How to Fix Jeep Grand Cherokee Suspension Problems?

If you are using Jeep Grand Cherokee and landed here due to a suspension problem, you are not alone. Several factors can cause Jeep Grand Cherokee suspension problems, and if you are experiencing any of these issues with your vehicle, it is essential to get them fixed as soon as possible. So how to fix Jeep Grand Cherokee suspension problems?

You can fix the Jeep Grand Cherokee suspension problems by:

• Resetting the air suspension
  
• Replacing the strut of the airbag
  
• Replacing the air compressor
  
• Replacing the air valve
  
• Fixing the Qudra Lift suspension leakage

These are some of the common problems that are seen with the suspension of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. you can fix these issues or opt for a vehicle’s suspension replacement kit.

This article will outline some common causes for Jeep Grand Cherokee suspension problems as well as some steps you can take to fix them. So stay along with it.

What is Air Suspension in Jeep Grand Cherokee?

Air suspension or air compressor is seen near the passenger side of the engine. It is behind the rear seats of the cargo floor and can also be found in car manual.

Sometimes, the suspension gets bad, and the vehicle offers a low and non-smooth ride. It is time to check the suspension if you also notice loud and rough noises from the car.

Working of Suspension in Jeep Grand Cherokee:

Jeep Grand Cherokee comprises of a quadra lift suspension. The quadra-lift air suspension system is a closed-loop system in the vehicle. It helps in adjusting the air spring ride in a faster way in the vehicle. 

There are some other competitors in the market too, which use the air compressor that draws in and out the exhaust air for proper spring operation. Quadra-lift suspension helps in circulating the nitrogen, which is in pressurized form, between the air springs and reservoirs of the vehicle.

This system eliminates the need for an air dryer that can remove the moisture from the atmospheric air entering the vehicle since moisture is eliminated at a high rate, so there are fewer chances of corrosion.

Height sensors in the rear end and front part of the vehicle help measure the gap between the body and wheel of a vehicle.

The information from this region is signaled back to the control unit of suspension so that the air strut height can be adjusted.

The ASCM (air suspension control module) controls the ride height of struts. There are four riding modes of Quadra-lift suspension in which each one has its own benefit:

Common Problems Associated with Jeep Grand Cherokee Suspension:

There are various suspension problems associated with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Some of them are:

• The issue of immediate service warning message light
  
•  The issue of a noisy compressor
  
•  The issue of the nose dive warning message
  
•  The issue of failed air springs
  
•  The issue of punctured airlines
  
•  The sagging of the rear side of the vehicle

Common Failure Points of Suspension:

1. Air Spring:

Air spring is one of the most common regions of suspension failure. Air spring in the Grand Cherokee can also wear out like the other parts including the shock, strut and coil spring.

The cracks visible in this point disturb its working due to bad weather and repeat movements of compression and decompression cycles.

2. Air Dryer:

There are air dryers and filters in suspension system that helps in keeping the moisture away from the component.

Moisture can enter the tight tolerances when the dryer stops working. This entrance of moisture can cause corrosion and rust in suspension.

3. Compressor:

There is a compressor with the suspension that can also wear out due to several reasons. The ride becomes bumpy and air bags are not seen in the inflated state when the compressor fails to work. The problem with airbag wears out the compressor.

4. Air Lines:

Air lines are the small pipes that connect the air bags with other components of suspension. Air lines can rub against the other parts when suspension is moved.

This rubbing can cause leakage and sagging around the corner. You can easily diagnose this issue and is easier to replace.

5. Not Driving the Jeep For Some Time:

If you haven’t driven your Jeep for about a month, you will find that “Service Air Suspension Immediately” pops up. This may happen more in the winter because the lift system gets stuck.

6. Nasty Shocks:

Nasty shocks can be another reason for the Grand Cherokee’s suspension issues. 

If your car’s shocks are worn out, it will be challenging to absorb bumps and potholes. The tires may then end up hitting the bottom of the vehicle and can cause sagging in the suspension.

7. Grand Cherokee Suspension Leak:

A common issue with the quadra-lift suspension in Jeep is that it can leak, and consequently, the front of the car will be lower than its actual position. The upper guard almost touches the wheel due to the leakage.

How to Fix the Issues of Suspension of Jeep Grand Cherokee:

The issues of suspension might seem complex, but the solutions are easy and affordable. Generally the suspension problems are overall similar for everyone, which can be fixed through the help of the user’s manual.

You can follow the methods mentioned below for fixing the suspension problems of your Jeep Grand Cherokee, including the diagnosis of the scanner, supporting the jack stands, and improving the leakage of air.

1. Replacing the Air Bag Strut:

Jeep Grand Cherokee has an airbag over its strut region and has a separate airbag spring with a strut layout on the rear side. It is easy to replace the air spring, just like a standard strut.

You can replace it using the following steps:

1. Remove the fender line to gain access to the strut.
   
2.  Remove the wires and sensors from the retention bracket and remove the nut holding.
   
3.  Remove away the large bolts that play a role in connecting the strut to the spindle.
   
4.  Move the engine bay to remove the Torx bolts in the damper cover.
   
5.  Unclip the wiring harness from the vehicle and unfasten the three bolts that hold the strut.

The airbag slides out easily when the bolts are unfastened. You can use the dampers and clean them with the standard car washing soap if they are in good condition.

