Air Suspension Compressor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the air suspension compressor on 2015-2020 Ford F-150 models equipped with factory air suspension systems.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Air suspension compressor × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Compressor mounting grommets × 4 — Replace if damaged
• Air line O-rings × 2 — Replace if damaged

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and apply parking brake
2. Place wheel chocks at front wheels
3. Turn off ignition and remove key
4. Disable air suspension system using the switch located in the trunk/cargo area or via the dashboard menu
5. Allow at least 5 minutes for the system to fully depressurize
6. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
7. Raise rear of vehicle and support with jack stands at frame rails
8. Remove driver side rear wheel for better access

Procedure

1. 1

   Access the compressor area
   Remove the driver side rear wheel well liner fasteners and pull back the liner to expose the compressor mounted to the frame rail. You may need to remove multiple plastic push clips and screws. The compressor is mounted vertically with the air lines running to it from above.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector on the compressor motor housing. Press the locking tab and disconnect the wiring harness. Inspect the connector terminals for corrosion and clean if necessary. Route the connector away from the work area.
3. 3

   Disconnect air supply lines
   Identify the two air lines connected to the compressor head assembly: the inlet line (from the dryer assembly) and the outlet line (to the air spring manifold). Press the release collar on each quick-connect fitting and pull the line straight out. A small amount of residual air may escape. Inspect the O-rings on the line ends and replace if damaged or worn.
   ⚠Do not twist or bend air lines excessively during removal as this can damage the nylon tubing.
4. 4

   Disconnect vent line
   Disconnect the small diameter vent line from the compressor dryer assembly. This line typically routes downward and allows moisture to escape. Note the routing for reinstallation.
5. 5

   Remove compressor mounting bolts
   Remove the mounting bolts securing the compressor bracket to the frame rail. There are typically three mounting bolts. Support the compressor weight while removing the final bolt. Note the position of any rubber isolation grommets and spacers for reinstallation.
   Torque spec

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

   Remove compressor assembly
   Carefully lower the compressor assembly from the frame rail mounting position. Maneuver it through the wheel well opening. Inspect the mounting bracket for damage or excessive corrosion. If the bracket is damaged, it must be replaced with the compressor.
7. 7

   Prepare new compressor
   Unpack the new compressor and verify it matches the original unit. Transfer the mounting bracket to the new compressor if necessary, ensuring all rubber isolation grommets are in good condition. Install new grommets if originals are cracked or compressed. Verify the air line fittings are clean and free of debris.
8. 8

   Install new compressor
   Position the new compressor assembly into the mounting location on the frame rail. Align the mounting holes and install the mounting bolts finger-tight initially. Ensure the compressor is properly seated in the mounting grommets before torquing. Torque mounting bolts to specification in a cross pattern.
   Torque spec

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

   Reconnect air lines
   Connect the inlet and outlet air lines to the compressor head assembly. Push each line firmly into the quick-connect fitting until you hear and feel a click. Gently tug on each line to verify it is locked in place. Connect the vent line to the dryer assembly and route it downward as originally positioned.
10. 10

    Reconnect electrical connector
    Plug the wiring harness connector into the compressor motor housing. Ensure the locking tab clicks into place. Verify the connector is fully seated and the wiring is routed away from any sharp edges or heat sources.
11. 11

    Reinstall wheel well liner and wheel
    Reposition the wheel well liner and secure with all original fasteners and push clips. Install the rear wheel and thread lug nuts by hand. Lower vehicle until wheel contacts ground but does not bear full weight. Torque lug nuts to specification in a star pattern.
    Torque spec

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

    Complete installation
    Lower vehicle completely and remove jack stands. Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Enable the air suspension system using the trunk switch or dashboard menu. Start the vehicle and allow the compressor to pressurize the system. This may take 2-3 minutes. Listen for air leaks around the compressor connections.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all air line connections are secure and no leaks are present
2. Verify electrical connector is fully seated and locked
3. Confirm wheel well liner is properly secured with all fasteners
4. Double-check wheel lug nut torque after test drive

Verification

• Start the vehicle and verify the air suspension compressor runs and builds pressure (you should hear it cycle on briefly)
• Check that the suspension system raises to normal ride height within 2-3 minutes
• Verify no warning lights or messages appear on the instrument cluster related to the air suspension
• Use a scan tool to check for any stored diagnostic trouble codes in the suspension control module
• Walk around the vehicle and listen for air leaks near the compressor and all connections
• Test all suspension height settings (if equipped) to ensure proper operation
• Perform a test drive and verify normal suspension operation and ride quality

More procedures for this vehicle