Air Suspension Fault on my 2018 Discovery - What should I check first?

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David L. · rep 0 · May 22, 6:37 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Land Rover Discovery HSE

Hey everyone,

I'm getting an 'Air Suspension Fault' message on my 2018 Land Rover Discovery HSE. The vehicle seems to be sitting a bit lower than usual, especially on the front passenger side. It's not completely slammed, but definitely noticeable. This started happening intermittently a few days ago, but now it's pretty consistent.

I'm trying to figure out if this is something I can troubleshoot myself before taking it to the dealership, as I know air suspension repairs can be quite costly. I've heard about compressor issues, leaks, and sensor problems.

What are the most common culprits for this fault on a 2018 Discovery? Are there any simple checks or diagnostics I can perform at home? Any specific fuses or relays I should look at? I'd appreciate any advice on where to start.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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Hello Sarah,

An 'Air Suspension Fault' on your 2018 Land Rover Discovery is a common concern for owners, and while it can be complex, there are some initial steps you can take before heading to a shop.

  1. Initial DIY Checks:

    • Visual Inspection: Park on a level surface and visually inspect all four corners. Look for any obvious signs of air leaks around the air springs (struts) – sometimes you can hear a hiss. Check the air lines for cracks or damage, especially where they connect to components.
    • Compressor Check: With the engine running, listen for the air suspension compressor, usually located under the vehicle near the rear. It should run periodically to maintain pressure. If it's constantly running, or not running at all, it could indicate a problem.
    • Fuses & Relays: Consult your owner's manual for the location of the air suspension compressor fuse and relay. Check these for continuity and proper seating. A faulty relay is a relatively inexpensive fix.
  2. Common Causes for Air Suspension Faults:

    • Air Compressor Failure: This is one of the most frequent issues. Over time, the compressor can wear out, lose efficiency, or fail entirely, leading to insufficient pressure.
    • Air Leaks: Leaks can occur in the air springs themselves, the air lines, or the valve block (which distributes air to the springs). Even a small leak can cause the system to struggle.
    • Height Sensor Malfunction: The vehicle's height sensors tell the system how high each corner should be. If a sensor fails, it can send incorrect readings, causing the system to fault.
    • Electrical Issues: Wiring problems or faulty connectors can also trigger the fault.
  3. Relevant Diagnostic Codes (OBDII): If you have access to an OBDII scanner that can read Land Rover-specific codes, look for:

    • C1A20-64: Pressure sensor fault.
    • C1A00-01: General fault, often related to pressure or compressor performance.
    • C1A36-01: Exhaust valve fault.
    • P023A: Air suspension compressor relay circuit.
  4. When to See a Shop:

    • If your DIY checks don't reveal an obvious solution, or if the fault persists.
    • If the vehicle is significantly lowered, leaning severely, or if you hear loud, unusual noises from the suspension.
    • A professional shop with Land Rover diagnostic tools (like SDD or Pathfinder) can accurately pinpoint the issue, whether it's a failing compressor, a specific leak, or a sensor problem. They can also check for any relevant Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) that might apply to your model year.