Rear Air Spring Replacement - with photos
 

I finally got sick of my leaking air suspension and decided to replace both rear air springs, even though only the right one was leaking. I figure they are both 12 years old and have done 220,000km so it was best to replace both, especially when shipping from USA was $80 for one spring or only $100 for both.

I purchased the new air springs from Arnott Industries for just $99.25 each. I also found a discount code BENZWORLD0312 which gave me 10% off :-)

The links to the new springs are:

New Rear Right Comfort Air Suspension Air Spring for 2000-2006 (w/ rear air leveling ONLY) X5
New Rear Left Comfort Air Suspension Air Spring for 2000-2006 (w/ rear air leveling ONLY) X5

I found the sales team at Arnott to be very helpful in confirming the part numbers and was given a quick quote for shipping to New Zealand.

The parts were shipped on Thursday and arrived in New Zealand on the Tuesday, which is excellent considering the distance and timezones crossed. Parts were well packaged too.

As mentioned in other posts, pulling the car apart takes longer than actually changing the springs, in fact changing the springs was so quick that I went through the documentation again thinking I must have missed some steps!

Attachment 54763
Putting the springs side by side shows how perished and out of shape the old springs were.

Attachment 54764
The cracking in the old right spring (the one that was leaking) is very obvious.

Attachment 54765
Most of the time was spent getting all the plastic parts out of the boot (trunk for you Americans) and getting the X5 up on the axle stands.

I had only the supplied jack to use, which SUCKS since it doesn't lift straight up, but actually pulls the X5 towards you as it lifts. It is pretty scarey when you are lifting the second side up, and notice the axle stand on the far side leaning over about 15 degrees! I ended up grabbing the jack from my wife's car, which worked much better as it lifts straight up.
I lifted the whole rear of the X5 up and placed it on my 4ton axle stands so I could work on both sides at once. DON'T DO THIS JOB WITHOUT AXLE STANDS!

After I had the X5 on the axle stands, and had the wheels off, I then pulled the fuses and released the air from the reservoirs by undoing the banjo bolts slightly. It takes a few minutes for all the air to empty out, so be patient and grab a beer.

Attachment 54766
Attachment 54767
One of my air reservoirs was replaced a few years ago (due to a broken plastic clamp) so I had the original one on the left side and the newer one on the right. The older one was easier to work with, as the pipe from the reservoir to the air spring can be disconnected at both ends, giving you more freedom to work. The newer one can only disconnect at the air spring, so the black pipe (which is very stiff) is constantly in the way.

Attachment 54768
Attachment 54769
Attachment 54770
This is what the left side looks like once the air spring is out. I was happy to see that even with 12 years and 220,000km on the clock, there is no rust anywhere. It was also a good chance to check all the bushings and boots. You can also see my nice new bright yellow shocks, replaced just two weeks ago (one was leaking so I replaced them both).

Attachment 54771
When I pulled the old air springs out, each one had this cardboard gasket sitting on top between the spring and the car. There was no mention of this in the TIS documentation, and no replacement with the new springs, so I gave them both a good clean and put them on top of the new springs. They just sit on top, no glue or anything. I guess they are just there to prevent rattles?

Attachment 54772
Attachment 54773
As mentioned, replacing the springs is very easy. Actually placing the new springs is best if you have a helper to help guide the pins into place from above and attach the clips, but this only takes about 2 minutes per side and doesn't cause dirty hands if you have a wife that doesn't like spending time in the garage :-)

Probably the most difficult part of the whole process (apart from the useless OEM jack) was getting the clips off the bottom of the old air springs. I found a long handled flat head screw driver helped in pushing them part way off, and then I could pull them the rest of the way off with my fingers. You will need a torch as well to see what you are doing.

After I had everything back together, I plugged all the fuses in, expecting the air compressor to start pumping, but nothing. I tried turning on the key, and even started the car (while still on the axle stands) but still nothing. No errors, just nothing.

So I turned the key off again, pulled the fuses and put the wheels back on so that I could lower the truck onto the ground. I lowered the whole rear end down so it was still on the axle stands, but at their lowest setting. This had the truck sitting at about half of its normal height, and avoided having it sitting on completely deflated air springs. I then put the fuses back in and immediately the compressor kicked in and lifted the truck up off the axle stands. Success!

I checked for leaks with some soapy water, and then went for a 20km drive. Everything seemed fine.

Even better, 4 days later and the truck has not deflated at all! And with new air springs and shocks, it feels great, much less body roll through the corners. With 1200km of driving over mostly rough gravel roads coming up this weekend while chasing the WRC Rally, it will be nice knowing everything is nice and new.

