Land Rover Air Suspension Problems
Air suspension is one feature that sets Land Rovers apart from many others. Designed to deliver a smoother ride, offer better handling, and improved off-road capability, air suspension systems allow your Land Rover to automatically adjust its ride height based on speed, terrain, and driving conditions.
However, while air suspension offers a premium driving experience, it can also be a source of issues, especially as the car ages. Understanding how the system works and being aware of the common faults can help Land Rover owners maintain peak performance and avoid costly repairs.
Which Land Rover’s Have Air Suspension Systems?
Air suspension was fitted to various Range Rovers and Discovery models, including:
| Model | Air Suspension? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Range Rover | Yes | Standard on all generations since P38 |
| Range Rover Sport | Yes | Standard or optional depending on year and trim |
| Range Rover Velar | Optional | Available on high-spec models (e.g. D300, P400); coil on lower trims |
| Discovery 2 | Rear only (Optional) | Air suspension on rear axle only; coil springs at front |
| Discovery 3 / 4 | Yes | Full air suspension standard on most models |
| Discovery 5 | Yes (varies) | Standard on higher trims; optional on base trims |
| Discovery Sport | No | Coil suspension only (some have adaptive dampers) |
| Defender | Optional | Coil suspension only pre 2020 (air suspension for the newer L663 model) |
| Evoque | No | Coil suspension only |
| Freelander / Freelander 2 | No | Coil suspension only |
| Infotainment | Basic radio/CD player | Touch-screen nav (in later models), Bluetooth, upgraded audio |
Land Rover Discovery Air Suspension problems
Land Rover Discovery models (Discovery 2, Discovery 3 and early Discovery 4) are known for their comfort, off road ability and ride height adjustability – all thanks to their air suspension.
But this does mean that air suspension leaks are a common problem with Discovery’s, often leading to symptoms like vehicle sagging or uneven ride height.
Range Rover Air Suspension Problems
The Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models take Land Rover’s air suspension technology even further, with more sophisticated electronic controls and dynamic response systems. These vehicles can raise or lower automatically based on speed, terrain or user input and give a seamless transition from city streets to rough tracks.
But with more complexity comes more risk of failure. Issues such as electronic control module faults, sensor malfunctions and air leaks are not uncommon especially in older or high mileage models. Regular diagnostics and proactive maintenance is key to preserving the performance of these advanced systems, as neglecting maintenance can lead to expensive repairs.
Land Rover Air Suspension
The Land Rover air suspension system consists of:
- air bags
- air springs
- a compressor
- an air compressor
- an air reservoir
- valve blocks
- height sensors
These work together to control the air supply in each corner of the suspension and adjust the vehicle height, vehicle level, and ground clearance in real time for comfort and capability.
When the system is working correctly, the air supply from the air compressor maintains proper vehicle height and vehicle level, adjusting ground clearance as needed for different driving conditions. The self levelling feature automatically keeps the vehicle at a consistent height, even when parked or carrying varying loads, ensuring optimal ground clearance and ride quality. These adjustments are controlled by a control module which uses data from height sensors and driving conditions to ensure optimal ride performance. But if any of these parts fail or wear out the whole system can be compromised.
Common Faults With Air Suspension Systems
1. Air Leaks
One of the most common problems that occur with Land Rover air suspension systems is air leaks. Leaks can cause the vehicle to appear ‘dropped’ or experience a ‘drop’ in ride height, often affecting ‘one side’ of the vehicle where one corner sits lower than the others. You’ll notice this especially after the car has been parked overnight or for an extended period.
Air leaks are often caused by old air bags or deteriorating lines. Replacing the worn parts will usually solve the issue. However, air leaks can cause increased compressor workload which shortens the life of the compressor.
2. Height sensor failures
The air suspension relies on height sensors located near each wheel to monitor the ride height. If a sensor becomes misaligned, damaged or fails electronically it can send the wrong data to the control module and cause improper air distribution or warning lights on the dashboard. Height sensor failures often trigger an error message or error messages on the dashboard, which can help diagnose the specific issue.
Sensor failures can be detected using plug in diagnostics, so we recommend having your Land Rover looked over at a garage. If a faulty sensor is to blame, these can be replaced relatively easily by a mechanic.
3. Valve block issues
Issues with the valve block can prevent air from getting to the corners and affect balance and comfort. The front valve block controls air pressure to the front airbags, while the rear valve block manages air flow to the rear wheels, each ensuring proper suspension height and function at their respective ends. Usually, this results in the Land Rover sitting down on one corner as the air can’t get into the airbag in order to inflate and correct ride height.
A specialist garage will be able to use a diagnostic tool to scan for fault codes, as well as performing a leak-down test to check for internal leaks or stuck valves. Fixing it typically involves replacing the valve block unit and clearing fault codes with a scan tool.
4. Electrical faults
Electrics can be problematic in Land Rover’s anyway, so it’s no surprise that electrical components in the air suspension system can go wrong. Issues can be common with the control module, control panel, or relay system, which can stop the air suspension from working altogether. Severe electrical faults may even cause the vehicle to enter limp mode to protect the system. The electronic control unit is often located behind the A-pillar on the driver’s side.
A tool will be needed to read fault codes from the suspension control module and helps pinpoint issues with height sensors, control relays, wiring, or the ECU.
5. Suspension Control Module
The suspension control module interprets the sensor data and adjusts the air pressure accordingly. When the module fails, it can trigger a ‘suspension fault’ warning, leading to erratic behaviour such as random ride height changes or the vehicle not lifting at all.
To fix these issues, a technician may need to replace a faulty sensor or reprogram the module. Replacing the defective component or reprogramming the module usually fixes the problem, but diagnosis should always be performed by a qualified technician with access to the right diagnostic tools.
Need Air Suspension Repairs or Diagnostics?
Air suspension is one of the best things about a Land Rover – comfort and versatility. If you own a Discovery or Range Rover and suspect suspension issues, don’t wait for a full failure. Regular servicing, prompt repairs with genuine parts, along with routine maintenance are essential.
Our Henley-on-Thames workshop offers expert Land Rover air suspension servicing, diagnostics and repairs. Whether you’re experiencing uneven ride height, system faults or compressor failure our team will get you back on the road with confidence.
