I have the same. Audi A8 Quattro. I replaced my relay first cause I noticed the compressor was over working itself. Meaning, I have a leak and my pump is over working . Soon the pump burnt. After seeing your video, it gave me a much better perspective and some options that I can afford. I chooses to do it myself and purchase rebuilt front air struts. I went and purchased a pump that is identical but different brand.I already purchased another relay. Wish me luck. Thank you for your time and making this video. Got yourself another subscriber. Meantime I will look at your other videos that may help me out. God Bless.
i made a video on servicing the pump (air compressor). The dryer in that video was a good example of why one needs to dry or replace the beads.Also the pump is there only on d3. On a younger d4, it is in the back of the vehicule
Thank you very much for getting with me. I spoke to my goal technician and we are going to try that with the suspension. I really appreciate you giving me your time as I’m sure you’re very busy. I will let you know what happens
34:05 Good thing you caught yourself and didnt forget the spring, without it, the beads inside don't stay compacted and can sink to bottom, sending humid air inside air springs
Best DIY for A8L owners!!! I now have the confidence to tackle this headache in all D3s. Thanx...question, any maintenance that I can do before the air system leaks? Like fittings change, rebuild the pump. I've been told with Audi, "if its not broke don't fix it."
How refreshing, a youtube video by a wise gentleman with plenty of tips & knowledge! no silly editing or music great job my man! do i have a leaking strut? once every 2 months the suspension esp light comes on & will lower to lowest possible ride height & rides rough, then fixes itself within 3 days this electrical or mechanical related? (2013 A8L I6) I feel like i owe you money watching these videos! cheers from houston texas
First of all, see if it will pump up to the high position, then put it in jacking mode and let it sit overnight. Measure it as soon as it is in jacking mode, then measure the height at each wheel in the morning. A leaking strut will show up there. It could be that the pump is wearing out as well, and won't pump up- but over time it may catch up and seem to fix itself. get a pump rebuild kit from Bagpiping Andy, rebuild the pump, and see how it acts after that. Don't forget the leak test, or you may be rebuilding the pump again.
I just experienced this issue today. My front left strut is leaking oil. I showed it to my.mechanic and he said strut needs replaced as it has failed. Does this sound right that strut replacement is the only option? I hair the compressor working and hear hissing noise and not inflating and hydraulic fluid leaking out.
I have the same model a8 I replaced the air compressor and relay and the fuses checked out ok but I get no power to the compressor. I noticed at the end of the video you mentioned resetting the computer. I have obdeleven is that process possible to do with my method of vag if so how do I do it. I really like your videos they are very described and accurate and maybe I missed something, thank you in advance 👍
I don't know what kind of roads you guys drive there because my Audi has over 165 thousand miles and I just replaced the compressor cylinder and piston and connecting rod and gaskets and the cost was about $65. the air springs show no signs of leaking and yet you have to take into account that I live in Finland and the winters here are sometimes very cold. The car does not consume oil, everything works up to webasto.
Great Video! Here's my 12 q7. Having problem with the compressor don't work. FYI, at first I has servicing the compressor by replacing the cylinder head and piston ring for the pump, as well as system Valve Block at once. After the installation, the compressor pump are totally not working. New Relay has been installed. Compressor diagnose with 12V battery is working and steady. Is there any other causes need to look into consideration for the issues? Hope to hear your advice for the diagnoses process.
Well done sir!!! I have a 2013 audi s6 and there are very few DIY videos for this rare model, my compressor is in the trunk and i think i have a leak in one of my lines (purple) for the rear. I will use the Rmt website u suggested. Do u have any DYI's on fuel consumption or O2 sensors which side is bank 1 bank 2 . I've had this car for 3 years now and gas mileage is not as good when i first got it. i have checked the plugs and they look good but i'm going to change them as i'm sure they are the original. i heard a dirty Maf sensor could cause issues but i have yet to locate it. Any tips or suggestions would be well appreciated!!! Again thanks for the video very informative and keep up the good work sir!!
Nice video Steve much appreciated: keep posting morel, if you can share your thoughts on steering column control module replacement for 2009 Audi A8 , thank you
STEVE PLEASE HELP .....I HAVE A 2008 A8 L WITH ONLY 80.000 K.M. WHICH MEANS IT HAS ONLY 50.000 MILES AND MY RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE IS LOW IN THE MORNING AND THEN ONCE I START THE CAR IT PUMPS IT TO NORMAL .....HOW LONG BEFORE IT FAILS COMPLETELY BCAUSE I CAN'T AFFORD TO FIX ANYTHING BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE MONEY .... I CAN ONLY SELL THE CAR . CAN I DO SOMETHING TO PREVENT FURTHER DAMAGE OR IS IT ONLY A MATTER OF TIME ....HOW MUCH TIME LEFT DO YOU I HAVE ? THANKS ... LOVE YOUR VIDEOS 🙂💕
At the end how did you reset the computer? Is your phone hooked up to your car computer? Can you reset the computer by using the tool that hooks into your connector under your steering wheel?
Steve, just have a question, on my Audi A8, can I replace the passenger side headlight ballast from the engine bay. Or it has to be done from the wheel well, can you please suggest? Thank you
It is a little difficult to get to without removing the headlight assembly. Two screws on the top where it is easy, one on the bottom back where it is not. The best way is to take the inner fender liner out to get to it. A pain, I know. While you are in there, examine the wires inside the headlight assembly. Mine got cooked over time, and the insulation was falling off. My solution was to disassemble, take the little harness out of the headlight, and put all new wires. It is not easy but doable. Just make sure you keep track of everything if you have to do that. Any evidence of cracking on the wire insulation is your warning, go head and replace them all. If bare wires touch each other, you may be replacing more than just the wires.
Great video. Thx for the video.. 1 question.. I change my air suspension in my a8 2011 and i have a problem.. my problem is when start my car in the screen show yellow light and a couple min show red light. Do you know have to fix it? Thx again for this video
I have an 2008 Audi A8L and the compressor goes on every time I start to drive then it shuts off. I don't see side the car being unevenly lower but I'm wondering why it goes off every time.. any ideas??
