Amarok Air Suspension Failure: Symptoms and Solutions

Had nearly identical issues with a 2020 Volkswagen Touareg, the air suspension system started acting up similar to what you describe. With some experience working on air suspension systems, I recognized the symptoms right away. The error messages and uneven ride height typically point to problems with the air spring valve assembly. In my case, the air suspension control valve was failing, causing the system to lose proper pressure regulation. The bumpy ride was definitely a result of the compromised pneumatic suspension system. The repair involved: Full diagnostic scan, Replacement of the faulty air suspension valve, Recalibration of the ride height sensors, Testing of the entire air suspension system Total cost was 590€ including parts and labor. The shop needed about 4-5 hours to complete everything. Since then, the air suspension has worked flawlessly. To better assist with your specific case, could you share: Does the compressor make any unusual noise when adjusting height? Which side is showing the lean? What exact error messages are you seeing? Has there been any recent impact or damage to the shock absorbers? This information would help determine if your issue is similar to what I experienced.

Thanks for the detailed insight. Just had my 60,000km service done last month before these air suspension issues started. The compressor is making a clicking sound when trying to adjust, followed by a hissing noise which definitely indicates an air leak somewhere in the system. The vehicle is leaning toward the right rear, and the onboard computer shows Error Code 45892, Air Suspension System Malfunction. No recent impacts or damage to the shock absorbers that I can recall, but the bumpy ride started gradually over the past week. Your repair process sounds similar to what I might need. Did your shop mention if this is a common suspension failure point on VW models?

Thanks for providing those additional details about your Amarok. Based on the clicking and hissing sounds you described, along with Error Code 45892, this matches exactly what I experienced with my air suspension failure. The gradual onset of the bumpy ride combined with the right rear lean strongly suggests a failing bellows valve, just like in my case. The hissing noise particularly points to air loss through the valve assembly rather than a damaged air spring. From my experience and discussions with the workshop, this is indeed a known wear point in the air suspension system. The bellows valve tends to show issues around 50,000-70,000km, which aligns with your vehicle mileage. After my repair, I learned some preventive measures that helped maintain proper ride height stability: Regular inspection of air lines for proper connection, Keeping the air suspension components clean from road debris, Not leaving the vehicle in raised position for extended periods The clicking sound from your compressor trying to compensate for the air loss is exactly what I heard before getting it fixed. I would recommend getting it checked soon, as continued operation could stress other suspension components. Question: Has the system been showing any issues maintaining ride height when parked overnight?

Based on all the symptoms you described and hearing about your repair experience, it seems my Amarok has the same air suspension issue you dealt with. Really helpful to know about the timing of these failures around 60,000km. The ride height does drop noticeably when parked overnight, I was finding the vehicle sitting much lower in the mornings. After starting up, the compressor would struggle repeatedly trying to achieve the correct ride height. Going to book it in with my regular workshop next week. The 590€ repair cost you mentioned gives me a good reference point. Will make sure they do the full diagnostic scan and check both the bellows valve and air lines while they have it up on the lift. Thanks for also sharing those preventive maintenance tips about keeping the suspension system clean and proper use of the height settings. Once fixed, I will definitely be more mindful about regular inspection of the air suspension components to catch any future issues early.