Hi all,

Been following a number of threads on the subject of Cayenne PASM/Air suspension.

I am looking for a used Cayenne diesel and found a 958.2 with PASM/AS. This SUV comes with 18 inch tires. From what I have read on those threads, these are what I have learned so far:
1) Cayenne PASM/AS system is much more reliable than the AS from other makes like BMW and Mercedes
2) PASM/AS provides a major improvement in the ride quality especially over bad roads
3) Reduces the road vibrations coming from large tire sizes (in particuar 20 inches and above)
3) Improves drivability on winding roads
4) Advantageous for off roading and in heavy snow conditions

Since my driving profile is mainly on highways and city roads (50-50) and I typically keep below 120km/h on highways, I am leaning towards giving this CD a pass and looking for a CD with regular coil spring suspension. The roads I drive on are mostly in good shape, I don't offroad and I have snow tires for winter.

Like to hear from others who are better informed on this topic than I am. Thanks.

Phil

 

Phil,

AS will also have more maintenance than coils, since there are air bags/shocks, pumps, valves, sensors/controllers, plumbing, etc. with any AS system.

You can still find PASM with coils.

Cheers!
Tom
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I just picked up a 14 cd with as last month was only looking for one with as. Hopefully with the sealed system there won't be as many problems as in the past we shall see. I love the way it rides definitely worth it to me.

 

My 958.1 with air suspension in 21" ran for 65000km, 7 years, Very satisfied . comfortable, no single issue. all-round player, Must have!
2 levels of high ground clearance is very good for speed ramp, off road and flooded roads.
lowest level is good for loading and unloading.
Perfect if sport setting could be a bit firmer.

 

I have a 2014 CTTS with PASM (also PDCC and PTV). Previous buggy was 2009 M-B GL550 with air suspension.

Over the past 6 years and 50K miles, I've not had an issue with PASM. I have 21" summer wheels/tires and 19" winter wheels/tires and the ride quality is noticeably different in all the ways you'd expect; firmer with better handling on 21" rims; softer and (slightly) more mushy on 19" rims. I like to go exploring somewhat remote areas and have used the off-road capabilities a little. Ability to increase ride height has been nice a few times. Had some wheel slippage a couple of times and the locking differentials came in handy (transfer case failures have been a separate issue with 958 Cayennes; I've changed TC oil every 20K miles and haven't had an issue). I have used the lowest ride height setting a few times when loading/unloading and it's nice.

Air suspension is like a lot of technology in that it's great when it works and can be a *royal* PITA when it doesn't.

The M-B GL550 air suspension was a nightmare. Ended up replacing all four "shocks" (strut/air bladder assembly on each wheel). Fronts were over $1K USD..... each. Rears were a relative bargain at about $400 USD each. One of the replacement "shocks' had to be replaced (under warranty thankfully). Fortunately, I did not have an issue with the pressure pump/controller unit. Based on the experience with the M-B air suspension (and a whole host of other repairs I won't go into here), I've sworn off M-B forever.

 

IMHO - The Air suspension makes a dramatic difference in handling that it is a must have. But thats me.
Don't decide based on theory. Let your butt guide you.

Try one with and another without and make up your mind that way.

 

I have 80k on my 20160 Cd with Air suspension. My 09 Cayenne didn't have air and the and I ordered it for this one. I think its worth it, I soften it up on the interstate, then button it down on the twists...it also helps when towing.

I do however look at it funny when just after unloading things from the rear and it levels itself with the car turned off.