Symptoms
- Car appears to sit unevenly despite no obvious mechanical damage
- Suspension or ride height warning light on
- Headlights may aim incorrectly on vehicles with automatic leveling headlights tied to the same sensors
Likely causes
- CommonFailed or disconnected ride height sensorThese small sensors, usually near the suspension links, can fail or have a damaged linkage.
- CommonSensor linkage bent or disconnectedA small linkage rod connects the sensor to the suspension; if it's bent or popped off, readings become inaccurate.
- PossibleWiring issue to the sensorCorrosion or damage to the sensor's wiring can cause intermittent or false readings.
What to do
- Visually inspect the ride height sensor and its small linkage rod near the suspension for damage or disconnection.
- Check for a specific fault code by having the system scanned at a shop.
- Compare actual ride height at all four corners to rule out a genuine mechanical sag versus a sensor-only issue.
- Reconnect or replace the sensor linkage if it's simply come loose.
- Replace the sensor itself if it's confirmed faulty rather than just disconnected.
Tools and parts
Ride height sensorSearch: “ride height sensor for [your car model]”
When to call a pro
A shop scan tool can distinguish between an actual suspension sag and a sensor giving a false reading, which saves you from replacing the wrong part.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.