What is an Active Suspension Mode Switch?
Many vehicles with advanced active suspension systems have separate driving and handling modes which are driver selectable via a mode switch. This mode switch is located within the reach of the driver, and may be integrated into the information display area on the instrument panel. Most vehicles will have modes for comfort and sport, while others even have dedicated track settings.
How do Active Suspension Mode Switches work?
When the mode switch is changed to a new settings, the active suspension control module will read current suspension settings, and adjust those settings to match the desired factory preset for the new mode. For instance, setting the mode switch to sport will likely lower the vehicle ride height, stiffen the shock absorbers, and possibly change the steering ratio for vehicles with electronic steering gears. When the switch is changed back to normal, comfort, or any other setting, the active suspension control module will, again, adjust the settings for the air or hydraulic suspension to match the desired driver input.
What are the symptoms of a bad Active Suspension Mode Switch?
Issues with the mode selector switch are very straightforward, and only one of two things can go wrong. The switch may lose power, cause no change to the suspension when adjusted, and an active suspension system warning message will be displayed on the instrument cluster. Otherwise, the switch may only change the suspension to certain settings. This will likely also cause a warning message to be displayed on the instrument panel. Some vehicles may have the ABS and traction control systems deactivated in the event of active suspension mode selector switch failure as well.
Can I drive with a bad Active Suspension Mode Switch?
If the anti-lock braking (ABS) and traction control systems are disabled, this should be taken care of immediately, as should any issue pertaining to the braking system. However, if the only issue is loss of manual adjustment of suspension settings, the vehicle will likely be safe to drive for an unspecified amount of time. In most cases, the suspension will continue to constantly adapt to road conditions, and self level when parked.
How often do Active Suspension Mode Switches need replacement?
The mode selector switch is not an extremely commonly replaced component of the active suspension system. Since most drivers will find the mode they prefer and never change the selection to another handling mode the switch will experience very little wear. In most cases, along with other buttons on the center console, spilled drinks are the biggest hazard to this switch.
How are Active Suspension Mode Switch issues diagnosed?
If the mode switch fails or fails to actuate the suspension, it will be the first component tested. This is doubly true if the switch is an independent switch with no other function. Diagnosing the switch is as simple as checking for power, and checking for continuity in different settings for older vehicles, but newer vehicles will be slightly more difficult. Since newer vehicles will be controlled by an active suspension control module, signal voltage in each setting will be checked at the switch to determine if the switch is sending the correct voltage to the control module. Also, reference voltage from the control module must be present, and possibly battery voltage as well. Integrated switches, those which control several other settings, will likely not be suspected since they are most often a simple controller. In lieu of an integrated switch, the control module for the active suspension system will be suspected.
How are Active Suspension Mode Switches replaced?
Interior switches are simple to replace, and only require removal of the switch from the panel in which it is embedded, and possibly removing a panel to gain access to the mounting fasteners. An electrical connection will be removed and connected to the new switch before reinstallation. Of course, testing must be conducted before final installation.
RepairPal Recommendations for Active Suspension Mode Switch issues
We recommend thorough and proper testing of any component before replacement. This will limit frustration, wasted time and financial cost. In some cases simply swapping the switch may turn out to be a good repair, but there are many other components to an active suspension system, so the odds are against this being the case.
What to look out for when dealing with Active Suspension Mode Switch issues
Typical scanners will allow the user to view emissions codes, anti-lock brake system codes, and check readiness of emissions systems, however, active suspension system trouble codes are not likely to be visible with code readers. Professional scan tools can be used to access and clear codes, and make diagnosis a much more simple process, however, diagnosis can be done with a multi-meter and service manual.
Can I replace the Active Suspension Mode Switch myself?
A bad active suspension system mode selection switch can be replaced by anyone. However, diagnosing an active suspension system will prove out of reach of most DIY mechanics. These systems are atypical, and most people will have never serviced these systems. In the event of active suspension system electronic issues, it may be best left to a professional.
