I just purchased a 2001 allroad with 65,000 miles and the air suspension doesn't seem to work. There is a flashing light on the shock adjustment buttons on the dash.

Both the fronts are very low, almost touching and the rears are low but have plenty of clearance. I am unsure if this is a sign of an air leak, bad compressor, or if the shocks are bad.

I was wondering what the proper way to diagnose this problem is and if anyone has any input that would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

You probably have a front air bag leaking. It would be best to scan the suspension for codes. Replace fronts in pairs.
If the suspension pumps back up the compressor is still working or the leak is small enough for the compressor to lift the vehicle. Either way , I would not recoend driving the car until the problem if fixed. The compressor will burn up trying to fill leaky air bags.

 

yep sounds like a leakin airbag and a potentially a weak compressor,

if the error light is flashing, and only comes on solid after the compressor runs for 2 mins? (if so turn ignition off and on it will try again)
does the front try to lift a little? (even with a tape measure on the ground to the wheel arch)

if it does try to lift a tiny amount then the compressor is working but may be puffed out due to the leak or the leak is very big.

If it does try to lift give is 3 or 4 attempts to see if it can get it to level 1 or higher, the higher the car is the less the airbag leaks and at level 3 it will sit without sinking. this is an airbag leak which needs changing. if it does lift a little you will possibly hear the air escaping out the suspect corner or try soapy water on the lower half of the rubber airbag to look for bubbles to confirm a leak

you can get kits to refurbish the compressor but best to prove a leak and then fix that 1st

good luck!!
best regards

Andy

 

After taking closer look at the system, I couldn't get communication with the system through vcds.
I checked the control unit for the suspension system and am getting no power there.
Any ideas of what might be causing this?

 

Go join.
quattroworld.com Forums: allroad

 

Is the battery flat?

Is the suspension error light on at all?

there are a few fuses you can check, PM me your e-mail address me and i can send you the drawing, either that or its ECU/wiring issues

regards

Andy

 

The battery is fine, and the suspension light is flashing.

 

Most likely a bag leak. Spray soapy water on all of them, while up on a lift, in Jack Mode.

 

I have an 2003 allroad with same issue. These air suspensions are VERY expensive to repair/replace. I went to this site:

https://www.arnottindustries.com/par...17_pid124.html

and replaced with the Bilstein conversion kit. The car rides fantastic. The only issue is you cannot get the extra clearance for off-road. Let's be real, how may allroad owners really do serious off-roading. Did the job myself in my driveway. Just make sure you get the entire front of the car off the ground or you will not be able to get the old shocks out due to the front sway bar.

 

The rear airbag removal is a real PITA. Best way to get them both off....is to unbolt the rear lower control arms, while the shock is fully compressed, using ratchet straps. Also, the Bilstein shocks don't nearly feel as nice as the OEM Continental Teves dampers. Coilover conversion seems like the logical solution for an inherently flawed air suspension system - bit sacifices ride comfort and offroad capability big-time. Basically, going coils....you effectively removed the "all" from allroad quattro.