The most thorough explanation of Mercedes-Benz Airmatic air suspension

[@MasterTechLou]

Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 5:08 Warnings on dash 11:27 Leaks 31:31 Level Calibration misinformation 35:54 Level Sensors 40:46 Fault codes 50:22 Part Quality 54:32 Level Sensors live data on scanner 56:08 Compressor Diagnosis 1:01:57 Valve block diagnosis 1:05:00 Scanner data 1:13:45 Jacking up air suspension cars 1:15:10 More scanner data 1:19:08 HOW TO PERFORM LEVEL CALIBRATION 1:23:27 Airmatic Control Module 1:25:12 Common Failures I hope this helps! Lou

[@OfficialKevduit.]

My Amazon relay account was suspended ,All thanks to REXCYBERSUPPORT on 👆👆 for helping me reactivate my relay account. he's reliable

[@amablegarcia8609]

HOLA, esto mismo para el W220 S500 de 1999 en español... ¿Dónde se puede ver, escuchar, aprender...?

[@galodoidousarenato5504]

You won a subscriber thank you very much, I need some help man, I have a cls 550 2014 and since I bought it I've had a lot of problems with the dealership because of this suspension, first they sold me the car completely crooked with a difference of more 5 swells from one side to the other, and they took it to fix it because it was under warranty and now they have returned the car to me with the control buttons to increase or decrease the height without working, and the car at a height that I think is at the maximum , because it is very high , it even floats depending on the speed , can you tell me what the hell they did to make it high like that without the suspension working when I press the buttons , because it only stays in Sport , I can not change and the car is not in mode Sport suspension so it doesn't make sense, I would like to know what was done, I believe that something is wrong that puts my life at risk and I'm going to leave the car at Mercedes to fix it and I'm going to court to see if I get my money back

[@MasterTechLou]

@@galodoidousarenato5504 sorry to hear , most likely stuck in calibration mode is my guess.

[@galodoidousarenato5504]

@@MasterTechLou thanks a lot , I go check that

[@mickeytiger]

Dude, I could just feel the honesty in your voice. I could only wished to have your shop near me. Respect man!

[@MasterTechLou]

I truly appreciate that. I have been an honest mechanic since I started working on cars in 98’. I have been fortunate enough to have been in the presence of some realllllly good teachers and mentors.

[@damirzanne]

I have S550 and you’re the kind of guy I’d leave my car with to work on , and go home knowing it’ll be taken care off 👍

[@MasterTechLou]

Cars are not the problem, it’s pride and ego, assumptions and miscommunication and misinformation that is a huge problem in the service industry. I pride myself in being a people person first, gotta earn trust and build a relationship. I appreciate the support. Lou

[@neilphilip2320]

SO refreshing to NOT have all sorts of gimmicks (I like guitar riffs but there's a time and a place) - this is pure information based on a complete understanding of a complex system. Wonderful!

[@mcknigb]

One of the best presentations I have seen with regard to fault finding and using common sense (with the assistance of an appropriate scanner) to clear up the mystique around the Mercedes Airmatic Suspension system. Well Done all concerned and thanks for your time and service.

[@MasterTechLou]

Thanks I appreciate that! I have another diagnosis process im editing now for you guys

[@ronaldcoleman2473]

Absolutely couldn't explain it better 👏

[@oliverradulovic1629]

BRAVO .... THIS MAN don't have to do...but he did it!!!!! Thanks alot sir!!!!!!!!! Best wishes... from Vienna

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you I truly appreciate that! ❤️

[@BitSpirit]

Mercedes-Benz should ditch their whole Airmatic section in their manual and just print a QR code to this video. Perfect amount of detail and explanation. If you know things, you can explain it in simple words!

[@MasterTechLou]

Thanks 😊 I truly appreciate that!

[@diydan30]

You are humble, honest, and smart. This is a great comprehensive overview of how the air suspension system works. I learned a lot. I am using this and translating your knowledge to my Jeep suspension issues, they appear to be very similar. Thanks for taking the time and getting this info out there. Once you understand the fundamentals these systems are a lot less scary to diagnose and work on, Thanks so much.

[@nidaldajani728]

Back in 2013 I owned a 2007 S320 and that was my first experience with airmatic ride. I've owned several other cars after that and I cannot find a ride quality that matches airmatic. I think it is the perfect suspension system (smooth, responsive, soft yet not wobbly nor it is stiff). I used the car for daily long trips (100 miles each way) for over 5 years (daily commute) and was the most comfortable ride I ever experienced. In fact I thought to install airmatic system on one of my later cars (change of jobs stopped me from doing it as my commute became 12 miles). Your video on airmatic system is superb! Methodical and organised and well put. Thank you for sharing. PS: at first I had to replace the front right airbag. New from a dealer was $180, but I installed a refurbished unit for $60 and ran perfect the rest of those 5 years. I sold the car in 2018.

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you for sharing, I agree. Airmatic cars are the best rides . I appreciate the feedback!

[@eiyekeye]

Very best presentation from a Master - Tech U-tuber. I had to tip Master Tech Lou for his effort. Excellent and very articulate explanation. Shows in-depth knowledge. Am an ASE certified technician with more than thirty years of work experience with European and Asian automobiles.However Lou is the first dealer trained technician who truly delivered on this specific topic. I have been in hundreds of training classes and Lou is probably one of the best experience to date. Am now retired, but still do my own tinkering whenever i can. Thank YOU for a job well done.

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you so much for the kind words and the tip! I appreciate that a lot!