Excellent, so much thanks. Two questions: how about the issue regarding computer calibration of the level sensors?? Also, where you ordered the air compressor rebuild parts?? Thanks again.
I didn't have to calibrate the level sensors, since all I did was replace the airsprings. As for the kit, contact Andy- www.bagpipingandy.com/ he is an engineer and tooling expert who makes the kits
I have a A6 Allroad with airsuspension. My problem is that it holds air and dont drop. All the modes work dynamic/comfort/allroad and lift. All holds air but i get the yellow suspension light in the dash when ive driven for 2-3 minutes and the meny is greyed out and in the settings menu ”Tow Mode” is turned on. Any ideas to why this happens? Thank you!
Hmm. I will be guessing on this one as well- however, in tow mode the airsprings will not adjust, so that may be why it won't come down. You don't seem to have a problem with a leaky airspring, or the pump- which are the majority of the problems. If your car is older, then I would start investigating the sensors and wire connections. Or could it be a stuck relief valve? If you have rust/corrosion, then you will have to check everything very carefully. Sorry I can't be of more help on this.
Great video! Is it possible to connect the replacement compressor to the car without taking out the old one so I could test is it just the compressor not working? Thanks in advance! :)
Hello! My Audi A6 C6 Allroad 2007 holds air and i can raise it from dynamic to lift and back without a problem. But as soon as i start driving it in any mode the yellow symbol in the dash turns on and lowers it. Any idea why this may be? Recently installed lowering links can this mess with anything that makes it lower it while driving? Thank you!
Alright, I may not have an answer for this, but I can at least help you get started thinking about it. The problem does not seem to be mechanical, or else it would not work at all. If you lift the car, and then go out on the road and take it to regular speeds, then it will lower for that driving condition. By lower links, are you meaning the lower control arms? Replacing them should not affect the sensors. It sounds like you might have fault in the sensors. Did you bump one when you were in there? Get your scan tool and see if you have any faults related to the ride height sensors- or any other suspension faults. I would start there. I have not had that failure myself, so I am only guessing on this one. Start with what codes it is reporting.
I did pretty much the same thing as you did. Although my pump was shot and under warranty, I replaced and installed a new one. The struts are Arnott refurbished units. My car is still showing a solid yellow light within a minute of starting my car. I have 2008 A8L. What else should I be looking for? Stays in Dynamic mode.
Did you check and replace the relay? Also, did you connect to the car's computer and clear out all the current faults? Once you have cleared all the faults, it should be good to go unless there is a leak or another problem. Don't forget to take the car out of jacking mode- the yellow light will stay on if it is in jack mode.
How do you know the correct angle of the upper control arms when you put the new ones on? Also, when do you remove the bottom bolt of the strut? Did I miss it
Mike, I think what you are asking is the angle that I tightened the new control arms in place before I put the air-spring back in- check your manual for the details, but I figured out that mostly is is to keep them in place, and so that they are close to what will be a resting position for the wheel. There is a measurement, so check your manual- I don't have mine in front of me while I am typing today. But rest assured, I have done this a few times and it is not as critical as you think. Once the weight of the car is on the wheels, it will probably straighten itself out. I did not put the loosening of the bottom bolt on the video- sorry. Sometimes it is hard to get everything on camera. I am guessing that you have fought with it and wondered about an easier way. Well, I use a bigger break over bar when these get stubborn.
awesome videos - thank you !! - have a q tho - have the same d3, and was doing the front strut replacement, got the old out, but the new one i got from rock auto wont go in, do i need to figure out how to bleed air out of the new one so it would go in easier - any tips you could share to make the new one go in easier, right now, its about almost 2 inches too tight from being able to sit in.
If the air line is not attached, then there should be no air in it, and you can just compress it with your hands. I have not used airsprings from Rock Auto, so I cannot comment on that. Try putting it on the floor, and push it down. Measure the length of it and measure the old one and make sure it is the right size.
Enjoyed the video. I have a A8L d4 Hybrid and the front right needs a air sus repair. Want to do it my self . Do you have special videos that i can pay for since i want to take the shock ab-sober out and try to replace the bag. Neil
Neil, All the video I have are posted, no need to buy more- although it is not a bad idea! Replacing the bag is a big hassle, and in the end you don't really get ahead either financially or work wise. I had mine rebuilt by RMT. They will also sell you the bag unit, and you clean up your lower portion and re-use it- but the savings is negligible and the work load is significant. If you decide to go that way, let me know how it works out! Here is RMT's website if that helps you any. Don't buy cheaply made parts! www.rebuildmastertech.com/
Awesome video. I ordered my struts today, so I’ll be embarking on this journey soon. Where did you get the relay from? And does it have a special name besides “relay”?
Mike, I have an app on my tablet with a bluetooth OBD2 connector from Carista. It will allow you to reset many different functions. There are other brands too- but this is a handy thing to have in working on modern cars.
Hi there learned a lot from your video I replaced front passenger air strut and leveling sensor on my 05 Audi A8 4.2 D3 . I have OBDELEVEN pro how do I reset computer
@@TheAmericanGarage1 I’ve already changed upper and lower I’ve also done sway bar bushings and drop links I’ve done track rod ends also still same sound
@@jimbrown9967 Hmm. At this point I would go to a trusted suspension guy, and get a second set of eyes on it. Perhaps where you get your alignments done-
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Is the front air suspension/strut disassembly to reassembly identical to the rear break down and rebuild as well? Thank you for such a simple yet descriptive video! God bless You!
Hi T.A.G. , my Audi A8 Quatro makes a continous beep as soon as I start driving the car, then it stops after like 4 to 5 minutes. What do you think I should do? Te Thank you .
Is the beep coming from the back of the car? That would be the warning that the rear parking sensors may have gone bad. Are there any dash warnings associated with it?
