VW Lupo Air Suspension Failure, Diagnosis Help

I had a very similar issue with my 2004 VW Polo diesel last year. Having moderate experience with suspension systems, I initially thought it was just a simple air leak, but it turned out to be more complex. The symptoms were nearly identical, the air suspension system stopped functioning properly, with the car sitting lower on one side and showing warning lights. After some troubleshooting, I discovered it wasnt the air struts or compressor causing the problem, but rather a faulty wiring connection to the level control sensor. Took it to my regular workshop where they diagnosed a damaged cable connection near the suspension component. The constant movement and exposure to road debris had worn through the protective covering, causing intermittent electrical issues. They repaired the wiring and checked the entire air suspension system for any additional problems. Total repair cost was 95€, which included diagnostic work. The repair completely resolved the load leveling issues and warning lights. The air suspension system has worked flawlessly since then. Could you share some additional details about your Lupo: How long has the problem been occurring? Have you noticed any air leaking sounds? Does the suspension level change at all when starting the engine? Have you had any previous suspension work done? This information would help determine if youre dealing with a similar electrical issue or potentially something different in the air suspension components.

Latest service was at 128500km. Thanks for the detailed response. The problem started gradually over 2 weeks. Initially I noticed the ride height was slightly uneven, but now the car wont level at all. No audible air leaks, though I can hear the compressor straining when I start the engine, it runs for about 30 seconds then stops completely. Ive never had suspension work done before, but the error codes definitely point to compressor failure. The ride height stays consistently low regardless of engine status. The warning light started flashing more frequently last week. Im starting to think the air suspension system might need a full inspection. Would you recommend checking the wiring first, or should I focus on potential compressor replacement? The suspension components all look intact visually, but Im concerned about underlying issues.

Thanks for those details, your symptoms actually sound quite different from my experience, particularly that compressor sound you mentioned. In my case, the compressor was completely silent, while yours is showing signs of strain. Based on what you described, this really points toward compressor failure rather than the wiring issue I encountered. When air struts start failing, they typically show a gradual decline like youre experiencing, but the telling sign is that straining compressor noise followed by complete shutdown. The air suspension system likely needs a comprehensive check, but Id focus first on the compressor. That 30-second running pattern followed by shutdown is a classic symptom of a failing air suspension compressor trying to maintain pressure but ultimately failing. The load leveling system cant function without proper pressure. In my follow-up maintenance, I learned that suspension components often fail in a chain reaction, when the compressor starts failing, it can put extra stress on other parts of the system. A thorough inspection of all air struts and suspension components would be wise once the compressor is addressed. One thing to note, my repair ended up being relatively simple because it was just wiring, but a compressor replacement is more complex. Might want to get a few quotes from shops experienced with air suspension systems before proceeding.

The problem started gradually over 2 weeks. Initially I noticed the ride height was slightly uneven, but now the car wont level at all. No audible air leaks, though I can hear the compressor straining when I start the engine, it runs for about 30 seconds then stops completely. Thanks for confirming my suspicions about the compressor. Your details about the difference between wiring issues and compressor failure are really helpful. Having the compressor running briefly then shutting down does match with what Im experiencing, unlike your silent wiring problem. The load leveling issues have definitely gotten worse since the compressor started making those straining noises. Im going to prioritize getting the compressor checked first before looking at other suspension system components. Makes sense that one failing part could affect the whole air suspension setup. Good point about getting multiple quotes. Since the air struts and other parts might need inspection too, Ill look for shops that specialize in suspension systems rather than just general repairs. Better to have someone who really knows these systems handle it. Latest service was at 128500km and Ive never had suspension work done before, so maybe its just time for a major overhaul of the suspension pump and related components. Will update once I get it properly diagnosed.