[@elivancruz8744]

Blessings man, this video might have just saves my life, lol, im working on a GL450 2016, it was brought to me with the rear bags blown, bad rear wheel bearings and a supposed bad compressor and valve body, but they brought me the compressor and valve body used 😵‍💫, now im not getting nothing only 2 codes 1) C155664 - The compressed air sensor for system pressure is faulty. An implausible signal exists. 2) C156000 - The compressed air distribution system is leaking. With the fantastic breakdown of this video i can start narrowing it down and the valve body is most likely bad, ill try the old one since i dint try to run it with the original compressor out of ignorance, but truly a super helpful video, keep it up, and my the Lord keep blessing you and your family 😇

[@PatOffical.]

Dude. Words can't explain how you delivered this knowledge! I feel way more confident!

[@MasterTechLou]

I hope it helps ❤️

[@PatOffical.]

@@MasterTechLou oh it definitely will! I could write on forever and ever but as a mechanic I appreciate your efforts. Im picking up a W221 soon

[@VojtechSplichal]

Hi Lou, Thank you for the very informative video, keep going. Just on Friday when driving home I registered a noise coming from the left front wheel of my 2016 E350 212.294 when braking or cornering, so I stopped the car and found that the bladder/bag dust cover was torn, I increased chassis height to prevent dust cover to hit the tire, calmly drove home to dismount wheel and have closer look. Dust covers on both sides are pretty worn, as it was quite wet, I applied some duct tape :) and called MB support for further assistance as my dealership workshop has some maintenance these days. Today I got, from the dealership workshop arranged by MB support, a repair estimate for $1200 which is ~$400 more than I pay for regular service but too low for complete air suspension replacement - so I started digging to find out that an original dust cover costs about $50 and requires suspension removal which itself doesn't look like rocket science(1.5h for each wheel?). The car has 73k miles and I was told that the bags usually last ~85-100k miles, I do not register any leaks, car keeps level maybe even for weeks. Regularly serviced in dealership workshop. So my questions are: 1) Is it even worth replacing the dust cover with that mileage or should I prepare for suspension replacement? What do you think about that price? 2) As the last service was less than a year ago, it's quite suspicious - no one probably checked those dust covers, or it's common and nobody does that?

[@MasterTechLou]

1- I don’t think its worth it. As for price? I cannot say its good or bad as no 2 places charge the same….. 2- its possible the tech seen them and didnt think to mention since the airbags still work. Or possibly they overlooked them. Often times I find mechanics dont say something they see as they “dont think youll buy it” Which is a shame. As its not up to us to decide for you, but its up to us to provide you with all the information of the car.

[@davet1420]

Dude you're the man i screwed up my cls550 pretty bad changing my left rear bag and not knowing how to use my new computer but the way you go about explaining everything you get me to understand what I am doing thanks very much for the way you are trying to share your knowledge

[@michaelmeyer9075]

Man! I have a 14 CLS 550. Just hit 40,000 miles. It looks showroom new. The suspension has been dropping while driving intermittently for a year. Dealer installed new compressor. One rear shock. Both front level sensors, And level calibration 2 times all at separate visits and still riding like crap and front will drop. I just bought a scanner. You just taught me how to use it. I'm going to figure it out in my own garage. Thank you! I am mechanically inclined. But I am not a mechanic. I was able to understand everything. I'm giving you a donation. It won't be enough. But I gotta give you something. Again..... THANK YOU!

[@MasterTechLou]

Last time I had a CLS with random either airmatic warning light or dropping it was due to a burnt connection at the compressor plug. You couldnt see black burn marks at all but as soon as I touched the wire the compressor kicked on. Inside the terminal itself the contacts were burned and making poor connection. It literally drove me crazy so now checking the terminals is part of my routine. We had that car for months! And it happened to fail the day I said “lets release it to the customer “ the car heard me and decided to fail. I drove it back into the shop, and as soon as I reached under the car and touched the wire compression kicked on. Issue was car would randomly drop. Well if valve block is opening and compressor SHOULD be kicking on, if theres no air being pushed TO THE SHOCKS then the pressure will just leak back through the compressor. Thats why my customers car would randomly drop . Best of luck to you.

[@MasterTechLou]

Wow man thanks! That was very generous of you! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Dfly-11]

You are the man! Really needed the tip about repeatedly hitting F3 to get the strut pressure down closer to zero. Just goes to 20psi on a single tap which wasn’t near low enough for what I was doing. 🙏 💯

[@Dfly-11]

System wants to refill the strut after a few minutes though? Could just pull the negative battery cable I guess. Would rather not disturb the air connection if not changing the strut.

[@isaacdarkey871]

If not the best,I think this is one of the best tutorials on air suspension,thanks for sharing sir

[@leskavage]

My 2008 R350's air suspension deflates overnight, every night. This is super helpful, thank you!

[@Carlosjr12345]

Man i wanna take this time to say thank you highly appreciated for this information. I took my car to a shop kept for 5 mnths he changed the bags only and guess he gave up so now back at home and now time to fix this issue so thank you once again man

[@eatont9999]

Excellent video! This is the best explanation and troubleshooting video of Airmatic suspension I have ever seen! The best part is all this detailed information was free!

[@DraganC]

Hello MT Lou! I have the same car and just replaced the rear bags and shocks without any issues, besides the rear was sitting now lower than before. I purchased, inspired by your review, a A30M to perform a level calibration. Everything works fine with the A30M - I can lower and rise all four corners. However, once I balance the height in the calibration screen and perform the calibration it confirms the new height but it shows different height levels after the confirmation message. Adjustment are in the negative range of -20 and -10mm before calibration. After calibration, the levels are now in the positive range +20 range and the car sits now very high. Appreciate your feedback and insight and happy to schedule a paid 1:1 FaceTime session.

[@allanriches9381]

Man that is the best explanation of the airmatic system I have ever seen, you have made it so I can understand the system and take the drama out of it. Well done.