Good job and thanks for sharing! :thumbup:

Quote: so be patient and grab a beer...... ehm...... only one? XD

Tnx for sharing, great write-up!

Thanks for taking the time to do the write up and take the pics. I always think of doing this after it's too late and the job is almost done

Great write up!! I just got my arnott replacements yesterday. I couldn't find any discount codes, oh well. How does the bottom of the air strut go into the A arm. Is there anything holding it in or is it just held in by compression?

If you look in my 7th photo, you'll see a hole that the bottom of the air spring fits into. This hole has a notch in one side which you need to make sure you get lined up right, otherwise you will not be able to get the clip on underneath. It is pretty easy to move everything around until it drops into place, just remember to take the cap (or whatever you are using to protect the hose connection on the top of the air spring) off first, otherwise you will not be able to expand the air spring down to meet the A arm. The clip underneath goes on much easier than it comes off.

Also, make sure you fit the top of the air spring with its clips before you attempt to do the bottom.

Great job and thanks for sharing your experience!

The Arnott spring costs $100 each, plus shipping cost, the total cost will not be cheaper than the OEM. In Hong Kong, each side brand new spring costs $160 (not from BMW official dealer but some automobile retailer), one pair costs $320. If I order Arnott spring, one pair costs $200 plus around $50 shipping cost, total cost is $250, only $70 difference between oem and Arnott. In this case, I will rather lean to oem, unless the product quality of Arnott is much better than oem. Anyone can shed some light on this decision please?

Arnott provides a life time warranty, BMW OEM does not. It's your choice.

Nice work in your descriptions and pictures. Will bookmark this for future reference.

Life time warranty is only for USA market, only 1 year warranty for overseas market.

Which fuses do you remove for doing this job?

Just open right side pannel in your trunk, the subwoofer side, then you will find the fuse box inside, the 30a fuse that is the most front one. You can find the description on the back of the pannel saying which fuse for which function.

BMW New Zealand quoted me $300 EACH for the air springs, with a 10-14 day delivery time.

That is what the dealer quotes to me here in Hong Kong. You may try some independent car parts dealer who also carries out BMW parts business. They will be definitely cheap, half price for the exact same OEM parts. Here in Hong Kong, there are lots of independent car parts dealer who sells OEM BMW parts at very cheap price. For example, for front air spring struts, US$540 each side; rear air sping, US$160 each side. Some OEM product for suspension like Lemfoeder control arms are also sold at a very low price, much cheaper than some online shop on the internet. Of course, those parts from indepedent dealers have no warranty.

Thanks for the write up OP. I just replaced my rear right air spring last night after it started to sag a few weeks ago. I have a 2001 4.4 Sport model so I ordered Arnott part A-2503 which replaces BMW part # 37126750356. Total for the part was $113.51. I ordered on 7/20 and received the part on 7/23. I did the install by myself last night in about 60 minutes.

I had my left rear spring fail about 2 years ago and at the time was too busy to DIY so I ended up having a local independent shop replace the spring. Total then was $510 and included 3 hours of labor at $99/hr. After doing the second spring myself last night I feel like I was ripped off on the labor. No way this takes a mechanic close to three hours when I did it myself (for the first time) in about 60 minutes. I am glad I saved $400 this time around though. :D

Good Job....

My vehicle is 2001 BMW X5 4.4i Sports. Do I need comfort air spring or sport air spring? I see yours is also sportpac but you ordered comfort version of the air spring. Let me know Thanks.

My vehicle is 2001 BMW X5 4.4i Sports. Do I need comfort air spring or Sport air spring? Thanks.

Their website says about the sport springs:

Besides Sport Suspension the BMW X5 Sport Package consisted of black exterior trim and, for the 4.4i, 19-inch tires. Vehicles equipped with the the Sport Suspension from the factory have firmer, shorter springs that result in a lowered vehicle stance, along with shock absorbers that have been valved to yield firmer dampening.

Based on that I would think you want the Sport.

Thanks TwinsPoppa.

Arnott® A-2407 - BMW X5 2000-2006 Suspension Air Spring
Arnott® A-2467 - BMW X5 2000-2006 Suspension Air Spring

A few dollars cheaper than order directly from Arnott. Parts are made in Mexico and Assembled in USA.

I have a driver side for sale if anybody is interested.

