As winter settles in, car owners need to prepare their vehicles for the challenging weather. While many shops focus on basic winter car maintenance checks—like tire changes and antifreeze levels—one critical component often gets overlooked: the air suspension system. Neglecting this system during routine winter inspections can lead to costly repairs and unsafe driving conditions. This article explores why workshops should include an air suspension check in every winter car maintenance checklist and reduce the risk of road accidents.
Why Air Suspension Checks Are Critical for a Complete Winter Car Maintenance Check
The winter season brings freezing temperatures, icy roads, and heavy snow, putting significant strain on vehicle systems. The air suspension system, consisting of components like air springs, compressors, and valves, can be especially vulnerable to winter-related damage and may deteriorate more quickly in extreme conditions. By incorporating air suspension inspections into your winter maintenance checks, you not only enhance the safety and reliability of your customers’ vehicles but also demonstrate professionalism and thoroughness—key factors that build trust and loyalty in your shop.
How to Perform an Air Suspension Check for Winter Car Maintenance
When you change tires during a winter maintenance check, it’s an ideal opportunity to inspect the air suspension system. Here’s a step-by-step guide for performing an effective winter air suspension check:
1. Start with the Customer Conversation
A simple conversation can provide insights into potential air suspension issues. Ask your customer if they have noticed the following:
- The car is sagging more than 1 inch overnight.
- One corner of the vehicle appears lower than the others.
2. Visual Inspection of Air Springs and Struts
- Inspect the rubber components of the air springs for small cracks or signs of wear. Cold weather makes rubber less flexible, increasing the likelihood of suspension failures. Explain to customers that addressing minor issues now can prevent breakdowns during freezing conditions.
3. Check for Leaks
- Spray the air springs and connectors with a soap-and-water solution. If you see bubbles, it indicates a leak. Some leaks may occur in less visible areas, like the folding edge of the air spring, which is not visible at normal ride height, so be thorough.
- Check the air struts and shock absorbers for oil leakage and excessive rust.
4. Inspect the Compressor and Air Hoses
- Ensure the compressor is functioning correctly while checking the air inlet hose for any cracks. A damaged hose can allow dirt and moisture into the system, leading to oxidation and freezing issues in the valve block, which can prevent the vehicle from leveling properly and trigger fault codes on the dashboard.
Tips for Safe Air Suspension Inspection
- Check if the vehicle has a “jack mode.” If available, use this feature to prevent air from being extracted from the bellow when jacking up the car. If the feature is not available, ensure safe jacking practices. Some systems even automatically recognize that the car is being raised and retain the desired amount of pressure in the air springs.
- Never lower a vehicle with a depressurized air suspension system. This can lead to improper unfolding of the air bellows, risking system failure or damage.
Don't Forget the Basics
While an air suspension check is vital, ensure that the remainder of the winter car maintenance checklist is also covered, including:
- Installing winter tires with appropriate tread depth.
- Testing the battery and alternator for cold-weather reliability.
- Inspecting brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels.
- Ensuring wipers and washer fluid are prepared for winter conditions.
Build Trust with Expert Service
Adding an air suspension inspection to your winter car maintenance checklist can help prevent unexpected winter breakdowns. By identifying issues like leaks or worn air springs early on, you can avoid costly repairs, such as compressor replacements. This proactive approach keeps your customers’ vehicles running smoothly, enhances their trust in your shop, and assures them of optimal performance in challenging winter conditions.
Ultimately, offering thorough checks opens the door to additional services and boosts customer loyalty, establishing your shop as a reliable provider of preventative care. Remember, in the busy winter months, safety and reliability are paramount, and your attention to detail can make all the difference for your customers.
Have Additional Questions?
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About Arnott
Arnott Industries is a global leader in premium suspension solutions, offering a full range of high-quality components for automotive and motorcycle applications. For over 35 years, we’ve specialized in designing, manufacturing, and distributing innovative products that enhance performance, comfort, and reliability worldwide.
Driven by a team of industry experts, Arnott continually advances suspension technology through rigorous research, development, and testing. Our commitment to quality ensures every product meets or exceeds the highest standards of safety, durability, and customer satisfaction.
Arnott is dedicated to enhancing vehicle performance and ride quality for both automotive enthusiasts and professionals. Discover trusted, top-quality suspension solutions with Arnott.
With a dedicated facility in the Netherlands, Arnott serves the European market with faster delivery times and strict adherence to regional standards, delivering exceptional service and support to our EU customers.