Self Level Supension Inactive

[mattyc]

Back to torture you all again.

Another issue I am starting to tackle is the #"Self Level Suspension Inactive" error.

The car had been completely level at the rear (only has self levelling in the rear) but wasn't able to adjust suspension from the button on the dash.

The first thing I tried this evening was replacing the piston ring within the compressor. The original ring and seal seemed fine but I thought I may as well replace anyway. Put it all back together and tested the compressor with a spare car battery. The compressor seems to be working away but there is absolutely no air/pressure coming out of the air pipes from the pump.

Does this mean the compressor/pump is knackered or perhaps the actual air isn't pumped until connected to the car? I expected to feel some air being pumped out but nothing. Rear is now completely down to the tyres as all air pressure was released when taking the pump out

As always any help is really appreciated.

[Horizon]

I thought there was no leveling / height adjusting switch in cars with only rear air suspension. ? What varient and age is your X5.
Has the self leveling warning been on as long as you have had the car? Is the 30 amp fuse for the compressor in tact, have you ever heard the compressor run, why did you suspect the compressor to be at fault?
It's an idea to put what varient and age of your X5 in your signiture to help others help you 

[X5Sport]

If you can adjust it, that sounds like full air.  As above, self-levelling is completely auto with no user intervention.

If no air is coming out that sounds like an issue.  Raj is an expert, although he removed his.

Richard

[mattyc]

Thanks guys.

The error I get is "Self Level Susp Inact" on the dash. Ah OK so there's no user adjustment. There is a button to the right of the passenger heated seat which I presumed has something to do with it. All fuses are fine and only started getting the error 2-3 weeks ago.

No compression coming from the pump when it is out of the car is odd. I'm looking at the option of removing the airbags/pumps etc and just going for springs as it will save a lot of headache in the future. Not giving up just yet but seeing what options I have.

Tip - when you remove the pump from the car, all pressure is lost and rear of car lowers right down. This can be pumped back up with a tyre compressor using a football adaptor. Tricky bit is screwing the airlines back in quick enough before the air comes back out.

[X5Sport]

If that looks like a vehicle with a speedo above it, or a 'duck' as my wife thinks, then that's your Hill Descent Control switch, which has no effect on the suspension.

Richard

[Raj]

Have replied to your PM Matt.

[mattyc]

Decision made after a chat with Raj. Air suspension getting ripped out and replaced with coils.

Will let you know how I go.

Cheers all.

[Raj]

[quote="mattyc"]
Decision made after a chat with Raj. Air suspension getting ripped out and replaced with coils.

Will let you know how I go.

Cheers all.
[/quote]

Hopefully will be all good after that.

[mattyc]

Springs installed this afternoon. Will hopefully get a bit of a write up sorted this week in case anyone else is having a go.

Thanks all.

Matt

[alan11]

Hi,

I've just taken the decision to replace the rear axle air suspension system on my 2002 X5 3.0D with coil springs after water leaked into the plastic battery box (fixed now) and destroyed the EHC module.  I've read too many horror stories on this forum about the air suspension system and I'm determined not to start throwing money at fixing an inherently unreliable system.

However, I'd welcome some advice from members who have made the change from air to coil springs.  I'm not looking to spend more than necessary to get a comfortable ride, but I'm beginning to see two possible options:

1.  Purchase the Ebay kit (springs plus top and bottom rubbers) for £200, or
2.  Purchase the OE Springs and top/bottom retainers that are fitted to the X53.0i

Question is, have I understood this correctly about there being these two options, and if so, is there a definitive list of parts for the OE Springs and retainers ?  Also, is there any appreciable difference between the two options re quality of parts and the ride quality afterwards ?

I also understand that I will need to code-out the error message from the dash.  I believe I will need a BMW 1.4.0 scanner device and suitable software on an XP laptop (I have the latter).  Can anyone recommend a reliable source from which to purchase the scanner, and what software will I need on the laptop ?

Alan