Cadillac Air Suspension Problems
Cadillac Air Suspension Problems
Cadillac's Air Ride Adaptive Suspension on models such as the Escalade provides enhanced comfort along with an adjustable ride height.
The system automatically adjusts ride height according to driving conditions, providing a smoother and more stable drive. However, things can and do sometimes go wrong with advanced automotive systems.
Our article takes a look at what to expect when you experience Cadillac air suspension problems.
How Cadillac Air Suspension Systems Work
The advanced Cadillac air suspension system replaces the traditional steel springs normally found on your Cadillac with durable and flexible rubber bellows or "air springs."
Onboard electronic sensors located at each wheel are utilized to monitor the road conditions and vehicle load and to send data to the control module, allowing the system to regulate how much air is in each rubber "air spring," effectively adjusting the vehicle's height and ride firmness.
An onboard compressor is used to supply the required air pressure to the rubber bellows via a manifold fitted with solenoid valves that then control the inflation and deflation of the individual air springs to provide a smooth, comfortable, and adjustable ride on your particular Cadillac model.
What Are the Most Common Cadillac Air Suspension Problems?
With numerous components working seamlessly together in the air suspension system, some parts are subjected to greater wear and tear over time, which can lead to Cadillac air suspension problems.
Air Leaks in Suspension Lines or Bags
Rubber airlines and the rubber bags are most often reinforced with textiles or blended with polyurethane for added durability and flexibility. The lines and airbags are unfortunately not immune to degradation over time, which can cause them to split, resulting in air leaks.
Air leaks can also result from road debris that damages the bellows and airlines when exposed to such hazards.
Failing Air Compressor
Tasked with providing a constant supply of compressed air, the specific air compressor for each Cadillac model is typically located on the vehicle's chassis or in the engine bay.
The air compressor itself is constructed of many individual components, each with its own limited working life.
Common failures of the air compressor may be a result of a failed electric motor or leaks within the compressor's pistons.
Faulty Ride Height Sensors
As shared, ride height sensors monitor the vehicle's distance from the road, plus accelerometers or vertical G sensors monitor body and wheel motion. Any electrical fault or loose connection in these sensors will result in incorrect or no data being provided to the Electronic Control Unit (ECU), preventing the correct operation of the air suspension.
Electronic Control Module Issues
Similar to problems with the sensors, a faulty ECU will prevent the correct functioning of the air suspension system. Corrupted electronics or even broken soldered circuits are possible faults within the ECU.
Uneven or Sagging Ride Height
The solenoids control the inflation and deflation of the rubber air bellows, and faulty solenoids will cause the incorrect air pressures to be supplied to the individual corners of your Cadillac, resulting in a sagging ride height or an uneven driving experience.
What Are the Warning Signs of Air Suspension Failure?
Let's share some of the warning signs of Cadillac air suspension problems that drivers need to keep a lookout for.
Dashboard Warning Lights
Your Cadillac's air suspension system, when detecting a fault, will provide warnings in the Driver Information Center that may include messages such as "Service Suspension System" or a "Stop, car too low" message.
Unusual Noises During Operation
As with any mechanical failures in a vehicle, any unusual noises being heard from your Cadillac, such as a noisy air compressor or air leaks in the lines or the rubber below, are indicative of an air suspension failure. It's always advisable to get the issue checked out by your closest Cadillac service center as soon as possible.
Vehicle Sagging or Leaning
A visually sagging or leaning vehicle is a sure sign that something is not right with your Cadillac's air suspension.
Rough or Unstable Ride Quality
Any changes in the quality of the usually composed and comfy ride, or unusually rough vibrations and bumps being felt from the road surface, mean it's time to have the air suspension checked out.
What Causes Air Suspension Issues?
Unfortunately, as we've already learned, any one of the numerous high-tech systems used in modern vehicles can fail. Let's look at some of these possible causes.
Wear and Tear Over Time
Friction, vibrations, heat, and pressure all act on materials, causing degradation over time and eventually failure of parts.
Exposure to Extreme Weather Conditions
Any vehicle operating in extended periods of extreme heat or icy conditions will experience accelerated wear and tear of air suspension components like rubber air lines.
Electrical Malfunctions
Just like your PC at home, your Caddy's electronics can burn out, terminals can work loose, soldered circuits can crack, and ECU processors can become corrupted.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Failure to service your Cadillac's suspension system according to the manufacturer's recommended schedule can shorten the working lifespan, leading to increased risk of failure.
Impact of Air Suspension Problems
Not only is the ride quality and handling affected by Cadillac air suspension problems, but your safety and that of your passengers are severely compromised when the suspension is no longer working optimally.
Repair and Replacement Options
Adherence to your Cadillac's recommended maintenance schedule goes a long way in keeping the air suspension operating correctly.
In the event of air suspension failure, however, your closest Cadillac service center knows best when it comes to repair and replacement options. Often, parts can be refurbished or more easily replaced with OEM parts for the best performance.
How to Reset Cadillac Air Suspension?
A simple reset option at home involves disconnecting the battery's negative terminal for a few minutes to allow the ECU to reset before reconnecting it.
An OBD-II scanner will be needed to perform a system recalibration or reset if disconnecting the battery doesn't do the trick.
Another simple method is to cycle your Caddy's ignition on and off several times, which should allow the electronic control module to recalibrate.
Get Your Air Suspension Serviced at Colonial Cadillac
Contact Colonial Cadillac, an authorized Cadillac dealership in New London, CT, when you need to fix your Cadillac air suspension problems.
Experience gold standard Cadillac service and repairs from our skilled and dedicated team of Cadillac-certified technicians.
