JeffLewis

Have an 05 E500 wagon 4matic with airmatic suspension. This winter, after driving snow covered roads, the car seems to be bouncy, even on sport 2 setting. Do I need new shocks, or struts? No warning lights have come on, and the tires are in good shape including the pressures. I read through the threads and saw an aftermarket part profiled, is that what I need to replace? Thanks.

NorseWagon

With no red lights on the dash, I would not worry about it.

If the system looses pressure and/or clearance you will probably see bright red messages right in front of you.

Perhaps the cold temps did something to the "bouncy" feeling, but normally cold should make things stiffer..

Diesel Benz

I would not expect any warning lights from broken shocks. It could well be that a worn out part failed when stressed at cold. I'd have the suspension checked.

The air springs would fire a fault message, but you would usually see it from outside too if those had an issue.

NorseWagon

True enough:

I did not consider breakage or plain damage, although low height sensors would probably pick up regardless of cause if the bounce is enough down?

aintez

nope, shocks on the rear are seperate to the airbag unit (unlike the front) so no if the shock goes the ecu wont be able to tell i wouldnt think.

Vik888

You could have the car lowered via SDS. The more you lower a car with airmatic, the firmer the suspension gets.

JeffLewis

Thanks for the feedback.

In other posts, one was directed to Arnott Industries to purchase rebuild air suspension shock assemblies, are these the shocks I would need in case mine were shot? Or can I use standard shocks?

Second, can I get a recommendation on this site for a place to go for repair other than the stealer?

Thanks. Jeff

http://www.arnottindustries.com/part...18_pid133.html

aintez

yup you could just go spend the money but wouldnt you want to check if you really need to first ?

I have not heard of any other place that sells them, i have heard of an airbag repair kit, more of a search will reveal that though.

220S

If they are leaking then yes, you can get Arnotts for less $$ than OEM. No you cannot use standard struts. But as somebody already pointed out, why not go to your dealer first and find out what you need. Then make your decision.

This stuff has been covered a zillion times on these forums. Do a search and you'll get all sorts of info.

You'll get a recommendation for Indy shops if you just list where you are located....