Will Airbags Make a Smooth Ride in a 2014 Chevy Silverado 1500 High Country 6.2L 4X4

Updated 12/15/2014 | Published 12/14/2014

Question:

I wish to have a better ride with this vehicle. So far, we have changed the shackles extended the length and changed to softer shocks in rear. Still, not a very good ride. I was hoping the air bags would be the answer, but the so called experts locally say that wont help in that the bags are meant to adjust a heavy load. Of utmost importance, I am NOT INTERESTED in having the ability to haul a heavy load. Also not interested in off roading. Anyone with any suggestions? Many thanks.

asked by: Dan F

Helpful Expert Reply:

All of the suspension enhancement solutions are going to stiffen up the ride. Using airbags will allow you some degree of customization, less air would be a softer ride, more air would be a stiffer ride. But no matter how much air is in the bags they would engage first, before the stock suspension could fully compress. Since you have added softer shocks in the rear I do not think that airbags would create the ride quality you are looking for.

Interestingly you might notice a better ride quality in the rear if you were to weigh down the suspension some. Since trucks are meant for carrying loads, the suspension components in the back are stiffer. When empty, you get that stiff ride you have. With the suspension compressed it can smooth things out some.

expert reply by: Michael H