Ram 1500 Air Suspension Problems: Symptoms, Causes, and Solutions

The Ram 1500 air suspension system is a complex system that provides a smooth and comfortable ride, as well as the ability to adjust the ride height of the truck. However, like any complex system, it can be prone to problems over time.

In this article, I will discuss some of the most common Ram 1500 air suspension problems and how to prevent them.

We will also cover the symptoms of air suspension problems and how to diagnose them.

Common Air Suspension Problems on Ram 1500

Vehicle is Sagging on One Side

Let’s get straight to the point. If your Ram 1500 is sagging on one side, you’ve got a problem. This usually means an air spring has failed. Air springs are those bags filled with air that lift your truck and make it comfortable to ride. When one of them goes bad, the truck leans.

You might notice this when you’re parked, or even while you’re driving. It messes with the balance of your truck. The sagging puts extra stress on the tires and can even make your ride unsafe.

Fixing it is not something to put off. Get it checked. If it’s an air spring failure, you’ll likely need a replacement.

Vehicle is Leaning to One Side

A leaning vehicle is another red flag. This issue can stem from various problems. Maybe an air spring has gone bad, or perhaps there’s a leak somewhere. Sometimes, the ride height sensor could be the culprit.

It’s this little device that tells your air suspension system how much to inflate or deflate the air springs. If it fails, you get a lean. The longer you ignore it, the worse it could get. Immediate action is needed. Consult a qualified technician to diagnose the exact issue.

Vehicle is Riding Lower than Normal

If you notice your Ram 1500 riding lower than usual, that’s another sign of trouble. A lower height suggests that the air suspension system is failing to maintain the needed pressure. It could be due to a leak.

It might also be the air compressor not doing its job or a control module issue. The lower your truck rides, the more stress is placed on the entire vehicle—from the tires to the suspension components. Don’t wait. Have a technician check it out as soon as you can.

Vehicle is Riding Rougher than Normal

A rough ride is usually a clear indicator that something’s off. It might be your air suspension, but it could also be other parts like worn shocks or struts. When the ride gets rough, it can impact everything from the handling of your truck to your comfort while driving.

Addressing it quickly can save you from bigger issues down the road. This is a situation where expert advice is invaluable. Go ahead and get that technician’s appointment.

The Air Compressor is Running Excessively

Hearing the air compressor all the time? That’s not good. The air compressor has one job: to keep the air springs inflated. If it’s working too hard, chances are there’s a leak, or the compressor itself may be failing.

Either way, it’s wasting energy and probably making your truck less efficient. Get this checked out to avoid more significant problems.

Warning Light is Illuminated on the Dashboard

Last but not least, the warning light. If it lights up, your truck is telling you something’s wrong. Never ignore it.

The air suspension system is complex, and a warning light means it needs immediate attention. Whether it’s a minor fault or a major issue, a qualified technician should take a look as soon as possible.

How to fix Ram 1500 air suspension problems

Here are some tips on how to fix common Ram 1500 air suspension problems:

Repair or Replace Air Leaks

Dealing with air leaks first. These can be pesky and mess up your ride quality. If it’s a small leak, a sealant might just do the trick. You apply it to the leaky area, and it should seal things up.

But if it’s a big leak, you’ve got to replace the part that’s causing the issue. We’re talking about hoses or even air springs here. Either way, ignoring a leak is a bad idea; it only makes things worse. You need to fix it before it turns into a bigger problem.

Replace Air Compressor

Now, what if the air compressor is failing? It’s a serious issue. The air compressor is like the heart of the air suspension system. If it’s not working, nothing works. And let’s be clear, this isn’t a job for amateurs.

You’ll need a qualified technician for this. It’s complicated and messing it up can cause even more problems. So if your compressor is acting up, don’t try a DIY fix. Get a professional to replace it.

Replace Air Spring

Next, let’s talk about air springs. If one fails, your vehicle will sag or lean, as we’ve discussed before. The good news? They’re not too hard to replace. But, you have to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Don’t just wing it. Incorrect installation can lead to more issues, even safety risks. It’s a straightforward process, but it has to be done right. Replace the faulty air spring and restore your ride to its former glory.

Replace Ride Height Sensor

A failed ride height sensor can also cause your truck to lean or ride at an incorrect height. While replacing this sensor is not rocket science, there is one crucial step after the replacement: calibration.

Your system needs to know the new sensor’s settings. If you don’t calibrate, the whole system can go haywire. It’s recommended that a qualified technician perform the calibration to make sure everything’s functioning as it should.

Replace Control Module

Last but not least, the control module. If this fails, your air suspension system won’t know what to do. The control module is like the brain of the operation. If it’s out of order, you’re looking at some big issues.

This is another task best left to the professionals. It’s complex, and a mistake can mess up multiple systems in your vehicle.

How to prevent Ram 1500 air suspension problems

Here are some additional tips for preventing Ram 1500 air suspension problems

• Avoid overloading your truck: Overloading your truck can put excessive stress on the air suspension system and lead to premature failure.
• Avoid driving over rough terrain or obstacles: Driving over rough terrain or obstacles can damage the air suspension system. If you must drive over rough terrain, be careful to go over obstacles slowly and carefully.
• Be careful when parking on uneven surfaces: Parking on uneven surfaces can put stress on the air suspension system. If possible, park on level surfaces whenever possible.
• Keep your air suspension system clean and free of debris: Dirt, debris, and other contaminants can damage the air suspension system. Be sure to clean the system regularly, especially if you drive in dusty or dirty conditions.

Summary of key points

• Ram 1500 air suspension systems can be prone to problems over time.
• Common Ram 1500 air suspension problems include air leaks, air compressor failure, air spring failure, ride height sensor failure, and control module failure.
• Symptoms of Ram 1500 air suspension problems include the vehicle sagging on one side, the vehicle leaning to one side, the vehicle riding lower than normal, the vehicle riding rougher than normal, the air compressor running excessively, and a warning light illuminated on the dashboard.
• The best way to fix Ram 1500 air suspension problems is to have them diagnosed and repaired