Lexus LS 600h Air Suspension Repair Log

Good evening, dear friends! I will tell a story about a compressed air system that fell. After removing the battery, the compressor pumps up to the required level and it seems everything is perfect. You start driving, hit a bump, the pressure drops in the pneumatic system and doesn't refill until you repeat the procedure. Possible issues: pneumatic system, sensor, or compressor. The pneumatic system is new—so that's out of the question. Next is the sensor; setting it correctly with the pneumatic controller ruled out this option as well. I parked the car in a warm, comfortable garage. Removed the front bumper and took off the compressor. After blowing out the nearby tubes from it, they were visibly damp, indicating freezing. I carefully disassembled the compressor, luckily Amir had a donor part close by to use as a template for assembly. Upon opening the section containing silica gel, I found water droplets with the gel feeling moist to touch. Reading forums suggested drying it properly in an oven at high temperature for several hours, but only a microwave was available. After microwaving in short intervals, the silica gel started smoking; eventually, it fell apart completely. So, where to get new? Cat litter or desiccant from trucks. Opted for the latter since it's closer to automotive use. Purchased and carefully removed the casing—it has a strong spring inside as does the compressor. Cut out the plastic housing and replaced the contents with dry material. Although different in composition, its purpose is the same. Installed it back and reassembled everything. Tested—still drops even when warm. Removed the left wheel, found that the sensor linkage was stuck. In other words: I order the car to lift as high as possible; it reaches a certain point where the linkage can extend but cannot go further, causing the compressor to run idle until an error occurs. Interestingly, searching for this issue led only to Arabic videos online. Replacing the linkage resolved everything. The most interesting part came next—the dry air made the pneumatic system smooth like never before. Conducted preventive maintenance, which is always beneficial. With proper annual replacement, leftover silica gel should last another 10 years! Thanks to everyone who read until the end! Hope it's useful!