AIR RIDE,
EXPLAINED.

Air suspension replaces the vehicle's conventional suspension springs with air springs that support the vehicle using compressed air. Adding or releasing air changes the ride height. A complete system also uses dampers, a compressor, a tank and a management controller. Think adjustable stance and a usable driving height, not just a parked look. Read the beginner buying guide →

A compressor fills an air tank; the management manifold directs stored air into the suspension to raise the car and vents air out to lower it. The air springs carry the load while the shock absorbers control motion. The controller lets you make adjustments without manually filling each spring.

No. The ability to raise the vehicle for driveways, speed bumps and everyday roads is a big reason enthusiasts choose air ride. A properly designed, installed and aligned setup can be used for regular driving. How it feels depends on the car, suspension travel, damping and the height at which you drive.

Start with five areas: (1) vehicle-specific air struts or springs, (2) an air management controller/manifold, (3) one or more compressors, (4) a compatible tank and (5) air lines, fittings and moisture management. Wiring, relays and mounting hardware must also be suited to the system. Explore complete ONAIR kits →

They're different tools. Coilovers are simpler if you want a fixed, dialled-in ride height with fewer pneumatic components. Air suspension adds height adjustment on demand and the ability to change your stance while parked. Neither is automatically better for handling: correct fitment, damping, alignment and sensible driving height matter with either choice.

No. Aired-out is generally a parked display position, not a driving height. You need enough pressure, suspension travel and ground clearance to steer, brake and absorb bumps safely. Set a sensible ride-height preset and confirm the tires, chassis and suspension clear through their operating range.

You can make controlled adjustments with a compatible management system, but avoid dramatic height changes while driving. Focus on the road and only make adjustments when safe; never drive at an unsafe low setting or use the suspension as a substitute for proper speed and handling.

Often, yes. You can purchase supporting air-supply and management components separately, but compatibility matters: air-line diameter, fitting type, compressor capacity, tank rating, wiring and manifold functions all need to work together. If you're planning future upgrades, ask ONAIR to help you plan the system before buying twice.

Begin with your vehicle's year, make, model and drivetrain, then decide how you want to drive and control it. Check fitment first, compare management choices and use the kit builder to select the matching air supply. Check vehicle fitment → or shop complete kits →

Use the ONAIR Fitment Check and match the exact year, chassis, model and drivetrain. Similar model names can use different mounting points. If your trim has unusual suspension equipment or you are unsure about the listing, ask us to confirm before placing the order.

It doesn't automatically mean a setup is impossible. Send us your full vehicle details and any relevant photos of the original suspension. Our team can check current applications and let you know whether there is a suitable solution. We won't promise a bolt-on fit without verifying it. Request a fitment check →

It can be tuned for a comfortable or firmer feel, but the result depends on air-spring pressure, damper settings, suspension geometry, tire setup and road conditions. Running extremely low or with too little suspension travel can make any suspension uncomfortable. Set up your normal driving height first, then fine-tune damping.

The 36-position manual damping adjustment lets you change how firmly the shock absorber controls suspension motion. It is separate from raising or lowering the car with air pressure. Work in small increments and evaluate the feel at a safe, consistent driving height. Explore Performance Air Suspension →

Camber plates are included on ONAIR Performance Air Suspension applications where applicable. Not every chassis uses the same front top-mount design, so check the exact application details. Regardless of camber-plate availability, an alignment is important after installation.

Yes. Have the vehicle aligned at the height you normally drive. Changing ride height can change toe and camber, affecting tire wear, steering and stability. Check clearance at full steering lock and through the suspension's safe operating range as part of the installation.

Often, but it depends on wheel width, offset, tire size, camber, fender clearance and the vehicle's suspension geometry. Airing out does not guarantee a wheel will tuck. Share your wheel and tire specs with us or your installer before finalizing an aggressive stance.

Not when the car is installed correctly and driven at a sensible ride height with adequate clearance. Damage usually comes from rubbing, excessive lowering, unsafe alignment or poorly routed components. Verify tire and line clearance through full steering and suspension travel.

Yes, provided the application is correct and the setup is tuned for its intended use. Adjustable damping and ride height give you flexibility, but air suspension does not override vehicle limits. Track use, high cornering loads and specialty applications should be discussed with a qualified installer before purchase.

2V is designed around simplified front, rear and whole-vehicle control, with three saved presets and wireless key-fob control. 4V adds individual four-corner control, five presets and Bluetooth app support. For independent levelling and more adjustment options, 4V is the natural step up. Compare management systems →

If you mainly want to raise the front, rear or entire car with a straightforward controller, 2V may cover your needs. If you want to adjust individual corners, use more presets or control the system from a compatible phone, look at 4V. Choose around how you actually use the car, not just the number on the box.

They're additional options in ONAIR's management range for customers who want a different control experience or premium feature set. Their interfaces and included functions vary by product. Compare the current specifications, then select the management system that matches your preferred controls and hardware.