The beeping noise seems to be coming from the dashboard and yes the parking brake letters are flashing as well as the parking button next to the shifter thanks TAG.👊
Any help? We have checked for leaks and found nothing, yet lately, I have experienced the following. The compressor will turn on every 5-10 minutes, stays on for a minute, and turn off yet another thing that I have noticed is that before, I was able to lift the car real fast now as soon as I press the up bottom the compressor will go on. The vehicle will lift very slow, not like before. After the car gets to raise the compressor will turn off. Leaving the car for a complete week car is keeping high, and after turning the vehicle on compressor will not turn on yet. As I drive the car, I can hear a click under the dash, and the compressor will turn on for a minute. Any idea what can be causing the compressor to turn on and off so often? Also, I have noticed that if I wanted to lower the car, sometimes will take longer than before. btw there are no dash lights on.
Sounds like the compressor is getting hot and turning itself off. It has that as a safety backup so you don't burn out the pump. It gets hot from working too much. If that is happening, I would try rebuilding the pump- search online for Bagpiping Andy's rebuild kit- they are about $45. If the pump is turning off frequently, it is not making as much compressed air as it should, gets too hot and turns off. Another thing to check- sometimes- not often- the temperature sensor goes bad so check it too. If you have an OBD2 unit to plug in and diagnose the car, it will tell you if it is overheating the pump. Ok, let me explain something too- The air suspension has no real way to identify a leak in a strut- so, they put a temperature sensor to flag when the pump is working too long. This will either identify a leak, or that the pump is wearing out. So, the fact that your dash lights are not coming on makes me think that it is working often enough to keep the car from sinking, but that it can't pump effectively enough. Rebuild the pump and check for leaks would be my course of action.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Well, the problem is the compressor is turning on and off even when the system is not in use. Did I get to think that maybe the block valve is not working correctly? The car goes up very slow and at times to go down will take time too it is not like before. At any rate, thank you for your comment appreciated
@@lupecastillo7669 I haven't had any blocked valves, that would be a whole other problem. Sorry I cannot advise you on that one. However, the system is always in use, even when the car is off. The only time the suspension is not actively in use is when it is in jacking mode, otherwise, in the morning it would be on the ground every single morning. Once I forgot to put it in jacking mode when I went to get my tires rotated- well when the set it down it went all the way to the ground! I had to start it and wait 20 minutes before the car started sorting itself out, so don't forget that.
I have sort of the same problem my suspension on the back won’t come up an my trunk won’t lock my battery was dead I boosted would a low voltage battery cause the suspension from coming up right away the pump comes on the shuts of.
Pete, I am going to have to give this one some thought. My first impression is no, a low battery would not cause the front to come up but not the back. But first things first, charge the battery or get a new one if it has gone bad, and eliminate that as a cause. Once the air has been pumped into the system, there is a regulator that distributes it to the four wheels. If the front is up but the back is not, it sounds like a leak in the back. Your trunk not locking could be a low battery issue. Fix that first, and then see what happens. A low battery will have all kinds of crazy symptoms as things are trying to run with not enough electricity. Make sure that you check the alternator, and make sure it is doing its job, or you will go through batteries. The pump on your suspension does not need to run very long at all when the system is functioning with no leaks, and unless you are right there down by the pump, it is hard to detect it running at all. Check the battery level in the MMI display, and make sure you are getting 100%, and do an alternator check. Then let's see what is happening. Hope this helps.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 The situation that is going on on my 2006 A8 is my rear air suspension is not lowering although the front at times is and the lift mode sometime on the monitor screen in my car turns from red to grey and the air suspension light turns on every once in a while, could that very well be my rear air suspension is going out? And is the concept the same when changing the front air suspension the same as the rear ?
@@TheAmericanGarage1 thank you for answering in such a short time, in your video you replaced the compressor cylinder as well but looks like it doesn't come in this kit, did you order it from a different place? Any info on that would be much appreciated
I have a question for you sir. In my case it's phaeton 2004 6.0 v12. My dad spent his life savings to buy phaeton as a sort of joy, and the car broke just now, the front right strut is leaking thru top. Anyways , I purchased 2 new struts for him. I would know how to replace them, my concern is following: Does whole car need to be jacked up ? - Or can I jack up just the front side of car and rest it on V stands. Second, the part about resetting system using diagnostics is unknown. Do I need VAG or there is a way to do it using android application connected thru ELM327 interface ? I would greatly appreciate your time to help me on this. Breaks my heart seeing dad all sad about the car as he can't afford to repair it. I threw subscribe to you too, as I do like the content and the detailed training on replacement.
Dylan, thank you for watching! Alright, I have not worked on a Phaeton specifically, so my comments will be general. I am assuming you have an air suspension similar to the A8. If you are just replacing the front airsprings, then it is fine to just jack up the front. However, with air suspension, make sure you put the car in jacking mode so the suspension does not try to adjust while up on the jacks. VAG is great, but if you cannot get it, then you can get a bluetooth OBD 2 like Carista with an app on your handheld device. Find a device that is compatible with your car. Best wishes with your project.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Thank you so much for taking the time to respond ! I will give it a shot and let you know how that goes. I am pretty assured they have same suspension principle but we will see once I dive in :) Have blessed holidays man !
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Actually one more, I am so sorry. This is still concerning me. I cannot have the device anytime soon as I have to order it. Is the app necessary or the car can pressurize the suspension and the new strut once placed out of jack mode. Thank you so much I appreciate your time, you are helping me a lot here.
if you look very carefully you can see a paper on my windshield that says RMT- that is who I got my air-springs from. And no, they are not paying me to say it- but hey! Tell them where you heard it and maybe they will! I think they are in Florida as well.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 That's the one I was looking at. Are you happy with them still? I need to call them to figure out which ones to get since I have an S8.
Local repair told me all struts go up and down but may have been lifted without turning them off. Need all four struts to repair! Can’t believe all are bad if they all raise and lower. Don’t know what to do?
