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2018 Ram 1500 Laramie Air Suspension Sagging Overnight - What gives?

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 24, 1:29 PM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Ram 1500 Laramie

Hey everyone, hoping for some advice here. I have a 2018 Ram 1500 Laramie with the factory air suspension, and lately, I've noticed it's been sagging pretty badly overnight, especially the rear. Sometimes it looks completely deflated on one side.

When I start it up, the compressor kicks in and eventually levels it out, but it feels like it's working overtime. I've also seen the "Service Air Suspension" message pop up a few times on the dash, usually when it's really cold outside.

Is this a common issue with these trucks? What should I be looking for? I'm trying to figure out if this is something I can tackle myself or if I'm looking at an expensive shop visit. Any insights on common causes, potential TSBs, or repair costs would be greatly appreciated!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 24, 1:29 PM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

It sounds like you're experiencing a very common issue with the Ram 1500's factory air suspension, John. The symptoms you describe – overnight sagging, compressor working overtime, and "Service Air Suspension" messages – typically point to a few key culprits.

  1. Diagnose the Problem:

    • Air Spring Leaks: The most frequent cause is a leak in one or more of the air spring bags. These bags, made of rubber, can develop cracks or pinholes over time, especially in varying temperatures. You can sometimes visually inspect them for cracks or spray a soapy water solution on them to look for bubbles when the system is pressurized.
    • Compressor Issues: While your compressor is currently working, if it's running constantly or struggling, it could be failing or overworked due to a persistent leak. A failing compressor might also trigger a "Service Air Suspension" light.
    • Height Sensor Malfunction: Less common, but a faulty height sensor can send incorrect signals to the air suspension module, causing uneven leveling or incorrect inflation.
    • Relay/Fuse Problems: Check the air suspension compressor relay and related fuses in your under-hood fuse box. A bad relay can prevent the compressor from engaging properly.

  2. Common Causes & When to See a Shop:

    • Environmental Factors: Cold weather often exacerbates air spring leaks as rubber becomes less pliable.
    • Age and Wear: Air springs are wear items and typically last 6-10 years depending on usage. Your 2018 model is reaching an age where these issues start to appear.
    • When to See a Shop: If you've visually inspected for leaks and checked basic electrical components (fuses/relay) without success, or if the "Service Air Suspension" light is persistent, it's time to visit a qualified technician. They have specialized diagnostic tools to check for specific fault codes (e.g., C-codes related to the suspension control module) and can perform a more thorough leak test using nitrogen. Repairing air suspension components often requires lifting the vehicle and safely deflating/inflating the system, which can be dangerous without proper equipment.

  3. Potential Costs:

    • Replacing a single air spring can range from $300-$700 per corner for parts and labor, depending on the brand and shop rates.
    • A new air suspension compressor can cost $500-$1200 installed.
    • Often, if one air spring is leaking, others may not be far behind, so some owners opt to replace both rear or all four for peace of mind.
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