Hi all. I've owned this 2004 XJ8 with 50k miles for three days. Love the car...but already have the dreaded Air Suspension Failure light. Ugh.

I've searched the forums and found some good info, but am not sure about next steps. I scanned with my OBDII reader, but of course it's a chassis code, so I can't see it.

It seems to come on intermittently, and this may be coincidental - but only when I have passengers in the back seat or groceries in the trunk. On my way home from the grocery store this afternoon the car started riding super rough and the light came on. When I got home the rear was jacked way up...and appeared a little higher on the rear driver's side. Front looked normal.

I'm hoping one of you more experienced owners, or a tech on the board might have some advice. Thanks!

 

Until you can tell us what the codes are, it is difficult to say what might be wrong. A common problem is the air compressor piston seal is worn thus causing it to pump for too long to recharge the reservoir. This is C2303.


Anytime you get a suspension fault, the system reverts the shocks to the Hard setting, hence the hard ride.


From the symptom you describe, you could have a faulty height sensor on one side at the rear, or the height sensor values against actual height need re-setting. Only a shop with the necessary equipment can do this.

 

Thanks for the reply, Fraser. I just ordered a scanner capable of pulling the chassis codes. Looks like I may need to find a good independent shop near me too. Thanks again.

 

Curious what scanner you ordered to scan sensor codes and how it well it works for you

RyeJag

 

iCarsoft i930
I'll let you know how it does when it arrives.

 

Code was C1895 - short to rear height sensor

 

Any recommended sources for sensors? I'm assuming it'll need replacement. Thanks.

 

An electrical short is likely a wiring problem. Just because the word sensor is in a trouble code description, don't condemn it, diagnose.

 

Check the wiring first. I had a broken wire in the connector to the front height sensor that let the front shocks down on the stops, but all was good again after I repaired the wire. Your rear sensor(s) may be fine.

 

Awesome, thanks for the replies. I'll try to get out and pull the wheels off tonight. Good to hear it could be that simple. Those sensors are pricey, and I haven't been able to find a left side one...backordered. Thanks again!

 

Also, FWIW, every time it threw the light it was raining and the roads were wet. May be coincidental...maybe not.

 

It totally isn't. It means the water is shorting out an electrical circuit. Inspect the wiring and harness(es). Look for chafing, rubbed spots, bare wire, etc. Do not buy any parts before visually inspecting the wires at the very least. Also get a digital volt ohm meter to test things that way also.