If you drive a Ram 1500 with air suspension, you know how important it is to keep your truck riding smoothly and at the right height. But sometimes, the air suspension system can act up, causing your ride to feel uneven or your truck to sit too low or too high.
Don’t worry—you can reset your air suspension yourself and get back to enjoying a comfortable drive. In this guide, you’ll learn simple, step-by-step methods to reset your Ram 1500’s air suspension system quickly and safely. Keep reading, and you’ll have your truck back to normal in no time.
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Air Suspension Basics
The Ram 1500 uses air suspension to improve ride quality and handling. This system replaces traditional springs with air springs. These air springs adjust to load and road conditions. The result is a smoother, more controlled drive.
Air suspension can raise or lower the truck for different needs. It also helps maintain a consistent ride height. Understanding how this system works helps you manage and reset it properly.
How Air Suspension Works
The air suspension system uses airbags filled with compressed air. A compressor pumps air into these bags to change their pressure. Sensors monitor ride height and adjust air pressure as needed. This keeps the truck level, even with heavy loads.
A control module manages the compressor and sensors. It decides when to add or release air. The system reacts to road bumps and weight changes automatically. This keeps your Ram 1500 stable and comfortable on the road.
Common Issues With Ram 1500 Air Suspension
Air suspension problems often start with air leaks. These leaks cause the truck to sag or ride unevenly. Compressor failure is another common issue. Without a working compressor, the system cannot maintain pressure.
Height sensors can also fail or give false readings. This leads to incorrect adjustments or warning lights. Electrical issues in the control module may disrupt system functions. Regular checks help spot these problems early.
Knowing these common issues helps you troubleshoot and reset the system effectively.
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Preparation Steps
Before resetting the air suspension on your Ram 1500, proper preparation is essential. This ensures the process goes smoothly and safely. Taking these steps helps avoid damage to your truck and ensures accurate system calibration. Follow the guidance below carefully to prepare for the reset.
Safety Precautions
Park your Ram 1500 on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake to stop the truck from moving. Turn off the engine and remove the key from the ignition. Let the air suspension system cool down if it was recently used. Wear safety gloves and glasses to protect your hands and eyes. Avoid working under the truck without proper support or jack stands. Keep children and pets away from the work area to prevent accidents.
Tools Needed For Reset
Gather all tools before starting the reset. You will need a basic socket set and a wrench. A diagnostic scan tool or OBD-II reader that supports air suspension is helpful. A small flashlight can aid visibility in tight spaces. Having a user manual or service guide for your Ram 1500 is useful for reference. Keep a clean cloth or rag handy to wipe any dirt or moisture. Prepare all tools on a nearby surface to avoid distractions during the reset.
Reset Methods
Resetting the air suspension on a Ram 1500 restores proper ride height and smooth driving. Several methods exist to reset the system. Some use the vehicle’s controls, while others require manual steps. Each method suits different situations and user comfort levels. Follow the steps carefully for best results.
Using The Settings Menu
Start your Ram 1500 and go to the main settings menu on the dashboard screen. Scroll down to the suspension settings section. Select either the transport mode or wheel alignment mode. This raises the truck to its normal ride height. The system will then calibrate and reset automatically. After the reset, switch back to normal mode for regular driving.
Battery Disconnect Reset
Open the hood and locate the battery. Disconnect the negative terminal first, then the positive terminal. Wait about 10 minutes to let the system fully power down. Reconnect the positive terminal followed by the negative. This resets the entire air suspension system. Note that you may need to reset the radio and clock settings afterward.
Ignition Cycle Reset
Turn the ignition to the ON position without starting the engine. Press and hold the air suspension height button or the OFF button for several seconds. Listen for a chime or look for a message on the dashboard. Release the button, then start the engine. This method signals the system to recalibrate and reset suspension levels.
Brake Pedal Pump Method
Turn the ignition ON but keep the engine OFF. Press the brake pedal firmly several times. This action can trigger the air compressor to reset. Turn the ignition OFF and then restart the engine. Check if the compressor runs and the suspension adjusts correctly. This method helps especially when the compressor needs a quick reset.
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Calibrating Suspension
Calibrating the air suspension on your Ram 1500 is essential to keep the ride smooth and safe. Proper calibration ensures the system reads the correct height and adjusts the suspension accurately. This process involves switching between different modes designed for specific needs.
Calibration helps the truck adapt to various conditions, such as transport or wheel alignment. It resets the system, allowing sensors to re-learn the correct suspension settings. Doing this regularly can prevent uneven ride height and improve overall handling.
Transport And Wheel Alignment Mode
The Transport and Wheel Alignment Mode raises the suspension to a fixed height. This setting protects the system during shipping and when adjusting wheels. To activate it, go to the truck’s settings menu and select this mode under suspension options.
In this mode, the air springs hold a higher pressure, preventing damage while the vehicle is stationary or being worked on. It also helps mechanics keep proper wheel angles during alignment. The system will calibrate and reset automatically once you select this mode.
Returning To Normal Mode
After calibration or maintenance, switch the suspension back to Normal Mode for everyday driving. This mode allows the air suspension to adjust dynamically based on load and road conditions.
