Service Suspension System Message - GM Ride Control Diagnosis

Do you own a late model GM vehicle and are experiencing a service ride control system message? Watch this video for helpful tips and tricks for diagnosing and repairing the suspension control system. Please subscribe to my channel for all the latest videos from The Car Doctor Channel

[@adamsc02275]

Very thorough diagnostic, hard to find a knowledge mechanic like you these days. I took my 2002 Yukon to the dealer and was quoted 3300.00. I was like ok right, gtfoh. Fixed it myself for 120.00 Aronov rear shock. Smh

[@markcrider9833]

Outstanding! The attention to detail and inclusion of all the "little steps" sets this video apart from others. I make it a habit to not comment on KZbin, but this video warrants a praise.

[@mannypereira8982]

great stuff i have just replaced my tmps and reset it according to your instruction and all warnings are now off ! Took me less than 5 min.

[@jeffbaker5038]

I love the way you don't rush and explain everything. Excellent source of knowledge.

[@musclecarsrt2324]

Just wanted to thank you for your help. I have a 2014 Escalade ESV and found the left rear wire worn threw from the plastic rubbing on it for years. Great job very informative.

[@americanpatriot2999]

What did you do to fix?

[@youarerightboss]

Thank You. 50 Chevrolet stealerships disliked this. Good job.

[@Qchiko]

Thanks for the great video! This really helped me and wished I had that electronic device that checked the modules to find what was failing

[@craigl4023]

Came here because I got that message today on my Avalanche. Hope my problem is that easy. Great video, honestly one of the best videos I have seen on YT.

[@nextlevelgamez9243]

Good job on finding the open circuit. I see the same problem all the time on tractor trailers with the abs sensors.

[@bizzyblixks]

c dtm Noo km

[@brianharrold3418]

Thanks my suburban had corrosion on three wires going to the plugins to the rear compressor. Got them fixed and the whole compressor assembly works great

[@kentdesautel5404]

Very helpful video.... I followed your steps along with some of the other videos online and completed the job successfully. One tip I would like to offer is to use electrical tape to wrap around your socket wrench parts to keep them attached when you are working on that one hidden bolt. My socket came loose inside that cavity so I had to fish it out with a magnet.... and then I used the wrapped tape on my second attempt and it helped keep it from coming loose.

[@robertcummings6359]

What about a continues pump running?

[@blly8325]

Exactly what I needed to know. Thanks for posting, you saved me a ton of unnecessary aggravation 👍👍..Subbed

[@c5back9]

Thanks Car Doctor. Your "how to" videos are the best I've found anywhere. Most helpful, accurate, on target, no BS, clear, concise, and complete information always delivered quickly and effectively. Thanks so much Sir!!!

[@basspromike]

I can tell you right now this guy is gonna make it big. Great content.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+no name (mjhcsd) Wow thanks for the confidence boost! I appreciate that. Thanks for dropping by.

[@blackbird6695]

Made everything look so easy.😳wish more people had these skills ☺️

[@cwinfrey7713]

Yes thanks man this video is awesome I just purchased a 05 Denali xl for 600 from the auction because the dash said service traction system this is definitely a DIY project thank you

[@doobymaster6997]

Just be careful. “Service traction system” is not the same as “service suspension system”. The traction system involves the antilock brakes and four wheel drive components ( including possible wheel bearing wear problems). Suspension refers to ride height issues.

[@rivelite]

Great video. I bought a 03 Escalade with the same air ride in the rear. The compressor was a rusted mess and prob had not worked for years. The air shocks were also torn so I had to replace shocks and compressor. I figured the compressor ran non stop to inflate the torn shocks and just died. No dash light though.

[@americanpatriot2999]

Super video. This morning I removed the left rear wheel of my 2013 Suburban LTZ. I discovered the same damaged wiring harness going to the ride height sensor connector. I cut away the factory plastic cover, then I stripped away the wire ends. I then slid a solder sleeve/shrink tube over the ends. I applied a heat gun and that sealed the deal. I zip-tied the harness up highand away fom the plastic wheel-well liner. Thanks again!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Excellent!

