Car dealers understand the importance of catering to their clients' diverse needs and preferences when building inventory. Air suspension is one of the features gaining popularity, especially among customers who really value comfort and ride quality.  The hashtag #airride has 2 million posts on Instagram, while #airridesuspension has 149.2 million views on TikTok. And it’s not just social media taking notice—according to Transparency Market Research Inc., the global automotive air suspension market is expected to  grow by 4.1% by 2031³. Let’s look at what air suspension is, why it’s important to some car buyers, and some of the drawbacks.

Cars With Air Suspension Systems Explained

Air suspension is a suspension system that uses air-filled rubber bags or bellows instead of traditional coil or leaf springs. These airbags are inflated or deflated to adjust the vehicle's ride height and provide a smooth, comfortable driving experience. The air springs, located at each wheel, can be inflated or deflated to alter the vehicle's ride height, improving comfort, handling, and stability. 

Air suspension systems also include other components and serve various other functions, like reducing vibrations and maintaining consistent ride height regardless of cargo or passenger weight.

What Is Air Suspension?

Air suspension technology enhances the vehicle’s riding comfort by enabling the adjustment of its height. The system consists of air compressors, air springs, and electronic control units that work together to maintain the desired ride height and suspension stiffness.

Air suspension systems reduce the impact of bumps and improve ride quality by adjusting the air pressure in air springs to create a cushioning effect. 

Why Consumers Look for Cars with Air Suspension

Air suspension systems allow drivers to customize the ride to suit different driving conditions and enhance ride quality. For instance, a driver can raise the height to gain better ground clearance when driving off-road or on rough terrain. Drivers can also lower the height when driving on highways to improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Some vehicles also allow you to lower the height to make it easier to exit and enter while parked.

Potential to Look For 

The cost of repairing or replacing air suspension systems is one of the potential issues you should be aware of if you decide to stock these on your lot. Due to their complexity, they're more expensive to repair compared to traditional suspension systems.

Another issue is the potential for leaks in system components, such as airbags, that may cause loss of air pressure and compromise suspension. Air suspension systems rely on airbags or air struts to provide the suspension's support. Over time, these components can develop leaks, resulting in decreased suspension performance or complete failure. Repairing air leaks can be time-consuming and expensive.

Top Used Cars with Air Suspension

With numerous options available, here are the three top used picks for vehicles with air suspension systems you should consider stocking:

2018 Volvo XC90

The 2018 Volvo XC90 features a cutting-edge four-corner air suspension, equipped with the innovative "Four-C Active Chassis" system, offering an array of modes including Comfort, Eco, Dynamic, Off-Road, and Individual settings. When venturing off the conventional routes, the Off-Road mode offers increased ground clearance for enhanced maneuverability.

2018 RAM 1500 Limited Edition

The RAM 1500 Limited Edition combines capability with refined ride quality, offering exceptional comfort and control. The air suspension allows drivers to customize their experience, whether hauling heavy loads or cruising through city streets. With the RAM 1500 Limited Edition, customers can enjoy a smooth and composed ride, making it a top choice for those seeking a premium truck with exceptional suspension performance.

2018 Lexus GX 460

The air suspension system is part of the Lexus GX 460's notable features. It's designed to ensure the vehicle offers a comfortable and smooth ride regardless of terrain and driving conditions. Along with road conditions, the air suspension system will automatically adjust the vehicle's height to suit the speed. 

Make the Right Additions to Your Inventory

When it's time to add more inventory for your dealership, trust ACV Auctions to deliver quality used cars equipped with the features your customers crave, like air suspension. With our in-depth market reports and industry-leading condition reports, you'll have access to comprehensive vehicle details before placing a bid. Don't wait any longer—sign up today and begin browsing for the perfect addition to enhance your lot.

Sources

1. Duvet, E. (9 October 2023). Best Cars with Air Suspension. Get Jerry. Retrieved on May 13, 2023, from https://getjerry.com/auto-news/best-cars-air-suspension#2018-a-great-year-for-cars-with-air-suspension

2. The Benefits and Drawbacks of an Air Suspension System. Car and Driver. Retrieved on May 13, 2023, from https://www.caranddriver.com/research/a31994163/air-suspension

3. "Automotive Air Suspension Market Size Worth US$ 26.5 Billion by 2031; Owing to Rise in Demand for Heavy Commercial Vehicles - TMR Study." Globe Newswire, 31 Mar. 2023, www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/03/31/2638738/0/en/Automotive-Air-Suspension-Market-Size-Worth-US-26-5-Billion-by-2031-Owing-to-Rise-in-Demand-for-Heavy-Commercial-Vehicles-TMR-Study.html. Accessed 1 Jun. 2023.

4. Gray, Dan. "10 Best SUVs with Air Suspension." Https://Www.Autobytel.Com/, 1 Feb. 2023, www.autobytel.com/car-buying-guides/features/10-best-suvs-with-air-suspension-132725/. Accessed 1 Jun. 2023.