Mercedes S Class Air Spring Upgrade: Ultimate Performance

Upgrade your Mercedes S-Class air springs for a noticeably smoother ride, improved handling, and enhanced performance. This guide offers a beginner-friendly, step-by-step approach to understanding and executing this popular enhancement, ensuring your luxury sedan performs at its peak.

Welcome to MercedesBlue! Owning a Mercedes-Benz S-Class is an experience defined by unparalleled comfort and sophisticated engineering. However, even in the pinnacle of luxury sedans, there’s always room to elevate the driving experience. Many S-Class owners wonder if they can make their already exceptional ride even better, especially when it comes to suspension performance.

If you’ve ever felt your S-Class could benefit from a sharper response or a more connected feel to the road without sacrificing that signature smooth ride, you’re in the right place. This guide will demystify the process of upgrading your Mercedes S-Class air springs, transforming your vehicle’s performance and your driving pleasure. Read on to discover just how achievable this upgrade is and what benefits it brings.

Understanding Your Mercedes S-Class Air Springs

The air suspension system in a Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a marvel of modern automotive technology. It replaces traditional coil springs with a system of air springs and adjustable dampers. At its core, this system uses a compressor to fill air bladders located at each wheel. These bladders act as the primary suspension element, providing the spring rate.

Sensors continuously monitor ride height and comfort, allowing the system to dynamically adjust the air pressure within the springs. This means your S-Class can automatically lower itself at higher speeds for better aerodynamics, or raise itself to clear obstacles. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and other control modules work in tandem with the air suspension to offer a ride that is both supremely comfortable and dynamically capable.

The advantages of this advanced system are numerous:

• Adaptive Comfort: The system can adjust stiffness on the fly, soaking up bumps and road imperfections for an exceptionally smooth ride.
• Adjustable Ride Height: Beneficial for everyday driving, loading, or navigating difficult terrain.
• Improved Handling: By maintaining an optimal ride height and actively controlling body roll, the air suspension contributes to stable and predictable cornering.
• Load Leveling: The car automatically compensates for changes in vehicle load, ensuring a consistent ride and handling.

However, like any sophisticated system, the original air springs, while excellent, may have reached the end of their service life, or an owner might seek an even more refined or sport-oriented performance. This is where the “Mercedes S Class air spring upgrade” comes into play.

Why Upgrade Your S-Class Air Springs?

While the factory air springs are designed for comfort and luxury, several compelling reasons might lead an S-Class owner to consider an upgrade. The primary driver is often a desire for enhanced driving dynamics. The original springs prioritize a plush ride, which can sometimes translate to a feeling of disconnectedness or excessive body roll during spirited driving. An upgrade aims to strike a better balance.

Here are some key motivations:

• Sportier Handling: Upgraded air springs often feature a firmer spring rate. This reduces body roll in corners, making the car feel more agile and responsive. The feedback from the road can also be more pronounced, giving the driver a greater sense of connection.
• Improved Stability: A stiffer spring rate can contribute to greater high-speed stability, especially during lane changes or evasive maneuvers.
• Tuning and Personalization: Some upgrades offer adjustable air springs, allowing drivers to fine-tune their suspension settings for different driving conditions or personal preferences.
• Performance Aesthetics: Certain aftermarket air springs can be designed to allow for a slightly lower ride height when desired, giving the S-Class a more aggressive stance.
• Longevity and Reliability: In some cases, aftermarket options may use more robust materials or advanced designs, potentially offering greater long-term durability than aging original equipment.

It’s important to note that an upgrade isn’t always about making the ride harsher. Modern performance air springs are engineered to improve handling without sacrificing the core comfort expected from an S-Class. The goal is often a more engaging and dynamic driving experience, a subtle yet significant enhancement to an already luxurious package.

Types of Mercedes S Class Air Spring Upgrades

When venturing into the realm of air spring upgrades for your Mercedes S-Class, you’ll find a few distinct categories and options designed to meet different performance goals. Understanding these will help you choose the best fit for your needs.

1. Performance Air Springs (Fixed Rate)

These are direct replacements for your factory air springs. They are engineered with a firmer, more consistent spring rate. The primary goal here is to reduce body roll and improve steering response while offering a ride that’s still acceptably comfortable for daily driving. They don’t typically offer adjustability but provide a noticeable improvement in handling sharpness.

2. Adjustable Air Springs/Air Struts

This is a more advanced option. Adjustable air springs, often integrated into complete air strut assemblies, allow you to modify the spring rate or even the ride height on the fly. This is commonly achieved through integrated electronic controls or by manual adjustments. This provides the ultimate flexibility, allowing you to switch between a comfort-oriented setting for cruising and a stiffer, sportier setting for more dynamic driving.