[@Impala1963]

Thank you so much I have a 2001 Denali, and my air ride suspension quit working was quoted $2,050 dollars this video so helpful

[@Impala1963]

You are a true professional, very well done with your presentation keep up the good work

[@sarahnicholson1816]

You are dead on about the ride height sensor rods. Got the SRC message on my 04 Escalade and while doing a visual inspection, found the left front rod seized and broken off at its lower ball joint. Replaced it with one from a junkyard and the message cleared without having to take it to a shop. I put some oil on all of the ball joints. BTW, the front and rear rods are different lengths, and each sensor is different (marked L or R). Thank you very much.

[@johnhribar8116]

Great Video! I have an 03 Envoy with air ride. I was changing my brake pads when I noticed the sensor had broken off at the control arm. I plastic welded it back together. After seeing your video I realized I needa new one. THANKS.

[@grizzlydan8]

Very interesting. I've never worked on air suspension or seen anyone else work on it. Sure wouldn't want to maintain it on anything I own. Another good job Tim.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+dan andy We see them often in the shop. Most people don't bother fixing these because of the expense. The systems work really well for towing and keeping the rear from squatting under a load. Not sure they are worth the hassle. Thanks for dropping in!

[@victoriasimpson6698]

Wow lost my comment. Thank you for your well informed videos😁👍 I am female mechanic with same year Chevy suburban, have service stability message on my dash. I now know what to look for with out a code reader because your so helpful. Thank you. You are appreciated!👍 Merry Christmas🎄🎀🎁

[@jesgetme]

Great video. I just switched to arnotts and replaced the compressor. Everything felt great on the test drive. When I got back and started it again the service ride control came on. 🤦🏾‍♂️

[@benitomunoz8661]

Very detailed and informative!!! Thank you sir. Much respect for your work and expertise.

[@yellowjacket7023]

With quality content like this, I instantly subscribed. Thank you for your service to fellow decent humans looking for comprehensive self education about auto repairs. I was shown this channel by my older veteran brother who is normally the "go to" for automotive questions of ALL kinds.

[@neooneZ1]

thanks for the location and removal/install of the air ride compressor. makes it easy for me to get to and remove.

[@ikon2552]

Great job! straight forward and to the point. I feel like you are looking right into my soul during the intro ;-)

[@shelbyhuerta]

🤣🤣🤣

[@steveo776988]

😉😂🤣😂

[@G_Vegas22]

awesome video!! im having the same issues with my 2002 escalade very informative.

[@guesswho2237]

G_Vegas did you ever fix the issue my 2003 Escalade ext has a stability control issue. Seem to be hard to fix and make code go away from my research

[@mattdillon6761]

@@guesswho2237 did you get fired your Escalade?

[@jamesmcqueen2618]

Hello Car Doctor, First of all I want to say you've got the right name , "(Doctor)." I easy to tell when someone knows what they are doing and you my friend can work on my car any time because I can tell you are a very good mechanic and know your business.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you!

[@stuzman52]

Nice work Tim in showing how to diagnose and make the repairs. And thanks for taking the time to film it to show others how to do this. And as always, be sure to have a good one!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+stuzman52 No thanks necessary, i enjoy doing it. I will have a good one and hope you do the same!

[@stephenrasch4734]

Don't understand how you could have 64 thumbs down. I found it very helpful thank you working on a Cadillac SRX

[@Bondnh007]

The stealerships are giving all the thumbs down lol!

[@edwardphillips8796]

I like the work you do . To far to drive for a repair from here in Missouri . 2005 Yukon ride system rear ending stays jacked up .

