How do you know the air suspension has gone bad?

[CrotchMonster]

I just picked up my GX and it has 180k on it. The car has been in the dealership for service every 5k miles like clockwork but I can't confirm that the air suspension has ever been replaced.

Is it possible that they have not been replaced and that they're still functioning properly?
How can I tell if they're leaking? Is there a way to see if they're going bad?

I'm fairly certain the shocks need to be replaced, and for the time being I'd like to just put stock shocks back there unless the airbags need to be replaced. In that case I'll just rip it all out and lift the son of a Siberian.

 

[GXO]

Compressor runs a lot, lights on the dash, truck sitting on the bump stops....pretty much it.

If you plan on doing anything more than access roads just swap it out. It is not a matter of if, but when.

 

[CrotchMonster]

If I replace it I want a very mild lift and to retain the ride quality. What would be your recommendation? I'm thinking about a 2" lift.

 

[GXO]

Depends on your budget.

 

[CrotchMonster]

Under $1000 if possible.

 

[GXO]

Push your budget a few hundred, get the OME or Iron Man systems with Light Racing UCAs. If you go Iron Man get the performance pro cell system at about $1400 shipped. Will give you what you want and last a long time, and ride better than stock. The OME kit is a lighter duty than the Iron Man pro cells, so it won't be as tall/smooth/etc, but it will be cheaper (more toward $1100-1300). You get the idea.

If you go out to the $1500-2000 range you start talking real performance.

I would personally recommend you stay away from the low budget options like bilsteins. You will end up spending your money again if you do.

 

[Ninja Cruiser100]

Push your budget a few hundred, get the OME or Iron Man systems with Light Racing UCAs. If you go Iron Man get the performance pro cell system at about $1400 shipped. Will give you what you want and last a long time, and ride better than stock. The OME kit is a lighter duty than the Iron Man pro cells, so it won't be as tall/smooth/etc, but it will be cheaper (more toward $1100-1300). You get the idea.

If you go out to the $1500-2000 range you start talking real performance.

I would personally recommend you stay away from the low budget options like bilsteins. You will end up spending your money again if you do.

I couldn't agree more Bilsteins are teh suck.