maryrichter1
Mercedes GLA Hybrid Air Suspension Issue
Summary of the thread
A 2021 Mercedes GLA hybrid experienced an air suspension failure, causing the car to lean and display error messages. The issue was suspected to be a faulty valve in the suspension air bag, also known as the bellows. This valve controls the air entering the suspension system, and leaks can prevent the car from maintaining the correct ride height. The solution involved replacing the air spring assembly, which resolved the problem and restored smooth driving.
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4 comment(s)
maryrichter1 (community.author)
The battery is original, about three years old. Could a weak battery cause a suspension issue like this? I thought the suspension and the electrical system were separate. So, the 'bellows' is like a balloon for the suspension? If the valve is leaking, can it be repaired, or does the entire air bag need replacing?
friedrichdunkel64
A weak battery can cause all sorts of weird electrical gremlins in modern cars, but it's less likely to be the root cause of a faulty air suspension valve. Think of the bellows as a heavy-duty, reinforced balloon that holds air to provide the suspension. If the valve is leaking, you usually have to replace the whole air spring assembly. It's often sold as a unit. I'd get a proper diagnosis at a trusted workshop before throwing parts at it, though. 590€ sounds about right.
maryrichter1 (community.author)
I took your advice and brought it to a mechanic. It was the air suspension bellows valve. The repair cost 590€ as estimated, and the car is now riding smoothly again. I appreciate you explaining things. It made me feel more prepared when I spoke with the service advisor.
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MERCEDES
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GLA
friedrichdunkel64
Sounds like a bummer. The air suspension on those GLAs can be finicky. When the ride height goes haywire and you're getting error codes, an air leak is a prime suspect. A defective valve on the air bag (or 'bellows') isn't uncommon. It's basically a fancy air hose that controls how much air goes into the suspension system. Leaks mean the car can't maintain the correct ride height. How old is your battery?