That doesn't make sense- get a second opinion. Try this- put the car in lift mode, let it raise all the way up. Then put it in jacking mode, and let the car sit overnight. If the struts are bad, it will be sitting on the floor in the morning. If this is the case, then your pump is still working, but the leaky struts can't hold air. If this is happening, then your pump will not work right for very much longer, as it is being overworked. Find out if you have a leak first.
TheAmericanGarage1 I put the car in raise mode and then when it stopped I put it in Jack mode and these are the readings I got at each wheel well. Left front 16 1/2 Right front 16 1/8 Right rear 16 3/8 Right rear 17 even I will check again in the morning to see what happens
@@jsmith05403 Okay Jeff, if the car was in jack mode overnight, and it did not drop, then there is no leak in the air-springs. What happens normally is the car actively adjusts it's height all the time- even when it is sitting overnight. Jack mode turns off the car's ability to adjust and stays in one place. The pump will not turn on to pump the car up if it sinks. The reason we have a jack mode is because of this active suspension. Ever forget to turn off jack mode when you go to the tire store? I did once. The car gets jacked up and the tires are taken off- the car sees that the ride height is too high and lets the air all out. They put the tires on and let the car down and the car goes all the way- or nearly so- to the ground. Of course I had to turn the car on and let it sit there 10 minutes while it set itself right. When jack mode is on, none of this happens. The pumps does not turn on to right the car if it gets low, and it doesn't let air out if it senses too high. So, with jack mode on overnight and no drop, there are no leaks in the system. I check mine from time to time to be sure. I have noticed that sometimes the dash lights will come on showing the car is low. I noticed that if I raise the car semi-regularly, then this doesn't happen as much. I tend to raise it when I go to the car wash so I don't hit the bottom on anything. Have a trusted mechanic double check you, but it sounds like your air springs are fine. Remember there are basically three things that typically go wrong in the air suspension- leaky strut, worn out pump, or the relay goes out. I just reread you initial comment- forgetting to turn on jack mode will not ruin your air-springs when the car is lifted- but it is a damn annoyance because the car will be on the ground. Reset the computer, put it in lift mode, wait for it to come up, put it back in automatic or dynamic- whichever you like, let the car sit and get itself back together while it is running. Don't go on down the road until that green light turns off though.
Nice well presented video. But if you want to avoid having all that trouble in the first place, there is one VERY simple thing you can do!! That is, don't buy German cars. They are junk and everything them put on them breaks, including plastic parts.
Hello sir, I have the same issue with my Audi a8. My compressor runs for about 30 seconds and it turns off but the car does not lift up. With that being said do u think the compressor is fine but my suspension is bad? And do I need to replace both the compressor and suspension or just suspension at this point, I'm very limited on the budget
It is hard to say the exact problem, but since the pump is working 30 seconds and turning off, this is a good indication that the pump is working too hard and overheating- so the computer turns it off. This is probably an indication of a leak in an airspring. Look up Bagpiping Andy- he makes a rebuild kit that fixes the pump- then you need to find the source of the leak. Look at the beginning section of the video- you will need to see which corner of the car is lower than the rest- that is probably the leak. With a leaky system, the pump is going to work too hard. If this is your problem, then rebuild the pump, and get a new relay as well. It is best to replace airpsrings in pairs- I replaced my front ones as you have seen- the rear ones last a lot longer than the front ones. I used rebuilt units and saved a bundle
If you had the problem long enough for it to no longer raise, you both have a leak AND a worn pump piston ring. I have 2 of these cars at the moment and am on my 5th and 6th air ride car. All of them but 1 I bought because owners couldn't pay the repair bills. You MAY only have a huge air leak but it doesnt take long to burn the pump.
Wish every mechanic can explain things as well as you
Great detailed video and you speak very clearly!.My air suspension left me stranded 2x in my A8L.
I ended up converting to strutmasters. Rides great
It's really good videos and great information for Audi owners ! Thank you
Thank you so much for making these videos on your A8. I bought a 2006 and I want to take care of it myself.
Hang on to it. Got one too. Love it.
Contact me if any questions. Ive done a LOT on mine.
Also can be valve block. But its usually strut.
I have the same. Audi A8 Quattro. I replaced my relay first cause I noticed the compressor was over working itself. Meaning, I have a leak and my pump is over working . Soon the pump burnt. After seeing your video, it gave me a much better perspective and some options that I can afford. I chooses to do it myself and purchase rebuilt front air struts. I went and purchased a pump that is identical but different brand.I already purchased another relay. Wish me luck. Thank you for your time and making this video. Got yourself another subscriber. Meantime I will look at your other videos that may help me out. God Bless.
i made a video on servicing the pump (air compressor). The dryer in that video was a good example of why one needs to dry or replace the beads.Also the pump is there only on d3. On a younger d4, it is in the back of the vehicule
Great Video Thanks for sharing
Thank you very much for getting with me. I spoke to my goal technician and we are going to try that with the suspension. I really appreciate you giving me your time as I’m sure you’re very busy. I will let you know what happens
34:05 Good thing you caught yourself and didnt forget the spring, without it, the beads inside don't stay compacted and can sink to bottom, sending humid air inside air springs
Thank You for making a video that is completely understandable both verbally and visually.
Great video and thanks for the good explanations.
Another very informative video. Thanks for the effort, it helps me with my own A8 issues.
Thanks Grant!
Warry nice and helpful video I have same problem from last 3 days thanking you ... prashant from mumbai india
What a great video!!! Whoever the 5 morons were that gave it a “thumbs down” clearly had mothers who didn’t love them.
Thank you for this great educational video.
Great video.
Thanks for sharing
Best DIY for A8L owners!!! I now have the confidence to tackle this headache in all D3s. Thanx...question, any maintenance that I can do before the air system leaks? Like fittings change, rebuild the pump. I've been told with Audi, "if its not broke don't fix it."