[@unitedall56]

Thank you for that that was an absolutely great to watch and the amount of details and and thoroughly explanation about each thing and taking your time to do that that was an absolutely outstanding I personally want to thank you for your time and totally appreciate everything you do .

[@pctrainers6294]

You are really a master Tech. Thank you for explaining the system step by step.

[@ernestjoseph4619]

This was great. I've been having an issue with my suspension and as of today, I don't hear the compressor. I have a ICarsoft MB V2.0 which I thought would be able to help but it keeps giving me a link error which I believe is something new. I'm going to be checking all of the fuses and then the airlines and the compressor. I have a 2008 CLS 550 with a bad rear distributor so it's possible that my compressor is fried. I thought it was the rear sensor or the brace might have moved. The old rear sensor braces were made out of plastic and broke on my car once and the back wouldn't rise so I have some experience. I need a better scanner or need to get the ICarsoft to work. It's supposed to read the value on most of the sensors. Thanks for this post!!!!

[@robbieleiper]

Canada appreciates your use of the metric system ;)

[@MasterTechLou]

😂 glad to help!

[@drivenserb]

I’m buying a GL from a buddy of mine and it has some airmatic issues. This is incredible knowledge! Thank you x100000 LOU!!!!!!

[@MasterTechLou]

Real friends dont sell friends mercedes with issues 😂😂. Best of luck.

[@drivenserb]

@@MasterTechLou hahaha atleast I know what I’m getting myself into 🤣. I can’t complain too much for $6500CAD! And it only has 215,000Km.

[@razrushaki]

Man ? you’re the teacher, teaching all of us DIY’ers “how to “and “what to” do in any case’s. Thank u. I just have problems with my 2014 GL 350 air suspension, the car was sitting days and always got one rear side down,after starting up the engine will not return 100% to base riding hight ,and it’s keeping telling me on the screen “malfunction “ and “compressor cooling “. That’s after i replace that leaking airbag. Amy advise? Thank u

[@MasterTechLou]

answers are in my video my friend, that is why I made an hour plus long video. to handle any and every question.

[@shehermejas682]

Mercedes owners should protect this man at all cost ❤️‼️

[@ratherbewrenching6114]

Great video! I work in at a Nissan Dealer and had a GL450 come in with a suspension issue, thanks to you I was able to fix it quickly!

[@MasterTechLou]

That’s awesome glad I could assist someway shape or form!

[@mattialagni5207]

Luo you made me learn more on airmatic in your special video than in months of trying to beg information on dealers, youtubers and forums. They should use your video to teach to some mercedes "technicians" here in Italy, I'll have got so many "change parts" diagnosis that they made me poor only thinking of paying them all. A technician can work a Master can teach. Grazie!!!

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you I appreciate that! And thanks for the super thanks!

[@Ali_Mekrani]

Thank bro i am working now on e-class 2015 with an armatic problem, i have learned a lot from this video!👍

[@stephenpalma]

this is by far the best video I have ever seen explaining the Mercedes Aromatic system your knowledge is helping me properly diagnosis my 2004 S500 AMG I also purchased the X tool you recommended Thank You

[@MasterTechLou]

Glad to help! I will be making more on airmatic as well, so that way you dont have to sift through a hour long video :)

[@MegaRugby2]

Thougt 04 s was abc hydraulic suspension not airmatic? I had a 05 s class and 03 with abc.

[@MasterTechLou]

@@MegaRugby2 S class had abc with AMG and V12 models, airmatic was standard, abc was added to the higher end models.

[@sethporter7876]

Thank you for this video. Replaced my air strut and still isn’t raising. So I’ll be going over the all system tomorrow. This greatly helps me

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you, this video should help I tried to be very thorough,. Lou

[@testuser3167]

My mother-in-law has a 2001 S430 that she has a strong emotional attachment to, but it has a major suspension fault. She's been told by both her regular mechanic (who I don't have a high opinion of) and the dealership that it's not worth fixing. I don't think her regular mechanic has the expertise or patience to fix this, and I suspect that the dealership would rather sell her a new car than fix this one... With the information you have provided, I believe that I will be able to find the leak and fix it, and do so without going bankrupt in the process. Thanks for sharing!

[@MasterTechLou]

Heres my thoughts, 1- thank you for sharing and for watching and for your kind words. 2- never, ever ever ever have emotional attachment to a car. You will make poor decisions based on such. 3- dealers actually dont make money on selling a new car, mainly the salesman do, service does not. 4- ill never tell someone what isnt worth it that is for the customer to decide unless one of the following 4.1- car is unsafe no matter how much work you put into it, like if its rusting out. 4.2- the amount of work exceeds the value of the car. Never does one win on a car but there comes a point to where you will never recoupe the expenses. 4.3- if the car constantly has issues. There seems to be 3 types of cars, first one has zero issues despite normal Wear and tear, second has some minor failures over the years that are outside of normal wear and tear, then theres the ones that just have issues no matter how much you take care of them and cant forsee the failures. Those are rare but happen. 5- when you tell me 2001, I loved these cars. They were solid. Great engine and trans combo. As long as the car is solid and its just a suspension issue, should be ok to repair and get back on the road, problem is these shocks are expensive for the good brands. Not too hard to diagnose at all. You didnt mention mileage or length of ownership. That matters. If two people are telling you its not worth it, maybe its a sign that its not. BUT that can be only if they are coming from a monetary standpoint as shop labor and parts prices are high these days. So if you can do yourself, that surely would save on labor. So best of luck to you, need anything feel free to reach out. 💫 ♥️ 🚘

[@haddad40]

Thank you so much for such a precious information. I’ve learned a lot from it . Am facing a problem with my 2005 CLS500. I had a strong hit in a whole for the left from side, strut got leaked. I changed it with another one. The problem is… the car is not responding correctly to the commands from the buttons next to the gear stick. And sometimes it’s got jacked to the high level, and not resting down to the normal position after get parked and switched off. I do appreciate your advice. Thanks