Make sure to dry them out before installing the new airbags in the vehicle. Remember to install the supplied o-rings in the vehicle.

2. Replacing the Air Compressor:

An Air compressor, or simply a compressor, is a large piece below the vehicle’s spare tire. There are four bolts in a jeep that secure the cover of the compressor. You can remove the valve block for disconnecting the airlines.

• There are three electrical connections for unplugging. You can remove the four mounting bolts holding the compressor in place and lift out the compressor.
  
• It is better to install the compressor in reverse order and install them along with the compressor bolts and cover bolts.

3. Replacing the Air Valve:

The Air valve is a component bolted to the suspension sub-frame and a bolt of rubber isolation.

• Disconnect the air lines of the valve and electrical connection.
  
•  One of the valves is for valve power, and the other is for the air pressure sensor.
  
•  Unbolt the mounts with rubber isolators and remove the air valve at last.
  
•  Reassemble the components in the opposite method and torque the airlines at 1.7 pound-feet.

4. Reset the Air Suspension:

Step 1: To start, remove your battery’s positive terminal for around 5 to 7 minutes.

Step 2: Disconnect the following fuses:

1. F05- Air Suspension Compressor
2. F50- Air Suspension Mod
3. F87- Air Suspension/TT

Step 3: Now, connect back all the fuses you’ve taken off in step 2.

Step 4: Now, connect the positive terminal of your battery that you disconnected in step 1

Step 5: Start your jeep

Step 6: Wait for 10 Minutes

Step 7: Now verify the quadra-lift system by adjusting the ride height.

Tips for Troubleshooting the Suspension System of Jeep Grand Cherokee:

The suspension system of the Jeep Grand Cherokee starts to wear out over time. The accumulation of mileage is also responsible for this act.

The Quadra-lift has its diagnostic measures like the other suspension systems of vehicles. The suspension components remain connected even when one component fails to work.

For example, when there is an issue with the air strut due to leakage, the system still keeps on working, and it may seem that there is a problem with a weak compressor.

It is better to troubleshoot the issues on time which can help to avoid the failure of components. For example, the leakage in the air springs or any airline can cause the compressor to function correctly to maintain the gas pressure in the system. This issue can lead to the burn-out of the compressor.

There are two methods of diagnosing the issues on your own:

• The first approach is to scan the OBD to detect the DTC fault codes. It helps to identify that either the specific component malfunctioned or properly failed to work.

• The second approach involves tracing all lines between the reservoir tank to the compressor and the vehicle’s air springs. It is advisable to inspect these regions to detect any possible leakage. The Jeep Grand Cherokee reservoir tank is situated under the rear seats.

The air suspension compressor is located near the passenger wheel. You can spray soap on the connectors and airlines to check the air bubbles. The formation of bubbles can indicate the point of leakage, which helps replace the damaged portion.

You can check the air suspension system, which is seen under the bonnet. The compressor might seize out if it is detected as a blown-out piece.

Other common issues are associated with the compressor, including freezing temperatures and premature failure of the vehicle.

Is It Possible to Drive With a Broken Air Suspension in Jeep Grand Cherokee?

It is recommended not to drive with the worn-out shocks, struts, and springs of your Jeep Grand Cherokee. You can fix the broken air suspension system in your vehicle if they are failed.

The failed parts of the suspension can cause the vehicle’s negative handling characteristics and hinder the Jeep’s overall performance.

It is a common observation that when a person ignores a repair of airbag failure, which can cost $100 for fixation, it results in hundreds of dollars later, along with other detected issues. Therefore, fixing the problems over time is better to avoid such consequences.

Cost for Fixing the Jeep Grand Cherokee Suspension Problems:

It will cost you an average of $2879 to replace the Jeep Grand Cherokee suspension air spring. You need to pay around $20 in Labour costs.

However, the cost of repairing air suspension systems varies based on the required type and amount of work.

Final Thought:

The air suspension system on the Jeep Grand Cherokee is an excellent enhancement for passengers. You can now cruise in any road condition with minimal discomfort. 

However, in case of a suspension issue, it is recommended that you take action at the earliest to avoid further damage.

Also Read:

Jeep Touch Screen Not Working-How to Fix? 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

How much cost is required to fix the air suspension problem on Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The total cost needed for fixing the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s suspension problem falls between the average price of $2000-$3000. The labor costs range between $180-$200 and vary from person to person.

Are the air suspension components of the Jeep Grand Cherokee considered reliable?

The Jeep Grand Cherokee suspension components are reliable, but they can be worn out with time. For example, the Quadra-lift suspension has a limited working life, and its parts wear down after a limited period.

How long does the air suspension last for a jeep?

The air suspension components last according to their working and mode of usage. The air struts or airbags can cover about 1,00,000 miles of area.

How much cost is required to replace the struts on Jeep Grand Cherokee?

The average price for replacing the struts on Jeep Grand Cherokee falls in between the range of $2000-$2800. In addition, the labor costs fall in between the range of $1000-$1900.