Great write-up! I have an 04 with approx.100K miles. When do you think I should be concerned about the air springs and how do you detect a leaking bag? Thank You

I detect leak due to each morning the rear end seems to be low. When I open the door, I hear hissing sound seem to me that the compressor is trying to jack up the air spring.

Now I am at the point to disconnect the BIG BLACK PIPE from Air Bag. I try to follow instruction of

https://www.arnottindustries.com/ftp...501-2504RR.pdf

I just could not release it. Any suggestion? (I already release the air from the air bag since I can squeeze the air back through compressor and air escaped from compressor release valve.)

I answer my own question:

Just squeeze the clip and pull. there is no downward movement. No force really needed here.

As you can see in the 2nd picture bellow, when squeezed, black clip lip inside the tube disappeared. 3rd picture shows clips related to this job.

Nice write up!
 

X5Kiwi- thanks for this! I am certain that it will help many now and in the future.

Just curious, however, did you see the need to replace the springs after you replaced the shocks when you had an opportunity to get a good look at them up close? Or was it feel? Another words, had you a crystal ball would you (I'm guessing yes) have replaced both at the same time? [you mentioned that you just did the yellow shocks two weeks prior in the write up]

Thanks again:thumbup:

Great write up and replaced my left side this morning with Arnott bag. Still have to do the right side but left would no longer hold air so now I can atleast drive it now.

Replacing bag was about 15 min on my own but getting to it was about an hour. I have a sliding rear tray and you have to remove the bars to ge to the top of the bag.


Everything aired up and drives great. Not sure how much it saved me but was worth it.


Thanks to post like these I did it myself


Shawn

X5Kiwi- thank you for the nice write-up and photos--and for saving me money and time.

Right rear was leaking so went ahead and replaced both with Arnott bags. Everything went smoothly, and the X now rides like new again.

Thanks again Xoutpost!

Wow, the compressor is cheaper on this site too...

Excellent write up and follow up comments!!! This is a definite bookmark!

Great write up!I am thinking to change my rear sir springs too for the reason from time to time one side is lower than the other.
This site deserves to be bookmarked for future parts too.

I just did this and it all went fine! very easy job!
only problem is i need to replace one of those small black clips that clip the hose to the top of the air spring. i cant find a part number anywhere!
does anyone know how i could get a hold of one?

its the clip on the end of this hose: http://www.ecstuning.com/Search/37126755021/ES66212/

pretty sure you need to order a new hose, i dont know if they sell the clips separately, let me check realoem

yeah from what i am discovering you need to buy the entire reservoir now...which is just rediculous!

68 bucks. Could be worse.

If you waited to replace them after a while of leaking, you'd be replacing a compressor too at 500 bucks from Arnott!

true, but i would have to replace both reserviors as the design seems to have changed...

One of those clips broke on my X5 a few years ago, so I had to buy a whole new reservoir. The job was done by BMW New Zealand, and they said it didn't matter that the new reservoir was a different design to the old one, so I have gone ever since with the left reservoir being original, and the right being the new design, without any problems.

Thanks for the great write-up, X5Kiwi! Definitely a bookmark!

How did the ride change when you put those yellow shocks in? I'm sure it firmed it up, but is it abrupt now, especially over pavement transitions?

While I was waiting for my new resevoir to arrive (BMW New Zealand had to order it from Germany) the mechanic just used a small cable tie to hold the pipe to the resevoir and it worked perfectly? Maybe save yourself some dollars, use a cable tie and just replace it every 6 months for safety?

I decided to replace both air springs as the leaking one was obviously leaking due to age, so I guessed it would not take long for the other one to start leaking. It seemed easier to replace both at once, rather than have to do one now, and one in a few months (Murphy's law would ensure that the other one will ALWAYS start leaking just after you finish the job!)

"An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure"

Excellent

air spring
 

i would like to thank kiwi for the pictures of DIY air spring of Arnotts i just did mine last firiday . i had my left side sagging or lowered for one month until the right side got affected as well. i followed the procedure and the toughest parts after removing the plastic covers of both sides were the pins inside ( gold color) around the tube and the clip at the bottom of the air spring. it took me 2 hours but a the end it it was worthwhile instead of being robbed $900 by the dealer. the only isssue is the car did not level up. i took it to the dealer on friday for the cause and today i was told it was the vertical sensors that need to be replaced and i talked to the tech myself and he was schocked after telling him that i myself changed ther air spring . he concurred that the air compressor was fine and the ait springs are fine and the sensors are the issue.
parts # 2[(37-14-6-784-697), (37-14-6-752-797) and the price to put those is $ 737.88 before tax i believe. i will purchase the parts at bmwmercedesparts.com and try to find some one who has the tool to recalibrate the height.
NB: any x5 owner should educate yourself about your car cause there are lots of stuff that can be done without the intervention of the dealer.

