Audi Q7 Air Suspension Failure, What You Need to Know

I experienced a similar issue with my Audi Q5 2012 diesel. With some experience working on air suspension systems, I can share what helped in my case. The symptoms matched exactly, uneven ride height, failed level adjustment, and warning lights. After initial diagnosis, it turned out the malfunction was caused by a damaged wire harness connecting to the air struts control module. Moisture had gotten into one of the connectors, causing corrosion and intermittent connection issues. The fix was relatively straightforward, cleaning and replacing the affected suspension components and connectors. Total cost was 95 Euro for parts and labor. The suspension system returned to normal function immediately after repair. To properly diagnose your specific case, could you share: Does the issue occur more after the car sits for extended periods? Have you noticed any air leak sounds? When did the warning lights first appear? Does the compressor make any attempts to run, even briefly? This information would help determine if your Q7 has similar connector issues or if other air struts components might be involved. The symptoms could point to various parts of the suspension system failing, so more details would help narrow it down.

Thanks for sharing your experience. My Q7 had its last service at 58000km and the issue started suddenly without warning. The load leveling system completely fails to respond when using the height adjustment controls. The compressor failure seems total, absolutely no sound or vibration when activating. The suspension pump remains silent even after multiple start-stop cycles. Even with the engine running and letting the car sit for 30 minutes, the suspension system shows no signs of trying to correct the ride height. No air leak sounds can be heard from any corner. The malfunction warning appeared immediately when the suspension dropped. I regularly use the suspension height adjustment for loading, so I would notice if it was gradually failing. This was a sudden complete failure one morning.

Thanks for those extra details about your Q7. Unlike my Q5 where the wiring issue caused intermittent problems, your symptoms point strongly to a complete air suspension compressor failure rather than wiring or air leaks. The key differences I notice from my experience: Your sudden complete failure vs my gradual issues, Total silence from your compressor vs my system still attempting to work, No air leak sounds vs the hissing I occasionally heard The air suspension compressor typically doesnt fail without warning unless theres an electrical fault or seized motor. In my case, the load leveling system would at least attempt to work. Since yours shows no signs of life, Id suspect either: Failed compressor motor, Blown compressor relay, Major electrical fault Parts and labor for a complete compressor replacement typically runs 800-1200 Euro, significantly more than my connector repair. Before committing to that, have a workshop check the relay and electrical connections, as these are much cheaper potential fixes. Would be useful to know if the workshop finds stored error codes specifically related to the compressor circuit rather than general air struts errors.

Thanks for the input. After checking my car more closely based on your suggestions, I've noticed a few more details that might help diagnose the issue. When turning the ignition on, theres absolutely no click or hum from the suspension pump area, complete silence. I checked under the car and the air struts appear intact with no visible damage. The suspension system warning message appears immediately upon startup, before any height adjustment is attempted. I appreciate the tip about checking the relay first, makes sense to start with the simpler fixes before replacing the entire compressor. Given the complete lack of response and sudden failure, Im leaning toward an electrical issue rather than gradual air suspension component wear. Ill have it checked at the workshop tomorrow and will specifically ask them to inspect the electrical connections and relay before jumping straight to a full compressor replacement. The potential 800-1200 Euro cost for a new unit definitely makes it worth investigating cheaper fixes first.

Hello, I have an Audi Q7 v8 4.2 petrol with a problem with the air suspension. It no longer lifts the front, so I checked some fuses, then the car wouldn't start anymore. The engine won't turn over and displays "ESP ABS malfunction, see manual". The car starts, then when I checked the fuses, it won't start anymore. I hear the compressor starting up one last time and it doesn't lift the front. There are no warning lights on the dashboard (orange or green). Thank you.

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It sounds like you may have inadvertently disturbed an electrical connection or blown a fuse while checking them. First, double-check all the fuses related to the air suspension and engine starting system to ensure they are intact. Also, inspect the battery connections and ensure they are secure and free of corrosion, as a loose connection could cause starting issues. If the problem persists, it might be worth having a professional check the vehicle's electrical system to ensure there are no underlying issues. Let me know how it goes or if you have any further questions!