Installed does not equal finished, warns Arnott

Replacing air suspension components is more than just installing parts, it is about restoring a vehicle’s intended ride quality.
Getting it right the first time makes the difference between a job well done and a costly comeback.
Not all air suspension systems are created equal, and each manufacturer has its own approach to achieving optimal ride comfort, handling, and performance.
With the rise of increasingly complex adaptive systems, even a perfectly installed component, whether aftermarket or OE, does not mean the job is complete.
Post-installation calibration is a critical step in restoring the suspension system to proper operation.
Calibration ensures the vehicle maintains the correct ride height and enables the system to accurately interpret inputs from ride height sensors and other components.
This data is synced with the Electronic Control Module (ECU), enabling real-time system adjustments.
When done correctly, calibration helps preserve ride comfort, handling, and stability, while also preventing warning lights and false diagnostic trouble codes.
Arnott warns that skipping calibration can lead to uneven ride height, premature component wear, and persistent fault codes. And in some cases, the system may attempt to compensate, affecting overall performance.
While in these cases customer feedback is often unclear, for example, statements of “it doesn’t feel right,” Arnott says the result is the same: comebacks, additional labor, and reduced profitability for the workshop.
Arnott explains that even if a component is marketed as “plug and play,” calibration may still be required.
It recommends always consulting the manufacturer’s service information, noting that most adaptive suspension systems require recalibration.
This typically involves using a compatible scan tool and taking accurate ride height measurements at each corner of the vehicle. Following the correct steps is critical to ensuring proper system function.

For more information, visit www.arnottinc.com