Don't do it. Those parts from ECS tuning are about $200 total for both sensors and both rods. If your suspensions was working before first verify the rods did not go over center. If they are both bad you can swap them yourself easily. Wow, stealer is right

Didn't see it noted but vehicles with a rear load tray will have to remove the tray and then the support rods giving access to the plastic covers protecting the reservoirs. Took me an extra 30 minutes w/o issues removing the torx screws (with thread locker). Thread locker was a pain.

thanks for the quick response. i do not intend to have the dealer do it. however, i am very happy to see this morning that the rear is back to a height level. i can not say for sure what level it is since i did not see the back that high for a montth. i will measure it to see if it is right i am happy sofar. the self level suspension was on before the rear sagged and now it is still on flashing because of the height sensors according to the dealer, [perhaps it was due to the sagging that deviated their positions. i will check tomorrow and thankk jcp240z for the web and i am familiar with it and others. bmwmercedesparts.com has them for $ 180 and i have friends who work at bmw i will try to use their discount if i can. i love my x5 but with a price. i also hear a clank noise in the front left side that appears to be the ball joint or the cv joint. my steering angle needs to be changed also and the dealer quoted me $587 and i know that the sensor cost $264 @ bmw and bmwmercedesprts has them for $200. my only issue is to calibrate them after wards. i am going to work on the self level in order to eradicate that flashing note in the cluster. any proper advice how to proceed to change the rear sensors or do i have to deactivate the fuse again ? cause my bentley manual does not help me on this thanks

Good write up, I replaced mine today on my 2002 4.6is with 192K miles on them, left side was leaking down overnight. Bought the Arnott sport springs on Ebay for $99 each, install went without a hitch, easy as heck.

It is great and happy for you . keep up with DIY as much as as you can. my level suspension is down and I believe it is the rear sensors according to BMW. After the diagnosis , it was high but after that I heard a sudden puff I am not sure if it is the new air spring or else that went back to low level like there was no spring at all. I parked it for now until I figure out what is the matter with it . It is really a pain after all.

A very special thanks to X5Kiwi and everyone else on this forum. I love my e53 and I was able to solve my rear suspension problem using this forum thread. Just last Thursday night my left rear air spring failed. I checked forum, double checked the part numbers at realoem and ordered from Arnott with overnight delivery. They arrived this morning at 10:30 am. I was afraid to tackle the job myself at first. I almost paid an Indy $430. to do it. The indy couldn't get to it for another three days. I said "screw it" and went after it myself. Low and behold it was a piece of cake. It took me three hours but I was very careful. Started the truck up and boom it leveled right back out. I'm good to go. Proud owner of a 2005 4.8is!!

Great job! I am motivated to do this myself. This happened to me the other day. Air springs started hissing etc... I ordered rear L and R air springs (sport) from arnott. should be here in couple days.
Is it possible to do this one side at a time?

Air spring
 

It is possible to get it done individually but you are better off doing both of them at once. Let me clear one side and the other while the car is in jack stands I had my tools from harbor freight and you need jack stand and floor jack and 10 mm socket and also 10 mm open wrench to slowly let air out on the reservoir as you loosen the bolt to listen the hissing sound as the air oozing out for 2mns . When you remove the pipe from the air spring you have to pull the black contour edge with a plyer toward the back. It is important to be gentle with black contour at the she of the pipe cause if u break it u have to buy anew reservoir that comes with the pipe ( it is not sold separately). It happens to me now I am waiting for my reservoir and height sensors to get my level back and my friend had just installed GT1on his laptop to help recalibrate it. If you are replacing the air spring , there is no need for recalibration. My case is different cause the sensors needed to change. Take your time and get familiar with your x5 it is worth it cause u will save $ 1000 from the dealer.
NB u can either disconnect the battery or remove the fuses 30a and 25a check the numbers when the car in jack stand . When done with air spring , put the fuses or connect the battery as the tires slightly touch the ground. Do research on it

Thanks armor. Need all the help i can get. My springs will arrive tomorrow and am really nervous but excited to do it myself. Glad its only the springs im replacing.
The local dealer in Az quoted me $1100. LOL!! Yeah right! Now gotta go and buy jack stands since already have floor jack and all the tools needed for this job. Thanks again

