E53 front suspension module - replace?

[fdX512]

Quick update
Taking my X back to dealer on Monday as they won't admit it but will review and reset my settings again.
I'll find out by end of day if they were wrong or if it really is the dreaded EHC module

[Ricky Bobby]

Wait so when you got it back it was high as hell, and now the new bag leaked to below normal height? Is that only on one corner?

Or do you have another leak from an original bag?

In my opinion the module is blamed for failure way too much when in fact it is incompetent technicians working on your car throwing parts at a problem they don't know how to properly diagnose because of the vehicles age (not current).

The module of mine was replaced by the previous owner before he sold me the car, but guess what, I had two leaking air struts which leaked down to the fender wells the morning after I took delivery of the X, and AFTER that 1300 dollar replacement, I still had a lingering code for the air pump.

Guess what? Previous owner left the X with leaking air struts too long, compressor burnt out of spec. I replaced it, cleared the module of errors and have been air suspension trouble free for a year and a half.

I doubt very highly that him replacing the module helped my X, because I still had issues when I received my car that had nothing to do with the module. If the module can't communicate or can't calibrate ride height that might be one thing. But I'm betting your techs are the problem.

[fdX512]

No, when they first gave it back the height setting was placed at off road height as the distance from my wheels to the arch was quite high. The next time I got my car the height setting was below normal as if it was on "access height mode" but bags still inflated. Definitely no bag leaks.
So from all the info I got here on the forums and conversation from Vitek here in Calgary, I contacted the dealer and expressed my doubts on their "correct" air strut R&R and so they have agreed to take another shot at it again.

[fdX512]

An update to my little issue...
I decided to go ahead and replace my ehc module, however I decided to not use the dealership and purchased my module from ECS at a much lower price than the dealership.
I'm glad to say my baby is now back to its normal glory.
I do have a new small issue ~ after 10 years my battery is now showing below normal voltage and needs replacement. Any suggestion if I should replace with OEM battery or is there a better aftermarket option? Any suggestion is appreciated

[Ricky Bobby]

I'm glad you fixed your issues, FWIW the previous owner replaced my module too before I bought my X, its pricey, but the suspension works great.

I think that what happens to the module is similar to what happens with the compressor, when it has faults stored, cleared, stored again, eventually it get confused or something similar and just doesnt work right to keep the system working properly. Just a theory of mine, but I've noticed that if suspension issues aren't taken care of in a timely fashion, first the compressor burns out, then the module won't work properly.

Either way, glad she is working great. Did you run test 9 on the OBC while running to check the voltage? It could be the voltage regulator in your alternator you know. However, if you're positive that your battery is original and 10 years old, don't even test it, go and replace it now. That battery is well beyond its usable life.

Just check your CCA and operating cranking amps rating on the battery and fit it with a like replacement, Quicksilver I believe has the chart showing that there are 2 manufacturers who make most of the batteries in the US. I have a Bosch battery installed from Pep Boys for 2 years now and not a single issue.

Good luck!

[Doru]

Hey Fdx512. You can buy a Deka battery in Calgary. They are exact fit, with higher CCA than the original and very good quality. Here is the catalog you can chose your battery, and here is the contact info (NE):
East Penn Canada
3117 16th Street N.E.
Calgary, AB T2E 7K8
Phone: 403-250-6640 / 1-800-363-3166
Fax: 403-291-5027
Email: [email protected]
www.eastpenncanada.com