Mercedes-Benz C-Class air suspension system
NOT JUST FOR THE DEALER
Air suspension systems are no longer exclusive to high-end and luxury applications . ARNOTT shares some insight on this emerging sales opportunity .
Air springs are used in place of conventional coil springs in passenger cars and LCVs . It is a fitment choice by vehicle manufacturers and not intended as a tuning product . Traditionally only installed in luxury vehicles and perceived to be dealer-only parts , air suspension systems are now found in a growing number of vehicles within the UK car parc . Vehicles like the Mercedes C-Class , Citroën C4 Grand Picasso and the latest Volvo models are already equipped with air suspension systems .
Whilst more vehicles equipped with air suspension systems are showing up at workshops , many customers with air suspension issues are still directed to the dealer . However , this does not need to be the case .
EASY OPPORTUNITY FOR THE AFTERMARKET
In order to perform a reliable diagnosis for air suspension systems , technicians rarely need more than soap and water in order to detect a leak . Replacing air suspension components does not require special education or tools , and is as easy as replacing a conventional suspension component .
The reason why 99 % of air suspension replacements are directed to the dealer is because parts were previously unavailable through the IAM channel . This outdated misconception still stands for many installers and motorists who are unaware that quality air suspension components are available in the aftermarket .
RELIABLE RANGE AVAILABLE FROM FPS
All Arnott units are pre-assembled and compatible with OE plugs , connectors and air lines for easy , plug-and-play replacement for garages . To help ensure that best replacement procedures are observed , each unit comes with detailed instructions .
OPPORTUNITY & AVAILABILITY IN THE AFTERMARKET
Manufacturing high quality replacement air suspension components for nearly 30 years , Arnott has made their comprehensive range accessible to the independent aftermarket . The range presents a growing opportunity as vehicles equipped with air suspension systems already cover over 4 % of the UK car parc .
Contrary to popular belief , air suspension components do not last the lifetime of a vehicle – they do experience wear and tear . The service lifespan of air suspension generally averages between 6 to 10 years due to the degradation of rubber components , making it important to replace in pairs . Compressors usually wear out because of leaky air springs .
FPS carries 60 parts in range comprising air springs , struts and compressors . Highlights include :
• A-2642 for BMW X5 ( 2007-2013 ) and BMW X6 ( 2009-2017 )
• A-2780 for BMW 5 Series ( 2010-2017 )
Part number A-2642 to fit BMW ’ s X5 and X6 models
HOW AIR SUSPENSION WORKS
The air suspension system is powered by a compressor that pumps air into the air springs . The air pressure inflates the spring , raising the chassis from the axle . This allows the air suspension to provide a safe , smooth and constant ride quality whilst taking road conditions and vehicle load into account . Most modern vehicles feature self-levelling alongside raising and lowering functions .
The Arnott part that you need is not in stock ? No problem ! Listed Arnott parts that are not readily stocked are available for special order via FPS branches .
Catalogued on the F : Drive and MAM Autocat , Arnott components are available via same / next-day delivery . For more information , please speak with your local FPS representative .
12 AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM VITAL NEWS ISSUE 51