Good work
How refreshing, a youtube video by a wise gentleman with plenty of tips & knowledge! no silly editing or music
great job my man! do i have a leaking strut? once every 2 months the suspension esp light comes on & will lower to lowest possible ride height & rides rough, then fixes itself within 3 days this electrical or mechanical related? (2013 A8L I6) I feel like i owe you money watching these videos! cheers from houston texas
First of all, see if it will pump up to the high position, then put it in jacking mode and let it sit overnight. Measure it as soon as it is in jacking mode, then measure the height at each wheel in the morning. A leaking strut will show up there. It could be that the pump is wearing out as well, and won't pump up- but over time it may catch up and seem to fix itself. get a pump rebuild kit from Bagpiping Andy, rebuild the pump, and see how it acts after that. Don't forget the leak test, or you may be rebuilding the pump again.
Motoring perfection is a V8 and air suspension
now i know for sure those AUDI are better built than the BMW N MERCEDES!
Great video, can you give me the information how to get the rebuild shocks??? Please, tks.
I just experienced this issue today. My front left strut is leaking oil. I showed it to my.mechanic and he said strut needs replaced as it has failed. Does this sound right that strut replacement is the only option? I hair the compressor working and hear hissing noise and not inflating and hydraulic fluid leaking out.
I have the same model a8 I replaced the air compressor and relay and the fuses checked out ok but I get no power to the compressor. I noticed at the end of the video you mentioned resetting the computer. I have obdeleven is that process possible to do with my method of vag if so how do I do it. I really like your videos they are very described and accurate and maybe I missed something, thank you in advance 👍
I don't know what kind of roads you guys drive there because my Audi has over 165 thousand miles and I just replaced the compressor cylinder and piston and connecting rod and gaskets and the cost was about $65. the air springs show no signs of leaking and yet you have to take into account that I live in Finland and the winters here are sometimes very cold. The car does not consume oil, everything works up to webasto.
Don't forget to put the car into jack mode.
"Pack your patience" a saying I will be stealing and applying for future projects for sure.
Great Video! Here's my 12 q7. Having problem with the compressor don't work. FYI, at first I has servicing the compressor by replacing the cylinder head and piston ring for the pump, as well as system Valve Block at once. After the installation, the compressor pump are totally not working. New Relay has been installed. Compressor diagnose with 12V battery is working and steady. Is there any other causes need to look into consideration for the issues? Hope to hear your advice for the diagnoses process.
Very nice 👌
Well done sir!!! I have a 2013 audi s6 and there are very few DIY videos for this rare model, my compressor is in the trunk and i think i have a leak in one of my lines (purple) for the rear. I will use the Rmt website u suggested. Do u have any DYI's on fuel consumption or O2 sensors which side is bank 1 bank 2 . I've had this car for 3 years now and gas mileage is not as good when i first got it. i have checked the plugs and they look good but i'm going to change them as i'm sure they are the original. i heard a dirty Maf sensor could cause issues but i have yet to locate it. Any tips or suggestions would be well appreciated!!! Again thanks for the video very informative and keep up the good work sir!!
Nice video Steve much appreciated: keep posting morel, if you can share your thoughts on steering column control module replacement for 2009 Audi A8 , thank you
I haven't had to do that, so sorry I don't have any words on it right now.
do you remember adres wher can I replace AIR STRUTS? Thank you.
Hi I have this fault showing up left front dampening adjustment valvle 012 electrical fault in circuit n336 is it my left strut or wiring fault?
STEVE PLEASE HELP .....I HAVE A 2008 A8 L WITH ONLY 80.000 K.M. WHICH MEANS IT HAS ONLY 50.000 MILES AND MY RIGHT PASSENGER SIDE IS LOW IN THE MORNING AND THEN ONCE I START THE CAR IT PUMPS IT TO NORMAL .....HOW LONG BEFORE IT FAILS COMPLETELY BCAUSE I CAN'T AFFORD TO FIX ANYTHING BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE MONEY .... I CAN ONLY SELL THE CAR . CAN I DO SOMETHING TO PREVENT FURTHER DAMAGE OR IS IT ONLY A MATTER OF TIME ....HOW MUCH TIME LEFT DO YOU I HAVE ? THANKS ... LOVE YOUR VIDEOS 🙂💕
What’s the company that rebuilds the struts?
At the end how did you reset the computer? Is your phone hooked up to your car computer? Can you reset the computer by using the tool that hooks into your connector under your steering wheel?
Replacing mine right now 170xxx miles not bad Audi
Steve, just have a question, on my Audi A8, can I replace the passenger side headlight ballast from the engine bay. Or it has to be done from the wheel well, can you please suggest? Thank you
It is a little difficult to get to without removing the headlight assembly. Two screws on the top where it is easy, one on the bottom back where it is not. The best way is to take the inner fender liner out to get to it. A pain, I know. While you are in there, examine the wires inside the headlight assembly. Mine got cooked over time, and the insulation was falling off. My solution was to disassemble, take the little harness out of the headlight, and put all new wires. It is not easy but doable. Just make sure you keep track of everything if you have to do that. Any evidence of cracking on the wire insulation is your warning, go head and replace them all. If bare wires touch each other, you may be replacing more than just the wires.
Great video. Thx for the video.. 1 question.. I change my air suspension in my a8 2011 and i have a problem.. my problem is when start my car in the screen show yellow light and a couple min show red light. Do you know have to fix it? Thx again for this video
How do you take off the hose connecting the two pieces? Duh.
I have an 2008 Audi A8L and the compressor goes on every time I start to drive then it shuts off. I don't see side the car being unevenly lower but I'm wondering why it goes off every time.. any ideas??
How much difference is the D3 (2005-2010) Air suspension from the D4 (2011-2017)? Is the pump, valve block, and fuse in the same place?
Steve what is the programming tool you used through your phone to reset the computer?
I was using Carista on a tablet, but I have since upgraded to VCDS because it was too limiting. It will work fine for basic things though.
