Air Suspension

Air suspensions have air springs instead of conventional metal springs. These air springs can be inflated or deflated if the height of the car has to be raised or lowered. There is an electric air pimp or compressor that is usually located in the boot of the car. The compressor is usually powered by the engine of the car to pressurise the air and uses compressed air as a spring. Air suspension was invented to create a smooth and less of an unsettled ride as compared to a suspension with metal springs. In some cases air suspensions were used to self-level a car in situations where excess weight is placed in the boot..

Air springs have a cylindrical chamber positioned between the wheel and the car’s body just like conventional springs. Instead of using metal springs to absorb road irregularities from the road compressed air is used to absorb these bumps. There are intake and exhaust valves in the chamber to pump in air or release excess air for a comfortable ride or a sporty ride as the need maybe. There is a dryer in the air compressor or pump to remove moisture from the air being sent to the cylindrical chamber. Adaptive air suspension constantly monitors the speed of the vehicle to adjust the shock absorber for ride comfort and handling.

There are a few drawbacks of air suspension system such as if the engine is not turned on for a long time the suspension will completely decompress. The bag used to contain the air can be punctured due to wear and tear. A line that sends air around the suspension can fail. The air compressor can fail. The air dryer may fail. The air suspension system is constantly being bettered with research and development.