How Does the 2014 RAM 1500 Air Suspension Improve Ride Quality?
The 2014 RAM 1500 air suspension enhances ride quality by automatically adjusting to road conditions, payload weight, and driving speed. This system offers four modes—Normal, Off-Road, Aero, and Park—to optimize comfort, stability, and fuel efficiency. It reduces body roll, improves load-leveling, and provides a smoother driving experience compared to traditional coil spring setups.
What suspension gives the best ride?
How Does the 2014 RAM 1500 Air Suspension Work?
The air suspension uses pressurized air springs instead of coils, paired with sensors and an onboard compressor. It monitors vehicle height, payload, and terrain to adjust stiffness and ride height dynamically. For example, it lowers at highway speeds (Aero Mode) for better fuel economy and raises during off-road driving for improved ground clearance.
What Are the Benefits of Air Suspension in the 2014 RAM 1500?
Key benefits include adaptive load-leveling (supports up to 1,500 lbs payload), 4×4 capability enhancement, and a 10% fuel efficiency boost in Aero Mode. Drivers gain 2.3 inches of adjustable ground clearance and reduced NVH (noise/vibration/harshness) levels. Unlike static suspensions, it self-levels when towing or hauling heavy loads.
What Are Common Problems with the 2014 RAM 1500 Air Suspension?
Frequent issues include air compressor failures ($450-$700 repair cost), leaking air springs ($300-$500 per corner), and faulty height sensors. Cold climates accelerate wear due to moisture buildup in air lines. Error codes like B1920 (system performance) often require professional diagnostics. Many owners report failures between 80,000-120,000 miles.
Is air suspension better than shocks?
Extended exposure to road salt and temperature extremes can cause rubber air springs to develop micro-cracks. Drivers in northern states often notice sagging corners or frequent compressor cycling during winter months. Early warning signs include uneven ride height, prolonged lift times, or dashboard warnings like “Service Air Suspension Immediately.”
| Component | Symptom | Average Repair Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Compressor | Excessive noise, slow lifting | $600-$900 |
| Air Spring | Vehicle sagging | $300-$500 per unit |
| Height Sensor | Erratic ride adjustments | $200-$400 |
How to Maintain the 2014 RAM 1500 Air Suspension?
Monthly inspections of air springs for cracks/dry rot, compressor operation checks, and draining the air dryer reservoir are critical. Replace air filters every 50,000 miles and lubricate suspension joints annually. Avoid overloading beyond 1,500 lbs payload capacity. Use proprietary software (WiTECH) for system resets and calibration.
Owners should prioritize cleaning the compressor intake vents every 15,000 miles to prevent dust ingestion. During winter, weekly system activations help prevent diaphragm stiffening. Always use nitrogen instead of compressed air for refills—it contains less moisture and maintains consistent pressure across temperature fluctuations.
| Maintenance Task | Interval | Tool Required |
|---|---|---|
| Air spring inspection | Monthly | Flashlight |
| Compressor filter change | 50k miles | Torx T25 screwdriver |
| System calibration | After component replacement | WiTECH scanner |
Can You Retrofit Aftermarket Air Suspension on a 2014 RAM 1500?
Yes, popular kits include ARB Old Man Emu ($2,500+) and Air Lift Performance 59524 ($1,800). Retrofit requires modifying the ECU for compatibility and installing dual-path air lines. Benefits include customizable ride height presets and increased towing stability. However, aftermarket systems may void factory warranty coverage on related components.
What Is the Cost to Repair RAM 1500 Air Suspension?
Average repair costs: $1,200-$2,500 for full air spring replacement, $600-$900 for compressor repairs, and $150-$300 per sensor. Dealerships charge $150+/hour labor. Many owners convert to coil springs ($1,500-$3,000) for long-term reliability, sacrificing the adaptive suspension benefits.
Expert Views
“While innovative, the Gen 4 RAM air suspension demands rigorous maintenance. We recommend bi-annual system diagnostics and immediate attention to warning lights. Post-100k mile trucks often benefit from preemptive air spring replacement. For heavy towing, auxiliary air tank installations help reduce compressor strain.”
– John T. Mercer, Certified RAM Suspension Specialist
Conclusion
The 2014 RAM 1500 air suspension revolutionized half-ton truck adaptability but requires proactive care. While offering unparalleled ride customization, its complex components have higher long-term ownership costs than conventional setups. For drivers prioritizing comfort and tech, it remains a compelling choice—provided they follow strict maintenance protocols and budget for eventual repairs.
FAQs
- Does the air suspension work with snow plow packages?
- Yes, when equipped with the Snow Plow Prep Group (requires 220-amp alternator). Maximum plow weight: 730 lbs. The system automatically stiffens the front suspension to support plow loads.
- Can you manually control ride height?
- Only in Off-Road 2 mode (activated via 4WD knob). Other modes are automatic. Aftermarket controllers like SilverLeaf ECM allow manual adjustments.
- Is air suspension better than coil springs for towing?
- Yes—it maintains level ride height with up to 10,650 lbs towing capacity. Coil spring trucks experience 2-3″ sag when max payload is reached.