If you have a diesel pusher, a higher-end Class A, or even a Class C with air-assist suspension, part of what makes your ride smooth is something you almost never see: your air ride system.
And that’s exactly the problem. It’s out of sight, so it’s easy to ignore until something feels off. By then, you may already be dealing with worn components, air leaks, or a suspension system that’s no longer doing its job safely.
What your air suspension actually does
Your air ride system isn’t just about comfort. It plays a big role in how your RV handles, how it carries weight, and how it sits on the road.
It helps:
• Support the weight of your coach
• Maintain proper ride height
• Improve ride quality and stability
• On some rigs, it may also help with leveling when parked, though many RVs rely on hydraulic jacks for that.
One key thing to understand: ride height matters. Suspension manufacturers stress that these systems are designed to operate at a specific height. If your RV is riding too low or unevenly, it’s not just uncomfortable, but it can also affect handling and put extra stress on other components.
Why air springs don’t last forever
Air springs (airbags) are made of rubber—just like your tires. And just like tires, they age whether you’re driving or not.
Over time, they can:
• Dry out
• Crack
• Wear from rubbing or debris
• Weaken internally
Eventually, they fail.
If you’ve got a coach that’s 10+ years old and you’ve never looked closely at the airbags, now is the time.
What to check (or have checked)
A proper inspection goes beyond just glancing at the airbags. The whole system matters. You—or better yet, a qualified shop—should be looking at:
• Airbags (for cracks, wear, or exposed cords)
• Air lines and fittings
• Height control valves
• Shock absorbers
• Mounting brackets and hardware
• Any signs of rubbing, corrosion, or leaks
Warning signs you shouldn’t ignore
Your RV will usually give you clues when something isn’t right. Pay attention if you notice:
• One side of the coach sitting lower than the other
• The RV not reaching normal ride height
• A harsher, rougher ride than usual
• The compressor running more often than it used to
• A hissing sound (air leak)
• The coach slowly settling when parked
• Visible cracks or wear on the airbags
• If you ever see fabric cord showing through the rubber, treat that like you would a tire showing cords: it needs to be replaced immediately.
A critical safety warning
This is not something to take lightly.
Never go under your RV unless it is properly supported with heavy-duty, correctly rated stands or blocking placed at the frame. Not leveling jacks. Not the air suspension. Not “it should be fine for a minute.”
Air systems can lose pressure without warning. If that happens while you’re underneath, the coach can drop. People have been seriously injured or killed this way.
If you’re not 100% sure how to safely support your RV, don’t go under it. Period.
Should you replace airbags yourself?
Some experienced RVers will consider doing this job themselves. But this isn’t a simple swap.
You’re dealing with:
• A very heavy vehicle that must be safely lifted and supported
• Pressurized air systems
• Potentially rusted or seized hardware
• Tight working spaces
• The need to properly reassemble and check for leaks
And here’s another thing: Replacing the airbag might not be the only issue. Lines, valves, and fittings often need attention too. For most people, this is a job better left to a qualified truck or motorhome chassis shop.
Parts and replacement in 2026
If you do need replacement airbags, don’t guess.
Air springs may look similar, but small differences matter—mounting plates, height, fittings, and load ratings all have to match your suspension.
Replacement airbags and related components can usually be found through your RV or chassis manufacturer, as well as parts suppliers that specialize in Class A motorhomes and commercial trucks. There are also plenty of online retailers offering these parts. Wherever you shop, make sure you’re using the exact part number. Always verify by:
• Part number
• Chassis model
• Or VIN
There can still be wide price differences depending on where you shop, but accuracy matters more than saving a few dollars on the wrong part.
The bottom line
If your RV doesn’t sit right, doesn’t ride right, or just feels “off,” don’t ignore it. It’s an important part of what keeps your RV stable and safe on the road. And when it starts to fail, it usually gives you warning signs first.
The key is paying attention before those warnings turn into a much bigger and potentially dangerous problem.
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