Have you recently been experiencing issues with your Ram truck’s suspension, perhaps lately? Did your ride start feeling bouncier than it did before? Are you hearing a noise from the air compressor or taking a rapid snooze? Your truck’s suspension isn’t just about revitalizing the ride.
It goes so far as to improve the vehicle’s safety, too. Unfortunately, many Dodge Ram Pickup truck owners have experienced air suspension problems.
Some of the most widespread Ram air suspension problems include slow ride height adjustment or failure in automatic ride height adjustment, temperature dropping failure, loud air compressor noises, automatic resets, air leakage, and malfunctioning systems.
Ram continued its rapid rise over the previous 10 years when it outpaced Dodge and granted it reborn into the Ram trade name. But regardless of whether you have already owned a Ram truck or want to purchase a brand new one, you should know about the air suspension issues of Ram trucks.
For this reason, we will clarify the air suspension issues in Ram and share our full knowledge of modern-day air suspension kits to resolve these issues, along with the amount you should shell up for it.
5 Common Ram Air Suspension Problems – Causes and Solutions
Ram Pickup trucks are viewed as a complete package of state-of-the-art features, innovative technologies, dependability ratings, and stellar comfort. It all went exceptionally well until an endless stream of Ram air suspension issues surfaced steadily.
These concerns began to emerge as widespread, particularly among models manufactured from 2014 to 2020. Some complaints were raised long before the vehicle was driven 100,000 miles. Now, let’s get into a detailed explanation of common Dodge Ram air suspension problems.
1. Slow Ride Height Adjustment
If someone asks about the most eminent feature of Ram, the answer would be the Active-Level Four Corner air suspension technology. This is an innovative technology used in certain RAM truck models that gives the vehicle the ability to accommodate a large range of driving scenarios.
It accommodates five adjustable air settings for optimum adaptability, whether traveling over dirt paths, mud, or smooth highways. To absorb road impacts as swiftly as possible, height adjustments should be as quick as possible.
Nonetheless, many Ram truck owners have reported slow ride height adjustments in their air suspension systems that cause a rough ride experience.
The root cause of the Slow Height ride adjustment issue is in regard to the air compressor. As a result of the air compressor’s movement, in conjunction with the truck’s movements, is recognized as the reason for the slow height adjustment.
The common explanation is the compressor bracket. However, if the brackets are right, the air compressor itself will be considered the suspected reason.
Possible Solution:
Since the Air Compressor probably moves as a result of its positioning, the most likely culprit would be the Air compressor’s mounting brackets. Make sure that you inspect the air compressor’s mounting brackets for rust and examine whether it is broken or entangled.
If this is the case, you’ll need to take out the air compressor cover to get to the Control Panel. However, if the issue is not found with this, your replacement options might consist of carrying out a completely new Air compressor.
2. Automatic Ride Height Adjustment Failure
This is even the worst-case scenario, where the Active-Level system completely fails to adjust ride height. Generally, you’ll notice the lights blinking when the system makes ride height adjustments automatically. However, if the Active leveling system fails to adjust ride height, no light will come on, and you’ll feel the height constant.
In this instance, the airbag might have become internally damaged or just distorted in the cover and, therefore, cannot Inflate itself under its own weight. Additionally, it might have had a lift kit installed that may possibly have resulted in harm to your car’s air suspension system.
Owners of the fifth generation RAM frequently installed aftermarket RAM Lift Kits, some of which have not complied with Ride Height Compensation. The fourth generation (2009-2010) of the RAM Truck is known to contain more instances of this problem compared to the third generation.
Possible Solution:
Since the Active-Leveling system is one of the most crucial components for the Air suspension used in Ram trucks, you should immediately take your Ram to a dealership or a professional mechanic for inspection.
If the issue is due to the inclusion of additional LiftKits, remove them according to the mechanic’s suggestion. However, if the system is damaged severely, you must replace it.
3. Air Suspension Issue Due to Temperature Drop
Ram trucks equipped with an Active-Level 4 Corner Air Suspension are particularly sensitive to extreme cold weather. In such a climate, the suspension may simply stop working instantaneously.
The root cause for cold weather suspension failure can include a blown fuse, damaged valves, or a problem with the air compressor.
Possible Solution:
Since the issue can be raised due to multiple underlying causes, the solution can vary depending on the root cause. For this, you can do the following things:
- Accessing Fuse and Valves
Locate the plug near the top of the interior fuse box. At this part of the fuse box, the Fuse is found under the cover. Pull the Fuse out of its receptacle and have a look at the Metal parts close to the fuse. If those parts are extremely compromised, then the fuse is broken and needs to be replaced instantly. If the fuse itself wasn’t damaged, check the valves found in the air suspension.
