Mercedes Air Suspension Costs [Labor & Parts]
The AIRMATIC suspension system is Mercedes’ proprietary air suspension system, used in several models of their cars. The AIRMATIC system was first introduced in 2000 and has since become a staple of the Mercedes lineup.
While offering a very smooth ride, the AIRMATIC system will need to be replaced at some points.
On average, you can expect to pay about $5,000 to replace an entire Mercedes air suspension system. The average cost to replace air springs is about $1,000 each and it costs about $1,000 to replace an air suspension compressor.
The typical price range one can expect is between $4,000 on the low end and $10,000+ on the higher end. Often, you will not have to replace your entire air suspension system and may only have to replace a few parts at once.
To help you out with costs, we put together this comprehensive guide on air suspension replacement costs. We will cover the costs of major components, including the air springs and the air compressor.
What Is Mercedes Air Suspension?
Like traditional suspension systems, air suspension serves to cushion the car from impacts on the road, and give you a smooth driving experience.
The main difference is that, where traditional suspension uses springs or hydraulics, air suspension uses—you guessed it—air.
In the case of air suspension, coil springs and hydraulic struts are swapped for a pressurized rubber component called air springs.
A small onboard process controls the compressor, air reservoir, and pressure levels, to absorb shock impacts from the road.
Mercedes cars use their proprietary AIRMATIC air suspension system. Many Mercedes popular models are equipped with their AIRMATIC suspension system and provides
- Auto-leveling
- Axle lift
- Adaptive dampening
- Height adjustment
- And more
Air suspension systems are popular because they provide an unparalleled level of comfort and smooth handling. Many people describe the AIRMATIC system as “driving on a cloud.”
How Much Does it Cost to Replace Air Suspension on a Mercedes?
Overall, you can expect to pay about $5,000 to replace the major components of an air suspension system.
There are two major parts of air suspension that will need regular maintenance
- Air springs (bellows)
- Compressor
Air springs cost about $1,000 each, while a compressor costs about $1,000. Most cars have four air springs and a single compressor, which comes out to about $5,000.
We will cover the costs for these two components in different sections.
Springs
Air springs, also called air bellows, are the main components replacing the springs in a traditional suspension system. There are two major kinds of air springs: bellows and sleeve-style components.
Bellows components are the older model while sleeve-style springs are more expensive. You can expect to pay around $2,000 on average to replace an air suspension spring.
All cars equipped with Mercedes’ AIRMATIC suspension system have four air springs. You do not necessarily have to replace them all at once, but it may be a good idea to do so.
Below is a table showing the average cost of replacing air springs in popular Mercedes-Benz models that use the AIRMATIC system.
These prices are averages and will differ depending on your car’s age and the location of your mechanic.
| Excavator Model/Size | Per Day | Per Month |
|---|---|---|
| John Deere 130G (14-ton) | $850 | $5,500 |
| Doosan X140LC (15-ton) | $860 | $5,500 |
| John Deere 210G (22-ton) | $1,000 | $6,700 |
| Doosan DX225 (22-ton) | $1,100 | $6,900 |
| John Deere 270LC (31-ton) | $1,300 | $8,700 |
| CAT 335F(45-ton) | $1,500 | $11,000 |
As you can see, the typical price range for air suspension springs is between $1,000 on the low end and up to $3,000 on the high end.
Air springs are one of the more expensive components of the suspension system as the parts are special and replacing them is a labor-intensive process.
Compressors
The compressor is a major component that compresses and funnels air into the air springs. The compressor connects to the control processor, which tells it when to add air to the suspension springs.
Compressors will wear down over time so you’ll have to replace them after some time. One can expect to pay about $1,000 to replace a Mercedes air suspension air compressor.
