This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the air suspension compressor on a 2015-2020 Ford F-150 equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine and rear-wheel drive configuration.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Air suspension compressor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Air line O-rings (if damaged) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Compressor mounting grommets (if deteriorated) × 4 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks behind front wheels
3. Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine
4. Using vehicle controls, select the air suspension service mode or lowest ride height setting to relieve air pressure
5. Turn ignition OFF and wait 2 minutes for system to depressurize
6. Disconnect negative battery terminal to prevent accidental air suspension activation
7. Raise rear of vehicle using floor jack and support with jack stands under frame rails
8. Remove rear driver-side wheel

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the compressor location
   The air suspension compressor is located behind the rear driver-side wheel well area, mounted to the frame rail. Remove the inner fender liner push clips and fasteners to access the compressor. Fold back the liner to expose the compressor assembly.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the compressor housing. Press the locking tab and carefully pull the connector straight off the compressor. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion or damage.
   ℹ️Do not pull on wires; pull only on the connector body to avoid damage.
3. 3

   Disconnect air supply line
   Locate the main air supply line connection at the compressor outlet. Push the collar toward the compressor body while pulling the air line straight out. The line uses a push-to-connect fitting. Inspect the O-ring on the line end for damage.
   ⚠Residual air pressure may escape when disconnecting the line. Ensure system was properly depressurized.
4. 4

   Disconnect compressor air intake
   Remove the air intake filter housing by releasing the clamp or twist-lock mechanism. Disconnect the intake tube from the compressor intake port. Set the filter housing aside for inspection and cleaning or replacement.
5. 5

   Remove compressor mounting bolts
   Using a 10mm or 13mm socket (verify size on your specific model), remove the compressor mounting bolts securing the unit to the frame bracket. There are typically 2-4 bolts depending on the mounting configuration. Support the compressor while removing the final bolt.
   ℹ️The compressor weighs approximately 8-10 pounds. Support it to prevent it from falling.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
6. 6

   Remove compressor assembly
   Carefully maneuver the compressor out of the mounting bracket and away from the vehicle. Check that all connections have been removed. Inspect the mounting bracket and grommets for damage or deterioration.
7. 7

   Transfer components if necessary
   If the replacement compressor does not include the mounting bracket, transfer the bracket from the old unit to the new one. Inspect and replace any rubber mounting grommets that show cracking or compression set. Clean the mounting surfaces.
8. 8

   Install new compressor
   Position the new compressor into the mounting bracket, aligning the bolt holes. Install the mounting bolts and tighten in a cross pattern to ensure even pressure on the mounting grommets. Torque to specification.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts31 Nm (23 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect air intake
   Install the air intake filter housing onto the compressor intake port. Ensure the filter is clean or replace if contaminated. Secure the clamp or twist-lock mechanism. Verify the filter housing is properly seated to prevent unfiltered air entry.
10. 10

    Reconnect air supply line
    Push the main air supply line firmly into the compressor outlet fitting until it clicks and seats completely. Gently tug on the line to verify it is locked in place. Ensure the O-ring is properly positioned.
    ℹ️The line should insert smoothly. If resistance is felt, check for debris or damaged O-rings.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Align and push the electrical connector onto the compressor until the locking tab clicks into place. Verify the connection is secure by gently pulling on the connector body.
12. 12

    Reinstall fender liner and wheel
    Position the inner fender liner back into place and reinstall all push clips and fasteners. Install the rear driver-side wheel and hand-tighten lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle until the tire just contacts the ground.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts156 Nm (115 lb-ft)
13. 13

    Final torque and system activation
    Torque the wheel lug nuts to specification in a star pattern. Remove jack stands and lower vehicle completely. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn ignition to ON position and allow the air suspension system to initialize and pressurize.
    ℹ️The compressor may run for several minutes during initial pressurization. This is normal.
    Torque spec

    Wheel Lug Nuts156 Nm (115 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure all air line connections are fully seated and locked
2. Verify electrical connector is secure with locking tab engaged
3. Check that fender liner is properly secured to prevent rattles
4. Confirm wheel lug nuts are torqued to specification in star pattern

Verification

• Start the engine and allow air suspension system to reach normal operating pressure (compressor should cycle off within 3-5 minutes)
• Listen for air leaks around the compressor connections while system is pressurizing
• Use vehicle controls to raise and lower the suspension through its full range, verifying proper operation
• Check for any fault codes using a scan tool if warning lights are present
• Inspect the compressor area for any signs of air or fluid leaks after initial cycling
• Test drive the vehicle and verify normal ride height is maintained and suspension responds correctly to load changes

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