Excellent, so much thanks. Two questions: how about the issue regarding computer calibration of the level sensors?? Also, where you ordered the air compressor rebuild parts?? Thanks again.
I didn't have to calibrate the level sensors, since all I did was replace the airsprings. As for the kit, contact Andy- www.bagpipingandy.com/ he is an engineer and tooling expert who makes the kits
Do you have the video for the rear shocks replacement for A8L, please let me know
I have not had to redo my rear shocks (airsprings). Let me know how it goes.
I have a A6 Allroad with airsuspension. My problem is that it holds air and dont drop. All the modes work dynamic/comfort/allroad and lift. All holds air but i get the yellow suspension light in the dash when ive driven for 2-3 minutes and the meny is greyed out and in the settings menu ”Tow Mode” is turned on. Any ideas to why this happens? Thank you!
Hmm. I will be guessing on this one as well- however, in tow mode the airsprings will not adjust, so that may be why it won't come down. You don't seem to have a problem with a leaky airspring, or the pump- which are the majority of the problems. If your car is older, then I would start investigating the sensors and wire connections. Or could it be a stuck relief valve? If you have rust/corrosion, then you will have to check everything very carefully. Sorry I can't be of more help on this.
Great video!
Is it possible to connect the replacement compressor to the car without taking out the old one so I could test is it just the compressor not working?
Thanks in advance! :)
Hello! My Audi A6 C6 Allroad 2007 holds air and i can raise it from dynamic to lift and back without a problem. But as soon as i start driving it in any mode the yellow symbol in the dash turns on and lowers it. Any idea why this may be? Recently installed lowering links can this mess with anything that makes it lower it while driving? Thank you!
Alright, I may not have an answer for this, but I can at least help you get started thinking about it. The problem does not seem to be mechanical, or else it would not work at all. If you lift the car, and then go out on the road and take it to regular speeds, then it will lower for that driving condition. By lower links, are you meaning the lower control arms? Replacing them should not affect the sensors. It sounds like you might have fault in the sensors. Did you bump one when you were in there? Get your scan tool and see if you have any faults related to the ride height sensors- or any other suspension faults. I would start there. I have not had that failure myself, so I am only guessing on this one. Start with what codes it is reporting.
Hello sir can you help me where is a cooling fan relay located?is it under driver panel and in which terminal. It’s for 05 Audi A8l, thanks you!
Why did you need to remove the control alarms when you could just drop it through
Well quite simply because my control arms were bad, and needed to be replaced at the same time.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Well that makes sense..lol
Support the lower arm or WILL tear axle boots !
I did pretty much the same thing as you did. Although my pump was shot and under warranty, I replaced and installed a new one. The struts are Arnott refurbished units. My car is still showing a solid yellow light within a minute of starting my car. I have 2008 A8L. What else should I be looking for? Stays in Dynamic mode.
Did you check and replace the relay? Also, did you connect to the car's computer and clear out all the current faults? Once you have cleared all the faults, it should be good to go unless there is a leak or another problem. Don't forget to take the car out of jacking mode- the yellow light will stay on if it is in jack mode.
is this the same process for the d4 audi a8?
It should be- but I don't know if the pump or relay will be in the same place or not. Make sure you have a maintenance manual for your year-
Can air be converted to regular shocks
How do you know the correct angle of the upper control arms when you put the new ones on? Also, when do you remove the bottom bolt of the strut? Did I miss it
Mike, I think what you are asking is the angle that I tightened the new control arms in place before I put the air-spring back in- check your manual for the details, but I figured out that mostly is is to keep them in place, and so that they are close to what will be a resting position for the wheel. There is a measurement, so check your manual- I don't have mine in front of me while I am typing today. But rest assured, I have done this a few times and it is not as critical as you think. Once the weight of the car is on the wheels, it will probably straighten itself out. I did not put the loosening of the bottom bolt on the video- sorry. Sometimes it is hard to get everything on camera. I am guessing that you have fought with it and wondered about an easier way. Well, I use a bigger break over bar when these get stubborn.
awesome videos - thank you !! - have a q tho - have the same d3, and was doing the front strut replacement, got the old out, but the new one i got from rock auto wont go in, do i need to figure out how to bleed air out of the new one so it would go in easier - any tips you could share to make the new one go in easier, right now, its about almost 2 inches too tight from being able to sit in.
If the air line is not attached, then there should be no air in it, and you can just compress it with your hands. I have not used airsprings from Rock Auto, so I cannot comment on that. Try putting it on the floor, and push it down. Measure the length of it and measure the old one and make sure it is the right size.
If the boarder wasn’t closed I’d pay you to come fix my exact car. 2007 A8L.
My shock's will not go down in the front any help on that it's all the way up and the back is down
Enjoyed the video. I have a A8L d4 Hybrid and the front right needs a air sus repair. Want to do it my self . Do you have special videos that i can pay for since i want to take the shock ab-sober out and try to replace the bag. Neil
Neil, All the video I have are posted, no need to buy more- although it is not a bad idea! Replacing the bag is a big hassle, and in the end you don't really get ahead either financially or work wise. I had mine rebuilt by RMT. They will also sell you the bag unit, and you clean up your lower portion and re-use it- but the savings is negligible and the work load is significant. If you decide to go that way, let me know how it works out! Here is RMT's website if that helps you any. Don't buy cheaply made parts! www.rebuildmastertech.com/
Awesome video. I ordered my struts today, so I’ll be embarking on this journey soon. Where did you get the relay from? And does it have a special name besides “relay”?
Any good Audi parts supplier should have the relay. I think I got mine from either ECS Tuning or O'Reilly. They are not hard to find.
TheAmericanGarage1 Thanks. 👍🏻
TheAmericanGarage1 Finished the job today and it’s back to normal. Thanks again for your excellent video. 🎉👍🏻
how did you reset computer by phone?