[@jessicajames8279]

Thank you so much for this very informative video and for taking the time out of your day to show us folks who have this issue... I have watched many of your videos on my car issues and schooled a bunch of rip off mechanics trying to get an extra buck out of me because I’m a female and seem to not know what is wrong with my vehicle and I always tell them that’s NOT WHAT TIM SAID WHATS WRONG WITH MY VEHICLE!!! and yes 100% of the time I look on your channel with what my vehicle is doing or the issue with it you’re 100% right and I’ve never met you and you have never diagnosed my vehicle but please don’t stop your educational videos because I have learned a lot from you.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you Jessica, that means a lot. Glad the videos have been helpful. Blessings to you!

[@wyattoneable]

That was neat to find the fault by a visual inspection. I liked some of the camera angles on this one too.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you. This repair turned out well!

[@sassafrasco.2630]

Wiring issue eh? Good grief I’ve been all over my system had the pump pegged as the culprit. Really appreciate you taking the time creating and posting this vid!

[@ryanbennethum914]

Thank you. First of your videos I’ve watched. Very nice craftsmanship on the repair.

[@assgrabberb]

That's how it's done. Good job Tim!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+AssGrabber B Thanks! It turned out pretty good.

[@19stoney64]

Thanks for video. Just bought 07 Tahoe with this issue.

[@SteveRobReviews]

Well buddy I would have fixed it exactly the same if I was up in Alaska watching you do it. 👍👍

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+STEVE ROB Well we would certainly share a beer after a successful repair! Thanks for the vote of confidence as always buddy. Have a great Sunday!

[@mujjuman]

excellent troubleshooting, diagnosis, and repair job! i love this. wish u can work on my cars

[@DonWilson69]

Thanks for the info. Have the message on a 2011 Yukon. I guess I need to have a garage scan it and they can tell me which is bad that I can then replace. Great video by the way..Subscribed and looking forward to more

[@FLIGHTDOCTOR1]

Can the sensor rods be adjusted? Would like to lower the rear 1 inch and raise the front 1 inch this will level out my 06 denali.

[@5485bimmer1]

Great video 👍 you explain everything clearly. Thank you I learned a lot.

[@harryclawson3136]

Great primer -similar message but on a 2015 sub. Now I know where to start. Thanks!

[@justinbowman4467]

Hey great job Tim, I have a GMC Yukon XL Denali that is giving me a service message on the suspension. Your video will help me get started diagnosing the problem. Also I was wondering what kind of flash light you were using?

[@Garth2011]

Nice video. Excellent job on the wire to the suspension sensor. Not many would do that good a job (heat shrink and extra protection loom. My only thought would be the rear shocks being replaced however, they are rather expensive parts "just for good measure" ($280 ea) unless they were worn and/or leaking air. Performing the conversion shock route sounds like a good idea however, there's got to be a good reason to stick with the Delco (Z55 RPO) rear shocks.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Yes the shocks would have been a good call but the customer was trying to save money. The vehicle actually had engine problems a few months after and the customer chose not to invest any more money in it. Thanks for watching!

[@Garth2011]

What are the disadvantages of going with the "conversion" (aka Arnott) rear shocks when equipped with the Z55 electronically controlled self-leveling air shock (autoride) suspension?

[@pedrolriveranegron5178]

Great my good friend TIM!! Very important "advice" to all "DIY" before condemning any parts; Please " Don't be a parts changer" ALLWAYS ; First verify: Circuit Integraty = positive(feed side), negative(ground side) and signal(control side) from wiring harness. This procedure confirms that both the wiring and the "pcm driver" are in good shape! NO open or shorts at the wiring and good signal respond!! VERY IMPORTANT$$$$$$$$$$$$$!!!!!!! IF YOU DON'T KNOW HOW TO DO IT, SEEK FOR HELP BEFORE DOING ANY PROCEDURE! CAN FINISH BURNING OR FRYING YOUR "PCM-ECU-MODULE ECT.. ECT.."

[@ThecardoctorTV]

I love your dedication to proper diagnosis! I don't always spend the time testing like I should. Thanks for the reminder to test and confirm circuits before throwing parts at it. Take care my friend!

