Most modern vehicles have traditional coil springs, which you can often see behind the wheels. They work with shock absorbers to provide a smoother ride quality, and more importantly, keep the wheels as firmly planted on the ground as possible. Air suspension systems replace springs with airbags, allowing ride-height adjustments. They still require shock absorbers, but air suspension can offer significant benefits in the right applications.
Pros of Air Suspension Systems
Air suspension can bring a range of improvements to a vehicle’s ride quality and capability, though it isn’t perfect for every situation.
- Ride quality: Air suspension can be more effective at absorbing bumps from road imperfections, such as potholes. Many of the latest systems offer adaptive damping, which works with the vehicle’s computer system to adjust firmness and rebound speeds, providing a better ride on a wide range of road surfaces and terrain.
- Better handling: Adaptive air suspension can firm up when needed, helping reduce body roll and movement in corners. It may also help improve steering responsiveness and stability for some vehicles.
- Ride-height adjustments: Many air suspension systems give users the ability to raise and lower the vehicle’s ride height. That can be useful in off-road situations, but it can also offer an aesthetic benefit because many people prefer the “slammed” look when the vehicle is parked.
- Automatic load leveling: Some full-size pickup trucks and SUVs have load-leveling air suspension, which compensates for heavy payloads by boosting the rear suspension height and firmness. These systems also make towing much safer and more stable.
- Reduced wear: Fewer vibrations and a smoother ride place less wear on a vehicle’s body components, which can extend its life.
Cons of Air Suspension
There are plenty of reasons to choose air suspension, but there are some downsides to consider before jumping in.
- Repair costs: Air suspension systems rely on airbags, which can degrade over time, causing leaks. Those leaks can cause the suspension to sag, which is why you might see some Land Rovers and Mercedes-Benz models sitting on the ground after a suspension failure.
- Weight: Air suspension systems require a compressor and other components to inflate and deflate the bags, adding weight and complexity to the vehicle. The added heft can impact fuel economy.
- Purchase cost: Automakers typically charge more for air suspension or make it available only on higher trim levels, which raises the cost of entry higher compared to vehicles with traditional suspension systems.
2026 Vehicles with Air Suspension
Editor’s Note: We have updated this article since its initial publication.
I drive a mark viii
I just replaced the air suspension with traditional springs in my 2002 Lincoln TC. Both air bags were leaking. My mechanic, who’ve I’ve trusted for over 20 years recommended the conversion kit if I was looking to spend $1,300 instead of $2,200. (was also having the steering rods replaced) I opted for the conversion kit. I am disappointed and regret my decision. It does not ride as well at all. I feel every bump and vibration now and that “float” feeling is nonexistent. I would not recommend anything other than the air suspension in cars designed with them. Conversion kits do not give the same luxurious ride.
Hey man I did my 04 for only $85. Brand New from Amazon. Loosen or take out mid to rear body mount bolts for best access. Separate body from frame one side at a time. Disconnect solenoid… Remove top nuts… Pry out the bottom…. Take them out. Put new bags in. MAKE SURE U DONE LET THE REAR BOTTOM OUT WHEN U REENERGIZE THE NEW BAGS. I drove TC across the country in the dead of winter and back. ONE YEAR NO PROBLEMS.
Would air bag suspension lift kit be a good idea for mudding if I installed it on a 97 geo tracker
NO NO NO NO NO, rocks can pop the air bags. It’s best to use air suspension for street and show cars only
Never replace you air suspension for conventional springs. I had a worn air pump in my Audi Allroad and ordered a new piston ring for only $25 and replaced it without taking the pump out of the car. Took me 1 hour and now I am a very happy air suspension driver. To avoid replacing the front air struts just always park your car in the highest setting will avoid cracking the rubber balloons over time.
I have a 2008 grand marquis and my pump went out for my air suspension need to see if I should fix the or put in springs
Springs. It will all but ensure a long, hassle-free driving experience.
I’m weary to seek it out considering the horror stories I’ve heard regarding repair cost. If cost is no issue though, then I say go for it. I have driven both Ford Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators of the same model years and the Navigators do, unquestionably, provide a better ride. They handle as well or better than the Expeditions AND offer a cushy ride as well.
If you ever drive a Lincoln Towncar (has air ride) its like having air conditioning… you can never go back to anything less. Who would think that a big heavy luxury car steers like a sports car but rides like a cream puff… nothing compares… nothing… simply the best ride out there… just one reason the Towncar is THE premier limousine.
After 120,000 miles the rubber boots on my system did wear out. But I simply bought new ones on ebay for about $80 a set. Paid $100 to have them installed then I was good for another 100k…. and rides like brand new. Never had another problem or issue with the air ride.
Hard to understand why the Towncar was discontinued from production… most everthing else is like driving a go kart.
I had a Lincoln Navigator with an air suspension system and loved it, especially when towing heavy loads. I had to replace the compressor once, an easy job. If I went back to owning a larger truck/SUV, this would be a must. The vehicle handled so much better.