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.

[@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! ❤️

[@JCKICKS213]

This is true teaching from real world work. You don’t learn this kinda knowledge in school guys. Pay attention. Thank you sir this is highly appreciated, God bless you ✨🤲

[@MasterTechLou]

@@JCKICKS213 thank you that means a lot!

[@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!

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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!

[@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!

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@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 .

[@robbieleiper]

Canada appreciates your use of the metric system ;)

[@MasterTechLou]

😂 glad to help!

[@pctrainers6294]

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

[@leskavage]

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

[@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.

[@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 😇

[@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

[@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

[@isaacdarkey871]

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

[@shehermejas682]

Mercedes owners should protect this man at all cost ❤️‼️

[@fakerkhuzam9878]

Lou you are unbeatable man, Thanks!

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you! ❤️

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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 😊

[@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

[@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 😉

[@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.

[@mattialagni5207]

Grazie.

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you!

[@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!

[@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!!!!

[@MegaRugby2]

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

[@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.

[@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

[@28jahson]

Do you have a vid about trouble shooting a cls500 airmatic

[@MasterTechLou]

Its all the same

[@cigarcongo4126]

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

[@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.

[@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 🙏

[@muhammadsalah2063]

Thanks for the thorough explanation of the airmatic system.

[@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.

[@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!

[@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

[@melvinmackey7470]

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

[@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

[@russellmemphis]

Great Video! I have a X166 that sometime drops in the rear overnight especially on the right side when I park on a flat level. Sometimes it does this within an hour and other times it doesn't do it at all. So, I suspected the right rear airbag. However, when I push the button on the level control to raise the suv setting to the highest level, turn it off, and leave it parked - it stays at that higher height for days. (I have done this with the battery connected and disconnected and the suv doesn't drop at all.) I have the Creader Elite scanner and it shows no codes and all of the components check out okay. I even went through the level calibration process and after 5 or 6 times got it to complete. Is it still possible that the right airbag could be the problem even though it doesn't leak when it is fully extended? Do you have any other ideas of what might be the problem?

[@LeslieHorvath-r6y]

planning to buy a 2015 s350 diesel is there a chance to replace the aromatic suspension for a normal spring ones on this W222 chassis

[@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

[@MadDogSurvival]

I have a ml63 amg 2008 it has new air struts all around and a new compressor unit, it’s been working fine for six months. However I’ve just driven back from work through some heavy rain and deep puddles on my way home and now the dashboard is showing a “malfunction “ symbol and the comfort to sport mode and off road raise mode doesn’t operate? Any ideas please? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you 👍🏻

[@tube1064]

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

[@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

[@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

[@tomfrohlich123]

2014 gl450 front end goes up max, the read end goes low max... any suggestions?

[@MasterTechLou]

Thanks for the question, not sure if you watched the video in its entirety, but the answer is there and or the process to find your answer. I can’t answer your question with what little information you provided because there are many variables to your scenario.

[@itsbuddybaby]

RR bottom of the bag is out of bracket and stick on down/low position. Can I guide it back to the hole and turn it on and see if it opens?

[@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

[@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?

[@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!

[@Ali_Mekrani]

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

[@dannyciao6941]

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

[@28jahson]

On my 2006 cls500 my driver front side compressor comes on and while I'm driving I can here where it sounds like it's letting air out. The sound you hear when you take a valve out a car tire. Anyway it goes up but it doesn't go up at the same height as the other side and sometimes it acts right but most of the time it doesn't and so I can tell once I hit a bump that it went down. And if I hit the struct sport mode button it raises higher on the back passenger side but still lower on the front driver side so it's not leveled out

[@Fallzr]

Hi Lou, I’m having a really hard-to-diagnose issue with the airmatic on my 06 E55. I installed new rear air bags in May, calibrated with my Launch scanner, and everything was good for a few months. Now my rear is rock hard/ stiff and very uncomfortable over the smallest bumps. I can bounce the front with my hand but the rear won’t budge in comparison. I have changed my airmatic filter and valve block. No fault codes except 6230 (ESP system control) and 6210 (ABS system control), 6230 comes back after 5 mins of driving, 6210 sometimes takes a few days. Not sure if the codes are causing the airmatic issues but I also have no clue what could be causing it. Besides the ride quality, everything is normal and functional, suspension buttons work. I also had my SBC unit replaced at the dealer in 2020. I appreciate any insight!

[@MasterTechLou]

Hello, yes I believe when there is a problem with the abs it will limit the airmatic system since it does rely on esp/abs input to help with driving dynamics. Unfortunately the only way to know The tests for those fault codes is to use a mercedes xentry scanner. The code diagnostics are built into the scanner and only the scanner.

[@Fallzr]

@ Thanks for the reply, Lou. So these codes will show more specific faults on Xentry? I have my own shop and this scanner has never failed me with showing intricate codes and doing adaptations but I know Xentry is Mercedes specific. Also would Star be able to show me the same problem? I can get my hands on a Star scanner.

[@MasterTechLou]

@ star and xentry are the same Thing. Not sure if the code will be different in description but what I mean is we cannot just type in the code anywhere. The code diagnostics are only stored in the scanner.