Follow x5kiwi instructions . It is not too difficult I changed my rotors and my break and checked on air springs . I purchased mine at Arnold as well . They are very courteous and helpful . Take your time and spare the whole day for it if you have not used any tool before. My air spring was the first time to dismantle my car. I do not like to time any job but I am willing yo let you experience it . By the way, when you remove the black pouch to get access to the air spring you will see 2 gold or gray clips to unclip by pushing them out. My advice is to put a soft cloth around the area cause inside there is a hole in case your clip is popped out too hard and can get lost in the hole . Pass your finger around u will see it cause I lost one clip and I had to order a new one . Last on , there is a clip a the bottom of the air spring u wil need a screw driver to pull it out that is the hardest one because of his location. Have gun it is your x5 you will not break any thing. Trust your gut

amor, Your advice and also this forum has given me extra confident in DIY. I'm ready to take on the world now. haha.

Thanks for the write up & info.

I got suspension inactive when I started the X last night. "rebooted" & it went away I searched & found this thread.

The link to the bags was dead so I looked and found the new link:
Arnott® - Replacement Air Suspension

You have to put in your vehicle to get to our bags.

Went out for lunch and my X was sitting down on the driver side. Started it up it pumped up. Parked at restaurant it's sitting normally. As I assume something must be wrong I ordered a set from an ebay seller for 89.xx each shipped. I added a message asking he ship adsp he responded with a phone number in his signature so I called. FedEx was there so the shocks are on their way.

It was still pumped after work & is still fine now. Is it normal for the bags to leak then stop leaking?

I will replace them this weekend, it just seems weird.

If they are leaking they should do so pretty consistently.

So it stayed at the same height over night, you didn't drive it after work at all?

Did you measure the height from ground to fender to double check (even 1/4" of height loss over night is not good)

I did not measure it.


I drove it at 5:00pm after parking it about 1:00pm. It stayed back at or near normal height after being down at 12:00.

I parked it at 5:50 last night.

As it sits now:

Passenger (unaffected side)

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...ps0144c22c.jpg

Driver (bad side)

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...ps28799d02.jpg

With all those knock off products floating around in China and Hong Kong I would be a little wary of buying parts from a Non BMW official dealer.

At least the Arnott is assemble in the Good Old US of A.

Assuming you are on level ground it looks alright to me.

Sometimes the leak is slow, have you went behind the wheel and looked with a flashlight for leaks? Usually you'll see cracking near the base of the folds of the bags.

Regardless at your age of the vehicle for $180 bucks its not a bad idea to replace them, the rubber is not too hardy on the OEM bags.

I did not look at them. Inactive has not come back since it was low. I drove 30 miles it looks fine to me.

Bad side

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psf16b69e0.jpg

Not bad side

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...ps410598b2.jpg

It has stayed visually normal since Monday at noon.

I just measured, from the underside of fender to the center of the wheel BMW logo on the wheel it is 18.25" on the bad (driver) side & 18.46" on the good (passenger) side.

Still visually normal.

Is there anything else that would let the air out? I'd like to get into it once rather than r&r the bags & have to go back in to replace something else.

Any input to what other than the bag could cause one side to lose air once and then work normally for three days would be most appreciated.

check that the sensors are not loose or the brackets are not broken. other than that I had an intermittent leak on an airbag that was faulty.

Thanks, bags should be here tomorrow. They will go in regardless and I will check everything.

I have never heard of a sporadic leak in anything that holds anything under pressure.

Both sides at 18.1 this morning.

Bags!

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psaab3efe5.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...ps9c1f0e69.jpg

They go in in the morning.

Awesome man, looking forward to hearing updates. Glad it has stayed level but sometimes the side that is leaking will sag a big until the bag folds over enough to cover the leak. Maybe that's why it stayed the same.

Regardless, at 10 years old new bags can't hurt!

Awesome man, looking forward to hearing updates. Glad it has stayed level but sometimes the side that is leaking will sag a big until the bag folds over enough to cover the leak. Maybe that's why it stayed the same.

Regardless, at 10 years old new bags can't hurt!

Bad bag out, new one in. It was damaged where it folds, guess that is why it stopped leaking.

It was easy thanks to the posts here, thanks!

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psaf06a4c0.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psc42d6bc0.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psb48b3d46.jpg

When I squeezed the clip for the hose from the reservoir to the bag together like I did on the other side it broke.

I seem to remember reading I have to buy the entire hose to get it?

The hose won't come off, can I leave this (good) side alone until I can get the hose?