[@A.Musa76]

05 E55 with around 210k miles. I got the red error vehicle to low. I replace the relay and valve block since we had a spare one at the shop. Did not fix it. So I tested the compressor notice the compressor shuts off after couple of seconds so I bypass it with a jump box and got the compressor to stay on but after another test I remove the black main air line to check the air pressure. There were pressure but it was weak. So I decided to swap out the compressor and clear out the codes. All bags are now working. Hopefully I’m crossing my fingers that the bags did not sag (loose air). I left it level on the floor with the lift arms still under the Jack point just in case if the bag loose air I still be able to raise the vehicle up. I’m prettier sure it’s all original parts except only 1 or 2 air bag was replace.

[@A.Musa76]

UPDATE: Bags still holding air to this day. It was the compressor. Now time to replace (1) header (hairline crack on the weld), Engine mounts (one is collapse), tie rods, 3rd brake light and replace all 4 tires w/wheel alignment. Then I can take it in for vehicle state inspection and get it on the road.

[@lonardsuba1393]

hank you for explaining airmatic, that's how I managed to fix the suspension I had a punctured right rear air pipe and I changed it, everything was perfect, I had a small height difference of (5mm) and I thought I could do a level calibration, it didn't do anything more than that, it took me 3 hours to manage to

[@cigarcongo4126]

This Video took me to school, I use and Autel scanner with all the same information, using it on a E550!! Good info

[@NURsMec]

Ho Sir i like your video it helpa lot to the people who own airmatic cars. I just subscribed thank you for your video

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you 😊

[@w.jjohansson4820]

I would like you to cover moisture problems within the system, abd how to fix it. *What problems will apear, *good to know, *How to prevent it Etc. You have great content! Keep the good work up!

[@chrisgraves1974]

Wow Lou is such a great educator , I will be starting on a GL and definitely be following you ,,,,, Thank You!!

[@chrisgraves1974]

Lou being a retired Jack of all, I would like to know a reasonable scanner is worth or send me in a direction for a scanner that wont brake the bank, I really impressed with your approach to diagnose. I Have had 4 Benz's and do like the cars so I will live by your videos Thank you

[@raymunds.604]

Thank you for making this video. It is thorough and easy to understand. If possible, for a follow up video, could you include information about the switch/button to change from Airmatic Comfort to Sport? I have a 2013 S550 My issue is that when I start the car, if I had the setting at Airmatic Comfort when turning off the car, it turns on to Sport. Other times when I have it set to Sport, it changes to Comfort and remains at Comfort until I complete my trip and turn off the car. When I press the button, I can change from Comfort to Sport, but not Sport to Comfort. Other times, while driving in Comfort, it may change to Sport. Your assistance and insight would be most welcome.

[@raymunds.604]

I forgot to add that there are no warning lights or messages on my dashboard related to my suspension system.

[@muhammadsalah2063]

Thanks for the thorough explanation of the airmatic system.

[@melvinmackey7470]

This is the best and most informative video I've ever seen. You're the best. Thank you.

[@tube1064]

I wish to thank you for the best explanation of this system I have ever had. you have helped me greatly

[@dgrant8244]

Excellent video/content. Thank you for taking the time to educate us about the system. Please continue to provide these videos appreciate it.

[@MasterTechLou]

I appreciate that! Thanks! 😌

[@OfficialKevduit.]

My Amazon relay account was suspended ,All thanks to REXCYBERSUPPORT on 👆👆 for helping me reactivate my relay account. he's reliable

[@remysaluz6411]

Absolutely awesome Information. All makes sense. Still have a couple of questions, since my car never just lowers just 1 corner. Most of the time just the back, more often both axles, and once in a blue moon front only. And then, it stays up for days as nothing ever happend ...

[@MasterTechLou]

Valve block is most likely the reason.

[@RdgBrr2099]

Hi @mastertechLou, Can you advice what would you do if you want to get rid of the AIRMATIC suspension system and install Hi-end mechanical shocks to get rid of all the warnings on the dash after this? Many thanks

[@moriconnecticut5739]

this video was amazing Lou. i learned so much even though i thought i knew the basics. my ML63 AMG 2012 is stuck in calibration not complete when i took it to a mechanic and cannot get out of it even with a good scanner. I'm going to play with level sensors as you suggested and see if that helps

[@charlyreyesolivares197]

HEY, PROFESSOR, MY NAME IS CHARLY AND THE TRUTH FOR WHAT YOU EXPLAINED YOU HAVE MANY COMMENTS, THANK YOU FOR YOUR HELP I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOUR TIME TO EXPLAIN THE SYSTEM HELPED ME A LOT OF TRUTH, THANK YOU I HOPE THAT THIS COMMENT, HAPPINESS FOR BEING AS YOU ARE.

[@MasterTechLou]

@@charlyreyesolivares197 🙏 ❤️ thank you 😊

[@carrigone8422]

Just what I needed to see as my rear left bag on the car sinks overnight. As it has a 2-pin electric connector it must be the bag or valve on top. Thanks for your video.

[@avantsautomotive6022]

Your videos are Great Buddy ! I have been doing this for over 36 years all make all models. You do learn the terms SWAG and ESWAG as life goes on. Scientific Wild Ass Guess and also AN Educated Scientific Wild Ass Guess There is a big difference my Friend !

