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Insight Horizon Media

What is the most common problem with air shocks?

Author

Emma Martin

Published Feb 11, 2026

What is the most common problem with air shocks?

Several of the common issues with air suspension systems that can require repair include: Rust or moisture damage from the inside that can lead to the air struts or bags to malfunction. Failure of the air suspension tubing connecting the air struts or bags to the air system.

How do I know if my air suspension is bad?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Air Suspension Air Compressor

  1. Vehicle riding lower than normal. One of the first and most common symptoms of a problem with the air suspension compressor is a noticeably lower vehicle ride height.
  2. Abnormal noises during operation.
  3. The compressor won’t come on.

Do air shocks wear out?

Air suspensions can be unpredictable, but one thing is for certain. Each part in the system will eventually wear down. Once this happens, you’ll see decreased capabilities and reduced performance. Many believe that certain parts, like air springs, can last until about 80,000 to 100,000 miles.

What PSI should I run in my air bags?

It is typical to run about 70-80 pounds of air pressure or more in the airbags to support a load like a truck camper. This amount of pressure is needed to level the vehicle, but causes an uncomfortable and rough ride. On your unloaded truck, go ahead and deflate your airbags.

What PSI should my air shocks be?

The proper pressure of an air shock should be between 35 and 75 PSI. If it is any lower than this, the shocks will need to be filled with air.

How do you check for air shocks?

Using soapy water, liberally spray down the air bladder, then look for bubbles, which are a telltale sign of a leak. If you cannot hear or see a leak, then you will need to start the car and observe the air suspension components in the lower corner while the compressor attempts to re-fill the bladder.

How long does an air suspension last?

How long do air suspension parts last? Air springs normally last 80,000 to 100,000 miles. Over this time, the rubber bladder dries out, and cracks appear around the bottom piston. Compressors usually wear out because of leaky air springs.

What makes air shocks go bad?

Air shocks are a type of suspension component and system that is found on many newer vehicles. Because they are subject to the harsh impacts of the road and weight of the vehicle, the seals in air shocks can eventually go bad and begin to leak, reducing their performance.

Do air bags replace shocks?

These systems replace the traditional shock/strut/spring setup with a series of air bags. They’re really basically heavy-duty balloons made of rubber and filled with air. These inflated bags sit under the car (at the axles) and take the place of mechanical springs and shocks/struts.

How long do air shocks usually last?

Typically, you should expect to replace your shocks every 50,000 miles. However, the wear and tear on the shocks will obviously affect their lifespan.

How long do air lift bags last?

Forever! If they are properly installed and maintained, our air springs can last indefinitely. Just check the pressure regularly, or use an on board air system to maintain it for you. Air Lift offers a Lifetime Warranty on all of our air spring kits.