Air Suspension for the 3IS: What Should You Know
When you want to take your 3IS’s performance to higher heights, installing an air suspension system becomes a viable option.
Known for their superior adjustability and ride comfort, air suspension systems can revolutionize the way your Lexus drives and handles.
This article will piece together key points to consider and what you should know before you invest in an air suspension system for your 3IS.
What is Air Suspension:
Air suspension systems work utilizing a series of air bags or air springs, replacing the conventional steel spring/coil set up. These air bags are made from a sturdy and flexible material capable of being filled with air via a compressor.
This air filling attribute provides the car with an adjustable ride height feature, enhancing the car’s handling and performance at different driving conditions.
Why Consider Air Suspension for Your 3IS?
- Superior Ride Quality:
Air suspensions are renowned for their ability to deliver exceptional ride quality. By replacing conventional springs with air bags, the car experiences less impact from road perturbations, leading to a smoother and more comfortable drive.
- Enhanced Customizability:
Air suspensions provide the significant advantage of adjustability. You can raise or lower your 3IS depending on your preference or driving conditions, a feature not available with traditional suspension systems.
- Improved Performance:
An appropriately adjusted air suspension can improve handling, allowing the car to take corners better and reducing body roll. And, by lowering the vehicle’s ride height at high speeds, it can decrease drag, thus enhancing fuel efficiency.
Things to Consider
- Cost:
Air suspension systems come at a greater upfront cost compared to standard coil springs. The expense doesn’t stop at purchasing; the installation process is also lengthier and complex, which also adds to the overall cost.
- Maintenance:
Air suspension systems have more components, including air bags, compressors, and electronic controls, which may require extra maintenance and potentially more frequent repairs.
- Compatibility:
Before buying an air suspension kit, ensure it’s compatible with the Grey 3IS model. This is crucial to avoid unnecessary technical hitches and expenses down the line.
Pros:
- Ride Quality: One of the most significant advantages of air suspension systems is the enhanced ride quality they provide. Due to the air springs’ ability to absorb road irregularities, they offer a smoother and more comfortable drive.
- Adjustable: Air suspension systems allow for adjustability that traditional suspension systems do not. You can adjust the ride height according to your preferences, or adapt it to different driving conditions.
- Improved Performance: By adjusting the suspension, you can improve the overall handling of the vehicle. This can reduce body roll, improve cornering, and even reduce air drag at high speeds, enhancing fuel efficiency.
- Load Levelling: Another considerable advantage of air suspension systems is their ability for automatic level adjustment. When loading heavy items, the system will adjust to keep the vehicle level, providing improved safety and handling.
Cons:
- Cost: On the downside, air suspension systems come with a higher price tag. This cost not only includes the system itself but also the installation. Additionally, with more complex technology comes the potential for pricier repairs.
- Maintenance: Air suspensions consist of more components, including airbags, compressors, and electronic controls, all of which can eventually require maintenance or replacement.
- Complexity: Installing an air suspension system is more complex than a traditional suspension. This means that you are more likely to need professional help for both installation and for diagnosing any future problems.
- Compatibility: Not all air suspension systems will be compatible with all vehicles. Be sure to thoroughly check that the kit you are buying is compatible with your specific vehicle model to avoid technical complications.
Conclusion
An air suspension can provide numerous benefits for your Grey 3IS, including enhanced ride comfort, performance, and customizability. Despite the higher costs and increased maintenance, the benefits it brings in terms of performance and aesthetic can make the investment worth it for many drivers.