I searched & see I need the whole damn reservoir. I put a large wire tie around the 1/2 that is still there and could not pull it off so I'll order the reservoir.

I put it all back together, dropped it off the jackstands and replaced the fuses.

The compressor kicked right in and the car rose, the new bag made a scary popping sound after about 10 seconds but it kept rising and now it sits at normal height.

Shame that damn clip ruined a perfect job.

These were under the spare. PN search finds nada. 51.47-8136450.3

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...ps14bb7ab4.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...ps363e1b1a.jpg

these go in the four holes located in the cargo floor cover of the truck area.
designed to put your briefcase onto so it wont slide around.

Thanks!

I proactively replaced my rear bags (also from Arnott) the other month. I used needle nose pliers to squeeze (gently) the plastic clip which opens up the quick disconnect line to the air fitting on the top of the air spring. No issues for me.

I believe (e30cabrio) that the plastic clip is mostly there to help installation / removal rather than sealing. You may be able to push it back on the new air spring's fitting.

If not, you'll need to down the car for a few days while you buy the air reservoir. Look at the bring side, you're saving on parts and labor. If it happened at a dealer you might scorn them for something that you (unfortunately) experienced.

I did it gently with a needle nose just like the bad side. I did not know it was not holding the hose on but since it happened to the not yet leaking side I put it back together & ordered a reservoir.

The car is working perfectly and will hopefully continue to until next weekend when I can complete the job.

Thanks!

What size are the fittings holding the reservoir hoses on? I have a few flare wrenches but prefer to be sure I have what I need.

If you mean the small plastic line that feeds air from the compressor to each rear wheel's air reservoir - the brass fitting requires a 10 mm wrench. I've not needed a flare wrench as it's not under the car and exposed to the elements.

Yes & 10mm is one I have.

I prefer to use a flare because it is small & brass. Don't want any more surprises.

Thanks!

I noticed this morning in my flat garage the left (Arnott) side looks a bit lower. Is their spring shorter?

The reservoir comes tomorrow & I hope to get it & the bag into the right side Wednesday morning.

Assuming you have the same type (standard for both side), don't draw any conclusions until you've replaced both bags and taken care of your (potential) leak with the reservoir.

There is no leak, the clip broke prior to removing the hose to the passenger bag that is not yet leaking.

I stopped, ordered the reservoir and am waiting to replace the other bag at the same time. I have a Sport btw.

Reservoir came. Going to try to fix the clip, it looks like it just slips in.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psab9d9295.jpg

For those wanting BMW's clip removal "instruction"

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psf5b412e3.jpg

Went in to r&r the reservoir & bag pulled everything apart up top, loosened lugs, pulled fuse, jacked up X, opened banjo nut releasing air, got under and found a bag to my eye that is close to new.

The old one was almost grey, this is black, it has no cracks or other signs of issues so I pulled the reservoir and put it all back together.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...psd82f976a.jpg

Rear right side usually lower than other side!
 

Thanks very well done:thumbup:
your pictures & write up are very much appreciated, congratulation!!!
However I had no clue about this entire system in my (01 X5 4.4i) N'till
I came up to your thread, and realized how this system really works.

Here's my issue: The right rear side of my car gets lower sometime.. or
after being parked a long time specially overnight. But the confusion I have
it just that: whenever I press the button remote to unlock the car, immediately
the lower side of the vehicle starts to lift-up automaticly to it's normal height.

It does that all the time when I unlock the car, by pressing the unlock button
on my remote key, it just lift the side up. What do you guys think?
(Could it be the Air spring gone bad, or the AIR SUPPLY CONTROL UNIT #13 that suppose to send power to the unit that gone south:dunno:

Another thing it just that, occasionally you might wake up one day and find
the car stayed at it's normal height, after being parked for several hours.

Do you have any dash light for the air suspension? If no, it would (ideally) good to check your car's fault codes with INPA, GT1 or any of the software packages that do this.

Have you measured the height (left & right) at the wheel arch and compare the differences on "good days" and "bad days"?

IF you don't have a dash fault light - the most likely issue is a slow, intermittent leak of the air bags. If you know that the air bags are the original build - it's a good time and idea to pro-actively replace them, especially as your symptoms indicate this. A defective height sensor will give you a dash code (I've experienced this).

I recently replaced my rear bags (always do this in pairs), a 2 hour job start to finish (I have jacks, stands, air tools, etc. at home). I can endorse Arnott products.

I would expect that the remote trigger initiates the rear suspension power circuit. Sometimes your RR corner is down and the height sensor tells the compressor to start raising this corner.

