2018 Range Rover Sport Air Suspension Fault - Compressor or Leaks?

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:47 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport HSE

Hey everyone,

I've been experiencing a persistent 'Air Suspension Fault' message on my 2018 Range Rover Sport HSE. It seems to pop up intermittently, and sometimes the vehicle will drop slightly overnight, though it usually levels out after starting.

I've noticed the compressor seems to run quite a bit, even when just sitting. Could this be a failing compressor, or am I looking at a leak somewhere in the system? I'm trying to figure out if this is something I can tackle with a DIY fix or if it's straight to the dealer. Any advice on common failure points for this model year?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

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Hi Chris,

Air suspension faults are quite common on Land Rover models, including your 2018 Range Rover Sport HSE. The symptoms you describe – intermittent fault messages, vehicle dropping overnight, and an overworking compressor – strongly suggest an issue with the air suspension system.

Here's a breakdown of common causes and what to check:

  1. Air Leak in the System:

    • Common Points: Air springs (struts), air lines, valve block, or reservoir.
    • Diagnosis: A common OBD-II code related to this is C1A20-64 (Pressure increase too slow when filling reservoir), indicating the system is struggling to maintain pressure. You can try a soap and water test on the air springs and connections to look for bubbles.
    • Impact: Leaks cause the compressor to run excessively, leading to premature wear.
  2. Failing Air Suspension Compressor:

    • Symptoms: Loud operation, constant running, or complete failure to raise the vehicle.
    • Cause: Often, the compressor fails due to being overworked trying to compensate for a leak elsewhere in the system. The dryer unit within the compressor can also become saturated.
    • Action: If the compressor is noisy or not generating sufficient pressure, it may need replacement. Sometimes, just the dryer or a relay can be the culprit.
  3. Faulty Ride Height Sensor:

    • Symptoms: Incorrect leveling, one corner sitting higher or lower.
    • Diagnosis: While less likely to cause the 'dropping overnight' symptom, a faulty sensor can trigger fault messages.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you're uncomfortable with DIY diagnostics or don't have access to a diagnostic tool that can read Land Rover-specific codes.
  • If the vehicle is consistently dropping to bump stops or is unsafe to drive.
  • If you suspect an air spring leak, as replacement can be complex.

Addressing leaks promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to the compressor. A qualified Land Rover specialist can pinpoint the exact cause using advanced diagnostics and ensure proper repair.