[@MasterTechLou]

Ha! Thanks for the nice comments! I appreciate it ❤️

[@Andersonairchris]

I've been looking all over the internet and KZbin for some answers to my airmatic questions and this video was a big help, however I still have some questions. I have a 2010 ml63 and the airmatic seemed to be acting a little strange since every time I parked it would lower the front a few inches no matter the surface. I thought it may have had an electronic lowering kit installed since I got it used and the rear never really raised very high compared to the front but worked fine when raised by the button. I found a harness retainer plug at the controller had been missing so someone else had def been in there before. Unplugged the module and found 2 bent pins and 1 pushed back pin - straightened them out and carefully pulled the pin that recessed and reinstalled the plugs. After that I got a 5191 power supply short to ground code that come back immediately after it's cleared so I assume the module is probably shorted internally at this point but the code isn't clear on which power wire to check to ground for a short before condemning the module, so some advanced diagnostics tutorials would be awesome. Lastly - if I replace the module I believe the new one should either be flashed with the existing specs from my old one or a whole new alignment and calibration done at the dealer. I have a 2 way scan tool with all the options there to auto and manual initialize but I'm not sure that's the same thing or how to save and flash from one module to another. I can certainly say some content creators have module replacement videos and mention programming but NONE show you how or what you can use to do it. (Great idea for a video here). Anyway any advice would be appreciated. I got the factory schematic and I think the code is referring to the power 12v or 5v feed to the valve pack which I located the wire to but I can't be sure that's the circuit the code refers to.

[@tahirsheikh9325]

Hi Lou. You’re an amazing chap. I don’t even have a Mercs of any kind or an suv. I’ve got an old for galaxy with 201k on it. Just can’t afford anything right now. It’s not worth repairing its drive shafts, so I’m using it until I can’t anymore. 42:22 I was looking at a future purchase of gl class 350 2012/2014!model, Insha’Allah once can I save for 6/7months as riba is forbidden &, was just preparing my mind how much it may cost in repairs in due course over 5yrs or so. I thoroughly enjoyed you talking in such detail. You’re absolutely amazing. Tahir

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you I appreciate the nice comments. You are better suited to get a steel spring suspension model rather than air ride. expect to put on tires every 2 years or 20ish k miles. brakes every 20-30k depending on city or highway driving, also depends on if you find one alreay kept up on maintenance, but it can cost about 5k a year if you average it out.

[@danhenninger1]

A W E S O M E !!! THE BEST DIY VIDEO I HAVE EVER WATCHED. I can’t wait to get into my jacked up (lol) GL550 airmatic. Thank you, Thank You, THANK YOU !!!

[@toddallen7436]

Super informative, picked up a 2012 gl450 a few months ago and the front has dropped a time or two and your video was very helpful.

[@MasterTechLou]

Glad to hear on the purchase, not happy to hear about the dropping but once again glad to hear I am helpful!

[@eslamsedky72]

Hi First of all, sorry for the prolonged question. I just got a 2011 W164 ml550 about 3 weeks ago with no service history whatsoever (it got 127k km a bit under 80k mi), and today I noticed that it's leaning left, meaning that the whole right side is higher than the left. When I raised the car, it did, but with the same condition right higher than left, a scan tool with a good tech is almost impossible where I live, so I'm relying on my own research here. What could be the problem and how to fix it ? Note 1: To raise the car, it takes about 30 to 40 sec. but to lower it takes at least 2 min. Note 2: No warning on the dash at all. Note 3: When parking on uneven surface overnight, it gets very low, but it starts to get to normal height when unlocked. Thanks in advance

[@dannyciao6941]

u r the best man you are like a Mercedes-Benz teacher👍

[@dannyd.8753]

Really realy really good video!! Very well explained. I was able to understand much more how it works and how to diagnose the problem and not only swap parts - you are a good teacher! Please do much more of these videos. I love to learn more about how things work in my Mercedes. For the valve block the descriptions of the connections are in german and in english. VL = vorn links = FL = front left ; VR = vorn rechts = FR = front right ; HL = hinten links = RL = rear left ; HR = hinten rechts = RR = rear right ; SP = Speicher = RES = reservoir and i think P stands for Pumpe = P = pump (don't know why they don't use K = Kompressor). Thanks a bunch and all the best from germany. 👍👍👍

[@MasterTechLou]

THANKS I truly appreciate that! just had a car in the shop right now, customer came in for level calibration.......... links are seized and basically bent in a U shape. how timely! Thanks again!

[@OfficialKevduit.]

My Amazon relay account was suspended ,All thanks to REXCYBERSUPPORT on 👆👆 for helping me reactivate my relay account. he's reliable

[@carolnagy6180]

Hi Lou. Very in-depth explanation of the system. I have a 2005 CLS with a problem I can’t figure out. I replaced the air compressor and rear left air spring and now when I press the rise button the raises but there is no pressure in the rear air springs. How is that possible to raise with no air pressure in the air springs and also when I try to lower it it doesn’t go all the way down. 🤯🤯

[@MasterTechLou]

Hi, thanks for the feedback! For 1 I will say the answer is most likely in my video. But whatever is happening it is probably a simple fix. I just cant say what it would be based on what youre saying is happening. There are too many questions I would have, to see what’s happening. And as much as I would like to, I cannot diagnose in the youtube comments. You can find me on instagram or justanswer.com in the mercedes section and make sure to put “For Lou Palomino Only” or else someone else will take it. Thanks 😊

[@28jahson]

Do you have a vid about trouble shooting a cls500 airmatic

[@MasterTechLou]

Its all the same

[@lonniefox5093]

I hit a pot hole and malfunction rise came on 2 days later now rising light comes on by it self sometimes but front end doesn't lift up but thanks for information

[@davidj.furtney4189]

