Replace the air suspension height sensor to restore proper ride height control and suspension leveling functionality on 2011-2014 Ford F-150 with air suspension system.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Air suspension height sensor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Mounting hardware kit (if corroded) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks in front of front wheels
3. If equipped with air suspension on/off switch, turn suspension to OFF or use scan tool to enter service mode
4. Allow suspension system to vent completely (typically 30-60 seconds)
5. Loosen rear wheel lug nuts while vehicle is on ground

Procedure

1. 1

   Raise and support vehicle
   Lift the rear of the vehicle using a floor jack at the rear axle or designated jacking point. Support the frame with jack stands rated for the vehicle weight. Remove the rear wheel on the side requiring sensor replacement.
2. 2

   Locate the height sensor
   The height sensor is mounted to the rear suspension frame rail with a sensor arm connected to the rear axle or control arm via a ball joint link. Visually inspect the sensor location, typically near the shock absorber mount. Note the orientation and position of the sensor arm for proper reinstallation.
3. 3

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the height sensor body. Press the locking tab and carefully pull the connector away from the sensor. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage. Clean if necessary with electrical contact cleaner.
4. 4

   Disconnect sensor link arm
   Locate the sensor link arm connection to the axle or control arm. This is typically a ball joint connection with a small retaining clip or nut. Remove the retaining clip or nut and disconnect the sensor arm from the mounting point. If the ball joint is seized, apply penetrating oil and allow to soak for 10-15 minutes.
5. 5

   Remove sensor mounting bolts
   Remove the two or three mounting bolts securing the height sensor to the frame rail or suspension bracket. Support the sensor with one hand while removing the final bolt. Remove the sensor assembly from the vehicle.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Inspect mounting area
   Clean the mounting surface on the frame rail with a wire brush. Remove any rust, dirt, or debris. Inspect the mounting holes for damage or stripped threads. Check the sensor arm mounting point on the axle or control arm for wear or damage.
7. 7

   Install new height sensor
   Position the new height sensor to the mounting bracket on the frame rail, ensuring proper orientation matches the original installation. Install mounting bolts finger-tight. Verify the sensor arm will reach its connection point before fully tightening.
8. 8

   Torque sensor mounting bolts
   Using a torque wrench, tighten the height sensor mounting bolts to specification in a cross pattern if multiple bolts are present. Ensure the sensor is properly seated against the mounting surface.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Connect sensor link arm
   Attach the sensor link arm to the axle or control arm mounting point. The suspension should be at normal ride height position for proper sensor calibration. Install the retaining clip or nut and verify the ball joint is fully seated. The sensor arm should move freely through its range of motion without binding.
10. 10

    Connect electrical connector
    Plug the electrical connector into the height sensor until it clicks into place. Verify the locking tab is fully engaged. Gently tug on the connector to ensure it is secure.
11. 11

    Reinstall wheel and lower vehicle
    Reinstall the rear wheel, threading lug nuts by hand initially. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground but vehicle weight is still on jack stands. Torque wheel lug nuts in a star pattern to specification. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle completely to the ground. Perform final lug nut torque check.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts169 Nm (125 lb-ft)
12. 12

    Calibrate and test system
    Turn the air suspension system back to ON or exit service mode. Start the vehicle and allow the air suspension system to pressurize and level (typically 30-60 seconds). If equipped with a scan tool, perform height sensor calibration procedure according to manufacturer specifications. Cycle the suspension through park mode and drive mode to verify proper operation.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly routed away from moving suspension components
2. Verify sensor link arm has full range of motion without interference
3. Check that suspension reaches proper ride height on both sides after calibration

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify no air suspension warning lights or messages appear on the instrument cluster
• Drive the vehicle at low speed and verify the suspension levels properly and maintains ride height
• Use a scan tool to verify the height sensor is reading values and communicating with the suspension control module
• Test the suspension in different modes (if equipped) to ensure proper height adjustment
• Visually inspect for any air leaks around suspension components after pressurization

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