Your Mercedes E Class (also read Mercedes S-Class Air Suspension Problems) exudes elegance and sophistication as it effortlessly glides along the road. But what happens when unexpected drops or misaligned heights disrupt that smooth ride? The culprit may lie in your car’s air suspension system.
Recently, we have seen people complaining about Mercedes E Class air suspension problems. Some of these problems are more frequent, including air compressor failure, leaking air lines, ‘Car too Low’ error messages, Extremely harsh rides, etc.
Are you experiencing any of these issues and searching for solutions all around? If yes, we’re here to help you out. We’ll uncover the root causes behind these issues and equip you with the knowledge to tackle them head-on.
Read also:
What Causes Air Suspension Problems in Mercedes E Class?
You might wonder how a world-class car like the Mercedes E Class can experience air suspension issues. Usually, air suspensions are more prone to malfunctioning or failure than other suspension systems.
Mercedes has taken the air suspension system to the next level and named it “Airmatic” suspension. However, we have noticed a few things are responsible for issues in this system, similar to standard air suspension. These include:
- Failed Air Compressor: A potential cause for the failure of your Mercedes suspension system is a malfunction in the air suspension compressor. This crucial component is responsible for producing compressed air; if it malfunctions, it will result in insufficient or no generation of compressed air. Consequently, the suspension system will experience low pressure and ultimately fail.
- Leaking Air Struts: Another reason why the AirMatic suspension fails is when there’s a leak in one of those air struts. You see, over time, those struts get worn out and start leaking. And when that happens, your car starts sagging on one side where there’s a leak. Besides, the compressed air supply lines to the strut can also experience crack formation, resulting in eventual air leakage.
- Damaged or Burnt Fuse: The failure of the suspension system can also be attributed to a burnt fuse. The functionality of the suspension system is dependent on the fuse, and if the fuse fails, it hampers the system’s operation.
- Valve Block Leakage: The primary concern regarding the valve block lies in its tendency for solenoid valves to allow air leakage back to either the compressor or central air reservoir. Consequently, this can result in an inability for the vehicle to uphold the required ride height.
E Class Mercedes Air Suspension Malfunction Warning Signs
Typically, when the AirMatic System malfunctions, a warning message will appear on your car’s dashboard. Alongside this, some warning signs can help you to identify any issues promptly.
One of the most common symptoms of a malfunctioning Airmatic suspension is an abnormal ride height. If you notice that one corner of your vehicle sits noticeably higher or lower than the others, it could indicate a failed air spring or strut.
Moreover, if your car sags when parked or exhibits uneven tire wear despite regular alignments, it may be time to have your air suspension system inspected by a qualified technician.
Another sign of trouble with the Mercedes E Class air suspension system is excessive bouncing or increased body roll when driving over bumps or through corners. This could signify worn-out shocks or struts that are no longer able to maintain optimal pressure within the system.
Additionally, pay attention to any unusual noises while driving, such as clunking sounds from underneath the vehicle or persistent humming coming from the compressor area – these could be indications of a failing component in your air suspension setup.
Common Mercedes E Class Air Suspension Problems – Troubleshooting and Fix
Now that we have thoroughly examined the possible reasons and indicators of typical air suspension problems in the Mercedes E class, it is time to direct our attention towards addressing these concerns.
Rest assured, we will provide step-by-step instructions to resolve each issue. So, let us plunge into this expertise-driven exploration.
Air compressor failure
The air compressor is an integral component found in virtually all air suspension systems, including the Mercedes E class model. However, it has been identified that the Airmatic suspension system of this particular vehicle often experiences air compressor failure.
Owners of Mercedes E-class vehicles equipped with Airmatic suspension have encountered various instances where the air compressor fails to function effectively. This problem is especially prevalent in older Mercedes E-class models or those with high mileage.
Factors contributing to air compressor failure include wear and tear over time, exposure to harsh environmental conditions, insufficient maintenance or lubrication, and potential manufacturing defects.
Potential Fix:
Begin by inspecting the compressor for any visible signs of damage or leakage. If no obvious issues are detected, move on to examining the electrical connections and fuses related to the compressor.
You can use a multimeter to test voltage and continuity. It’s essential to evaluate the condition of the airlines, including checking for leaks, loose connections, or any kinks that may impede proper airflow. If necessary, replace any damaged components, such as valves or accumulators.
Also, conduct a diagnostic scan using manufacturer-specific software to pinpoint any error codes that could shed light on potential faults within the system. Finally, retest the air compressor for functionality before dependent operation on your Mercedes E Class air suspension system.
Broken or damaged air springs
Owners of Mercedes E-class vehicles have been reporting issues with broken or damaged air springs within the Airmatic suspension system. The Airmatic suspension system utilizes air springs, also known as airbags, to ensure a comfortable and smooth ride by adjusting the vehicle’s height and stiffness according to driving conditions.