Hello First, a very nice video and so far I got a lot of good knowledge about the ads system for our '10s550w/221 4matic. Now we just replaced the air susp. compressor,it was scanned as okay but, making loud screeching noises when it shut down, i just thought okay 14 years old and so I replaced it along with the two front struts(bilsteins b4 oe) and filter and relay for the compressor. What is happening is that every time we get into the car, it will raise up slightly about an inch or inch and a half on the driver side (I am a big guy)and remain there until the next day, it lowers the same amount about an inch and a half each new day and I thought as, you said it should remain at normal ride ht., for at least 3 or 4 days, so my mechanic says all is well with no leaks and he says it looks like the system is operating fine so... is this normal to raise up every day slightly, with it raising slightly to attain a normal ride ht? I kind of think something is not holding air but, the ride is superior when going down the road we even have better braking and cornering is great! Perhaps one of the level sensors should be tweaked to stop the operation daily? this is all I can gather, living in NC perhaps you know of a mechanic who is the best at these diagnostic problems which need minor adjustment or one simple part replacement.. thank you for a fine video and where are you located now, I do travel and would like to have you check out our car if I could? thanks -df in NC

[@MegaRugby2]

I have the abc hydraulic suspension on a 03 sl500. Want to convert to a coil over

[@jamaalj4805]

Great Video, wish i had it when i first started diagnosing my Airmatic issues. I am now looking at 550C DTC: "System error (twist)"

[@MasterTechLou]

Your rear level sensors are not positioned correctly. They both need to face the bags

[@ShiroUwUs]

I've scanned my car with das multiple times (2011 s550), no codes of anything in relating to the suspension, only code I have is parking sensor due to previous owner miss touchup painting and screwing up one of the sensors by painting over it, getting that fixed soon, parking sensor still works however from multiple tests and actuations. I've looked at the levels and its in spec. Mercedes told me my valve block needed to be replaced for the ride height (after 4-wheel alignment). I've looked and there was a line loose I pushed it back in after sealing it and it no longer hisses at me from front left when settling in garage.

[@driveguy]

Great effort mate. Excellent vid. I got an intermittent bag drop, and from going through your vid and examining the bag, I'd guess it's a sticky valve block. In for a service tomorrow anyway and will hopefully have them sort it. As well as the DPF and EGR playing up. Cheers, bud. I take the W164 off roading too so I like to keep on top of the general maintenance and knowing how it all works.

[@MugangaJohn-d9w]

I love this ,I had alot to learn from your video champion Lou

[@aprilmccrary5798]

I have a gl450 , just replaced valve block twice, struts, axles, control arm, bushings and check for air leak and front end still lifts up while clicking after Opening a door, while turned off. The place I go to can't find a problem. I do know that it shouldn't lift up at all, after opening a door? Any suggestions, I'm at a loss? Love your videos, found your channel today..

[@MasterTechLou]

@@aprilmccrary5798 sounds like you might have a leak, if the suspension is low then the module will Open the storage tank to quickly raise the vehicle to normal ride height once unlocked. I would run the car with doors and hood closed and measure the fenders like I show in my video. Then shut it off and recheck every hour. See if a corner or whole front is dropping.

[@aprilmccrary5798]

@@MasterTechLou the place measured the other day and it is LF857MM LR875MM RF840MM RR853MM. The place recommended take it to Mercedes dealership to get proper ride height adjustment and alignment. It also still pulls to the right (had alignment a bunch of times already) and after not driving for a while or overnight, it has hard pull to the right. What state are you located? I'm in NC

[@MasterTechLou]

@@aprilmccrary5798 illinois, ride height calibration is rarely needed or fixes anything as explained in my video. Sounds like a bunch of guessing on your car so far? Hope it works Out for you

[@aprilmccrary5798]

@@MasterTechLou Yes, that's why I put what they told me, because I I know it wouldn't help and I think there is a leak also. Would be a waste of more money. Thank you, so much and I would definitely be a customer if you were closer , That's why I asked where you're located.

[@MasterTechLou]

@@aprilmccrary5798 wish I could help. Hope it works out for you 🙏

[@RASHEEDFAGUNWA]

Thanks for the video, my was vehicle lower, then i changed the rear air bags and they were up, but the right sides both front and rear were higher and the front left side was lower, i changed the strut nothing changed then i replaced the the pump all the tire were up but right side still higher and start having the compressor cooling down messages, the vehicle malfunction still active.

[@mostafaelkazmi686]

Thank you for showing us how to replace part that does work well. However, I have watched how to change air suspension compressor and valve block, my question about how do I know the problem from compressor or from valve block while front a car does not getup when I had malfunction message on dashboard and before do it that I heard air release sound when I parked the car and switched off engine.

[@MasterTechLou]

My video explains it all

[@christians3065]

Hi Lou, i just got changed my 2 front struts of my x166 with new Arnott struts, but the thing is that the ride quality does not fill very good i can feel some vibration and it feels a little bit more when driving in lifted mode. Another weird thing is that they supposedly did the automatic calibration and right know when i see my suv, i see that the different positions/levels are lower that they seem before. Thank you in advance for all your time and great wisdom you share with all of us!

[@MasterTechLou]

thanks, there is no such thing as automatic calibration, also struts dont really change ride height, so if they did perform ride height adjustment and didnt finish it correctly the system will not level like it should. and I cannot comment on the ride quality of the arnott struts as I have no idea if they remanufactured the ones you put it or are new and if new who is the actual manufacturer of the internals.

[@ausamahadla5784]

Hi, I have ML350 (w166) 2015 , i had the issue the rear is sagging, but when i keep the vehicle on a rased up setting it remains up for two or more days , but on normal level , it does down even for a quick stop , i get the error message system failure, and i turn off and on the car it raise up and sometime showing compressor is cooling. please advise

[@jagboy69]

Excellent video Lou! Got a 2000 S430 with C1326 (Y54y1) Fault in that ADS valve assembly on the right rear strut. I swapped struts and still have the stupid code on right rear.... I get 500ma on damper valve 2, but ZEROma on damper valve 1. Time for a module?? Ya kinda glossed over shooting the wires in the video. Thanks buddy!