[@russellgilson4072]

best repair video Ive seen, nice job of explanation while making the repairs.

[@547Rick]

That was fun, entertaining and educational. I enjoyed it very much! Thanks for sharing!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+Rick Anderson Thanks Rick!

[@ncooty]

Always useful to know approximate part costs and shop time for a job.

[@laurafletcher6859]

Thank you. This has helped to figure out my issue with my Tahoe.

[@rkafulani]

Great video. You are an awesome teacher. Keep up the good work!!

[@jgeorges3061]

HI TIM, thank for doing the job with good works man ship with out cutting any shorts ways . ur a man with integrity and trust by the way u mentioned that u well change ur scan tool VERUS TO WITCH ONE. cheeeers and thank you .

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+j georges I would likely just update to the newest SnapOn scanner but can't decide if I would keep the Verus for the lab scope and get the stand alone scanner or the Verus ultra. Thanks for dropping by!

[@isaiasrivera8254]

Regardless thank you for posting!! Some of us are still DIYers. Those that understand like me really appreciate you posting this!!

[@wtbm123]

Cool fix . Most of them here has been because the shocks blow out, Then compressor runs and goes out . I have had good luck using Arnott , shocks and compressors .

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+wtbm123 You know I forgot to talk about watching for leakage. Good call. I'll have to look into the products you mentioned. Thanks for the feedback.

[@larrylee4629]

I have a 08 avalanche that makes noise on startup , sound like the fuel pump, also u talked about an after market fix for z55 suspension parts, shocks, etc ..

[@edb.3313]

Thanks Tim very much appreciated your video!!

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+Ed B. Glad you enjoyed it sir! Thanks for watching.

[@dark4137]

Damn good repair work! I enjoyed watching this video.

[@sakuraart]

Great job explaining everything. I learned so much.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Glad you enjoyed it. Take care.

[@bigcease226]

Adam Pierce I have a 2008 Cadillac Escalade. Close to 150k miles .It's shows "service suspension system" I have took it to 2 mechanics and they both said I have to replace the front shocks, however I replaced them a month ago. It was not done by a professional mechanic. What do you think is the problem?

[@sakuraart]

bigcease226 on the back left-hand side of the truck just above the wheel well, there's a pump there that manages pneumatic pressure for the air suspension~ that pump probably is now malfunctioning, or has a hole in the line and usually it's the rear suspension that has the issues. you can put regular suspension on and just disconnect all of that. in Cadillacs Infinite Wisdom they put this pump in the most terrible place of a vehicle right above the wheel well where it can corrode so quickly.

[@chrishartman7061]

Adam Pierce I have an 07 tahoe ltz with the electronic suspension. I have the service suspension system alert on my dash and a clunking in the front. I assume my front struts are shot and am replacing asap. my compressor runs periodically so I ssume it's operating correctly. would you replace with oem struts or one of these conversion kits like arnott sells?

[@sakuraart]

i am going to be putting arnot in my ride this year... i think it's a better quality rhan OEM.

[@larrygueran1673]

Thanks. Very informative and clear

[@pinochoorellana79]

Que trabajo muy bueno y que bien explicado maestro doctor y seguimos a prendiendo

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+Pinocho Orellana gracias Señor

[@jeremyclarke7345]

Just the video I needed to watch, thank you for your knowledge!

[@Adriantlong]

Great job explaining everything. I learned so much!! Thanks!

[@alb2571]

thanks Doc, nicely explained

[@paulm1062]

Hi Tim, Great video I have a 2001 Chevy Suburban 2500 series LT with Autoride Dealer says it doesn't use a compressor. Replacement shocks apparently are almost $500 each ! Arnott Air Suspension doesn't have anything to fit the truck. Do you know a cost effective alternate ? I tow a heavy trailer Thanks

[@MuhammadAli-su3oo]

Always thanks, Car Dr :)

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you

[@RALPH531967]

Since the wire was bad will it stop the compressor from running?

