The exclusive styling of the S-Class Mercedes enhances its reputation for comfortable dependability. Hidden underneath that sophisticated cover are advanced systems collaborating to provide a powerful, yet nimble, driving experience. Notable is the AIRMATIC air suspension system that can seamlessly handle a sporty highway driving experience while counteracting a challenging road of bumps and dips.

Highlights of the S-Class Air Suspension System

• Height Sensors: The ability of your car to automatically adjust its ride height is a key feature of the AIRMATIC air suspension system. The height sensors detect changes in road conditions to raise or lower your vehicle to the safest, most fuel efficient
• Variable Damping: The air suspension system utilizes variable damping of each wheel to maintain maximum ride comfort under any road conditions.
• Fuel Economy: The Mercedes S-Class will maintain its preset height (sport or comfort, depending on which you choose) while driving under normal conditions, such as city driving. However, once you accelerate to highway speed for a period of time, the air suspension system will lower the vehicle to reduce resistance and improve fuel efficiency. It will return to its pre-set level when the car slows down.

Reasons for Air Suspension System Failure

The Mercedes S-Class was designed to alert you to any problems with the AIRMATIC air suspension system. A series of indicator lights are programmed to display under various conditions; many of these having simple instructions. For example, you may see the warning: Stop Vehicle-Vehicle Too Low. This often indicates that the AIRMATIC system senses bumpy roads ahead and needs a moment to adjust the level.

Other warning displays will instruct you to not drive at speeds above 50 mph or to only make slight steering movements until you can safely pull off the road.

If AIRMATIC is malfunctioning for an unknown reason, then you’ll get a single warning indicator light along with a warning tone. It is recommended that you immediately bring your car to a certified Mercedes repair shop if this warning is triggered.

• Damaged Air Compressor: The air compressor is fundamental to the complex process of the air suspension system. Damage to the unit can occur from faulty wiring, a damaged piston ring, or simple wear from age. Regardless of the type of damage to the air compressor, the functionality of the entire system will suffer until it is repaired or replaced.
• Faulty Relay Circuit: When the air compressor fails to do its job, the problem could be a disruption in the power source. A series of electrical circuits run through the system, allowing the air pressure to adjust as needed. The relay circuit is at the head of this connection and is constantly working to open and close the other circuits on demand. A faulty relay circuit would cause a malfunction to the electrical system, leaving the air compressor inoperable.
• Air Valve Blockage: The air suspension system in your Mercedes S-Class relies on the precise distribution of air pressure as demanded by the various sensors in the network. While the air compressor is the central component to the process, the air must travel through a series of valves and compressed air lines on its way to one or more reservoirs that fill the springs. Any blockage along this path will trigger an indicator light on your display. Once this light is activated it is important to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic to minimize damage to the compressor.
• Suspension Strut Failure: It will be very apparent if a suspension strut fails in your Mercedes S-Class. The tell-tale signs are a sagging corner or scraping sound. Having your car towed will prevent further damage to the chassis and wheels.
• Air Leak: The ingenuity of the air suspension system in the Mercedes S-Class lies with the spring bellows. They are constructed of rubber or a similarly flexible, sturdy material that can expand and contract with the air flow from the valves. A tear or puncture in the spring will cause an air leak, which is typically a simple repair. Care should be taken to not overload your vehicle beyond its maximum capacity or this could also damage the springs.

Das European Autohaus Provides Air Suspension Maintenance for Mercedes S-Class

Your Mercedes S-Class will continue to take corners and bumps in stride with proper maintenance of its innovative air suspension system. Das European Autohaus has experienced technicians who are knowledgeable and passionate about all aspects of German automobiles. Our Bosch-authorized service center is equipped to maintain your European vehicle in pristine condition for years to come.

Das European Autohaus is committed to providing extraordinary service to our customers in Spring and Houston, TX. We look forward to earning your trust and your business.