Mike, I have an app on my tablet with a bluetooth OBD2 connector from Carista. It will allow you to reset many different functions. There are other brands too- but this is a handy thing to have in working on modern cars.
Hi there learned a lot from your video I replaced front passenger air strut and leveling sensor on my 05 Audi A8 4.2 D3 . I have OBDELEVEN pro how do I reset computer
My name is Taurus Groves thank you so much!
Has anyone had problems with air spring causing rattle clunking noise while driving over pit holes
Just based on your statement, I would check the control arms- especially the uppers. They tend to wear out on Audis-
@@TheAmericanGarage1 I’ve already changed upper and lower I’ve also done sway bar bushings and drop links I’ve done track rod ends also still same sound
@@jimbrown9967 Hmm. At this point I would go to a trusted suspension guy, and get a second set of eyes on it. Perhaps where you get your alignments done-
Really good video! You dont happen to have one for rear suspension on an A6?
Sorry, I don't-
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Is the front air suspension/strut disassembly to reassembly identical to the rear break down and rebuild as well? Thank you for such a simple yet descriptive video! God bless You!
Hi T.A.G. , my Audi A8 Quatro makes a continous beep as soon as I start driving the car, then it stops after like 4 to 5 minutes. What do you think I should do? Te Thank you .
Is the beep coming from the back of the car? That would be the warning that the rear parking sensors may have gone bad. Are there any dash warnings associated with it?
The beeping noise seems to be coming from the dashboard and yes the parking brake letters are flashing as well as the parking button next to the shifter thanks TAG.👊
Any help? We have checked for leaks and found nothing, yet lately, I have experienced the following.
The compressor will turn on every 5-10 minutes, stays on for a minute, and turn off yet another thing that I have noticed is that before, I was able to lift the car real fast now as soon as I press the up bottom the compressor will go on. The vehicle will lift very slow, not like before. After the car gets to raise the compressor will turn off. Leaving the car for a complete week car is keeping high, and after turning the vehicle on compressor will not turn on yet. As I drive the car, I can hear a click under the dash, and the compressor will turn on for a minute. Any idea what can be causing the compressor to turn on and off so often? Also, I have noticed that if I wanted to lower the car, sometimes will take longer than before.
btw there are no dash lights on.
Sounds like the compressor is getting hot and turning itself off. It has that as a safety backup so you don't burn out the pump. It gets hot from working too much. If that is happening, I would try rebuilding the pump- search online for Bagpiping Andy's rebuild kit- they are about $45. If the pump is turning off frequently, it is not making as much compressed air as it should, gets too hot and turns off. Another thing to check- sometimes- not often- the temperature sensor goes bad so check it too. If you have an OBD2 unit to plug in and diagnose the car, it will tell you if it is overheating the pump.
Ok, let me explain something too- The air suspension has no real way to identify a leak in a strut- so, they put a temperature sensor to flag when the pump is working too long. This will either identify a leak, or that the pump is wearing out. So, the fact that your dash lights are not coming on makes me think that it is working often enough to keep the car from sinking, but that it can't pump effectively enough. Rebuild the pump and check for leaks would be my course of action.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Well, the problem is the compressor is turning on and off even when the system is not in use. Did I get to think that maybe the block valve is not working correctly? The car goes up very slow and at times to go down will take time too it is not like before.
At any rate, thank you for your comment appreciated
@@lupecastillo7669 I haven't had any blocked valves, that would be a whole other problem. Sorry I cannot advise you on that one. However, the system is always in use, even when the car is off. The only time the suspension is not actively in use is when it is in jacking mode, otherwise, in the morning it would be on the ground every single morning. Once I forgot to put it in jacking mode when I went to get my tires rotated- well when the set it down it went all the way to the ground! I had to start it and wait 20 minutes before the car started sorting itself out, so don't forget that.
I have sort of the same problem my suspension on the back won’t come up an my trunk won’t lock my battery was dead I boosted would a low voltage battery cause the suspension from coming up right away the pump comes on the shuts of.
Pete, I am going to have to give this one some thought. My first impression is no, a low battery would not cause the front to come up but not the back. But first things first, charge the battery or get a new one if it has gone bad, and eliminate that as a cause. Once the air has been pumped into the system, there is a regulator that distributes it to the four wheels. If the front is up but the back is not, it sounds like a leak in the back. Your trunk not locking could be a low battery issue. Fix that first, and then see what happens. A low battery will have all kinds of crazy symptoms as things are trying to run with not enough electricity. Make sure that you check the alternator, and make sure it is doing its job, or you will go through batteries. The pump on your suspension does not need to run very long at all when the system is functioning with no leaks, and unless you are right there down by the pump, it is hard to detect it running at all. Check the battery level in the MMI display, and make sure you are getting 100%, and do an alternator check. Then let's see what is happening. Hope this helps.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 The situation that is going on on my 2006 A8 is my rear air suspension is not lowering although the front at times is and the lift mode sometime on the monitor screen in my car turns from red to grey and the air suspension light turns on every once in a while, could that very well be my rear air suspension is going out? And is the concept the same when changing the front air suspension the same as the rear ?
Danke 100% tooop
Hello sir, can you please post a link where to get this exact kit that you used here, thanks great video
check out RMT- www.rebuildmastertech.com this is where I got my parts
here is the place I got the compressor kit- www.bagpipingandy.com
@@TheAmericanGarage1 thank you for answering in such a short time, in your video you replaced the compressor cylinder as well but looks like it doesn't come in this kit, did you order it from a different place? Any info on that would be much appreciated
@@filipajdacic9627 just tell andy that you need the cylinder as well, he has them
@@TheAmericanGarage1 great, thank you very much
What is the the company that sell rebuilt struts?
There are several, I used RMT.
I have a question for you sir. In my case it's phaeton 2004 6.0 v12. My dad spent his life savings to buy phaeton as a sort of joy, and the car broke just now, the front right strut is leaking thru top.