3. Air Suspension Management Systems (Lowering Modules)

While not an upgrade to the springs themselves, these electronic modules are often discussed in the same breath. They work with your existing air suspension system, allowing you to lower the vehicle’s ride height beyond the factory settings. Some also offer advanced control over damping or spring rates. These are popular for achieving a more aggressive aesthetic and can improve handling by lowering the center of gravity.

4. Complete Air Suspension Kits

For a comprehensive overhaul, some manufacturers offer complete air suspension kits. These kits typically include not just the air springs but also matched dampers, compressors, control modules, and sometimes even upgraded sway bars. These are designed to work in perfect harmony, offering a fully integrated performance upgrade. These kits are usually the most expensive but provide the most noticeable and often the best overall performance benefit.

Choosing the Right Upgrade

Your choice depends heavily on your priorities:

• For a noticeable handling improvement with minimal complexity: Fixed-rate performance air springs.
• For ultimate flexibility and the ability to tune: Adjustable air springs or a full management system.
• For an aggressive look and lowered stance: Lowering modules or kits designed for aesthetic enhancement.
• For a fully integrated performance solution: Complete air suspension kits.

Always ensure any upgrade you consider is specifically designed for your Mercedes S-Class model year to guarantee compatibility. Reputable brands in this space include Arnott Air Suspension, Bilstein, and various tuning specialists.

Pre-Upgrade Checklist: What to Consider

Before diving into the upgrade, it’s crucial to lay the groundwork. This ensures a smooth process and helps you make an informed decision about the best way forward for your S-Class.

1. Identify Your Specific S-Class Model and Year

Mercedes-Benz S-Class models span many years and generations (e.g., W220, W221, W222, W223). Air suspension systems can vary significantly between these generations. Ensure any upgrade parts you look at are explicitly listed as compatible with your exact model and manufacturing year. This is the most critical step for ensuring proper fitment and function.

2. Define Your Performance Goals

As discussed, upgrades cater to different needs: sharper handling, a sportier feel, adjustable ride height, or just replacing worn-out components with something more robust. Be clear about what you want to achieve. Are you looking for a subtle improvement, or a significant transformation in the car’s dynamic character? This clarity will guide your selection of parts.

3. Assess Your Budget

Air spring upgrades can range from moderately priced replacement springs to comprehensive, high-end suspension systems costing thousands of dollars. Factor in not just the cost of the parts but also potential installation labor if you’re not doing it yourself. It’s wise to get quotes for both parts and installation to avoid surprises.

4. Evaluate Your Technical Skill Level (DIY vs. Professional Installation)

Installing air springs is a moderately complex task. It involves working with high-pressure air systems, specialized tools, and intricate electronic components. If you’re a seasoned DIYer with a well-equipped garage, you might tackle it yourself. However, for most owners, professional installation by a Mercedes-Benz specialist or an experienced performance shop is highly recommended. This ensures the job is done safely and correctly, preserving your warranty and the integrity of your vehicle.

5. Research Reputable Brands and Suppliers

Only buy parts from trusted manufacturers known for quality and reliability in the Mercedes-Benz aftermarket. Look for companies with good reviews, strong customer support, and clear warranty policies. Websites like Pelican Parts, FCP Euro, or specialized Mercedes tuning shops are good starting points for research. Always be wary of suspiciously cheap alternatives, as they may compromise performance, safety, or longevity.

6. Understand Potential Side Effects

While upgrades aim for improvement, be aware of potential trade-offs. A firmer spring rate, for example, might make the ride slightly less plush over smaller imperfections. If you opt for electronic modules, ensure they are compatible with your car’s existing CAN bus system to avoid error codes. Some aggressive lowering solutions might require modifications to fender liners or suspension arms.

By going through this checklist, you’ll be well-prepared to select and install the right air spring upgrade for your Mercedes S-Class, ensuring a successful enhancement.

Step-by-Step: How to Upgrade Mercedes S Class Air Springs

The process of upgrading your Mercedes S-Class air springs is involved and requires precision. While a professional installation is often recommended, understanding the steps provides valuable insight. This guide outlines the general procedure; specific details may vary depending on your S-Class model and the aftermarket parts used.

Step 1: Preparation and Safety Precautions

Safety First! Air suspension systems operate under high pressure. Always ensure the system is fully depressurized before starting work. Use jack stands designed for the weight of your S-Class, and never rely solely on a jack. Wear safety glasses and gloves.

• Park the vehicle on a level surface.
• Turn off the ignition and engage the parking brake.
• If your vehicle has an adjustable ride height, set it to the lowest setting to reduce pressure in the air springs.
• Refer to your vehicle’s service manual or the aftermarket part manufacturer’s instructions for specific depressurization procedures. You may need to disconnect the battery.

Step 2: Accessing the Air Springs

The air springs are located at the top of the suspension struts, typically behind the wheels. You’ll need to remove the wheels to gain access.

• Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’re working on.
• Safely lift the vehicle using a hydraulic jack at the designated jacking points.
• Place sturdy jack stands under the frame or suspension components for support.
• Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
• You might need to remove other components to get clear access, such as fender liners or suspension arms, depending on your S-Class model.

