How to Replace Your Autoride Shocks the Right Way

The Autoride suspension available on most full-size 2000-2014 General Motors Full-Size SUVs (RPO Code Z55) is a complex, and often misunderstood system. Autoride was available on most Chevy Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon (including XL and Denali), Cadillac Escalade (including ESV and EXT) and Chevy Avalanche. There are two separate aspects to it; air suspension, to keep an even ride height regardless of the load, and electronic variable shock dampening at all four wheels, to achieve a better ride/handling/payload balance. 2007-2014 models have optional air suspension at all four corners, but 2000-2006 models only have it for the rear. Heavier-duty trucks like the Suburban or Yukon 2500, also referred to as ¾ ton, do not have the air ride, but still retain the variable shock valving.

Because of the complexity of the system relative to its time period, and the age and mileage on these trucks that are approaching 20 years old, Autoride failures are very common. You may notice the suspension sagging, even on just a single wheel, or ride and handling could get worse. Either one of these would be accompanied by a warning light on the dash.

When you notice an issue with your Autoride system, the first thing to do is get the issue diagnosed by your preferred mechanic. While the shocks themselves are the most common fault, there are other components involved, like the air lines or compressor, so getting a professional diagnosis will likely save you some money overall. If they verify the shocks need to be replaced, including letting you know which specific locations on the vehicle, you then get to face the variety of replacement options.

If you are happy with how the Autoride system meets your needs as-is, we of course have 100% direct-fit replacements for the rear that will fit and perform exactly the same as OEM. If that’s the route you want to take, we have these fully remanufactured OEM rear shocks by Arnott Industries, the industry leader in replacement air suspension components. They retain both the air ride and the electronic dampening features and are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Many folks who don’t tow or carry heavy loads with their trucks like to eliminate the Autoride system entirely for long-term reliability, and we certainly can’t blame them. There are kits available that replace the entire system with standard gas shocks and coil springs, including electronic solenoids to prevent any warning lights on the dash, and are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

We also offer a happy medium in the form of passive shocks, which is what we most recommend. These will retain the air ride control but replace the problematic electronic dampening with standard gas shocks. They will be a little more reliable than OEM, still retain a nice ride with the rear air springs and are a little easier to install. They also include the electronic solenoids that plug into the wiring harness to prevent any warning lights on the dash.

As you can see, the complexity of the Autoride system extends to replacement parts well, but if you’re still unsure what’s best for your truck, feel free to contact BuyAutoParts for knowledgeable assistance in getting the best replacement suspension components. We carry guaranteed exact fit shocks, compressors, control arms and more from known brands like Arnott, Bilstein, KYB and Stigan. All our parts professionals are here and ready to help!