Air suspension is a system with a well-marked presence in the automotive world. In this article we explain how the suspension works, how is constituted, what its advantages and disadvantages and how much it costs. Stay there!
What is air suspension?
Air suspension, also known as air suspension, is a vehicle suspension kit that uses air to absorb road imperfections. This type of suspension is used in large vehicles such as trucks and luxury vehicles to provide greater driver comfort and ensure greater vehicle stability.
This system has an electric pump or a compressor that pumps air into flexible bellows that are made from fabric-reinforced rubber.
This kit is increasingly present in modern cars, but without ever replacing the hydraulic suspension, present in most vehicles.
How does air suspension work?
The pneumatic spring offers resistance to road impacts and the solenoids within the system are responsible for the air circulation through the pneumatic spring.
In air suspension cars, the entire bodywork is supported by compressed air inside the suspension system, and it is essential that the air spring is filled with clean air any time to ensure its proper functioning.
What are the different types of air suspension?
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Single circuit air suspension
The single-circuit air suspension can be installed only on one axle. If installed on the rear axle, you can adjust its stiffness to aid in weight overloads.
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Dual-circuit air suspension
The dual-circuit air suspension can be installed on one or on both axles together. If installed only on the front axle, the wheels can be controlled independently.
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Four-circuit air suspension
The most complete and functional system for air suspensions is the four-circuit system, as the pneumatic support of each wheel is adjustable. A control unit is used here to automatically adjust the pressure on the pneumatic elements of each wheel.
What elements are present in an air suspension kit set up?
- Compressed air compressor;
- Compressed air lines;
- Solenoids;
- Airbags.
All these components work in a closed system so that the compressed air circulates inside it and provides the damping that the vehicle needs.
How to maintain an air suspension?
- Check for leaks in the compressed air pipes;
- Check if there is any air spring friction.
- Periodically checkups to the suspension recommended height.
- Check the flexible bar wear and a possible accumulation of debris.
- Check for material accumulation in the pistons;
- Check nuts and bolts tightening with a dynamometric wrench;
- Check the height control valve.
What are the advantages of an air suspension?
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Greater comfort
Due to the reduction of noise, the air suspension provides greater comfort to all vehicle occupants.
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Less wear on the suspension system
Reducing vibrations throughout the system means less wear and less maintenance.
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Adaptive
Air suspension can be adapted to any vehicle needs. For example, if you drive on a motorway, the suspension automatically becomes soft to absorb maximum road imperfections. On the other hand, if the vehicle is on a mountain road, the suspension is placed in a rigid mode to ensure ab efficient stability
What are the disadvantages of an air suspension?
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Acquisition cost
The costs of acquiring, assembling and repairing a kit are quite high.
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Increased fuel consumption
It is a heavier component which means increased fuel consumption compared to conventional suspension.
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Susceptible to mechanical problems
Internal damages are frequent in this type of systems due yo very high pressures.
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Leaks
Leaks in air suspension systems are a constant and the air suspension kits are no exception.
What is the price of an air suspension kit?
The price of an air suspension kit depends on vehicle in question, ranging from 1800€ to 5000€.
How much does it cost to install an air suspension kit ?
The price to install an air suspension can range from 500€ to 2000€.
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