Step 3: Disconnecting the Old Air Spring

This is where you’ll disconnect the old air spring unit from the vehicle’s chassis and suspension. This usually involves several connections.

• Air Line Disconnection: Locate the air line connected to the top of the air spring. These lines often have a quick-connect fitting. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to release the locking mechanism and unplug the line. Be prepared for any residual air to escape. A shop towel can be useful to catch drips or spray.
• Electrical Connectors (if applicable): If your S-Class has active damping or electronically controlled air springs, there will be electrical connectors that need to be unplugged.
• Mounting Bolts: The top of the air spring assembly (strut mount) is typically secured to the vehicle body with several bolts. Loosen and remove these bolts.
• Lower Suspension Connection: The bottom of the strut assembly connects to the suspension knuckle. You may need to loosen or remove bolts here as well, potentially requiring a pry bar or specialized separator to disengage the strut.

Step 4: Removing the Old Air Spring Assembly

With all connections and mounting points disengaged, carefully maneuver the old air spring assembly out of the wheel well. It might require some wiggling and careful prying. Note how it was oriented to help with installing the new one.

Step 5: Installing the New Air Spring Assembly

This is the reverse of the removal process, but with utmost care to ensure correct alignment and secure connections.

• Position the new air spring assembly into place, aligning the top mount with the bolt holes in the chassis.
• Reinstall and torque the top mounting bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Reconnect the bottom of the strut assembly to the suspension knuckle, ensuring all bolts are properly secured and torqued.
• Reconnect any electrical connectors.
• Carefully attach the air line to the new air spring. Ensure it clicks securely into place. A gentle tug can confirm it’s locked.

Step 6: Reassembly and System Check

Once the new air spring is installed on one corner, you’ll begin reassembly.

• Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle off the jack stands.
• Repeat the process for the remaining wheels as necessary.
• Reconnect the battery if it was disconnected.

Step 7: Filling and Testing the System

This is a critical step to ensure the new system works correctly and safely.

• Start the engine. The air suspension compressor should automatically activate to begin filling the new air springs.
• Listen for any leaks. You can spray a soapy water solution on the air line connections; bubbles indicate a leak.
• Allow the system to cycle a few times, adjusting to ride height.
• Manually adjust the ride height through the vehicle’s controls (if available) to test its full range.
• Take the vehicle for a slow, careful test drive around your block, paying attention to any unusual noises or handling characteristics.
• Gradually increase speed and test handling. Listen for any clunks, grinding, or air escaping.
• Re-torque all suspension and wheel nuts after the test drive.

Important Note: Due to the complexity and safety implications of air suspension, it’s highly recommended to have this procedure performed by a qualified mechanic. Incorrect installation can lead to damage, poor performance, or safety hazards. For more detailed step-by-step instructions for your specific Mercedes S-Class model, consult a professional repair manual or the documentation provided by the aftermarket air spring manufacturer.

Tools and Equipment Required

Performing an air spring upgrade on a Mercedes S-Class requires a comprehensive set of tools, typical for high-end European vehicle maintenance. If you opt for a DIY installation, ensure you have access to these items. Otherwise, this list will help you understand what your mechanic will be using.

Essential Tools:

• Jack and Jack Stands: Heavy-duty, high-capacity jack and multiple sturdy jack stands rated for the weight of an S-Class.
• Lug Wrench or Torque Wrench with Socket Set: For removing and torquing wheel lug nuts to specification.
• Metric Socket Set: Including deep sockets, typically from 10mm to 22mm or larger, in both standard and deep well configurations.
• Metric Wrench Set: Combination wrenches for various nuts and bolts.
• Screwdriver Set: Phillips and flathead screwdrivers for removing interior panels or trim.
• Pry Bars: Various sizes for separating tight suspension components.
• Torque Wrench: Essential for ensuring all fasteners are tightened to the precise manufacturer specifications. This is critical for safety.
• Vise Grips or Pliers: For holding nuts or manipulating components.
• Wire Brushes: For cleaning threads and mating surfaces.

Specialized Air Suspension Tools:

• Air Line Removal Tool: Specific tools are often required to safely disconnect the high-pressure air lines from the air springs and valves.
• Diagnostic Scan Tool: A high-end Mercedes-Benz compatible scan tool (like an Autel MaxiSys or an official Mercedes STAR diagnosis system) is highly recommended. This is crucial for reading diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), clearing faults, potentially resetting the suspension control module, and performing system checks. You can find more information on Mercedes diagnostic tools from resources like Bosch Automotive.
• Air Compressor/Dryer (for system testing): If the vehicle’s compressor is suspect or you need to test the system independently.
• Soapy Water Spray Bottle: For leak testing air lines.

Safety Gear:

• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from debris and fluids.
• Mechanic’s Gloves: To protect your hands and improve grip.