I have a 01 LS with 176K on it. I just had the drivers' side air shock to go bad. I've been quoted $1500 for replacing the single shock, $2000 for replacing all 4 with conventional shocks. J C Whitney sells a pair of compatible replacement air shocks for less than $700. I've not made a decision at this time. The car is still too valuable to not repair it.

 

I might be going aftermarket air on my LS, if that's the case I'll be selling my factory air.

 

Man oh man! Just hearing about these air suspension repair costs scares the hell out of me. That is why I'm definitely staying away from a UL optioned LS.

 

I see people keep killing their airsus rides out of cheapness... That's douchy....
Each airshock is just about 900usd. Is it high? Hell no! It's cheap!

 

I've decided to go the steel route.

The costs of replacing the air system is not even within the realm of consideration. My air compressor is making very loud rattling noises when engaged. If you factor in the compressor & dryer I could be looking at $10/12K.

LOL. Not to keep a $15K valued vehicle on the road. If anything, at least I could repair the car with springs & then sell it with a clear conscience.

In the process of deciding which parts to go with. I believe that I'll end up with the Tanabe TNF & KYB Excel-2. That solution looks to be in the $1200 -1500 range complete.

 

Why these outrageous numbers? Used and working airsus compressor+drier = 200usd max.
There's an old saying - 'only take whatever you can carry without breaking your back'....

 

I haven't had any problem yet with the air suspension at 116500 miles but have seen conversions like this as an alternative.
http://www.strutmasters.com/Lexus-LS...-p/ls430-4.htm

 

Outrageous pricing.

 

'Cule,

I haven't had any problems with air suspension until 118K miles. I have been in your shoes, hopefully you won't find yourself in mine...

 

Keeping my fingers crossed. Did you check on any of the conversion kits offered on the internet B4 deciding on the Tanabe TNF & KYB Excel-2. I thought the Strutmaster looked pretty good but haven't done too much research since it isn't on my A list yet.

 

I have read about many, many different options - most just a variation on a theme of steel springs or coil overs. The reason I'm selecting the tanabe/kyb combo is that the combo is the closest to factory ride that I can find without resorting to Lexus parts. The tanabe's have a very similar spring rate, the kyb struts are oem to the car (kyb is clearly marked on the air shocks too), and the total outlay ($) on parts is around $800 delivered. This should provide another 150,000 miles or so, without issue. And replacement struts are available for $100 whenever needed.

Coilovers seem to come with more issues, and less useable life. Though this is just my reading - no actual experience in the implementation.

Just my $0.02...

 

If you need all the air shocks replaced plus a possible compressor, I think converting to steel coils and struts is a no brainer. There's also pricey sensors that go with the air ride can go out as well down the road. You're looking at a big bill, even if you did all the work yourself.

Personally, I would probably go with the Lexus OEM steel coils, because it's not that much more money (about $100) and I like my ride to be on the soft side, but your alternative looks like a pretty solid pick.

Let us know how it works out and if you're happy with it.

 

Tanabe is not so close to OEM. I'm definitely going OEM coils eventually when I need to do the conversation. Probably sport springs. There are 3 options. Sport, normal, and rough road package which adds about an inch in height. By the way, the cheapest OEM new is $1026.00 per bag. Not worth it.