Audi Allroad Air Suspension: BLAU® Conversion Kit

The Audi Allroad, with its distinctive blend of executive saloon comfort and off-road capability, has long been a favourite among discerning drivers. A key feature enabling its versatile nature is its advanced pneumatic air suspension system, designed to offer adjustable ride height for various driving conditions. While innovative, this complex system, over time, often becomes a source of significant frustration and expense for owners across the UK.

Many Allroad enthusiasts find themselves grappling with the inherent complexities and vulnerabilities of the original equipment (OE) air suspension. The promise of dynamic ride height adjustment frequently gives way to the reality of costly repairs and diminished reliability. This is where an alternative, such as the BLAU® Audi Allroad Conversion Suspension Kit, steps in, offering a compelling, cost-effective and permanent solution for those seeking to restore their vehicle's ride and handling without the continuous financial drain.

Understanding the Audi Allroad's Original Air Suspension System

At its core, the Audi Allroad's air suspension system utilises a series of air springs (often referred to as air bags), an air compressor, an air dryer, air lines, and a control module to maintain a level ride and allow for adjustable ground clearance. This sophisticated setup permits the driver to select different ride heights, from a lower, more aerodynamic stance for motorway cruising to a higher setting for navigating rough terrain or deep snow. This adaptability is undoubtedly appealing, providing a comfortable ride quality and enhanced capability.

However, the very components that grant this versatility are also its Achilles' heel. The constant pressurisation and depressurisation, exposure to road debris, and the natural degradation of rubber and plastic components over time inevitably lead to wear and tear. This often manifests in a range of common, and often expensive, problems.

The Inevitable Downsides of Pneumatic Suspension Systems

Owners of the Audi Allroad are all too familiar with the tell-tale signs of a failing air suspension. These issues not only compromise the vehicle's ride comfort and handling but can also lead to significant safety concerns if left unaddressed. The most prevalent problems include:

• Air Bags or Springs Leaking: The rubber components of the air springs are prone to cracking and perishing over time, leading to air leaks. This often results in one or more corners of the vehicle sagging, particularly after being parked overnight.
• Air Lines Leaking: The intricate network of air lines connecting the compressor to the air springs can also develop leaks due to age, abrasion, or accidental damage, further exacerbating the loss of air pressure.
• Air Compressor Issues: To compensate for leaks, the air compressor is forced to work harder and more frequently. This continuous operation leads to premature wear and failure of the compressor itself, often resulting in a constantly running compressor or, eventually, no air pressure generation at all.
• Electrical and Sensor Faults: The system relies on various sensors and a control module, which can also fail, leading to incorrect ride height adjustments, dashboard warning lights, and general system malfunctions.
• Exorbitant Repair Costs: Replacing individual components, particularly air springs or the compressor, can be incredibly expensive due to the cost of parts and specialist labour. Furthermore, replacing one failing component often puts increased strain on others, leading to a cycle of ongoing repairs.

These persistent issues not only diminish the driving experience but also significantly impact the long-term reliability and ownership cost of the Audi Allroad, prompting many to seek a more permanent and dependable alternative.

Introducing the BLAU® Audi Allroad Conversion Kit: A Robust Alternative

The BLAU® Audi Allroad Conversion Suspension Kit offers a straightforward and highly effective solution to the pervasive problems associated with the OE pneumatic air system. This kit entirely converts the existing air suspension to a conventional coil spring and shock absorber setup, providing a simpler, more reliable, and significantly more cost-effective alternative without compromising key performance features.

Why Choose Conversion Over Repair?

The decision to convert from air to coil spring suspension is driven by several compelling advantages:

• Elimination of Common Failure Points: Say goodbye to concerns about leaking air bags, air lines, or a continuously running compressor. The BLAU® kit removes these problematic components entirely.
• Significant Cost Savings: The initial investment in the conversion kit, combined with lower future maintenance costs, can save Allroad owners thousands of pounds compared to repeatedly repairing or replacing OE air suspension components.
• Enhanced Reliability: A conventional coil spring and shock absorber system is inherently less complex and more robust, offering greater long-term dependability and peace of mind.
• Consistent Performance: Enjoy consistent dampening and ride quality in all terrains, free from the unpredictable nature of a failing air system.

What's in the BLAU® Conversion Kit?

