Land Rovers are luxury SUVs for all types of road conditions, from a night out on the town to off-roading. One of the things that makes this possible is the air suspension. It is an integral Land Rover system that helps to provide that smooth, comfortable ride you’ve come to know.
While air suspension is a feature in luxury cars, they are not completely void of problems. If your Land Rover’s air suspension malfunctions, the effects on your car can be devastating. We have provided this guide to help you identify early signs of air suspension malfunctions so you can take action before it becomes a major problem.
The Function of the Air Suspension System and Causes of its Failure
Before we go into how you can tell that your Land Rover’s air suspension is faulty, you should first understand how it works and the common reasons for its failure.
In traditional SUVs, the suspension system has metal springs that help adjust the frame to the road conditions in a bid to offer stable rides when the road gets rough. However, this proved to be ineffective for Land Rover models and led to the innovation of the air suspension system.
The air suspension system has several components such as air springs, air compressors, solenoids, and many more. Its function is to detect poor road conditions like rough surfaces, hilly roads, and off-road terrains and adjust the vehicle’s height and other features to allow easy movement over these poor surfaces.
The leading causes of air suspension failures in Land Rover SUVs are:
- Wear and damage to air suspension components such as the air springs or airbags.
- Air leaks from the airline or air compressor.
- Sensor malfunctions due to poor wiring or degradation.
- Electrical and solenoid problems.
Typical Signs of Air Suspension Failures in a Land Rover
If your Land Rover’s air suspension system is failing, here are some signs you may notice:
1. Rough/Bumpy Rides
This is one of the first signs to tell you that your car’s air suspension system is bad. The main function of any suspension system is to absorb road shocks so the passengers in the car do not have to feel it when the car is moving on a rough surface. However, if the suspension system, including the air suspension, fails, then you may begin to feel every bump and experience rough rides.
2. Unusual Noises
Another way to identify a malfunctioning air suspension is when you begin to hear unusual noises from your SUV. If you hear hissing sounds, it is likely that the air compressor is leaking. Other unusual sounds like grinding or clicking sounds indicate damage to the air suspension components.
3. Dashboard Warning Lights
Warning lights on your Land Rover’s dashboard can be another pointer to a fault in the air suspension system. The moment your car’s system notices an issue with the suspension system, it triggers the air suspension warning light on the dashboard to come on; this helps you make quick actions to preserve your car.
4. Car Leans/Pulls to One Side
If you notice that your car leans to the side when it is parked on a level surface, then it likely has an air suspension issue. The air suspension uses air from the air compressor to maintain a car’s height. However, if there is a leak in any of the air springs, it will not have enough pressure to keep your Land Rover suspended. You will notice that the side with the affected air spring will be lower than the other side, making your SUV lean.
The Top Auto Repair Facility in Bridgewater to Fix Your Land Rover’s Air Suspension Malfunctions
Air suspension malfunctions in a car should not be ignored. Not only do they affect the quality of a ride, but they can also lead to more serious issues in your Land Rover if they are not handled immediately. You should make an appointment with our mechanic the moment you notice signs of air suspension failures in your car.
When it comes to servicing and repairs for European SUVs, Motor Cars International should top your list! We provide exceptional services for luxury SUVs, like your Land Rover. We understand that car issues can be frustrating, so we put the best hands to work to fix your SUV so you can drive without fear. If you are in or around Easton, Norton, Raynham, Sharon, or Bridgewater, MA, bring your Land Rover to us for maintenance and repairs.