[@jagboy69]

YUP, it was the computer. Plugged in a fleabay airmatic computer and instantly it was able to see 500ma on BOTH dampers on all 4 corners. That little xtool A30M (I bought for the bosses Bentley) has paid for itself many times. I've recommended it to many guys, at this price point, it's PERFECT for cars of this generation.

[@victormartins4649]

From Nigeria and I wanna say I love you❤

[@thisisme7984]

Great video. Thanks

[@snowbell01]

Thanks for this video! It's much appreciated by many!

[@jivangovender4866]

Hey Lou! Great video so well detailed and explained. I recently had my rear bags replaced on my GLE W166, about a month or two later I notice that every time I put the car in drive the front right or left slightly raises, or the front just raises marginally. When parked overnight can’t see any noticeable sagging from front or rear. Any idea where to start or what it could be? Thanks so much for you help

[@juancarlosmorales6775]

Here is another tidbit I just learned today, from someone else diagnosing an Airmatic leak "If it keeps coming on it has a leak somewhere Maybe one of the lines has a crack that’s not visible On mine, the problem was where the little screw that goes in the shock was stripped"

[@jchen725]

wow, you are genius! could you let me know which state you are in? I have a R350, and I really want to have you fixing my car's problem.

[@Ilianjo]

THIS WAS WHAT IVE BEEN LOOKING FORRRRR

[@kemarsmith7217]

I have a w205, I changed the valve block and the air compressor based on your video which solved most of the issues but one still remains, the rear drops after I park for a few hours. Based on your video air enters and exits the system through the line on the compressor so I placed a balloon on the line, the car goes down and the balloon didn't inflate. This would suggest a leak however if I remove the battery the suspension stays up forever. What else should I check?

[@szekelyz]

Hello. I have my Error Code C156C00 From Star Diagnose in my CSL 350 2013 Airmatic. What can be the reason? Thank you so much. And how to start to fix it? Your video is very useful and perfect done. Thank you!

[@patgallagher1788]

Thanks for the informative video! I have a 2008 s550 and all 4 corners lower overnight. I replaced the valve block and same thing...all corners lower overnight. It seems to me that if all corners lower it can only be the valve block, right (highly unlikely all 4 shocks are leaking at same rate)? Also what roll does the surge tank play? To test the valve block for a leak your video shows testing the compressor line with a latex glove. Could air be leaking out the surge tank line?

[@kraz904]

Excellent common sense explanation to the point…

[@AntonioCardoso-q8x]

Great video, Straight forward information with adequate explanation.

[@bpoirier2002]

Great video. I have a 2013 E550 with a leaking line at the back near the reservoir. When the compressor shuts off the front left spring drops. What I’m wondering is, shouldn’t the valve at the strut be closing when it’s filled? Not sure why the air is backing out and leaking in the line

[@MasterTechLou]

You answered your own question 😉

[@waltercastro2435]

Hi Lou I have 2016 Mercedes gl550 regards to Airmatic issues,all started w just dash light Airmatic malfunction,no issues loosing air nor never ever heard compressor run,it was just annoying dashlight,.1 shop said valve block,another shop said sensor inside compressor that new compressor needed,I decided to replace Compressor/Valve Block w the new Filter line,, my dash light went away but now all I hear while driving is Annoying compressor running on and off,,only thing I have not replaced was the Relay,,could old relay possibly make compressor constantly run? And where exactly is that Relay located please,thank you Mr Lou,here is photo of fuse/relay box under Hood passenger side

[@rsomerton1]

Hi, great presentation, I have a 2014 ml350 bluetec and my left rear drops on occasion. Very sporadic...may not happen in a couple of days...then it will on the third day. I have heard a rush of air after parked for a while. Sounds like the reservoir topping up the rear bag....any ideas? Thanks Ray

[@MasterTechLou]

Thanks Ray. The answer is in my video sir. I spent many hours to make this so all the questions are answered….. you have a leaking air bag.

[@rsomerton1]

Thanks for ur quick reply, I watched ur vid again, and I did miss ur explanation of my current situation. Thanks again!!!!!

[@jalfons1]

Hi. Very knowledgeable information. Thanks a lot. I have an issue with my s430 where the right rear side is sitting a little low. 1.25” or so. I don’t hear air leaking, no leak at the top of strut. Compressor comes on and fill the struts and goes off. While car goes up and down evenly with buttons on dash but the lower side still stays a little low and goes up and down fine. No codes at all. I haven’t checked for leaks at valve. If you could help that would be great. Thanks a lot

[@MikeParvizi]

Great presentation, thank you I have a 2016 E350 Mercedes I want to know how to trick the levers to get the height, slightly higher, are you bending the bracket? 20 inch tire on it, No, in the dash display, Right side settings, slightly about less than half inch lower, On a higher speed if I hit Big bump or hot hole bottoms out Robs To Out fender Thanks

[@kaijasong5799]

Hello Lou, Just a quick note to say thx for all the info you provided on fixing my suspension fault 5280 left rear 2010 ML550. got it all sorted and working great. I am trying to find which fuse services the 12v socket in the footwell of the passenger seat. I am not able to source this on any of the online fuse allocation charts available. Pls Let me know when able…till then, your Canadian Sailing fan.

[@MasterTechLou]

@@kaijasong5799 hello my friend, without lookin at a diagram memory tells me All of the fuses for all the power sockets are in the rear fuse box in right rear of the hatch area. So poke and prod away with a test light to see , when I have time I will try to check a diagram for ya. Im in the middle of some things at the moment

[@sammagna1485]

Phenomenal explanation. Is there a way to override, and keep the ride height at max? Our 07 GL320 is no longer our daily family grocery getter, and i want to make it our mexico beach/sand cruiser with larger tires. thanks!