[@snakejr.9196]

Hello Tim I live your videos They are very informative and helpful. I was stationed at Ft. Richardson during 1995-1998. Stay on Juneau Street Apt #B. Love my stay there. Diamond Mall, 4th Avenue mall, Fred Myers, and so on. Let me not forget Crazy Horse 😂. All soldiers know about that😂

[@brianswimmer]

Thanks Tim!!

[@dummkompf]

what if everything works, but the sensor doesn't trigger the pump at the correct height? my car rides too low at the rear, but if I remove the linkage for the ride height sensor from the control arm and move it up as high as it will go, the compressor will come on and inflate the shocks. I hear it come on when I'm driving sometimes, but it never stays on long enough to get the rear up to the height it should be at

[@waltermcclure3504]

Great video I had the compressor and shocks replaced but after installing them still wouldn’t come on and couldn’t get the codes cleared out any suggestions?

[@Gtmania02]

thank you for the video.

[@TheDisgruntledMechanic]

Thanks Tim! Always good tips and advice.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+The Disgruntled Mechanic Thanks buddy.

[@joeyrahal1506]

Nice fix very detailed will help me out for sure 👍

[@theresasherwood631]

Thanks great lesson!

[@rickwheeler6811]

Hello Tim. Love your videos... Very informative and helpful. Rick here from Pasadena Newfoundland... I have a 2007 Avalanche that is plagued with an assortment of issues. One being the Service Suspension. I connected my Autel 708 scanner it I got a Rear Right Level Sensor fault. I replaced the sensor today and same issue. Real time data shows both front sensors reading Absolut 1.43 volts. Rear Left reads around 1.81 volts.... My rear Right maintains 5 volts all the time... Old one read the same. I'm going to have a look at the wiring harness as you have done in your video. Do you have any other suggestions??? Thanks... Keep up the great work. PS... I may be looking for some other help later.... Lol

[@BALJITSINGH-ez4nk]

Very detailed video, keep it up thanks for sharing. I had same issue with ride height sensor thanks

[@williamwatson3567]

I have a 2000 GMC Yukon XL -- that has Been switched to Conventional ( Spring / Shocks ) I need to Know How to Clear the " Ride Contro " Light in the Dash Message Center.!! Strurmasters WILL NOT SELL THE RESISTOR TO NON- CUTOMERS...!! So ... What resistor Do I Buy...? Or Will the 10 minutes waitng Period without the Battery Positive Cable-- Clear/ or Reset the Computer...so the Light will Stay Off...? I need Some Solid Answers... What to Do To Clear the Message...So it Won't Return, Thanks in Advance...BillinL.A. 1-23-2021.

[@jacka55six60]

Whats up Doc? While at the dealers (over 2 years ago) I asked if my 08 Tahoe LT 5.3 needed shocks because I can feel every crack in the road. To my surprise he said that shocks on these should be good for 100k miles. A couple days ago my buddy noticed my ride was leaning to the drivers side. I measured almost 2 inches difference from the road to the rear bumper (left vs right side). The ride still sucks. What can I check to determine the problem?

[@PearComputingDevices]

Very good and informative repair by the way. Awesome job!

[@j.a.mcbean.4043]

Thanks for sharing.

[@rayboutdat]

Excellent walk through 👏🏾

[@flyfisherman4184]

Great presentation and instruction! Keep up the good work.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you!

