Is Air Ride Good for Daily Driving?

When it comes to daily driving, there are a variety of options available for drivers to choose from. One of the more popular options is air ride suspension, which is becoming increasingly popular as a great way to give drivers a smoother ride. But is air ride a good option for daily driving? This post will explore the pros and cons of air ride and discuss how to get the best out of this type of suspension.

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What is an Air Ride Suspension?

Air ride suspension is a vehicle suspension system that uses compressed air as a spring instead of traditional springs or shock absorbers. It is often used in heavy-duty vehicles, such as semi-trucks and buses, and is becoming increasingly popular in luxury and sports cars.

Components of an Air Ride Suspension

An air ride suspension system consists of a few essential components. These include air compressors, air tanks, air lines, springs, and shock absorbers. The air compressor is responsible for compressing and storing the air in the air tanks.

The air lines transport the compressed air from the tanks to the air springs, which use the air pressure to cushion against bumps in the road. The shock absorbers are designed to control the motion of the springs and reduce the amount of bounce in the vehicle.

Advantages of Air Ride Suspension

The primary advantage of air ride suspension is that it offers a smoother ride for drivers. This is because the suspension can absorb the shocks and bumps that everyday driving brings. As a result, drivers can enjoy a much smoother ride, which can help reduce fatigue and make the drive more comfortable.

Additionally, air ride suspension can improve a vehicle's handling, as it can help keep the car level, making it easier to navigate tight corners and other difficult driving situations.

Disadvantages of Air Ride Suspension

Despite the advantages of air ride, it also comes with some disadvantages. The most notable of these is the cost. Air ride suspension is often much more expensive than traditional suspension systems, making it difficult to justify the added expense for everyday driving.

Additionally, air ride suspension requires regular maintenance, including checking the air pressure, which can add to the cost over time. Finally, air ride suspension can be less durable than traditional suspension systems, making it essential to consider how often the vehicle will be driven on rough terrain.

How Air Ride Suspension Works

Air ride suspension works by using air pressure to act as a cushion against bumps in the road. When the vehicle encounters a bump, the air pressure in the air springs is increased, which causes the air springs to compress. This compression absorbs the impact of the bump and reduces the amount of vibration and bounce in the vehicle. The shock absorbers then control the motion of the springs, reducing additional bounce and providing a smoother ride.

How to Get the Most Out of Air Ride Suspension

If you decide to go with air ride suspension, there are a few things you can do to get the most out of it. First, ensure that the vehicle's air pressure is set correctly. This will ensure that the suspension can absorb the bumps and shocks of everyday driving.

Additionally, it is essential to stay on top of regular maintenance, including checking the air pressure and changing the air filter. This will help keep the system working correctly and ensure that it can provide a smooth ride. Finally, ensure to avoid driving on rough terrain as much as possible, as this can cause damage to the suspension system.

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Safety Concerns

Regarding air ride suspension, there are a few safety concerns to be aware of. First, air ride suspension can be more prone to bottoming out than traditional suspension systems. This can be dangerous, especially when driving on highways, as it can make it difficult to control the vehicle.

Additionally, air ride suspension can be less durable than traditional suspension systems, so it is vital to ensure that the system is maintained correctly. Finally, ensuring that the air pressure is set correctly for the vehicle is essential, as this can affect the vehicle's handling.

Installation Considerations

When installing air ride suspension, there are a few things to consider. First, it is essential to ensure the vehicle's suspension system is appropriately sized. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure the installation is done correctly, as this can affect how the suspension performs.

Finally, it is essential to ensure that all components are correctly calibrated, as this can affect how the rest works.

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Conclusion

Air ride suspension is an excellent option for drivers looking for a smoother ride. However, it is vital to consider the pros and cons, as well as the safety concerns and installation considerations, before making a decision. With the proper care and maintenance, air rides can provide drivers with a comfortable, smooth ride for daily driving.