self levelling suspension inactive

[iross]

Hi

I have a query about my 2005 3.0D sport with rear air suspension

A couple of days ago the dash flashed up a self levelling suspension inactive message. This resets when the car is switched off but reappears a couple of minutes after restart.  I have read and cleared the fault-code but it comes back once the car has been restarted.  I read one thread that suggested the arms on the ride height sensors can seize - I pulled the wheels off this morning and have already ruled that one out. 
Apart from the fault, the suspension seems to be normal although I am not convinced it will air back up it is goes flat.

The fault-code reads

08 Control-time fault 'lifting'

Any suggestions?

I am not against ripping it out and fitting a pair of springs but no point in doing that if it can be fixed properly at a sensible cost, particularly as there is a possibility that I might fit a tow-bar to carry a dirt bike on a rack at some point.

Only other hitch is that I am in Cyprus and have to rely on BFPO for shipping.

Cheers

[X5Sport]

First check is probably to listen for the compressor (black dome in the boot) and then use detergent in water to see if there are any bubbles blowing past seals in the pipework.  A slow leak may trigger a time alarm in the system, as will an underperforming or failed compressor.

Have a look at the fuses too to make sure nothing has blown.  I think it’s fuses 51 & 62.  Front box is above the glovebox, rear in the right rear cubby.  There may be a rear fuse but I don’t have a fuse card to check against 

[iross]

Thanks for the advice.  I checked the fuses in the front which were fine.  There are also 2 in the boot, 75 and 87; I'm not sure what each one controls.

I checked 75 first which was fine.  When I plugged it back in I heard a quiet hum from the pump housing that lasted for a few seconds - so I suppose that could be the fuse for the pump.  Fuse 87 was blown however. Until I can get some spare fuses I have swapped in the rear screen heater fuse (same rating and there isn't much chance of the rear screen misting up at the moment) which has not blown yet.

I'll be out in the car later so will see whether this has cleared the error or whether the fuse blows again indicating another issue somewhere.  I'll update later once I know what it's doing.

[iross]

That seems to have done the trick for now.  Thanks again