accept the fact that without this system, the cars would not have improved so much so far. That is why even with the common mechanical problems, the pros of having the air suspension system can outweigh all the drawbacks.