Mercedes-Benz W164 Airmatic suspension sagging and height sensor faults

ML 320 CDIGL 500

W164 Airmatic: why does the car sink down?

The most common causes are a cracked or worn air spring and a leaking O-ring between the shock absorber and the air spring. The fault often shows as one corner or the whole rear end dropping while parked.

Why does only one corner of my W164 drop slowly or only at a certain height?

The leak point of the air spring may seal depending on the position of the spring, so the fault can disappear at some heights. The condition of the compressor and air filters should also be checked.

What is the height sensor fault in the W164 and how is it fixed?

The plastic ball joints of the height sensor arm can rust or seize, so the car sits crooked only at a certain ride height. The joints are checked and greased or the part is replaced. The suspension affects safety, so let a workshop do the work.

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