Adaptive chassis/air suspension thoughts - long term

[Lawguy]

I’m in the market for a new Q7. Definitely going Prestige 3.0t. I’ve read all the threads about the adaptive chassis package - and I’ve driven the vehicle with and without the option. I do think it’s somewhat noticeable when driving with the air suspension, and know I’d would like the four wheel steering.

My question is more along the lines of people experience and thoughts on the Audi air suspension, from a long-term basis. I’ve had two Mercedes with air suspensions (GL 450 and e63). Both had a number of airmatic strut failures before 100k miles - something not uncommon with Mercedes air suspensions. Is air suspension failure also an issue with Audi’s, either somewhat routinely, or inevitably? I found the air suspension issues very frustrating with the Mercedes cars, and for that reason am wondering whether I would prefer to pass on the option on a Q7.

All thoughts appreciated.

[s4buckeye]

2015 Q7 TDI Prestige with full air. 82k miles in just under three years with the only (knock on wood) issue being a faulty EGR valve motor and glow plug.

Air suspension is strong AF at this point.



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[ICU2]

2015 S-Line Q7 w/~ 25000 miles, no issues w/the suspension @ this point. No towing or heavy loads,=~ the heaviest thing I put in the rear would B my 2 Tibetan Mastiff’s (combined > than 300lbs) but no issues. Just started to have pblms w/the cooled seats, they’ve stopped working? Currently @ ~ 25000 miles so ......

[AngryQ5]

honestly speaking i dont think any active air suspensions will last 5,6 yrs or 100k+ .whether its benz audi bmw cadillac. they are nice but they are very senstive moving parts.


Sent from my SM-G960U using Tapatalk

[nba1008]

I personally would not purchased the Q7 without the adaptive chassis. It is worth it every penny and so far 10k miles not issues at all.

[SQ57]

Sorry to jump in, been thru same deliberation, decided to pass on air,saved a buck also, (for the intended long term fam platform). However, with extended warranty for $3.5k, any issues would be covered, upto 120k$. Indeed, 4 wheel steering is very alluring, test drove one and liked it.

Cheers,

Bob

Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk

[blackfunk]

I'm curious if there are aftermarket air options for when the air suspension inevitably needs to be replaced.

[flat12]

My Q7 is quite old now - model year 2007, and it has air suspension, which has been very nice. I haven't had any issues with it at all.