How to Diagnose Air Strut Issues in Your Bentley

Air struts are components of the air suspension system on your Bentley. Your vehicle is not equipped with the usual metal springs but instead has air-filled bags or bellows to absorb the shocks. These bags are mounted on struts which are used to bear the load of the vehicle and also used for shock absorptions. However, when one or more air struts are damaged, your luxury vehicle may start sagging, become shaky or become unsafe to drive.

Common Signs of Air Strut Problems in a Bentley

• Uncomfortable Ride: If your Bentley was riding smoothly before, but now it is bumpy or stiff, then you probably have a bad air strut that needs to be fixed. When a strut fails, it cannot perform the function of absorbing the shock of the road as it is supposed to and this leads to the drivers and passengers feeling every pothole in the road.
• Your Car Is Sitting Low: Another clear indication is when your Bentley is lower on one side or corner than the other. If you find that your car is sagging or has a low profile on the front or rear end, then it is likely that one of the air struts is not holding air.
• Suspension Warning Light: Most of today’s Bentley cars have a mechanism that signals the driver that there is a problem with the suspension system. Do not dismiss a warning light on the dashboard because it is your car’s way of telling you that it needs some attention.

How to Diagnose Air Strut Problems

• Visual Inspection: The first step often involves lifting the vehicle to have a good view of the air struts and other related parts. Each strut is visually inspected for any signs of physical damage or wear and tear such as the presence of dry rot on the rubber parts or if the struts are leaking oil which is an indication of a bad internal seal. The air lines connected to the struts are also checked for any cracks, splits or loose fittings that may lead to air leakage.
• Listening for Leaks: While the vehicle is running, the technician listens carefully around the air strut and the compressor. A continuous or occasional hissing noise that is particularly noticeable near the suspension area may well indicate that there is a leak.
• Pressure Testing: Pressure testing equipment is used to determine the pressure of air in each strut and in the system. If one of the struts has much lower pressure than the other, it suggests that the air strut in that corner is not working or leaking.
• Computer Diagnostics: Another way to diagnose failing air strut is to use Bentley diagnostic tool. This makes it possible for the technician to search for any stored suspension fault codes in the computer system. These codes point out which of the air suspension system components is faulty, whether it is the strut, the compressor or any of the sensors.

Should You DIY or Call a Pro?

Some drivers may think of replacing some of the parts by themselves. However, Bentley air suspension systems are not very simple to fix because they need to be tuned properly and adjusted with the right equipment. If the problem is not properly diagnosed or if the wrong part is fitted, the situation may worsen or even compromise the safety of the vehicle. That is why it is always advisable to have a professional handle it.

Come To Paladin Automotive For Professional Suspension Services

At Paladin Automotive, we understand your love and passion for your Bentley and this is why we will ensure that your car runs as smoothly as it did the first day you drove it. Whether the problem is a leaking air strut, a failing compressor, or a worn-out air line, our ASE-certified technicians have everything they need to take care of it. We are happy to be the leading auto repair shop for Bentley vehicles in Las Vegas, Spring Valley, and Summerlin, and we provide the same level of service as Bentley dealers but at a fraction of the cost.

We do not rush through the problem but ensure we explain the situation, advise you on what to do, and ensure your Bentley operates as it should. Are you having a feeling that your Bentley is sagging or does not drive as smoothly as it used to? Do not wait for the situation to escalate. Call us today to schedule an air suspension inspection and your luxurious ride will continue cruising as it should.