N_Jay

(Cross posting from the X164 forum, since the issues are the same and trying to get all the best answers.)

Air Suspension saggingLooks like it might be time for new front struts.
175K miles, bought it 7 years ago at 90K and think they were done once by the previous owner at the dealer.

The left front sags when sitting 2+ days.
Right front also looks low, but thinking that is just the extra weight from the left being down.
Pumps up and runs fine.

I have replaced both rear shocks over the past few years, so I am guessing the fronts probably need (or could use) replacing.

Is there any other issue I should be looking for other than a leaking air spring?
Is it as "easy" as it looks on the YouTube videos?
Should I only buy OEM struts, or are aftermarket struts OK, or should I get Arnott rebuilt struts?
If I can get Bilstein at a similar cost to Arnott, (+$10 a strut) do you think it is worth it?
Arnott is now saying they are using new custom-valved shocks.
I was thinking of getting a front suspension rebuild kit, not that I am wanting to replace al the ball joins and arms, but in case I found (or caused) a problem, I would have spares on hand.
Anything I need to be looking at?

Thanks everyone!

ningster

if it gets back up after starting the car, then it's the sensor... either the sensor is out of place, or needs replacement.... most likely just needs to be adjusted.

N_Jay

That does not make sense.

If the sensor is off, it would level to the wrong point. (not return to the right level)

If it sags when off, it is losing air somewhere. (bags most likely)

I installed new struts and three days of sitting and sill level.

It was sagging in 1 to 2 days since it started a couple of weeks back.

BlownV8

This, you are correct. Makes no sense. 99.999% of the time it's leaking struts.

N_Jay

By the way, this job is almost too easy to give to a shop.
The online videos show all that needs to be done, and I found a trick that made it even easier.
All the videos talk about how hard it is to get the strut over the axle.
The secret is to loosen, but do not remove the top nuts.
That holds the strut up and it easily swings over the axle.
If it doesn't swing far enough, remove the front two nuts and let it hang on the back one that is 3/4 loose.
Also doing both at the same time makes the sway bar connections much easier.