Rear Airbag Suspension Problems

H2s came with rear airbags, and not coils. These airbags use pressurized air as cushion to support the ride height (e.g. towing a heavy trailer – activate the airbags to lift the rears and help level the ride). Unfortunately, over time the bags & air compressor starts failing. I had mine fail more than 3-4 times and was furious, until I read on forums by other owners having the same issues. It turns out being a very common H2 issue.

When the airbags or compressor fails, the rear end drops all the way, almost having the inner fender rub against the tires. It becomes impossible to drive with the rear end constantly bouncing up & down. A guaranteed backpain + headache. Apart from the uncomfortable ride, is the cost to fix/replace the parts. Replacing the Airbags would cost you around $300, and the compressor alone is around $4,000. Imagine having to do that 2-3 times.

My 3rd compressor failure happened only 10 months after the 2nd failure, and that’s when I’ve had enough.

The Simple Solution – Bags to Coils

After bashing the dealership and hopping on forums to continue my rant, I was shocked by finding out the EASIEST & MOST SIMPLE SOLUTION that would cost less than $300!!! (vs $4,000+). Converting the rears from Airbags to Coils…that’s it!

Browsed online for aftermarket coils, and thought shocks too since I’ve had the car on OEM shocks for 18+yrs. Meanwhile, my H2 just sat there and would remain undrivable until I find/ship the parts. Instead of waiting, I found used GM coils off a same-yearish GMC or Chevy, and installed those on my current factory shocks (which are in good condition). Instant game changer!

Ride height adjusted and surprisingly a way more ride comfort vs the bags. I skipped out on ordering new shocks for now. One annoying issue with coils is tripping the airbags sensors and will constantly have the “Service Air Suspension” warning flash. So if that bothers you, there are aftermarket kits that include a Bypass Module to delete that warning.

Aftermarket Coil & Shocks options (with factory height + adjustable minor lift)
– Arnott Coils with the Bypass Module
– Strutmasters Coils & Shocks
– Bilstein 5100 & 4600 series w/ adjustable lift (I was going for these shocks)


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