Return to the settings menu and choose Normal Mode under suspension options. The system will then lower the truck to its regular ride height. This step completes the calibration process and ensures your Ram 1500 rides comfortably.
Troubleshooting Tips
Air suspension on your Ram 1500 may sometimes face issues. Simple resets might not fix every problem. Troubleshooting helps find the root cause and saves time. These tips guide you through common checks and errors. Follow them to keep your suspension working smoothly.
Checking Fuses And Sensors
Start by inspecting the fuses related to the air suspension system. A blown fuse can stop the system from working. Locate the fuse box and check the air suspension fuse with a tester. Replace any blown fuses carefully.
Next, examine the height sensors on each wheel. Dirt, damage, or corrosion can cause false readings. Clean the sensors gently and look for cracks or broken parts. Replace any faulty sensors to restore proper function.
Common Error Codes
Air suspension systems often display error codes when issues arise. These codes help identify specific problems quickly. Use an OBD-II scanner to read the codes from your Ram 1500. Common codes include sensor failure, compressor faults, or pressure leaks.
Write down the codes and look them up in your vehicle’s manual. This helps understand what needs fixing. Clearing the codes after repair resets the system. Repeat scanning to ensure all issues are resolved.
When To Seek Professional Help
Some problems require advanced tools and knowledge. Visit a mechanic if error codes persist after basic fixes. Also, seek help if the compressor or airbags need replacement. Professionals perform full system calibration for accurate results.
Persistent air suspension faults can affect safety and ride quality. Do not delay professional diagnosis and repair. A qualified technician ensures your Ram 1500’s suspension stays reliable and smooth.
Advanced Reset Options
Advanced reset options offer deeper solutions for air suspension issues on the Ram 1500. These methods go beyond basic resets and target the entire vehicle system or specific components. They help clear persistent errors and restore factory settings. Use these options when simple resets fail or after repairs.
Full Vehicle Computer Reset
The full vehicle computer reset clears all stored data in the Ram 1500’s control modules. This action resets the air suspension along with other systems. To perform this reset, disconnect the negative battery terminal for about 15 minutes. This cuts power to the vehicle’s computers.
After reconnecting the battery, start the engine and let the vehicle run idle for several minutes. The system will recalibrate the air suspension automatically. Keep in mind that this reset may erase radio presets and clock settings. You will need to set those again manually.
Factory Reset For Uconnect System
The Uconnect system controls many vehicle functions, including air suspension settings. A factory reset of Uconnect restores all settings to default. This can fix issues caused by software glitches affecting air suspension controls.
To reset Uconnect, go to the settings menu on the touchscreen display. Scroll to the “System” section and select “Restore Factory Settings.” Confirm your choice and wait for the system to reboot. After the reset, reconfigure your preferences and check the air suspension operation.
Maintenance Advice
Proper maintenance keeps your Ram 1500’s air suspension working smoothly. Regular care avoids costly repairs and extends system life. Follow simple steps to maintain optimal suspension performance.
Check your system often. Keep it clean and watch for signs of wear or damage. Early attention prevents bigger issues later.
Regular Inspection Tips
Look at the air springs for cracks or leaks. Inspect the compressor and air lines for damage. Listen for unusual noises from the compressor. Check the height sensors for proper alignment and cleanliness. Test the suspension by raising and lowering the truck to confirm smooth operation.
Preventing Future Suspension Issues
Keep the air suspension dry and free of dirt. Avoid overloading your truck beyond its capacity. Use the suspension modes properly according to driving conditions. Replace worn or damaged parts immediately. Schedule routine checks with a trusted mechanic for complex problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Calibrate Air Suspension Ram 1500?
Access the settings menu on your RAM 1500’s infotainment screen. Select suspension, then choose transport or wheel alignment mode. The system raises and calibrates the air suspension. Finally, switch back to normal mode for regular driving.
How To Reset Air Suspension?
To reset air suspension, turn ignition ON without starting the engine. Hold the suspension button until you hear a chime. Release, start the engine, and check ride height. Alternatively, disconnect the battery’s negative terminal briefly to reset the system. Always inspect fuses and sensors before resetting.
How To Do A Hard Reset On A Ram 1500?
To hard reset a Ram 1500, disconnect the negative battery terminal for 10-15 minutes. Reconnect it and start the truck. This resets the system and clears minor issues.
How Do I Turn Off The Air Suspension On My Ram 1500?
To turn off air suspension on your Ram 1500, access the settings menu. Select transport or wheel alignment mode to raise the truck. The system will reset automatically. Then, switch back to normal mode for regular driving.
How Do I Reset The Air Suspension On A Ram 1500?
Turn ignition ON (engine OFF), hold the air suspension button until a chime sounds. Release and start engine.
Conclusion
Resetting the air suspension on your Ram 1500 keeps your ride smooth and stable. Follow the steps carefully to avoid mistakes. Simple methods like ignition cycling or brake pedal pumping often work well. Check your sensors and fuses before deeper troubleshooting.
Persistent problems may need professional diagnosis and repair. Regular maintenance helps prevent future suspension issues. Taking these actions ensures your Ram drives comfortably and safely every time.
