Is Ram Air Suspension Covered Under Warranty?
Is Ram air suspension covered under warranty? If your Ram is covered under a manufacturer or factory warranty, repairs are generally covered at no cost to you. However, most manufacturer warranties only last a certain amount of time or mileage, with most standard factory warranties ending at 3 years or 36,000 miles. If your Ram’s air suspension unexpectedly breaks and your manufacturer’s warranty expired, then you’ll left paying those costly repair bills on your own.
It’s important to check the warranty information for your specific vehicle before making any repairs. Some warranties may cover the cost of repairs, while others may only cover the cost of replacement parts.
Manufacturer’s Warranty
Air suspensions are commonly covered by the vehicle’s Manufacturer Warranty. This coverage typically applies to defects in materials or workmanship during the warranty period. The warranty duration for a vehicle’s air suspension can vary. It may range from a few years to the vehicle’s lifetime. Check your warranty documentation or contact the manufacturer for coverage period.
Manufacturer warranties frequently include exclusions, such as coverage for typical wear and tear or damage resulting from accidents, misuse, or modifications by the owner. Should your vehicle’s air suspension experience a problem covered by the manufacturer’s warranty, you can usually get it fixed or replaced at an authorized dealership or service center. In order to secure warranty coverage for your vehicle, proof of ownership is typically required. This can be provided through your vehicle’s registration or purchase documents.
Extended Warranty
Consumers may choose to buy a Ram Extended Warranty for their air suspension. These are frequently provided by third-party companies or retailers and can offer coverage beyond the manufacturer’s warranty. Carefully review the policy to understand the coverage and circumstances for repairs under extended warranties.
The Mopar Maximum Care Warranty, also known as the “bumper-to-bumper” warranty, is the most comprehensive extended coverage available for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram. It extends your Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep or Ram’s powertrain and basic component coverage beyond the 3-year/36,000-mile manufacturer’s warranty. Additionally, it covers more than 5,000 components, providing virtually complete mechanical coverage for your vehicle.
The only components not covered under this warranty include:
- Maintenance services and items used in such services.
- Glass, plastic lenses.
- Body and paint items, including soft trim.
- Wear items such as manual clutch assembly, brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums and belts are not covered at any time.
- Snowplows, winches and trailer hitches
What is RAM Air Suspension?
The innovative Active-Level RAM 4 Corner Air Suspension is an exclusive feature of RAM trucks. This sophisticated system automatically lowers the vehicle’s height during highway driving, reducing aerodynamic resistance and improving fuel efficiency. However, the advantages of RAM Air Suspension extend beyond aerodynamics.
The RAM 1500 Air Suspension is an advanced system designed to provide a smoother and more controlled ride. Unlike traditional suspension systems, it utilizes air springs and an onboard air compressor to dynamically adjust the vehicle’s ride height and stiffness.
How Does RAM Air Suspension Work?
The functionality of RAM Air Suspension lies in its ability to adjust the air pressure in each of the four air springs located at each corner of the vehicle. This precise control offers several key features.
RAM Air Suspension individually controls the air pressure in each of the four air springs, allowing for independent raising or lowering at each wheel. This is particularly useful for leveling the truck when carrying heavy loads, towing, or navigating uneven terrain. Automatically sensing extra weight when cargo is loaded, the Air Suspension system adjusts the air pressure to maintain a level ride. This ensures stability and balance, enhancing safety and control.
RAM Air Suspension provides multiple ride height settings, catering to everyday driving, highway speeds for reduced drag and improved fuel efficiency, and Off-Road modes for increased ground clearance. The air springs in RAM Air Suspension offer a smoother ride compared to traditional steel springs. They absorb road imperfections more effectively, resulting in a more comfortable driving experience on and off the road. Ram’s Active-Level Four-Corner Air Suspension takes air suspension to the next level, allowing individual control of air pressure in each corner of your truck. This enables precise adjustments to height and balance, with automatic leveling when carrying heavy loads or towing trailers.
How To Tell If Your Air Suspension Is Going Out
Detecting potential issues with your air suspension early on can prevent more significant problems down the line. Here are some signs that your air suspension might be experiencing problems:
- Uneven Ride Height. If one corner or side of your vehicle appears lower than the others, it could indicate a leak or malfunction in the air suspension system.
- Visible Damage. Check for visible damage to airbags or air springs. If you notice cracks, tears, or leaks, it’s a clear sign that the components may be failing.
- Harsh Ride or Bouncing. A sudden change in ride quality, such as a harsh ride or bouncing, may indicate a problem with the air springs or shocks.
- Noisy Compressor. If the air compressor runs more frequently than usual or makes unusual noises, it could be a sign of a failing compressor or a leak in the system.
- Warning Lights. Modern vehicles equipped with air suspension often have a warning light on the dashboard. If this illuminates, it signals a potential issue with the system.
- Delayed Rise or Fall. If your vehicle takes an unusually long time to rise after starting or lowers too quickly when parked, there may be a problem with the air suspension.
- Visible Sagging. Observe your vehicle when it’s parked. If it appears to sag or sit lower than normal, it may indicate a loss of air pressure in the suspension system.
- Handling Issues. Poor handling, drifting, or a feeling of instability while driving could be attributed to a malfunction in the air suspension system.
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Unusual Noises. Listen for any unusual noises, such as hissing sounds, which could indicate air leaks within the system.
- Air Compressor Running Continuously. If the air compressor continues to run continuously, even when the vehicle is at the proper height, it may be a sign of a leak or other issues.
- Failed “Crunch Test”. Perform a “crunch test” by placing an aluminum can on the tire. If the air suspension drops significantly, it might indicate a leak or pressure loss.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s advisable to have your air suspension system inspected by a qualified mechanic. Ignoring potential issues can lead to further damage and compromise your vehicle’s safety and performance. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to warning signs can help ensure the longevity and proper functioning of your air suspension system.