Yes, with a compatible four-corner management system such as ONAIR 4V. It lets you make individual and paired adjustments. The 2V system works with grouped front and rear control instead; it is not the same as four independent corner channels.

Yes. ONAIR 4V provides a handheld digital controller and Bluetooth app control. The handheld is the main way to control and monitor the system, while the app adds convenience. Check the product details for compatible devices and software features. See ONAIR 4V →

Supported management systems can store presets. ONAIR 2V offers three and ONAIR 4V offers five. These systems save pressure-based positions, so you can quickly recall your usual driving, raised or parked settings. Always visually confirm a safe driving height before setting off.

Not necessarily. Pressure-based control reacts to air pressure, not direct measurement of the body-to-wheel distance. Passengers, fuel, load distribution and temperature can change the actual ride height at a given pressure. Confirm real clearance instead of assuming every preset will produce identical height in every condition.

On supported systems, rise on start is an optional setting that raises the car toward a stored position when the system powers on. It should be configured only after the build has been tested for clearance and safety. Disable automatic movement when working on the suspension or servicing pneumatic components.

Yes, a healthy air suspension system can be parked at an appropriate supported height. The springs are intended to carry the vehicle's weight while pressurized. If it sinks unusually fast, investigate leaks rather than repeatedly compensating with the compressor.

Yes. The supplied handheld controller remains the primary interface on the 4V system; Bluetooth is an additional convenience feature. Keep the controller and its wiring in working order, and review the manual for your specific management model.

ONAIR's conventional compressor-and-manifold setups use a tank as a compressed-air reserve. It allows responsive height adjustments without relying on the compressor to supply all the air instantly. Match the tank to the compressor, space available and frequency of adjustments.

Smaller tanks save space and are popular for compact or hidden installations. Larger tanks store more compressed air and can reduce how often the compressor needs to refill after repeated height changes. The right choice depends on vehicle size, packaging, compressor capacity and how often you air up and down. Read the tank-size guide →

No. Gallons describe volume; PSI describes pressure. A larger tank at the same operating pressure stores more air, not automatically a higher pressure. Never exceed the pressure rating of the lowest-rated component in the system.

A correctly sized single compressor can work well for many street builds. Dual compressors may refill a larger tank more quickly and share the workload, but add electrical demand, wiring and space requirements. Choose around duty cycle, tank size and your actual usage. Compare compressors →

All compressors make some noise and vibration while operating. The amount depends on the model, mounting surface, enclosure, bushings and the vehicle. Thoughtful mounting and airflow are important; don't seal a compressor into a space where it can't cool properly.

Duty cycle describes how long a compressor can operate within a stated period under specified test conditions. It matters because repeated fills generate heat. Never bypass thermal protection or treat the maximum advertised PSI as a recommendation to run the compressor continuously.

Repeated or unusually frequent cycling can indicate a leak, undersized air reserve, an issue with the pressure switch or normal use after several height changes. Check for audible leaks and follow a proper leak test. If it runs continuously or becomes excessively hot, switch the system off and investigate.

A water trap helps collect moisture from compressed air before it travels farther into your system. Trapped water can cause corrosion, sticking valves and winter freezing problems. Drain and inspect it regularly. Explore ONAIR water traps →

Line size affects how quickly the system can move air, but response also depends on fittings, valves, suspension volume and routing. Many street builds use 1/4-inch lines for more controlled adjustments; 3/8-inch can provide faster flow when the whole system is designed for it. Never mix mismatched push-to-connect components. Verify compatibility before ordering.

Push-to-connect fittings seal against the outside of properly inserted tubing. Crooked cuts, scratches, damage and incomplete insertion can cause leaks. Use a dedicated line cutter for a clean 90-degree cut, insert the line fully and test the connections after installation.

ONAIR Performance Air Suspension includes braided stainless-steel lines as specified for the application. These are not a substitute for the longer air lines and push-to-connect fittings used to connect the vehicle to the manifold. Review the kit contents and planned routing before installation.

If you have the correct tools, technical experience, documentation and safe lifting equipment, you may be able to install a vehicle-specific kit yourself. Air suspension also involves high-pressure air and automotive electrical systems. If you're unsure about suspension torque, routing, wiring or leak testing, use an experienced professional.

ONAIR supports installation and setup planning from our Stouffville, Ontario location. Services and scheduling depend on the vehicle and scope of work. Share your year, make, model and preferred configuration with the team. Explore installation at ONAIR HQ →

There isn't one reliable time for every vehicle. Suspension access, air-line routing, mounting, compressor wiring, alignment and custom trunk fabrication all affect labour. A tidy hidden setup can take longer than a straightforward visible installation. Ask your installer for a vehicle-specific estimate.

Not always. A clean installation can be designed around the vehicle's existing layout, but mounting hardware and secure routing may require modifications. Hidden installations and custom display boards are very different projects. Agree on the layout and mounting plan before work begins.

Absolutely. Depending on your vehicle's available space and ventilation, the components can be mounted behind trim, under a raised floor or in a custom trunk/frunk display. Keep service access, drainage, cooling and secure mounting in mind. A beautiful setup still needs to be maintainable.