The BLAU® kit is thoughtfully designed for a comprehensive and efficient conversion. It includes:

• Pre-assembled BLAU® Front Shock Absorber Assemblies: Featuring 50mm OD front Audi Allroad shock absorbers, specifically valved for the Allroad to ensure consistent dampening.
• Pre-assembled BLAU® Rear Shock Absorber Assemblies: Similarly designed for optimal performance.
• High-Tensile, Chrome-Silicon, Power Coated Audi Allroad Coil Springs: Engineered for durability and consistent performance.
• Front Audi Allroad Upper Strut Mounts.
• Rear Audi Allroad Upper Shock Mounts.
• Billet Aluminium CNC Machined Components: Ensuring precision and strength.
• Related Audi Allroad Suspension Hardware.
• Anti-Seize Assembly Lubricant and Thread Locking Compound: Essential for proper reassembly and long-term security.
• Detailed Illustrated Installation Instructions: Crucially, these include guidance on how to disconnect the Audi Allroad suspension level warning light system.

The inclusion of pre-assembled components is a significant advantage, as it dramatically reduces the labour time required for installation, making the conversion process smoother for your technician.

Engineered for Performance and Comfort: The "Feel The Road!" Philosophy

Blauparts embarked on a two-year engineering journey to develop an Allroad suspension system that delivers a first-rate sport feel. Their philosophy, "Feel The Road!", guided the creation of a system that is perfectly suited for the comfort of everyday driving while also providing precise handling for winding roads or more spirited driving. Drawing upon their German automotive heritage and over 27 years of experience, coupled with invaluable feedback from Allroad owners, the goal was to transform the driving experience.

BLAU® shock absorbers and coil springs are engineered with specific dampening rates that produce ride characteristics best described as a comfortable firm sport feel. This provides a definitive feel and clear-cut reliability, steering clear of the harsh aggressiveness often associated with some aftermarket sport setups. Extensive product development, analysis, and testing across various conditions – street, off-road, and even race tracks – ensure a suspension replacement system that instils confidence behind the wheel.

Optimal Ride Height: The Level 2 Advantage

A crucial aspect of the BLAU® conversion kit's design is its commitment to closely simulating the factory Level 2 position. This specific ride height is not arbitrary; it's meticulously chosen to allow for proper wheel camber alignment. At Level 2, the tyres are positioned optimally, ensuring that the entire footprint of the tyre makes even contact with the road. This optimal wheel camber alignment is vital for maximum tyre performance and, importantly, for extending tyre longevity.

Many Allroad owners who regularly drive in positions higher or lower than Level 2 (which results in negative or positive degree camber alignment, respectively) often experience accelerated and uneven tyre wear. By fixing the ride height at the most efficient and practical factory setting, the BLAU® kit helps to mitigate this common issue, saving owners further expense on premature tyre replacements.

BLAU® Conversion vs. Original Air Suspension: A Comparative Look

To further illustrate the benefits, here's a direct comparison between the original Audi Allroad air suspension and the BLAU® conversion kit:

Installation Insights and Technical Notes

The installation of the BLAU® conversion kit is designed to be as straightforward as possible for a qualified technician. The pre-assembled front and rear shock absorber assemblies significantly reduce the labour required. Typically, labour time averages approximately one hour per wheel, with an additional hour or so needed for control module disconnection and adjustment. The total labour time for a complete conversion is estimated to be around 5-6 hours.

The detailed illustrated installation instructions provided with the kit include crucial guidance on how to properly disconnect the Audi Allroad suspension level warning light system. This ensures that after the conversion, your dashboard remains clear of unnecessary warning indicators.

Important Note for 2005 Model Year Audi Allroads: Due to specific changes in the suspension control unit for the 2005 model year, some vehicles may present a unique challenge. In these particular instances, the dashboard suspension warning light and check engine light may not always be able to be permanently turned off after the installation of this kit, even following the provided instructions. This issue appears to be exclusively associated with the 2005 model year.

Quality You Can Trust

In harmony with Blauparts' 'We Care' core values, all products under the BLAU® brand name are developed using ISO management disciplines in design, development, and sourcing processes. Blauparts meticulously selects suppliers and manufacturers who share their unwavering commitment to providing only the highest quality products. This dedication ensures that the Audi Allroad suspension conversion kit meets stringent quality standards, offering customers a durable and reliable solution they can depend on.