However, numerous drivers have experienced problems linked to faulty air springs that result in compromised suspension performance. Various factors may contribute to the vulnerability of air springs in the Mercedes E Class Airmatic suspension system.
One potential reason could be excessive wear and tear caused by rough road conditions or prolonged use. Additionally, design flaws might also play a role, potentially affecting the durability of these parts.
Potential Fix:
Firstly, inspect the air springs visually for any signs of physical damage or leaks. After that, examine the connectors, wiring, and control modules to ensure electrical connections are secure and functioning correctly.
If no external damage or faults are found, conducting a leak test on each air spring is recommended. This involves applying soapy water to identify any bubbles forming around the springs’ rubber components, indicating leakage.
In some cases, replacing the damaged air spring may be necessary. However, before doing so, it is essential to examine other components within the air suspension system that may have led to the failure, such as faulty sensors or control valves.
Leaking airlines
The airlines in the Airmatic suspension system are responsible for carrying pressurized air from the compressor to the suspension struts. Over time, these lines can develop cracks or holes, leading to the leakage of compressed air. The exact location of the leaks may vary but are often found near connection points or along the length of the lines.
Exposure to extreme temperatures, such as intense heat or freezing cold, can accelerate the degradation of the rubber material used in the airlines. Moreover, driving on rough roads or encountering potholes and debris can also cause physical damage to these delicate components.
Potential Fix:
Firstly, visually inspect all the airlines for any visible signs of damage or cracks. Pay attention to any connections or fittings that may be loose or disconnected.
Next, carefully listen for any hissing or air-escaping sounds near the airlines. This can help pinpoint the location of the leak. Once you have identified the source of the leak, it is important to replace the damaged airline or fitting.
You can purchase replacement parts from an authorized Mercedes dealer or through reputable online retailers specializing in auto parts. Before beginning any repair work, release all air pressure from the system by opening the relief valve.
‘Car too Low’ error messages
The Mercedes E Class boasts an advanced air suspension system that includes a sophisticated warning system designed to alert drivers of any potential issues promptly. The typical warning messages are “Airmatic Visit Workshop” or “Car Too Low.”
However, some owners have reported encountering these warnings even when the ride height appears correct, which can be attributed to a malfunctioning level sensor.
The level sensor monitors and adjusts the vehicle’s ride height. It continuously measures the distance between the chassis and the ground, ensuring optimal performance and comfort.
Once the sensor becomes defective, the air suspension control unit loses its ability to register the car’s height. Consequently, your Mercedes E Class will display a warning message on the dashboard indicating Airmatic failure. Although the car’s height may remain accurate and its performance unaffected, this information is not communicated to the computer system.
Potential Fix:
Recalibrating or resetting the level sensor may sometimes resolve minor issues. You can reset the Airmatic system by turning off the vehicle and removing the key for approximately 5 minutes. Afterward, start the car and check if the error messages persist.
If resetting does not resolve the issue, a diagnostic scan with a certified Mercedes mechanic using specialized software can provide insights into potential underlying problems within the Airmatic system.
It is recommended to check the wiring connections associated with the level sensors. Inspect for loose or corroded connections, as these can also contribute to displaying false error messages on your dashboard. Take care to examine all relevant wiring harnesses and connectors.
Corner sagging
One notable issue that has been reported with Mercedes E-Class vehicles is related to the Airmatic suspension system, specifically, the problem of corner sagging. This issue pertains to a situation where one or more corners of the vehicle appear noticeably lower than the others, resulting in an uneven stance.
It primarily affects models equipped with Airmatic air suspension, designed to enhance ride comfort and handling precision by adjusting the vehicle’s height based on driving conditions.
Various explanations have been proposed for this concern, ranging from faulty air springs to defective valves or sensors within the system.
Potential Fix:
Firstly, start by visually inspecting the suspension components for any signs of damage or leaks. Check the air springs. Additionally, inspect the level sensors to ensure they are functioning properly.
Next, connect a diagnostic scanner to the vehicle’s OBD-II port and retrieve any fault codes related to the air suspension system. These codes can provide valuable information on what might be causing the corner sagging issue.
If no apparent damage or fault codes are found, it is recommended to check the functionality of the air compressor. This can be done by removing its relay and applying power directly. Listen for any unusual sounds that may indicate a faulty compressor.
Additionally, ensure that all airlines and connections are secure and free from blockages or leaks. A small leak in one of these lines can cause corner sagging over time. If all else fails, replacing faulty components such as air springs or shock absorbers may be necessary.
Final Words
Mercedes E Class air suspension problems can be frustrating and complex to troubleshoot. However, with knowledge of common issues and their potential solutions, owners can take a proactive approach to resolving these issues.
We recommend regular maintenance and inspections to ensure the longevity of the air suspension system. If any issues persist or if there is uncertainty about how to proceed, it is recommended to consult a professional mechanic or contact the nearest Mercedes dealership for assistance.
