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Air suspension is a solution that has been growing in popularity among camper van, delivery vehicle, and pickup truck drivers for years. Its main purpose is to level a loaded vehicle and improve ride comfort when transporting heavy loads. Thanks to adjustable ground clearance, the vehicle height can be adapted to current conditions – both on a loaded parking lot and on rough roads. Air suspension does not replace the factory springs but supplements them, which is why proper operation and regular maintenance are crucial for its longevity and trouble-free performance.

How to Care for Air Suspension? The Most Important Rules

Below you will find a set of specific actions that will help you avoid costly repairs and maintain the manufacturer's warranty.

• Maintain a minimum working pressure of 0.5–0.8 bar even when the vehicle is empty and unloaded. Driving on "empty" air bags leads to their permanent damage and is not covered by warranty.
• Do not exceed the maximum pressure of 6.0–7.0 bar (depending on the air bag model), as excessive pressure can damage the mounts and air cushions.
  
  
   
• Check the pressure before every longer journey and at least once a week.
• Inflate the system only until the vehicle regains its natural, level position. Excessive "lifting" of the rear worsens handling and increases braking distance.
• After every trip in harsh conditions, wash the air bags with clean water, removing mud, sand, and road salt. Do not use chemicals: aggressive solvents, lubricants, and mineral oils cause rubber cracking and loss of warranty.
• If the kit includes an air tank, drain it regularly, especially during winter.
• In severe frost, check the airtightness of push-fit connectors (quick connectors) using soapy water or a special spray – air bubbles indicate the leak location.
• Every three months, inspect the air lines for abrasions and bends. Make sure the lines are kept at a safe distance of at least 15–20 cm from the exhaust system.
• After the first 1,000 km, check the tightening torque of the mounting bolts, and repeat this check every 10,000 km.
• Every six months, carry out a leak test of air connectors and apply colourless wax to the air bags and mounting components to protect rubber and metal from water, salt, and corrosion.
• When lifting the vehicle on a workshop jack, release air from the system or make sure the air bags are not overstretched beyond their working range.
• Make sure that no stones or ice get between the air bag folds, as these can mechanically puncture the rubber.
• Do not make any modifications to the system (shortening brackets, replacing bolts with non-original ones) without consulting the manufacturer.

What to Do When the Suspension Loses Pressure?

If the indicator on the panel shows 0 bar or one side of the vehicle has visibly dropped, stop immediately in a safe place. Check whether the air line has become disconnected from the fitting at the air bag or at the gauge panel. Then test the connectors and the inflation valve with soapy water. If the leak occurs at the joint between the line and the connector, disconnect the line, cut it cleanly at a 90° angle, and reinsert it fully. If the fault cannot be fixed on the spot, drive to a service centre unloaded and at minimum speed.

It is worth keeping in the vehicle's glove box: a line cutter, a straight connector for 6 mm tubing, and a small leak detection spray.

How Often Should Pneumatic Suspension Be Inspected?

The regularity of inspections has a direct impact not only on driving safety but also on the scope and duration of the applicable warranty. The first zero-kilometre service should be carried out after 1,000 km, with subsequent ones every 10,000–15,000 km. Regular, documented inspections can extend the warranty period from 24 months to as much as 36 or 48 months.

Frequently Asked Questions about Air Suspension

Can air bags be washed at a touchless car wash?

Yes, but do not bring the lance closer than 30 cm to the air bag and do not direct the stream directly at the connectors or the gauge panel.

Why did the system pressure drop after a frosty night?

A slight drop of 0.2–0.4 bar is a normal physical phenomenon caused by the temperature decrease – simply re-inflate. If the pressure dropped to zero, check the connector seals, as O-rings can harden in frost.

Should air bags be lubricated with silicone?

No. Most tyre care products can react with the air bag rubber, causing it to soften or crack. The best maintenance is keeping the air bags clean with plain water.

Can a vehicle with pneumatic suspension enter a diagnostic station?

Yes. Before driving onto the brake rollers, ensure the vehicle is level and the pressure is within the working range.

Can a portable car compressor be used?

Yes. Pneumatic systems are compatible with most portable compressors connected to the cigarette lighter socket, provided they have a fitting compatible with the standard car valve.