For the Tesla Model S, the Smart Air Suspension (Legacy) and Adaptive Suspension (Raven/Refresh) are high-maintenance systems that typically show wear after 60,000–80,000 miles.
Here are 5 labels for Model S Air Suspension Wear, including their causes and 2026 solutions:
Leaking Air Strut "Sagging",
Cause: The flexible rubber air bladders develop micro-cracks from age and road debris, causing the car to "sag" at one corner overnight or while parked.
Solution: Replacement of the individual Air Spring Module.
1 Owners often choose aftermarket "remanufactured" struts to save significantly over Tesla’s $1,500+ per-corner OEM replacement cost.
Compressor Burnout & Seizing,
Cause: If a leak goes unrepaired, the air compressor must work overtime to keep the car level, leading to the motor overheating and eventually seizing (Error: TAS_a217).
2 Solution: Replacement of the air pump/compressor located behind the front bumper. If you replace the compressor, the main relay and the intake air filter must also be changed to prevent immediate re-failure.
Manifold Valve Block Sticking,
Cause: Moisture or internal debris enters the air lines and jams the solenoid valves that distribute air to each wheel, resulting in the car being stuck at one height or "crooked."
3 Solution: Cleaning or replacing the Valve Block assembly ($1016009-00-C$). In 2026, many technicians recommend installing a dedicated air dryer or water trap to prevent moisture from reaching the new block.
Ride Height Sensor Fatigue,
Cause: The small plastic mechanical linkages connected to the suspension arms can snap, or the electronic sensors can be "blinded" by road salt and grime, causing erratic height adjustments.
4 Solution: Lubricating the pivot points with silicone spray as a preventive measure. If broken, the sensor is a relatively simple "plug-and-play" replacement that requires a software calibration afterward.
Air Line "Push-Pull" Leaks,
Cause: The Voss fittings (connectors) and nylon air lines can become brittle or vibrate loose, causing a slow hiss and gradual loss of pressure across the entire system.
Solution: Trimming the end of the air line and installing new brass collets and O-rings. Tesla Service Manuals for 2026 emphasize using the "Soapy Water Test" at every fitting during routine inspections.
5
Labels List Only
Leaking Air Strut "Sagging",
Compressor Burnout & Seizing,
Manifold Valve Block Sticking,
Ride Height Sensor Fatigue,
Air Line "Push-Pull" Leaks,
Would you like me to find the instructions for the "Air Suspension Calibration" procedure in Tesla's 2026 Service Mode?
