Range Rover has always been seen as a marque of distinction among the many we see on our roads. Stunning design, high-tech interiors, rugged, yet smooth exteriors and a reputation for quality means that for many, a Range Rover stands out as the dream vehicle of choice. Never a brand to shy away from innovation, Range Rover has, for many years now been a beacon of inspiration. Perhaps one of the most fundamental additions to the collection’s armoury was the introduction of air suspension. In this edition of our blog, we dive a little deeper, and look at Range Rover air suspension, how it works, how to maintain it and more.
When did Range Rover introduce air suspension?
Range Rover has always been among the leaders in engineering innovation, and in 1992 the company decided to add automatic electronic air suspension to the Range Rover Classic. This was a first and coincided with the addition of electronic traction control to the same vehicle.
At first, this genius piece of tech was optional, something owners could request rather than accept as standard. Soon though, the improved ride quality and the way the suspension could adapt to different driving conditions made it a staple of many Range Rovers. Fitted as standard, drivers were all able to share in the smooth drive that air suspension helped bring.
How does Range Rover air suspension work?
Range Rover air suspension works by utilising a network of sensors, valves, and air springs. Each part works in harmony with the other to adjust the ride height and stiffness of the Range Rover. The sensors within the system monitor the positioning of the wheels, the speed you are travelling at and the conditions of the road. The data these sensors pick up is then sent to a control module which regulates the amount of air pressure held in each suspension spring. This allows you to have a much smoother ride and maintain optimal ground clearance. Once the vehicle is stationary, the air suspension levels itself, ensuring that your Range Rover is well balanced.
Do all Range Rovers have air suspension?
Most modern Range Rovers come equipped with air suspension as standard. The flagship Range Rover as well as the Evoque and the Sport, all showcase its incredible capabilities. When shopping for a used Range Rover, ask your dealership about the inclusion of air suspension, as it was only after the early 2000s that this feature started to become standard. Air suspension provides plenty of benefits for drivers and is one of the attributes many look for when shopping for their next vehicle.
What are the benefits of Range Rover air suspension?
There are a host of benefits that air suspension brings for Range Rover drivers. Some which help improve the safety of the drive, others that help protect your vehicle, and some that make the journey a little smoother.
Improved comfort
Air suspension absorbs bumps much better than the traditional spring suspension we see in many vehicles. This delivers a much more comfortable journey that won’t result in you bouncing out of your seat as you hit a bump in the road. Many Range Rover drivers love to drive off-road, and the use of air suspension makes sure that all-terrain driving remains smooth.
Better vehicle control
Range Rover air suspension allows for much more control of your vehicle. Tackling corners or towing heavy loads is made easier by a system that not only self-levels itself but also provides more stability in cornering.
Adjustable ride height
Perhaps one of the best benefits of Range Rover air suspension for those who drive off-road is the fact that the ride height is adjustable. This allows for a better chance to avoid obstacles and tackle rougher terrain.
How to tell if your Range Rover air suspension is faulty
As with anything, faults can arise, and with Range Rover air suspension, there can be a few to pay attention to. The most common failures can be rectified with preventative maintenance, but some require the help of a Land Rover service specialist.
Several signs indicate that a fault has occurred with your air suspension so look out for the following:
- The vehicle is absorbing bumps less than it was.
- You could hear a strange noise coming from the Range Rover.
- The vehicle may sit lower than normal, especially at the back.
- Your Range Rover doesn’t stay level.
- Your vehicle goes into limp mode where speed is automatically restricted.
- The corners of the Range Rover dip more than normal.
What causes these faults with air suspension in a Range Rover?
A variety of things can cause air suspension on your Range Rover to fail. Among the most common are:
- Wear and tear: As with anything, regular use can wear something down and eventually cause it to fail.
- Electrical failures: With electrical components helping the air suspension run, an error with the sensors, wiring, or control panel could see the suspension fail.
- Off-road driving: Whilst Range Rovers are enjoyed off-road, the rough terrain and the impact the vehicle must endure causing extra strain upon the parts.
- Rubber cracking: Range Rovers with air suspension don’t use the same springs as vehicles with more standard suspension. Instead, they use rubber, and rubber can crack over time. These cracks allow air to leak and result in a poorly performing suspension. Or one that fails altogether.
- Poor maintenance: If any of the above happen and are not tackled soon enough, the problems get worse. By having your Range Rover serviced regularly, you can have the parts checked and maintained, resulting in a longer life for your vehicle.
How do you maintain Range Rover air suspension?
A service from a Range Rover specialist is the best way to ensure your vehicle is in its best condition but there’s still plenty you can do from home.
- Check the pressure of your air suspension once a week.
- Look for cracks or splits once a month. At the same time, look to see if anything has worked itself loose.
- Replace parts when needed. Certain parts of your air suspension may require replacing after a certain amount of time. Your owner’s manual may help with some guidance here, but you can always ask your service centre for advice.
Of course, you may prefer these things to be checked over by an expert, and if at any time you encounter any of the common faults we mentioned earlier, you would be best advised to book your Range Rover in with a team like ours at RCV. That way, you have added peace of mind that your Range Rover will be in the best possible condition.
You shouldn’t wait until a part fails. This will not only prove to be more costly, but it will also cause further damage to other parts of the vehicle. This results in not only more expensive repairs but also safety risks too! If you feel your Range Rover air suspension has developed a fault, speak to the team at RCV. We are the Kent-based Range Rover servicing experts who pride ourselves on delivering premium service at affordable pricing. In fact, you can save up to 40% on main dealer prices! Why not contact us today and discover the best Range Rover servicing options available in the south? We even offer Range Rover MOTs to ensure you remain fully road legal.