Most modern cars use a system of gas-filled shocks and struts in the suspension system. Increasingly, though, vehicles are becoming equipped with air suspension systems. They are quite common in luxury cars, and also featured as upgrades on other high-end vehicles. The advantage to air suspension is that it delivers an outstandingly comfortable ride, and it is also a highly reliable system. The air suspension dryer assembly works to take moisture out of the air, in essentially the same way as the dryer in your home HVAC system works.
Whenever you so much as enter your car, even if you are not driving, your suspension is working, adjusting for your weight and that of any passengers or cargo that might be present. Although not overly vulnerable to problems, when they do occur, they are quite different from the problems that happen with gas-filled shocks and struts.
There is really no way of determining how long your air suspension system, or its components (including the air suspension dryer assembly) will last. You could drive problem-free for as long as you own your car, or the compression airbags could fail, as could other components. The air suspension dryer assembly can deteriorate over time, and can fail, at which point it will have to be replaced. You will still be able to drive your car, but you will not be overly comfortable. Additionally, a car that has suspension problems can be more difficult to handle, and therefore less safe.
Signs your air suspension dryer assembly needs to be replaced include:
- Compressor does not run
- Suspension is saggy
- Rough ride
If you think that your air suspension dryer assembly needs to be replaced, have it checked out by a qualified mechanic.