[@MasterTechLou]

Adjustment links, also send me a beach invite 🌞

[@robertn1620]

Great video! First time viewer. I will look what other videos you have. What I like about it besides your technical knowledge is that you took one system and explained it from one end to the other. Done deal. In my view this is a very good way of teaching. Hope you have similar videos on other systems. Appreciate your work and sharing your knowledge. Thank you. Hope your channel grows to catch up with DiagnoseDan's channel.

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you that means a lot.

[@indybpt]

Great video, thanks. On an X166, ~1-2x a month the rear end sags, both sides. I found no leaks in the bags, the sensors move easily and are lubricated. I replaced the pump and filter, I did get a cooling message on the dash. One month after replacing the pump it happened again. Otherwise, it functions normally. It does not sound like the pump runs excessively. I dont have Xentry. My plan is to replace the valve block next, any other suggestions? Thanks again

[@MasterTechLou]

I do not like guessing but I will say that when its so sporadic and it involves more than 1 bag it’s usually the valve block.

[@lordbraska6221]

Hi Master Lu, I only now stumble upon your video and I must say its comprehensive enough for me to comment and I hope I get a reply from ypu. I bought a 2006 ML500 used with front arnot strut installed. My issue is a side to side movement at the slightest rough road. There is no fault code on airmatic sysytem but the vehicle is very bouncy left to right. The front right strut developed a leak so I replace both front struts with OEM Bilstein front struts. The side to side movement still persists and the is also no fault code. the vehicle raise and lowers normally and the level is normal. But now the ride is harsh especially on sports mode and side to side movement is insane. I get a white vehicle on a straight white line on the dash but thats when you scroll through all the dash menu you will see it. It does not show as a malfunction. There is not much information on the internet on how to diagnose airmatic suspension with no fault code. I would appreciate it if you can help diagnose this issue.

[@MasterTechLou]

Hello, sorry for your issue. This is uncommon. I would inspect to make sure the sway bar is installed. Also what tire pressure are you inflating to? Just thinking out loud here. Side to side would tell me missing sway bar. Our cars are super stiff. So for a car to seem bouncy, im thinking tire pressure issue or missing sway bar? Assuming you mean the car is rocking side to side. Not swaying left to right.

[@lordbraska6221]

@MasterTechLou The sway bar is installed correctly. You are right, the vehicle is rocking side to side. The ride is bouncy and harsh. It's as if the damping valves are not working. When going over a speed bump or porthole you will expect even rocking not lef and right rocking. This is especially at low speed and on rough road.

[@MasterTechLou]

@@lordbraska6221 check your rear shocks for leaks. Most times you can see dried oil on the shock. Im not sure I can help without experiencing this myself.

[@lordbraska6221]

@MasterTechLou There is oil leak on the rear shocks. But only the front is rocking. Maybe it's the valve block. Because everything seems to checked out on the airmatic system. I use autel maxiM IM 508 and there is no fault code in the system. I feel this is a damping issue.

[@MasterTechLou]

@@lordbraska6221 well, regardless of what you feel, if rear shocks are leaking they need replacement. This is kind of why I dont diagnose in comments as people are unwilling to take advice. Why on earth would the valve block be the cause? Do you know how it works? It just lets air in and out. Thats it. Best of luck to you. I wish I could help but I dont think I can in this instance. If you find the fix please post so others that may have the same issue can get resolve.

[@MichaelKhayata]

Lou, this is by far the best explanation of an air suspension system that I have seen on the web. I never subscribed or liked on KZbin. You are the first! You are correct, there appears to be to many gimmicks or incomplete explanations. You surpassed my expectations, Thank-you! I have a 2014 Porsche Panamera Turbo S. I have probably three stupid questions: does the car have to be on the ground when you scan it? do the doors need to be closed? Supposedly, the Porsche air suspension system supposedly is a closed loop system. Do you know if you replace any parts, if required based on proper diagnosis, if you have to refill system with nitrogen? Any advice would be appreciated!

[@MasterTechLou]

Car does not have to be on the ground, doors dont have to be closed, and yes closed system, it needs filled with a special tool and nitrogen that most likely only porsche can do (my dealership has Porsche’s as well) and never a stupid question at all. And thanks for the nice comments! My youtube is fueled by misinformation, so im tryin to do what I can to share my experience and show the right way or most practical way to approach issues. I don’t know it all, but I also dont struggle with car repair. So maybe what I know can help others. Thats my mission.

[@MichaelKhayata]

Many Thanks for the quick reply and advice! @@MasterTechLou

[@torreniles469]

Hello Lou. Very informative post. I have a Mercedes EQS450+ with air matic suspension. It rides rough is it possible to adjust the suspension to a softer setting? Thank you for your guidance.

[@LionelQuesada]

Hi Lou, Thanks a ton for all the info you've provided in this MB Airmatic video!!! I'm trying to figure out the right OBDC tool to purchase. I saw your demo of the Xtool A30M. I'm also considering Foxwell NT710 which I saw you demonstrate in a separate video. I own a 2014 ML63 (with a current airmatic issue 🙂), a 2009 C63, and a 2009 Corvette z06. Any particular recommendation regarding these 2 OBDC tools? More specifically about my Airmatic issue. 2014 W166 ML63 which I always leave in Sport+ mode (the 2 console lights on). I now have a malfunction error on the dash with only 1 light on the console (Sport mode). The rear end seems to be in the usual lower Sport+ position but both front struts are in their higher position. Can you tell where to focus diagnostic efforts with just this info? Thanks Again