My Car Won't Rise — What's Wrong?
If the car sits low on all corners and never rises at start-up, the problem is usually the air source itself rather than the struts. That distinguishes it from a single sagging corner, which is normally a localised leak.
Likely causes
- Burnt compressor or failed relay
If you hear no compressor at all on start-up, it's usually the compressor, its relay or the fuse. This is cause number one.
- System in protection mode
Some systems lock themselves out when they detect a major leak, to protect the compressor. The code needs clearing after repair.
- Major air line leak
A disconnected or cracked plastic line means air escapes faster than the compressor can supply it.
- Stuck valve block
A valve that won't open starves the springs even though the compressor is running.
- Failed ride-height sensor
The system believes the car is already at correct height and never lifts it. Diagnosed by reading sensor values.
- Suspension control module fault
Less common, but it happens — especially after water ingress or an electrical problem.
What to do right now
- Don't drive it — running on a collapsed system damages springs, body and tyres
- Note whether you hear the compressor when you open the door or start the car; that detail shortens diagnosis a lot
- Send us a side-on video on WhatsApp and we can give you an initial read
- Don't try to inflate the springs with external pressure — they can burst
What it typically costs
Inspection here is free. After that it depends on the cause: a relay or fuse costs very little, an air line leak is usually a light repair, and a burnt-out compressor is the expensive one. You know the exact price after inspection and before we start.
Related service
Hydraulic Suspension Repair — Rebuild and repair air/hydraulic suspension instead of full replacement.
Send us a video of the car
A short video of the car parked and another after start-up gives us an accurate initial read before you even come in.