[@Fallzr]

Sorry if I’m misunderstanding but what would be my benefit of using Xentry/ Star then? The code I am pulling is not a generic code, the codes are “ABS Anti lock braking system control” and “ESP electronic stability program control”. Are you saying it will show the reason for the codes on Xentry/ Star? I will also add that my car was parked for 2 days and the rear is now totally on the ground, which was my issue months ago before I replaced the rear bags. You think that could also be related? Or maybe pointing to defective bags? Never ending issues with these wonderful cars!

[@MasterTechLou]

@ correct the scanner tells you the code meaning and why it sets and then walks you through the diagnostic steps

[@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 !!!

[@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

[@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 ❤️

[@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

[@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!

[@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!!!!!

[@kyriakosdrivas1942]

I have 314 GL 450 I change the pressure release valve. I use Autel tool and during calibration ask me to input the incline Angle for front and rear. What do I input on the tool? Has the w166 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?

[@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.

[@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 😊

[@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. 💫 ♥️ 🚘

[@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

[@MikeParvizi]

Question for you, I have a 2016 E350 I want to know how to bend the bracket I mean up or down to raise the right side it’s slightly or tell me about the adjuster you install, what kind and how? There is no code on the screen Thanks😊

[@BlackhawkPilot]

Do you ever use electric contact cleaner and dielectric grease at the connections?

[@MasterTechLou]

@@BlackhawkPilot only use electric cleaner when we find corrosion. And as for dielectric grease, I feel I could make a video entirely on that 😂 No, dielectric grease is not something you see a lot of in the professional world. Mainly for ignition components. But as for normal connections, that was a thing of the past with environmentally exposed connections that didnt have seals. Nowadays all cars have weatherpack connections. Dielectric grease isnt bad to use its just not something that fixes anything. Its a preventative measure. To each their own tho.

[@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

[@vasileios_glystridis]

Ευχαριστούμε!

[@MasterTechLou]

Thank you!! ❤️

[@vasileios_glystridis]

@MasterTechLou I thank you Lou for all the shared information in your video... Dealing with 2011 E550 suspension is very low on the front and while searching I saw your video on KZbin and was very helpful.... I subscribed and send you a Starbucks late...enjoy my friend Ευχαριστούμε in greek means "thank you"

[@MasterTechLou]

@@vasileios_glystridis Thank you so much it truly is appreciated!!!

[@trillskrilla2133]

Why'd the rear driver brand new air struct keeps popping on my 2010 cls550 ?

[@Coolmkt8]

Got a 2007 R350 only the passenger side is leaning no code showing on dash can’t figure out if I got air bags in the front drivers side is super high any suggestions would help plz

[@ramelluka8685]

Thank you so much bro my air kompressor was dirty inside, so i release the tube start the car (R-class) when the kompressor stop working i just take tube in his place and now its fixed, but thank you, you just helped me for so many things 🎉

[@MasterTechLou]

@@ramelluka8685 glad to help 🙏

[@rezassatoungar]

Hello master I got a 2014 ml350, stuck in sport mode after scanning shows rear right struts solenoid issue and appeals the only way to fix it by replacing the struts. Last eat both rear bags and sensors were replaced. I want to know what do you think about the issue

[@Jerrygore-v3b]

Hi Lou can i install Airmatic on 2015 mercedes ml250 [ is the car pre-wired or has pre wiring harness]] thank you

[@MasterTechLou]

Car is not pre wired. And there is a LOT of things tied into airmatic you cannot just add it.

[@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

[@moecapitolnetwork2916]

Thanks for the information. I have a 2015 GL450 rear right Air spring keeps exploding instantly. I already replaced 3 bags and they explode. No cores in the Airmatic module. New level sensor and the sensor link is installed correctly. Please help

[@MasterTechLou]

Well my friend, sorry for the issue’s you are having. My video explains all. Only the valve block lets air into the bag. So it’s possible the valve block is stuck open or the lines are mixed up on the valve block.

[@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.

[@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.

[@israelolupelumi8208]

To avoid airbags or compressor issues, Can I convert the airbag suspension system in the GL models to a regular shocks absorbers or springs and struts suspension system?

[@MasterTechLou]

Yes I am fairly certain companies make coilover replacements

[@israelolupelumi8208]

@@MasterTechLou Pls can you offer a suggestion on which brand to research, or which company to call for the parts for such conversion? Thank you.

[@MasterTechLou]

@@israelolupelumi8208 I cannot No sorry. I simply dont have the time. I wish I could. Best of luck.

[@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.

[@antoniohill8853]

Question and I hope you have time to answer this please ... The code on my 08 s550 4matic is "Component a9/1y1 (airmatic pressure release valve) does not close." What does this code mean? Thanks a million.

[@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.

[@sv_endless6340]

This was very in debt. So my w166 amg 63 ML Rear both sides will just drop randomly. It can stay up for weeks and km's and then suddenly drop. The malfunction warning light with car pic always comes on and i clear it with steering buttons but it will drive well. Every time car is started to. Compressor is working. When it drops it feels like it is riding only on airbags in the rear and bounces badly. codes C155664 C156C00 I ordered rear shocks but after watching this yesterday i am thinking now it is my valve block. Thoughts

[@FinTra_]

I would like to understand :when replacing a dead battery, does it need to be programmed ? On an R class W251/2008 or on an E class w212 2014?

[@MasterTechLou]

It does not. Even when you replace a battery in a Mercedes the car will still function, all it does it help determine the use of the battery. If you dont reset the counter, I believe the module will learn the new battery anyways.

[@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.

[@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 😊

[@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