Anyways , I purchased 2 new struts for him. I would know how to replace them, my concern is following:
Does whole car need to be jacked up ? - Or can I jack up just the front side of car and rest it on V stands.
Second, the part about resetting system using diagnostics is unknown. Do I need VAG or there is a way to do it using android application connected thru ELM327 interface ?
I would greatly appreciate your time to help me on this. Breaks my heart seeing dad all sad about the car as he can't afford to repair it.
I threw subscribe to you too, as I do like the content and the detailed training on replacement.
Dylan, thank you for watching! Alright, I have not worked on a Phaeton specifically, so my comments will be general. I am assuming you have an air suspension similar to the A8. If you are just replacing the front airsprings, then it is fine to just jack up the front. However, with air suspension, make sure you put the car in jacking mode so the suspension does not try to adjust while up on the jacks. VAG is great, but if you cannot get it, then you can get a bluetooth OBD 2 like Carista with an app on your handheld device. Find a device that is compatible with your car. Best wishes with your project.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Thank you so much for taking the time to respond ! I will give it a shot and let you know how that goes. I am pretty assured they have same suspension principle but we will see once I dive in :) Have blessed holidays man !
@@TheAmericanGarage1 Actually one more, I am so sorry. This is still concerning me. I cannot have the device anytime soon as I have to order it. Is the app necessary or the car can pressurize the suspension and the new strut once placed out of jack mode. Thank you so much I appreciate your time, you are helping me a lot here.
Are you willing to share the company you bought from? I am looking at a company in Florida for my D3 S8.
if you look very carefully you can see a paper on my windshield that says RMT- that is who I got my air-springs from. And no, they are not paying me to say it- but hey! Tell them where you heard it and maybe they will! I think they are in Florida as well.
@@TheAmericanGarage1 That's the one I was looking at. Are you happy with them still? I need to call them to figure out which ones to get since I have an S8.
Thats an aftermarket
Buy a SILVER connector blade 40a relay. Far Better quality.
Local repair told me all struts go up and down but may have been lifted without turning them off. Need all four struts to repair! Can’t believe all are bad if they all raise and lower. Don’t know what to do?
That doesn't make sense- get a second opinion. Try this- put the car in lift mode, let it raise all the way up. Then put it in jacking mode, and let the car sit overnight. If the struts are bad, it will be sitting on the floor in the morning. If this is the case, then your pump is still working, but the leaky struts can't hold air. If this is happening, then your pump will not work right for very much longer, as it is being overworked. Find out if you have a leak first.
TheAmericanGarage1 I put the car in raise mode and then when it stopped I put it in Jack mode and these are the readings I got at each wheel well. Left front 16 1/2
Right front 16 1/8
Right rear 16 3/8
Right rear 17 even I will check again in the morning to see what happens
I meant the left ear is at 17 even
TheAmericanGarage1 I’ll let the car sit overnight in the suspension did not drop at all.
@@jsmith05403 Okay Jeff, if the car was in jack mode overnight, and it did not drop, then there is no leak in the air-springs. What happens normally is the car actively adjusts it's height all the time- even when it is sitting overnight. Jack mode turns off the car's ability to adjust and stays in one place. The pump will not turn on to pump the car up if it sinks. The reason we have a jack mode is because of this active suspension. Ever forget to turn off jack mode when you go to the tire store? I did once. The car gets jacked up and the tires are taken off- the car sees that the ride height is too high and lets the air all out. They put the tires on and let the car down and the car goes all the way- or nearly so- to the ground. Of course I had to turn the car on and let it sit there 10 minutes while it set itself right. When jack mode is on, none of this happens. The pumps does not turn on to right the car if it gets low, and it doesn't let air out if it senses too high. So, with jack mode on overnight and no drop, there are no leaks in the system. I check mine from time to time to be sure. I have noticed that sometimes the dash lights will come on showing the car is low. I noticed that if I raise the car semi-regularly, then this doesn't happen as much. I tend to raise it when I go to the car wash so I don't hit the bottom on anything. Have a trusted mechanic double check you, but it sounds like your air springs are fine. Remember there are basically three things that typically go wrong in the air suspension- leaky strut, worn out pump, or the relay goes out. I just reread you initial comment- forgetting to turn on jack mode will not ruin your air-springs when the car is lifted- but it is a damn annoyance because the car will be on the ground. Reset the computer, put it in lift mode, wait for it to come up, put it back in automatic or dynamic- whichever you like, let the car sit and get itself back together while it is running. Don't go on down the road until that green light turns off though.
Play speed 1.75 is a must #thank me later
Nice well presented video. But if you want to avoid having all that trouble in the first place, there is one VERY simple thing you can do!! That is, don't buy German cars. They are junk and everything them put on them breaks, including plastic parts.
Hello sir, I have the same issue with my Audi a8. My compressor runs for about 30 seconds and it turns off but the car does not lift up. With that being said do u think the compressor is fine but my suspension is bad? And do I need to replace both the compressor and suspension or just suspension at this point, I'm very limited on the budget
It is hard to say the exact problem, but since the pump is working 30 seconds and turning off, this is a good indication that the pump is working too hard and overheating- so the computer turns it off. This is probably an indication of a leak in an airspring. Look up Bagpiping Andy- he makes a rebuild kit that fixes the pump- then you need to find the source of the leak. Look at the beginning section of the video- you will need to see which corner of the car is lower than the rest- that is probably the leak. With a leaky system, the pump is going to work too hard. If this is your problem, then rebuild the pump, and get a new relay as well. It is best to replace airpsrings in pairs- I replaced my front ones as you have seen- the rear ones last a lot longer than the front ones. I used rebuilt units and saved a bundle
If you had the problem long enough for it to no longer raise, you both have a leak AND a worn pump piston ring. I have 2 of these cars at the moment and am on my 5th and 6th air ride car. All of them but 1 I bought because owners couldn't pay the repair bills. You MAY only have a huge air leak but it doesnt take long to burn the pump.
@@Veikra Agreed.