Bagged Cars: The Ultimate Guide to Air Suspension

Overview
A “bagged car” is a car with air suspension that allows a driver to change the ride height with one button.

Air suspension has this flexibility; you can go from slammed to lifted in seconds, rather than conventional static lowering (springs or coilovers).Overview
A “bagged car” is a car with air suspension that allows a driver to change the ride height with one button.

Air suspension has this flexibility; you can go from slammed to lifted in seconds, rather than conventional static lowering (springs or coilovers).Overview
A “bagged car” is a car that has air suspension, which enables the driver to change the ride height with a single button press

. Air suspension offers flexibility, enabling you to go from slammed to lifted in a matter of seconds, in contrast to conventional static lowering (springs or coilovers)Overview
A “bagged car” is a car that has air suspension, which enables the driver to change the ride height with a single button press.

Air suspension offers flexibility, enabling you to go from slammed to lifted in a matter of seconds, in contrast to conventional static lowering (springs or coilovers)..

This guide covers: ✔ What air suspension is ✔ Pros and cons of bagged cars ✔ Price and installation details ✔ Best vehicles for air suspension ✔ Maintenance tips

What is a Bagged Car?
Rather than using conventional coil springs or struts, a bagged car uses air springs or air bags. Rather than a spring, each air bag is capable of filling with compressed air as dictated by an air management system housed inside the air bag.

Key Components: Air bags (rather than regular springs)

An air compressor pumps air into the system.

Air tank (compressed air storage)

Valves & pipes (for controlling air flow)

Management system (digital controller or manual switches)

How does it work: The driver uses a switch or smartphone app to change height.

Air bags are filled by a compressor to raise the vehicle.

To lower it, valves release air.

Favourite heights (such as drive mode, show mode, and full lift) are saved by presets.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Bagged Cars ✅
✔ Height Adjustable: Set it high for speed bumps and low for performances.
✔ Smoother Ride: Air absorbs bumps more effectively than rigid coils.
✔ Customisable Look: Adapt your posture as needed.
✔ Improved Management (if properly adjusted).
Unlike cut springs, it is reversible and doesn’t require permanent modifications.Air bags are filled with air from a compressor to raise your vehicle.
Air is released via valves to lower it.
Most favorite heights (e.g. drive mode, show mode, full lift) are often saved into presets.
The Pros & Cons of Bagged Cars ✅
✔ Height Adjustable: High for speed bumps; low for performance.
✔ A Smoother Ride: Air absorbs bumps better than rigid coils.
✔ Customizable Look: Easily change your stance.
✔ Better Handling (if adjusted properly).
It is reversible and does not require a permanent modification, unlike cut springs.

Cons: Expensive – Full kits can cost $2,000 – $6,000+.
Compressor wear and air leaks need maintenance.
❌ Installation: Requires an expert to install.
Track use has a slower response time than coilovers.

How do you bag your car? (The straight dope on install)
A. Choosing the Correct Kit
Entry Level: Universal Kits, Air Lift Performance ($2,500)

Mid-Range: Smartphone-controlled AccuAir E-Level

High-End: AccuAir ENDO VT, Air Lift 3P (~$5,000+)

B. Installation Procedures
Remove the springs and struts from the factory suspension.

Install air bags (sleeve or strut bags).

Install the tank and compressor (trunk or spare tire well).

Run the wiring and air lines (hidden for a clean look).

Install the management system (digital or manual).

Check for leaks and adjust the height.

C. Estimated Cost of Air Bags: Costs breakdown partCost (1) Between $800 and $2,500

CompressorCost (1) Between $300 and $1,000Cost (1) Air tank$200-600Management System Installation (Labour):$500-2,000$1,000 and $3,000.Cost (1) Total Between $2,800 – $9,000+

Best Cars with Air Suspension
Some cars are more common and easier to bag, namely:

Sedans: Lexus LS, BMW 3 Series, and Honda Accord

Coupes: Infiniti G37, Nissan 350Z

SUVs/Trucks: Toyota Tacoma, Chevy Tahoe

Lowriders (Chevy Impala, Cadillac DeVille) are classics.

Pro Tip: Find out if your model has a plug-and-play kit.

Tips for Car Maintenance in Bags
Use the soapy water test to check for air leaks.

Remove any remaining moisture from the tank to stop rust.Sedans: Ford Fusion, KIA Optima, Volkswagon Passat

Coupes: Dodge Challenger, Ford Mustang

SUVs/Trucks: Ford F150, Jeep Grand Cherokee

I’ve included a couple lowriders (Chevy Impala, Cadillac DeVille) for good measure, since technically they are considered classics too.

Pro Tip: See if your model has a plug-and-play kit.

TIPS FOR CAR MAINTENANCE IN BAGS
If you suspect air leaks try a soapy water test.

Steer clear of extremely cold temperatures (air pressure drops).

Every year, lubricate the fittings.

Dust kills the compressor more quickly, so keep it clean.

In conclusion, is it worthwhile to bag your car?
Air suspension is the best option if you want the highest level of customisation and are willing to pay the price. It is ideal for:

Car displays (slams it to the floor)

Driving every day (raise it for bad roads)

Those who enjoy smooth and luxurious rides

Coilovers, however, might be preferable if you’re on a tight budget or want track performance.

Conclusion: 🔥 For style and show? → Get bagged! 🏎️ For racing? → Adhere to coils.

Would you pack your car? Tell us in the comments! Haha, 🚗Stay away from very cold temperatures (as air pressure decreases).

Lube the fittings every year.

Dust kills the compressor quickly, so keep it clean.

At the end of the day, is it worth it to bag your car?
Air suspension is only worth it if you’re looking for the ultimate variety, and are willing to pay the price. It’s also perfect for:

Car shows (slams it to the floor)

Everyday driving (up for bad roads)

People that like a smooth, cushy ride

If you’re on a budget or want track performance, you may want to consider coilovers.

Conclusion: 🔥 For style and show? → Get bagged! 🏎️ For racing? → Stick to coils.

Would you bag your car? Let us know in the comments! Haha, 🚗