Compressors draw significant current, especially at start-up. Wiring, relays, fuses and grounds must be sized according to the specific compressor and manufacturer instructions. Never rely on thin speaker wire, unfused battery wiring or poorly crimped connections. Faulty wiring can overheat and create a fire risk.

Confirm all fasteners are torqued correctly, wiring is fused, air lines are secure and away from heat or moving parts, and every fitting holds pressure. Test suspension travel, tire clearance, ride-height presets, ground clearance and compressor shutoff. Finish with a proper alignment at your normal driving height.

Vehicle-modification rules depend on where the car is registered and driven. A system must remain safe and meet applicable ride-height, lighting, tire-clearance and inspection requirements. Check provincial, state and local rules rather than relying on a blanket claim that every lowered setup is road legal.

Yes, many enthusiasts daily-drive air suspension in cold climates. The priorities are moisture control, leak-free lines, suitable ground clearance and regular inspection after salted roads. Start with ONAIR's Canadian winter maintenance guide →

Moisture freezing inside the tank, lines or valves. Cold temperatures alone do not automatically make bags unusable. Drain condensation, service water traps, resolve leaks and avoid repeatedly cycling an affected system when something appears frozen.

There's no universal interval because climate, humidity and compressor use vary. Inspect them regularly, and more frequently in humid weather or during the winter. Drain safely according to the system's instructions, with pressure isolated or relieved as required. Never unscrew a pressurized plug or fitting.

Some commercial pneumatic systems use compatible air-brake antifreeze products in extreme conditions, but not every automotive air suspension system, seal or valve is compatible. Do not add an arbitrary fluid or dose. Ask ONAIR about your exact management, compressor and tank arrangement first. Routine moisture control remains the first line of defence. Read the cold-weather guide →

Do not keep commanding repeated fills or cycling the compressor. Park safely, avoid driving at an unsafe height, allow the system to warm without an open flame or unsafe heat source, and determine where moisture or a restriction may be present. Seek professional assistance if you cannot restore normal operation safely.

Air pressure changes with temperature, so some difference can be normal. A significant drop, especially at one corner, may point to a leak. Compare pressure readings, inspect fittings and air springs, and arrange a proper leak test if the vehicle settles repeatedly.

Air springs are designed to hold the vehicle's load at appropriate operating pressures. Parking at a normal, supported height does not by itself mean you're damaging the bags. Avoid unsuitable pressure, overextension or rubbing, and repair any ongoing leak instead of making the compressor compensate.

If the system cannot hold a safe ride height, the vehicle should not be driven. Stop in a safe place and arrange repair or recovery. Even a slow leak deserves attention because repeated compressor cycling can cause excessive wear and an unpredictable height change.

Inspect air lines, seals and fittings; check compressor function and mounts; drain water traps and tank condensation; inspect the air springs for abrasion; and verify wiring and ride height. Seasonal checks are especially useful before freezing weather and after exposure to road salt.

ONAIR provides its Lifetime Confidence Warranty for eligible original purchasers of qualifying air suspension products, subject to the published terms and claim review process. Manufacturer defects and qualifying failures under normal use may be covered; abuse, improper installation and external damage are not automatically covered. Read the full warranty and support terms →

No. The published Lifetime Confidence Warranty is intended for eligible original purchasers with valid proof of purchase. If you're buying a used ONAIR setup, contact the team for compatibility or service guidance rather than assuming the original warranty transfers.

You can still ask ONAIR for product guidance and assistance. Warranty eligibility depends on the original purchase and the cause of the issue; damage from improper installation may be excluded. For a claim, provide order details and clear photos or video so the team can assess the problem fairly.

Yes. ONAIR ships from Ontario with tracked shipping across Canada, the United States and select international destinations. Shipping options and charges are shown at checkout; cross-border duties and taxes may apply. Read the shipping policy →

Timing depends on what you order. ONAIR's vehicle-specific Performance Air Suspension is built to order and typically needs approximately two weeks after fitment confirmation before shipping. Carrier transit time is additional, and custom or backordered items may take longer. Review current processing information →

Yes, free local pickup is available for eligible orders at ONAIR HQ in Stouffville, Ontario. Wait for the ready-for-pickup confirmation before arriving. Availability varies by item. View the location →

Cancellation requests are subject to the ONAIR refund and return policy. Orders may be cancellable within 48 hours of payment if they have not entered shipping preparation. Returns require prior authorization, and used, installed and some other items are excluded. Contact support promptly with your order number.

Inspect the shipment on delivery and contact ONAIR within 48 hours if something is damaged, defective or incorrect. Include your order number, photos of the product and packaging, and a description of the issue. This helps the support team investigate and determine next steps. Email ONAIR support →

For fitment or buying advice: vehicle year, make, model, trim, drivetrain and your goals. For existing systems: management model, compressor, tank size, symptoms and clear photos or video. For order or warranty questions: order number and proof of purchase. Contact the ONAIR team →