Installing Airbag Suspension Kits for Unrivaled Versatility

You've seen them at car shows and meets - those clean-stance rides with the ability to rise up effortlessly at the touch of a button. Air suspension systems, or air rides as they are commonly called, have exploded in popularity in the automotive enthusiast world.

But can you really install one of these height-adjustable airbag suspension kits on any vehicle?

The short answer is yes; pretty much any car or truck can be converted to air suspension with the right air management components and custom airbags.

That said, it involves careful planning, the proper air suspension kit for your vehicle, and professional installation for the best results. Let's take a closer look at why so many enthusiasts are switching to air ride setups.

Advantages of Airbag Suspension

Whether laying frame on a wicked stance or cranked up for spirited canyon driving, the ability to quickly adjust your ride height with air suspension is a game changer. It combines the benefits of lowered, high-performance coil-overs with the practicality of easily raising ground clearance at the touch of a button.

Beyond unrivaled versatility, air suspension offers:

• Smoother, more comfortable ride quality since airbags are less stiff than conventional springs
• Ability to self-level and compensate for heavy cargo or towing loads
• Cooler looks and aggressive stance slammed to the ground when parked
• Simple to dial in exact height with air management controls
• No permanent damage or bottoming out thanks to flexible airbag cushions

There are compromises, too, of course.

Airbag suspension requires higher maintenance and more complexity to deliver those adjustability advantages. Quality airbag kits aren't cheap, and comprehensive air management systems are pricey.

It's also still possible to "pancake" the air suspension bags if adjusted too low.

Types of Air Suspension Kits for Cars

While air suspension can be retrofitted to most vehicles, not all kits are created equal. There are essentially three types of air suspension setups:

1.      Budget Air Suspension Kits for Cars

Basically, just replace the airbags matched to your vehicle's stock struts/shocks with a budget air management system. Inexpensive but not as robust or feature-packed as branded aftermarket kits.

2.      Complete Branded Air Suspension Kits

Engineered by trusted brands like Air Lift and AccuAir, these comprehensive kits contain not just airbags but customized struts/shocks, air management components, and everything needed for a proven performance air ride setup. More expensive but easy bolt-on installation.

3.      Full Custom Air Suspension

For absolute peak performance and personalized air ride capabilities, pro shops can essentially build a customized air suspension setup around spherical airbags and air management components. The most time and labor-intensive but ultimate for high-end builds.

You can go with the basic budget air suspension or step up to a branded kit from respected manufacturers like Air Lift or AccuAir, which will have the most dialed components and fitments for your specific vehicle make and model. Full custom air rides are also available from leading shops.

Unlock Your Vehicle's Full Potential with Air Ride

Ready to experience the slammed good looks and unmatched versatility of air suspension for your own build?

Envision Tuning is New England's premier air ride expert specializing in branded performance air suspension kits for cars, trucks, or SUVs. You just name it!

Whether you're looking to upgrade your daily driver, stance a classic ride, or build the ultimate slammed show hauler, our team of enthusiast professionals can equip your vehicle with a customized air ride system that reveals its full potential while delivering that signature smooth and adjustable ride.

Reach out to Envision Tuning today for expert advice on selecting the perfect branded air suspension kit for your vehicle and project goals. We'll make sure you have all the airbag and air management components needed to truly elevate your build to new levels of capability and style.

FAQs

What are the main advantages of air suspension (air ride) kits?

The biggest advantages are the ability to adjust ride height on the fly, a smooth, comfortable ride quality, self-leveling for heavy loads, and achieving an aggressive low stance when desired.

Can any vehicle be converted to air suspension?

Yes, with the right air suspension components, most cars and trucks can be fitted with adjustable air ride suspension. Kits are available off-the-shelf for many popular makes/models.

What are the different types of air suspension setups?

The main options are budget airbags added to stock struts/shocks, complete branded air suspension kits from companies like Air Lift, or full custom setups built by professionals.

Is air suspension high maintenance?

Air suspension does require more routine maintenance than conventional coil or leaf springs. The air compressor system and airline connections need periodic checking.

How much does it cost to install an air ride?

Budget universal airbag setups start around $500-800. Complete branded air suspension kits run $2,000-5,000 or more, depending on the vehicle. Custom show/race air rides can easily exceed $10,000.