So, I was still under warranty (30 day) and I had a "service air suspension" light come on. Took it to the dealership, and they looked it over and said the compressor was faulty. They asked me if I was interested in replacing the air shocks with hard springs... I gave them the go ahead.

I think we both agreed this was the best route for both party's involved (considering a compressor is $1200)

Did I make the right call? I have seen threads on here about guys wanting to convert theirs, and several that have. I was just worried that a 2004, with 81,000 miles on it, I was money ahead if I just put springs on it. Eliminate the possibility of and probably most likely rubber deterioration down the road causing leaks and more compressor problems.

Is going the spring route going to sacrifice anything?

 

If it wasn't money out of your pocket I would have kept the air suspension but I've spent a lot of money getting my 2003 into shape though so.

 

Good decision if you're going to keep it long term. Air suspension is a high maintenance/cost system. Audi Allroads, VW Touareg and Range Rover all got black eyes from their air suspension failings (among other things). The Army has spent tons of $$ retro fitting steel springs on trucks and trailers bought with air suspensions because they don't stand up.

 

I just switched my air suspension to GM springs today. Ride feels like the same to be honest...

 

Hell yea, if it was on their tab- I would of had them replace it.

Sure they're going to offer to switch you over...less of an expense to them.

 

If you get a new Air compressor, why would it be high maintanance? I totally disagree....if the air bags do leak someday, they cost around $300 or so to replace.....the expensive part is the compressor, but if you get a new one, why worry.

 

True, however, If I can have them pay for the conversion, so I never have to worry about future problems, I feel I'm money ahead.

From what I have gathered from the service manager, and guys on here, the air suspension is nothing but problems.

 

I had a Touareg with Air suspension. Still worked great at 161000. The air on that vehicle was awesome