Valves possibly got clogged, and, simultaneously, the compressor still operated. Even if the problem is simply blown circuit breakers, this can be dangerous and affect the air compressor.
If the compressor does not make noises (a beeping sound) but the lever button for the relays operating it is not a blue color, then (details) have to be tested. To see if it was a relay issue, try shorting two of the downstream terminals and listening to the sound to determine whether the compressor has started.
- Prevention Measures
An anti-freeze deicing fluid that is easy to find in most hardware stores is recommended for use. Ensure you follow these steps prior to starting your truck’s engine. Begin by unfastening the T25 torques out of your tailgate. Then remove the Tail lights (Right side).
There are two hoses, one of which carries exhaust gas, and the other is a gas tank filter. Be aware that any harm that you may cause to the filter in the removal process can result in significant problems. Then, pour an oz. of commercially prepared deicer into the filter tube.
After the deicer has been added, thaw key components of the air suspension system, namely the compressor and the valve, to ensure that all components are functioning properly.
Using this process in the -20 C temperature range is very effective. When it’s consistently cold in your location, it is ideal to go over this maintenance procedure every two months to maximize its life expectancy while minimizing any likelihood of failure. To avoid the possibility of failure, make sure that your RAM truck is stored in a temperate environment throughout the year.
4. Loud Noise from Air Compressor
The system alters the Ride Height of the vehicle, prompting the vehicle’s compressor to take in air and make a slight noise. Over time, you’d become accustomed to the sound level.
If a sudden malfunction happened, the noise volume could become increased briefly. So, when you feel the noise coming from the Air Compressor is louder than usual, it indicates something is wrong.
Possible Solution:
If it feels like the noise you hear from your vehicle is much louder than usual while in motion, try focusing on your interior with your truck parked. If the noise seems to have decreased, this may indicate that the wheels on the opposite tires produce more friction against the tire well.
However, if the noise from your vehicle is still loud when parked, the problem could be with the air compressor. When the loud noise is apt to be caused by the compressor, seek a resolution from a trained mechanic.
You can check out this video.
5. Airbag Leakage
One of the most common issues with Air suspension systems is airbag leakage. If your Ram air suspension is also suffering from an air leakage problem, then the rear wheels of the truck will sense as though they’re tilting during driving.
The truck will not automatically adjust itself, meaning that the Active-Leveling system has also been affected. In some cases, you may notice that the rear wheels of the car seem as though they are moving without any action on encountering a bump.
Possible Solution:
To get rid of the air leakage issues, you should inspect the airbag properly. For this, you need to first vacuum or brush the dust off the cover of the airbag. Make a diluted cleaning solution consisting of water and spray it all over the airbag, wiping it down once it’s dry.
Wait to overlook the airbag for stains. After you’ve uncovered all the regions of the airbag with dark spots, vacuum the special solution into the white spots. Repeat if necessary.
Can you Drive with Ram Air Suspension Problems?
In theory, it is possible. However, practically no one will advise you to do this if you get a faulty air suspension. If you do so, your vehicle risks driving over the bump stops, be it severely leaking or having a faulty compressor.
This is generally not the optimal thing to do to go long distances or quickly, but it can be done from time to time with minimal negative ramifications. The fact it needs to be fixed immediately, even though an air leakage is occurring, is a terrific reminder to fix it before the process is called to a halt and the compressor is harmed.
Troubles of that type are commonly brought on slightly by the compressor, so it provides a great opportunity to get it repaired at a small cost. Above all, you should require professional auto mechanics, garages, or stores without delay in the event of an air suspension issue.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair Ram Air Suspension?
The repairing and replacement costs of Ram air suspension parts are directly dependent on the parts, cause, and severity of the problems. A considerable malfunction is difficult to fix and, therefore, will likely cost you a lot for the part.
Ram models come equipped with interconnected parts, so malfunction in one area can result in a total system failure as a result of a minor spark in the cable. You can take it as a chain impact, affecting the various parts of a Ram.
Third-party air suspension could cost around 1,300 USD if it is damaged severely, depending on your location. Repairs consist of reinstallation kits, so the majority of individuals plan and carry out their own setups when they get back. However, if you are not experienced, seek out an experienced technician to install your kit.
Almost all the professionals will probably advise you to get a complete system replacement, as the old components like air valves or compressors may create a risk of future complications, which in turn will influence the newly implanted air springs and cables.
Replacing the things that you already have is only wiser than wasting even more cash later on. Consider it a long-term investment, as these parts will sooner or later demand repairs.
Final Words
Ram air suspension problems can be really frustrating. But the fact is that, in nearly all heavy trucks, problems with air suspension pop up. However, in serious cases, it is due to severe malfunctioning.
By studying the causes of these issues, you can identify them ahead of time, and this will assist you in avoiding hazardous situations. Delaying the necessary repairs will worsen the damage.