I intended to replace both bags, bought both. When I finally got to the second one, delayed by the damn reservoir clip I found a new adjacent bag. I have had no issues since I replaced the leaker so decided to leave the good bag in.

Now I have it if/when it needs to be replaced.

I understand but there could be some difference in "spring rates" between the two bags, as one is fully new, the other is nearly new. More importantly are they both from the same OEM manufacturer?

Arnott on the driver side, new. OEM passenger side unknown age.

It appeared a bit lower on the Arnott side but both sides completely deflated yesterday when I removed the passenger side reservoir (I got scared) but appears level after filling up.

It feels great and as I am now a professional rear bag tech I can replace it anytime if necessary with a small & large flathead and a needle nose.

Thanks alot GREG891:thumbup:.including all other folks who have shared
their inputs, your comments are truly appreciated and busted my confidence
to move forward now by replacing the two rear air spring bag.

However I do Not have any (self level suspension message) N'less the car
was parked for 24hrs on an uneven surface without moving, & from there
the message will appear at the 1st start-up, but will go away after the car
finished reaching it's normal heights.

Otherwise, I'm glad that you have endorsed the (Arnott Spring Air bag)
because I was looking at the (OEM Spring Air bag on Partsgeek.com)
and they run for: $200 each side.

I will keep you guys posted on the outcome...

(01 X5 4.4i E53)

Thanks alot GREG891.:thumbup:including all other folks who have shared
their inputs, your comments are truly appreciated and busted my confidence
to move forward now by replacing the two rear air spring bag.

However I do Not have any (self level suspension message) N'less the car
was parked for 24hrs on an uneven surface without moving, & from there
the message will appear at the 1st start-up, but will go away after the car
finished reaching it's normal heights.

Otherwise, I'm glad that you have endorsed the (Arnott Spring Air bag)
because I was looking at the (OEM Spring Air bag on Partsgeek.com)
and they run for: $200 each side.

I will keep you guys posted on the outcome...

(01 X5 4.4i E53)

Airbag spring replacement!!! pic!
 

Ok Once again I would like to contribute and thank all other folks
in this forum who have made it possible & easy for me to accomplish
this job, Otherwise I wouldn't have known anything that could cause my rear vehicle to go lower like that.

I have to say it's a pretty much forward job for any handy men to accomplish
with a few basic tools. But would be much better if you have an extra person
to help. I would say the much difficult part was the removal of the Airbag clip
on top...:dunno:well, after watching the video on youtube, while doing my job
I figured it all out how to easily remove the two clips on top in less than 1mtes.

Ok let's get to the bottom line now, however I did not have the entire job pics
but I do want to share where and why my rear vehicle was going lower after parked for several hrs.

Here's how the (Right rear Spring Airbag) of my vehicle were after 12yrs old
And look at the New one from Arnott... However I replaced both side airbag even the left side was ok.



Sorry pictures could not be loaded due to the size of them, working on it...

Rear air suspension leaking Question
 

I have a X5 2002 E53 and recently noticed the rear air suspension problem.
After not driving the car for a week noticed the rear suspension had lowered (both sides).
Started the compressor pumped up and was fine for a few days.
Then parked the car outside - frost overnight the suspension lowered again (Both Sides).
Started the compressor pumped up and was fine for a few days.
Next morning the suspension was fine however just parked the car after lunch,, on my return after work the suspension had lowered (both sides).

While i'm 80% positive I need to replace the air suspension the doubt I have is why both side failing at the same time.

What are the other common, single point of failure in the system that could cause this. Is there a signal valve somewhere that feeds both sides that can be checked?

AS you don't have any error codes on the dash, it's not likley to be the height switches or the compressor (piston seal) but simply the rear bags that leak (the most common problem). Usually one fails / leaks before the other - in your case it sounds like both.

Replace both rear bags (easy enough DIY project, see my post).

If you have access to ENPA, GT1 or similar to check for codes - a good idea as well.

Thanks for the advice. I will replace the air bags and see how it goes.

I know this is an old thread that I am bringing back to life but I have wondering if Arnott sent me the wrong air shock replacements.

I ordered the Left and Right sports air shocks for my 4.4l w/ rear only self leveling suspension,

opened both boxes to put on tomorrow (sunday) and one of the air shocks is a completely different size. The Left hand side is smaller then the right side. Wondering if anyone who has replaced this before knows if that is how it is suppose to be or if I got sent a comfort spring instead.

