How does air suspension improve the Honda Ridgeline? Air suspension replaces the Ridgeline’s factory coil springs with airbags, offering adjustable ride height, improved load-leveling, and smoother off-road performance. It enhances towing stability, reduces body roll, and allows drivers to customize stiffness for varying terrain or payloads. Aftermarket kits are popular for optimizing versatility.
How do I choose the right suspension?
What Are the Best Air Suspension Kits for Honda Ridgeline?
Top aftermarket kits include Air Lift Performance 59500, Firestone Ride-Rite, and Pacbrake PRB-2025. These kits feature durable air springs, wireless compressors, and adaptive damping. The Air Lift system offers smartphone-controlled adjustments, while Firestone prioritizes heavy-duty load capacity. Compatibility varies by Ridgeline model year, so verify fitment for 2017–2023 generations before purchasing.
For those prioritizing technology, the Air Lift 59500 stands out with its app-based control system that allows real-time pressure adjustments. This is particularly useful for drivers who frequently switch between hauling heavy equipment and daily commuting. Firestone’s Ride-Rite kit excels in durability, using reinforced rubber air springs that withstand harsh off-road conditions without compromising on-road comfort. Pacbrake’s PRB-2025 offers a balanced approach with its progressive spring rate design, which automatically adjusts stiffness based on load weight. When selecting a kit, consider whether you need onboard air compressors or prefer a manual inflation system for cost savings.
| Kit | Key Feature | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Air Lift 59500 | Wireless control | Tech-focused users |
| Firestone Ride-Rite | 7,500 lb capacity | Heavy haulers |
| Pacbrake PRB-2025 | Self-adjusting stiffness | Mixed-use drivers |
How Does Air Suspension Affect Towing Capacity?
Air suspension doesn’t increase the Ridgeline’s factory towing limit (5,000 lbs) but stabilizes loads by preventing rear squat. Consistent ride height improves trailer sway control and reduces strain on the transmission. Systems like Firestone Ride-Rite support up to 7,500 lbs in static load capacity, making them ideal for slide-in campers or heavy bed payloads.
What suspension gives the best ride?
By maintaining optimal suspension geometry under load, airbags distribute weight more evenly across all four wheels. This reduces wear on rear tires and improves braking performance when towing. For example, when hauling a 4,000-lb trailer, the Ridgeline’s rear airbags can compensate for up to 2 inches of sag, keeping headlights properly aligned and preventing blinding other drivers. Additionally, the ability to increase pressure when navigating steep inclines helps prevent axle wrap—a common issue when towing in mountainous terrain. While not a substitute for proper weight distribution hitches, air suspension significantly enhances safety margins for occasional towers.
“The Ridgeline’s unibody design benefits significantly from air suspension’s adaptability. Unlike body-on-frame trucks, its independent rear suspension can be fine-tuned for both highway comfort and off-road resilience. However, buyers should prioritize kits with moisture-resistant components—the Ridgeline’s underbody is prone to road salt and debris.”
– Automotive Suspension Engineer, Aftermarket Industry
FAQs
- Does air suspension improve Honda Ridgeline’s fuel economy?
- No. Lowering the ride height reduces aerodynamic drag, but added compressor energy use offsets gains. Expect neutral impact.
- Can I retrofit air suspension on older Ridgeline models?
- Yes. Kits are available for 2006–2014 models, but require custom bracketing and electrical work due to outdated ECU compatibility.
- Is air suspension compatible with Honda’s i-VTM4 AWD system?
- Yes. The AWD system adapts to ride height changes, but recalibrate torque vectoring post-installation for optimal traction.