Air suspension replaces a car’s steel coil springs with air springs — flexible rubber bellows filled with compressed air — controlled by a compressor, valves and height sensors. Because the air pressure can be adjusted constantly, the car can keep itself level regardless of load, change ride height and deliver a softer, more controlled ride than steel springs. It is why a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Range Rover or Cadillac Escalade with Air Ride can glide over rough roads.

How it works

Component Job
Air springs Rubber bellows that support the car’s weight
Compressor Pumps air into the system
Reservoir Stores compressed air for quick adjustments
Valves Direct air to or from each spring
Height sensors Measure the ride height at each corner
Adaptive dampers Control how quickly the suspension moves
Control unit Computes adjustments many times per second

When passengers and luggage are loaded, the car starts to sink; the system adds air to restore the correct height. At highway speed, it may lower the car for stability and efficiency. For rough terrain or steep driveways, it can raise the car.

Why it rides better

Steel springs have a fixed rate: a spring soft enough to be comfortable when empty may bottom out when fully loaded. Air springs can stay soft while adjusting for load, and they naturally become firmer as they compress. Combined with adaptive dampers, the result is a ride that absorbs bumps without floating or wallowing.

A short history

  • 1957: the Cadillac Eldorado Brougham offered air suspension, though early systems were unreliable.
  • 1960s: Mercedes-Benz used air suspension on the 300 SE and the Mercedes 600 limousine. Read the Mercedes 600.
  • 1998: Mercedes’ Airmatic made air suspension standard on the S-Class. Read the W220 S-Class.
  • Today: air suspension is common on luxury sedans and SUVs, including GM’s Air Ride on the Suburban, Yukon and Escalade.

Predictive systems

The most advanced systems combine air springs with cameras that read the road ahead and prepare the suspension in advance. Read Magic Body Control explained.

Pros and cons

Pros: superb ride comfort, automatic load leveling, adjustable height for easier entry, improved stability.

Cons: more complex and expensive to repair than steel springs; air springs and compressors eventually wear out. Professional fleets service them proactively. Read how chauffeured fleets are maintained.

What passengers notice

Passengers notice a calm ride over potholes and expansion joints — especially on New York’s roads and highways like the BQE — and vehicles that lower slightly for easier entry. Read the 2021 Suburban redesign.