Driving Impressions: What Owners Are Saying

The real-world performance of the BLAU® Allroad Suspension System has garnered significant praise from those who have experienced it firsthand. Mike Loos, an Audi Allroad owner, master technician, race car driver, and senior Audi and BMW driving instructor, shared his experience after testing the system at Road America race track:

"As you know, I own and love my Audi Allroad. I wanted a bit better performance than the stock air ride. When the first air bag started to leak, I went to a coil over setup. The ride height was a little too low and the ride a little too stiff. Useable, but not exactly what I wanted. Then I rode in your Allroad on the track at Road America. I liked that the ride height was stock, the ride was smooth, the turn in was brisk, and even when pushing the tires past their limits the car stayed neutral, predictable and safe. I want that set-up on my Allroad. Let me know when it's available." - Mike Loos of O'Reilly Motor Cars Inc.

Another satisfied customer, Rick S., provided a comprehensive review highlighting both the product quality and the support received:

"We want you to know that we think all of you at Blauparts are the best! First, your A6 Allroad air suspension conversion kit is first class. Your instructions are detailed and precise and following them was easy... We both know how to turn a wrench but neither of us had ever undertaken a complete suspension conversion before. Because we didn't have access to a diagnostic tool, we didn't attempt to recode the ECU. We brought the car to an Audi technician for this process. There again, your instructions were excellent. Our Allroad, however, refused to accept the code change. When we contacted you about this problem, your support staff were as helpful as possible... The process was surprisingly simple ... and the check engine light is OFF... Thank you! BTW - The car rides and handles better than it did with the original suspension. This is our 2nd Allroad. We had the dealer replace the air suspension (costly) on the first one and it never really worked correctly, and we traded the car. We knew we'd have the same issue with this car, but we learned that conversions were available. We researched what was available and decided on BLAU because yours kept the stance at level 2 and we need the clearance because of where we live (rural, long winters, frost heaves). We will recommend you highly to everyone for any and all their Audi and Volkswagen needs. Once again, thank you!" - Rick S.

These testimonials underscore the significant improvements in handling, ride quality, and overall driving confidence that the BLAU® conversion kit provides, validating its design philosophy and engineering prowess.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Will I lose the adjustable ride height feature with this conversion?

A: Yes, the BLAU® conversion kit replaces the adjustable air suspension with a fixed coil spring and shock absorber setup. The vehicle will sit permanently at the factory's optimal Level 2 ride height.

Q: Is the installation of the BLAU® kit something I can do myself?

A: While the kit includes detailed instructions and pre-assembled components to simplify the process, it is recommended that the installation be carried out by a qualified technician. Suspension work requires specific tools and expertise to ensure safety and proper alignment.

Q: How does the ride quality of the BLAU® conversion compare to the original air suspension?

A: The BLAU® system is engineered to provide a "comfortable firm sport feel." Many users report that the car handles and rides better than it did with a failing original air suspension, offering a more predictable and stable driving experience without harshness.

Q: What about the dashboard warning lights after conversion?

A: The kit includes instructions on how to disconnect the Audi Allroad suspension level warning light system. However, please note that some 2005 model year Audi Allroads may experience persistent warning lights due to specific control unit changes.

Q: Is the BLAU® conversion a reliable long-term solution?

A: Absolutely. By eliminating the complex and failure-prone pneumatic components, the BLAU® kit offers a much more durable and reliable suspension system. It's designed for longevity and consistent performance, freeing you from the common issues associated with air suspension.

Conclusion

For Audi Allroad owners facing the recurring headaches and substantial costs associated with a failing pneumatic air suspension system, the BLAU® Audi Allroad Conversion Suspension Kit presents an undeniably attractive and robust alternative. It’s a meticulously engineered solution that not only resolves the inherent problems of the OE air system but also enhances the vehicle's driving dynamics, providing a confident and engaging 'firm sport feel'.

By opting for this conversion, you gain peace of mind, significant long-term savings, and a revitalised driving experience that returns the joy to owning your Audi Allroad. It's a testament to thoughtful engineering, offering reliability and performance without the ongoing complexities, ensuring your Allroad is ready for the road ahead, whatever it may bring.

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