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finnbaumann23

RSQ3 Air Suspension Failure: Compressor & Leveling Issues

Hi. My RSQ3 from 2014 is giving me headaches with what seems to be a compressor failure in the air suspension system. Car is sitting noticeably lower on one side, wont lift anymore, and the suspension pump appears dead. Getting warning lights on the dash and the headlights are pointing at weird angles now. The error memory shows suspension-related codes. Has anyone dealt with similar air struts issues on their RSQ3? Really interested in hearing what the final diagnosis was and how your workshop fixed it. Particularly keen to know if it was just the compressor or if you found any other air leaks in the system. Looking for real workshop experiences rather than guesses. Planning to take it in soon but want to be prepared for what they might find. Thanks in advance for any insights.

4 comment(s)

maxdragon9

I dealt with a similar suspension system malfunction on my 2012 SQ5. Having some experience with air suspension issues, I can share what happened in my case. The symptoms were nearly identical, load leveling stopped working, one side dropped lower, and the suspension pump seemed completely dead. The headlight auto-leveling was also affected. After taking it to the workshop, they found the root cause was actually much simpler than expected, a damaged wiring connection to the level control module. The mechanic discovered that the cable had worn through due to vibration against a nearby component, causing an intermittent connection. The repair was straightforward, they replaced the wiring harness and properly secured it to prevent future wear. Total cost was 95 Euro for parts and labor. Before jumping to conclusions about a failed compressor or air leaks, have your workshop check all the electrical connections first. These systems are quite robust, but the wiring can be a weak point. Could you share: Current mileage on your RSQ3? When did you first notice the issue? Any unusual noises from the suspension area? Have you had any previous suspension work done? This information would help determine if your case might be similar to what I experienced.

finnbaumann23 (Author)

Last service was done at 112380 KM about 2 months ago. The issue started quite suddenly with no unusual noises beforehand. The air suspension started acting up right after a cold night when temperatures dropped below freezing. The compressor stopped working completely the next morning. After reading through the responses, I suspect the air suspension compressor might have failed due to moisture in the system, which is apparently a common issue. The suspension components on my side seem intact, but there could be hidden air leaks somewhere in the lines. Will update once the workshop has done their diagnosis. Thanks for sharing your experience with the wiring, will definitely have them check the electrical connections first.

maxdragon9

Having gone through this exact issue with my SQ5, your symptoms pointing to moisture damage make a lot of sense. After sudden temperature drops, any moisture in the air suspension system can freeze and cause significant problems. When my compressor failed, the workshop found ice crystals had formed in the compressor unit, causing permanent damage. They discovered multiple small air leaks that had allowed moisture to enter the system over time. The total repair involved: New suspension pump (320 Euro), Complete system dry-out, Replacement of several air lines, Installation of an upgraded moisture filter Final cost was around 890 Euro including labor. The ride height is now perfectly maintained and the system works flawlessly. One key maintenance tip: regular inspection of air struts and lines for tiny leaks is crucial. My workshop now checks the entire air suspension system during annual service to catch potential issues early. The freezing temperatures in your case strongly suggest moisture-related damage. Have the workshop perform a complete system inspection rather than just replacing the compressor. This helps prevent the same issue from recurring. Would appreciate an update once you get the diagnosis. If the findings match my experience, I can share some specific preventive maintenance steps that have kept my system trouble-free since the repair.

finnbaumann23 (Author)

Based on what everyone shared, I understand better what might be happening with my RSQ3. The rapid failure after that cold night really points toward moisture in the air suspension system, which makes a lot of sense. The malfunctioning ride height control and dead compressor match the symptoms others described. The good news is the air struts themselves look okay, but I need a thorough check of all suspension components to be sure. Currently at 112380 KM with no prior suspension issues until that freezing night. The complete system inspection suggestion seems like the smart approach rather than just throwing parts at it. Will definitely have them check both the electrical connections and look for any air leaks in the system. Planning to take it to the workshop next week for a full diagnosis. The price range shared gives me a realistic budget to expect, anywhere from 100 Euro for simple electrical fixes up to 900 Euro if the compressor needs replacement. Will update the thread once I get the official diagnosis and repair completed. The maintenance tips about regular system inspections will be really valuable going forward to prevent future issues.

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