RS3 Air Suspension Failure: Compressor & Level Issues

Having experienced similar air suspension malfunction on a 2014 RS4, can confirm this sounds like more than just a compressor issue. The uneven ride height combined with misaligned lights typically indicates problems with the level sensors or wiring harness. Last repair involved finding multiple damaged connectors where the suspension height sensors connect to the control module. Moisture had corroded the plugs, causing intermittent connection issues. The load leveling system was getting incorrect readings, leading to those exact symptoms, uneven stance and warning lights. This can develop into a serious problem if left unaddressed, as faulty readings can cause the suspension system to compensate incorrectly, potentially damaging other components. The control module may try to constantly adjust the air suspension, wearing out the compressor prematurely. The fix required: Complete diagnostic scan, Removal of corroded sensor connectors, Installation of new wiring harness, Calibration of ride height sensors, System reset and testing While less severe than a full compressor replacement, addressing wiring issues early prevents cascading failures in the air suspension system. Would recommend having the entire suspension control system diagnosed rather than just assuming its the compressor.

Thanks for the detailed response on the suspension system issues. Your experience with the wiring harness problem sounds very similar to mine. Just curious, do you remember roughly what the repair costs were? Also, have you had any other air leaks or ride height problems since getting it fixed? My RS3 is going in next week and Id like to budget accordingly since air suspension repairs can get expensive.

Great news, took my RS3 to the mechanic and they diagnosed the root cause of the air suspension system problem. Turned out it wasnt the major repair I feared. The main issue was a faulty cable connection to the suspension pump that was causing the compressor to malfunction. The fix was straightforward, they repaired the defective plug connection for just 95 Euro. Since having that done, the suspension components are all working perfectly again. No more uneven stance, warning lights, or errors with the air struts. This experience really reinforces checking electrical connections first before assuming worst-case scenarios with air suspension repairs. The suspension system has been working flawlessly for several months now with no air leaks or ride height issues. Much cheaper solution than replacing the entire compressor or dealing with more extensive suspension damage down the line. Just make sure you get a proper diagnostic done rather than guessing at the problem.

The suspension issues with my RS3 have finally been resolved. Took it to a specialist last week who properly diagnosed the problem. What I thought was a complete compressor failure turned out to be mainly electrical, a damaged wiring harness and corroded sensor connections were causing the malfunction. The repair bill came to 780 Euro total, covering: Full diagnostic testing, New wiring harness, Replacement of suspension pump connectors, System recalibration Car has been running perfectly for the past week, no more uneven stance, warning lights are gone, and the air suspension responds normally again. Really glad I got a proper diagnosis instead of just replacing parts blindly. The suspension components are all working together as they should now. Thanks again for the advice about checking the electrical system first. Saved me from potentially spending much more on unnecessary compressor replacement. No air leaks or other issues since the repair.