Experiencing persistent problems with your 2020 Mercedes S550’s AIRMATIC suspension? You’re not alone. Many owners of the W222 chassis Mercedes S-Class have faced the frustrations and high costs associated with maintaining these complex air suspension systems. Fortunately, there’s a permanent, cost-effective solution: the Strutmasters 2014-2020 Mercedes-Benz S550 RWD 4 Wheel AIRMATIC Suspension Conversion Kit. This kit allows you to replace your problematic air suspension with a reliable coil spring suspension for significantly less than the cost of just one OEM air strut replacement.
Conversion Kit Advantages
This expertly engineered conversion kit offers a range of benefits that address the common pain points of Mercedes S550 AIRMATIC suspension owners:
- Significant Cost Savings: Avoid the exorbitant expenses of replacing failing air struts, compressors, and other AIRMATIC components. This conversion kit is priced to be more affordable than a single air strut replacement.
- Enhanced Reliability: Coil spring suspensions are inherently more reliable than complex air systems, eliminating the common issues of leaks, compressor failures, and electronic malfunctions associated with AIRMATIC.
- Improved Ride Quality: Experience a comfortable and controlled ride, comparable to the original AIRMATIC system, thanks to meticulously engineered premium springs and struts.
- Straightforward Installation: Designed for ease of installation, this kit requires no modifications to your 2020 Mercedes S550. Detailed instructions are included, making it a DIY-friendly upgrade for mechanically inclined owners.
- All-New, High-Quality Components: The kit includes brand new, premium quality struts and coil springs, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability.
What’s Included in Your Strutmasters Conversion Kit?
The Strutmasters Suspension Conversion Kit for the 2020 Mercedes S550 RWD comes complete with everything you need for a successful conversion:
- 2 Preassembled Front Struts with Coil Springs
- 2 Preassembled Rear Struts with Coil Springs
- Comprehensive, Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Vehicle Compatibility
This conversion kit is specifically designed to fit the following Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) Mercedes-Benz S550 models within the W222 chassis:
- 2014 Mercedes S550 RWD
- 2015 Mercedes S550 RWD
- 2016 Mercedes S550 RWD
- 2017 Mercedes S550 RWD
- 2018 Mercedes S550 RWD
- 2019 Mercedes S550 RWD
- 2020 Mercedes S550 RWD
Important Considerations
- RWD Models Only: This kit is designed exclusively for Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) versions of the Mercedes S550. For All Wheel Drive (AWD) variants, please refer to the Strutmasters MU74F kit.
- Light Fix Module: Please note that this conversion kit does not include a light fix module. While often not necessary, some vehicles may require a module to address suspension warning lights.
Understanding the AIRMATIC System and Its Weak Points
The factory-equipped AIRMATIC suspension in your 2020 Mercedes S550 utilizes a complex network of components, including:
- AIRMATIC Struts: These combine air springs (rubber and plastic air bags) with struts to provide cushioning and height adjustment. Air, rather than traditional coil springs, supports the vehicle’s weight.
- Height Sensors: Located at each wheel, these sensors constantly monitor vehicle height and relay information to the suspension control module for automatic adjustments.
- Air Lines: These tubes distribute pressurized air from the compressor to the AIRMATIC struts.
- Compressor: This pump pressurizes the air system. Leaks in the system often cause the compressor to overwork and fail prematurely.
- Dryer: This component is designed to remove moisture from the air system, but moisture build-up can still occur over time.
- Suspension Control Module: The computer that manages the entire AIRMATIC system, controlling ride height and air distribution.
- O-rings: Small, inexpensive seals that are crucial for maintaining air tightness at all air line connections. These can become brittle and leak over time.
One of the primary drawbacks of AIRMATIC systems is that component failures tend to occur around the same time. If one air strut is leaking, it’s highly likely that others are nearing failure as well, leading to cascading and costly repairs.
Recognizing the Signs of Suspension Trouble in Your 2020 S550
Early detection of air suspension problems can help prevent further damage and expense. Be alert for these common symptoms:
- Inability to Maintain Ride Height: The vehicle struggles to reach or stay at the correct ride height.
- Uneven Ride Height: Noticeable differences in height between different corners of the vehicle, such as one side sagging or one end being higher than the other. This can manifest as a “squatting” appearance or a lean to one side.
- Excessive Compressor Noise or Continuous Operation: The air compressor runs too frequently or for extended periods in an attempt to compensate for air leaks. Eventually, the compressor may burn out completely.
- Suspension Warning Light: Illumination of a suspension warning light on the dashboard indicates a more advanced stage of suspension failure.
The High Cost of OEM AIRMATIC Replacement vs. Strutmasters Conversion
Replacing failed AIRMATIC components with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts is notoriously expensive. Consider these typical costs:
- Front Air Strut Assemblies: Approximately $2,000 per strut
- Rear Air Strut Assemblies: Approximately $1,700 per strut
- Air Compressor: Around $1,300
- Air Reservoir: About $400
These costs quickly add up, exceeding $9,000 for just these major components – and this doesn’t even include potential replacement of height sensors or other electronic parts! Furthermore, new replacement struts are often unavailable from the OEM, making aftermarket solutions necessary anyway.
The Strutmasters 2020 Mercedes S550 Suspension Conversion Kit offers a far more economical and dependable alternative. Eliminate the ongoing headaches and expenses of AIRMATIC and enjoy a reliable, comfortable ride with this complete coil spring conversion solution.