The picture the OP posted looks like they are of different sizes as well and the shipping documentation verifies I did order the correct part.

Please help if anyone has knowledge on this

I know in fact you'll be shocked to see the new ones that just arrived compare with the older ones style that will be removed under the car...
Coz the older ones have been inflated with high pressure air making them expend with high tendency to support the heavy weight truck.

But as far for your question, I wish I could see the pictures of them
because when I did mine with Arnott about a year ago, they're both look
similar but way different than the older ones, but once you release the
high pressure air on them, they will expend accordingly.



(2001 4.4 X5 E53 Blue Topaz)

Judging by the pic you posted and the part numbers on each air spring, I would say it's pretty self explanatory. Obviously, they've sent you two different parts, which are not compatible with each other. Why someone would do this is questionable, but nonetheless, I'm sure Arnott's will come good.

If you notice they're so different each either, than I would return them before installation. Otherwise I hate returning package after being excited to replace the culprit old part on my car.

I am guessing they sent me one sport air spring and one comfort air spring, the mounting points on both springs are exactly what they should be for the X

replacing mine soon and was just looking for this!

thanks!

Air Springs Can Leak Down VERY Slowly--Even New Ones
 

Perhaps some will find this info relevant...

Vehicle: 2003 X5 4.6is, 78,500 miles

Symptoms: Air suspension goes low every few days--specifically the left air spring bleeds down over several days. Air compressor would run once every few days, air spring leakage, pumps back up within one-minute run-time of compressor

Troubleshooting Approach (Phase I): Based on forum posts and Internet research concluded that left air spring most likely leaking since only one side leaks down and immediately re-inflates when air compressor kicks on.

Initial Repair: Replace both air springs with new Arnott-brand from rockauto.com. ($250 total)

Initial Results: right air spring--holds air and works as-new; left air spring--leaks air immediately after install, going completely flat within 8 hours. Left spring pumps up normally each time but leaks down within hours after vehicle parked.

Troubleshooting Approach (Phase II): Swapped left and right lines, reservoirs, solenoids until everything from left side was on right side and vice-versa (with the obvious exception of the solenoid connectors which must remain on their respective sides in order to insure correct leveling is maintained). No change in behavior--therefore, conclude that brand-new Arnott air-spring on left side is defective.

Secondary Repair: Replace new left-side air spring with ANOTHER new left-side air spring.

Secondary Results: All good, no more leak down.

Conclusion: Even a brand-new air spring can be defective. It was especially disconcerting because the defective air spring was on the same side as the failing original air spring. Conclusive diagnoses was reached only after swapping all components--except springs--from left to right and observing that the left air spring was still leaking down even though it was connected using all components from the right side (except solenoid wire connections).

Secondary Conclusion: I would find it difficult to recommend Arnott air springs for any application given their inability to produce 100% reliable new components. But perhaps another brand would be no better.

There must be something about left air springs. When I had my E39 540i Touring M Sport. I had a failing right rear air spring. I purchased a left and right sport spring set from BMW and upon installation the system worked but after a couple of days the left side went down. Now I never had a problem with the left side. We deduced that the new left air spring was defective. I returned it for another new left and upon installation all was well. So I think its just safe to say that you can get defective components from the OE and aftermarket. Cost cutting in the parts market is taking its toll. On another note my X5 had the rear air springs changed out with the previous owner and they are arnott units. They work fine on my X5. I don't think you will find a better aftermarket and at least their warranty gives some piece of mind.

looks like I'm doing this repair now. oh well, 200k kms so I should be happy.

If anyone is looking for a DIY for the front struts, I just completed one and it's now up on YouTube. Here's the link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yW2NhlJ1ahM

Do you guys mostly have 2-corner (rear) or 4-corner (front + rear) air?

I am pretty sure rear was standard equipment in the 4.4 cars and 4 corner was optional or came in the nicer trim packages?

Frozenwaffles? hi what did you do in the end....from photos in previous post I attached it seems those plastic clips you wanted are actually to engage disengage some sort of lock spring that holds the coupling in place on the air spring...

Hi X5Kiwi had both my rears replaced and the one side at least they did not use that 'retaining clip' , but as per my last query reply seems the clips disengages hose coupling from the top of the air spring, can anyone chime in and confirm as am worried will be faced with a dangerous deflation whilst driving if indeed the clip is there to retain the coupling to the top of the compressor...

hi e30cabrio right, back then you broke clip in attempt to remove the air spring hose...and no matter what you did it would not come off? safe to say that the actual plastic clip is only to disengage the hose?