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Rough Ride and Sagging Rear on my 2021 QX80 Sensory

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Robert C. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:05 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2021 Infiniti QX80 Sensory

Hi everyone,

I've been noticing a significant change in the ride quality of my 2021 Infiniti QX80 Sensory lately. It feels much rougher, especially over bumps and uneven pavement, almost like I'm feeling every little imperfection in the road. On top of that, I've observed that the rear of the vehicle seems to be sitting lower than it used to, particularly when it's parked overnight.

The car has about 35,000 miles on it. I haven't hauled anything exceptionally heavy recently. Could this be an issue with the air suspension system, or are the shocks already going bad? I thought a luxury SUV like this would have a smoother ride for longer.

Any advice on what I should look into?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:05 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Experiencing a rough ride and a sagging rear on your 2021 Infiniti QX80 Sensory, especially at 35,000 miles, points directly to issues with its suspension system. The QX80 Sensory trim often comes with a self-leveling rear suspension (which can be air-based or hydraulic), making these symptoms particularly indicative of a problem with that system or general wear.

Common Causes:

  1. Air Suspension Leaks (if equipped): If your QX80 has air suspension, a leak in an air spring (air bag), air line, or a faulty air compressor can cause the rear to sag and the ride to become harsh as the system struggles to maintain proper height.
  2. Worn Shocks/Struts: Even without air suspension, conventional shocks and struts can wear out, losing their damping ability. This leads to a bouncy, harsh, or uncontrolled ride and can contribute to a sagging appearance if the internal gas pressure is lost.
  3. Faulty Ride Height Sensor: The sensors that tell the suspension system the vehicle's height can fail, causing the system to incorrectly adjust or not adjust at all, leading to sagging.
  4. Coil Spring Fatigue (if applicable): If your QX80 uses traditional coil springs, they can weaken or even break over time, leading to a lower ride height and a harsher ride.

Recommended Steps:

  1. Visual Inspection: Look under the rear of the vehicle for any obvious signs of damage to air lines, air springs, or fluid leaks around shocks. If you have air suspension, listen for the air compressor running excessively.
  2. "Bounce Test": Push down firmly on the rear bumper and release. If the vehicle bounces more than once or twice before settling, your shocks are likely worn.
  3. Check for Error Messages: See if any suspension-related warning messages or lights appear on your dashboard.

When to See a Shop:

Given the luxury nature and complexity of the QX80's suspension, it's highly recommended to have a professional Infiniti-trained mechanic inspect your vehicle. Issues with the suspension can affect handling, braking, and tire wear. A sagging rear can also impact headlight aim and overall vehicle stability. A shop can diagnose specific component failures, whether it's a leaking air spring, a faulty compressor, or worn conventional components. While there aren't typical OBD codes for mechanical wear, issues with air suspension components or sensors can often trigger specific diagnostic trouble codes that a professional scanner can read.

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