[@redstingraycorvette]

Great video helps out a lot I just wondered that the lights on the warning on the dashboard clear out I replaced my pump a couple years ago and it still works and I’m getting the service suspension system so is it more likely one of the sensors in the back is bad I just had my In for a little work and the mechanic told me that that light would go off if I changed a sensor that was in the steering wheel and I’ve never heard that before what do you think and what do the sensors in the rear end cost

[@aarongrady3186]

Very helpful, perfect! Would you happen to have the part numbers for the compressor to include the part numbers for front and rear shocks for a 2002 chevy suburban K1500 4x4 autoride. Your help is greatly appreciated. Thanks again for the knowledge.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you. Please contact the dealership for correct part numbers. I don't want to give out wrong info. Take care

[@alisaleh2509]

very helpful video thank u sir

[@Thesmartdoorbellinventor]

Hey Tim, my Air ride does not work at all now, and the sensor warning is on for the exhaust solenoid, can you tell where to find it and where I can get a replacement for my 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV

[@policexinterceptor1]

Thank you doc👌🏼👌🏼

[@globalmarkrealestate3536]

Deserve to follow... 👍🏻

[@shelbyhuerta]

Great video! Good narration.. polite and to the point.. Subscribed

[@hawaiianf1504]

Great video lots of really good info. When you were explaining the problem at the left wheel, your light was so bright that i could not see what you were talking about regarding the bad wiring and damage you found. Might have been better if the light was pointed away enough for us to see the colors better but not so much that you and us can't see what your doing. Hopefully that makes sense. Btw, I liked that little hot air tool you used to shrink the the shrink tube. What is it and do you remember where you got it or can get it? Also - after you installed the new pump you tested the pump and system before the test you showed us right?

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thanks for the tip on the lighting. I'll talk to my production crew. The heat gun is a cheap one I bought at NAPA. I just never forked over the big bucks for a nice heat gun. My lips are sealed regarding prior testing to verify operation before filming. Would you think less of me? Hehe

[@hawaiianf1504]

+The Car Doctor - heck no - the master teaches and us dweeb shut da ole pie hole an learn is what I think. ;)

[@ThecardoctorTV]

haha, IM still looking forward to having a BBQ in your back yard and eating some huli huli chicken with ya!

[@jasonbailey2840]

That's the ride height sensor bud. Speed sensor is on axle 👍

[@nohyphens]

That threw me off too. Thx

[@Tom-wq2mz]

Great work.

[@snakejr.9196]

Hey Tim, I was stationed at Ft. Richardson from 95' to 98'.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

Thank you for your service. It’s now called JBER for “Joint Base Elmendorf Richardso”

[@fam0074]

I live in Anchorage ak I'm having the same problem with my 07 escalade, I put in new shocks new compressor the fuses are good but my pump would not come on for some reason, I'm gonna check the leveling sensor may be thats my problem... but anyways I whether bring my truck to you cause your scan tool way better than my cheap one lol... where do you work at???

[@theofurby1911]

Great video! I happen watch your video due to auto ride problem. I changed out the oem rear to arnott remanufactured air shocks (pretty much rebuild oem shocks) and dorman compression pump from amazon thinking everything will work...since it's a plug n play, but all I get is a click after turning on the truck...so I know it is getting voltage..is there anything I can look that is preventing the pump to turn on?

[@manuelm8841]

Theo Furby check ur fuses There are three fuses used specifically for the suspension, and if one fails it could be the cause of your issues. The Real-Time Dampening fuse is located in the under hood fuse block, labeled RTD and is usually a 30 amp fuse, and also located in the under hood fuse block is the STUD #1 fuse, which is often a 40 amp fuse. One more fuse is located in the instrument panel fuse block, labeled IGN 3 and is often a 10 amp fuse. Checking these with a multimeter on continuity will let you know if any are blown, and your suspension problems could be solved by simply replacing one of these components.

[@marciomoraes6462]

Thank you very good video.

[@ramoncarrasco3283]

Gracias amigo.🙂

[@michaelherbert8213]

Great video man. Thanks for sharing. Can't wait for the next one.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

+Michael Herbert Thank you. I'm editing one now for Dadge Ram ball joints and steering linkage. Trying to juggle sunbathing and my to-do list as well!

[@michaelherbert8213]

+The Car Doctor You should make a video of you sunbathing, lol.

[@ThecardoctorTV]

People might confuse me for a beached whale and call out mammal rescue.

[@vitaliigaraskov2008]

Good job!!!!!!! Thank you!!!