The table below has the average air compressor replacement costs for various Mercedes Benz models. These prices are average, and subject to change depending on your car’s age and the location of your mechanic.
| Make/Model | Price |
|---|---|
| E500 | $800 |
| E550 | $900 |
| E55 | $1,200 |
| E63 | $1,000 |
| CLS500 | $850 |
| CLS55 | $1,100 |
| CLS550 | $1,050 |
| CLS63 | $1,200 |
| S550 | $1,100 |
| GL450 | $800 |
Signs of Bad Air Suspension
Sagging Car
The most obvious sign of a bad air suspension is a sagging car. If your car is sagging and the carriage is lower than normal, it could be because of leaking air springs.
The leaking bellows cannot fully support the car’s weight, causing it to sag.
Compressor Won’t Turn Off
Another common sign of a broken air suspension system is if the compressor runs continually. If the compressor won’t turn off, it could mean that your air bellows are leaking and cannot maintain proper pressure without continual input from the compressor.
Leaning to One Side
If your bellows on one side or one corner is leaking, you can notice your car leading from one to another.
You can normally tell which air springs are damaged with a simple visual inspection.
You may also notice your car rocking back and forth when you apply the brakes and slow down.
Squeaking and Hissing Sound
One final common sign of a broken air suspension system is a continual squeaking or hissing sound.
If you notice a hissing sound when utilizing your air suspension or switching suspension modes, then it could be a leak in one of the air springs or a problem with the compressor.
Pros & Cons of Air Suspension
Pros
Smooth ride
The biggest advantage of air suspension is the incredibly smooth ride it provides. Air suspension systems provide more cushion than mechanical springs and absorb more shock impacts.
Air bellows are able to adjust faster than springs or hydraulics.
Adjustability
Air suspension systems are also much more flexible than traditional springs. The control module and air compressor can adjust air pressure very quickly, providing adaptability.
You can also set modes to adjust depending on the terrain you are driving on.
Cons
Durability
Due to their construction, air suspension systems are relatively fragile. Higher-quality models can take a beating, but they will eventually leak.
If the rubber components are damaged enough, they can burst and require replacing.
Expense
Another downside of air suspension is the costs. Air suspension is more expensive than traditional suspension and requires more maintenance.
Installation can also cost a lot, depending on the type of car that you have.
Unique Parts
Unlike with traditional suspension systems, you rarely can just repair a single broken part. If something breaks, you will likely have to replace the entire components.
This is especially relevant with the air bellows. Replacement costs for the air compressor and control module are also high.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace Mercedes air suspension?
You can expect to pay about $5,000 on average to replace a Mercedes air suspension system, assuming that you replace all four air springs and the air compressor.
The exact cost may differ depending on the model of your car. These prices do not include any taxes or fees that your mechanic might charge.
How often do I need to replace my air suspension?
Air suspension requires more maintenance than regular spring or hydraulic suspension systems. You should get your components checked out once every 50,000 miles or so.
You can expect to replace your air suspension once every ten years, assuming you kept up on a regular maintenance schedule.
Is air suspension reliable?
Air suspension is reliable as long as you take care of it. Air suspension often provides a much smoother ride than spring suspension and can adjust to different terrains.
However, that comfort comes with a relatively significant price tag. Mercedes’ AIRMATIC system has been well-received by consumers.
Can I add air suspension to my car?
Yes, you can remove the spring suspension and install an airbag suspension. There are air suspension kits you can buy and install in your car.
Most of these kits are not complete air suspension kits, but just replace some components with air components. If you want to install a full airbag suspension system, it’s best to go to a professional to get the job done.
How long does it take to replace a Mercedes air suspension system?
It depends on the specific model of Mercedes that you have, but you can expect it to take about 8-10 hours for a professional to completely replace your air suspension system. It may take longer if different components require repairing.
Final Words
Mercedes’ air suspension system is one of their signature designs and is very popular with consumers. However, the comfort of driving on a cloud comes with a significant price.
It can cost up to $5,000 on average to replace a Mercedes AIRMATIC suspension system. The costs can be as high as $10,000, depending on the model of your car and your location.
Fortunately, you will rarely ever have to replace your entire air suspension system, and can often get away with replacing just the damaged parts.
As always, make sure to get several quotes from different mechanics to get the best price.
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