BMW Level Control System Failure Malfunction

The Level Control System Malfunction on a BMW occurs when the air suspension is damaged, and the vehicle can not raise or self-level.

This is a common problem on high-mileage BMWs equipped with air springs or self-leveling, such as the BMW X5, E70, E66, E60, 530d, 525, and other models equipped with air suspension.

The most common problems that cause a BMW level control system to malfunction are a faulty rear height level sensor and bad air suspension springs. 

• If the Level Control System Malfunction stays on constantly, the most likely cause is a problem with the level sensors.
• If the warning disappears after the engine runs for a short time, the problem is likely due to a leak in one of the air springs or supply lines.

Not all BMWs are equipped with air suspensions. Specific models, such as early X5 or station wagons, only have auto-leveling air suspension at the rear.

Continuing to drive with a Level Control System Malfunction is not recommended because it can cause uneven tire wear and poor handling.

How to Troubleshoot BMW Level Control System Failure Malfunction

Symptoms

Common symptoms BMW owners may notice when the auto-leveling suspension fails:

• Yellow car with arrows icon on the dash
• A hissing sound from the air spring
• The compressor doesn’t engage
• Rear suspension sagging
• Air compressor runs for a long time
• Chassis Stabilization Malfunction!
• The car ride is very rough
• The rear is bottomed out
• Message: Level control system failure
• Message: Level control – Ground clearance and driving comfort is reduced. Avoid high cornering speeds. Has your BMW center checked the system as soon as possible?
• Message: Level control system malfunction. Service Due.
• Intermittent suspension warning while driving over uneven roads

Common Problems

List the most common problems that cause Level Control System Failure Malfunction on a BMW.

Self-leveling sensor/links

The self-leveling sensors are located on the wheel wells and monitor the ride height. The links can come loose, or the sensor itself can fail. This is a common problem on the BMW X5, where the rear level links pop off from the ball joint. You can push the link back on the ball joint if the connection is not broken. Once connected and the vehicle is lowered to the ground, you should hear the air suspension compressor engage and see the rear end raise.

Replace the rear link as soon as possible. If you ignore it, it will revert.The level sensor for the rear suspension is located at the rear suspension and can be replaced in about thirty minutes.

Footwell Module – FRM

A faulty footwell module (FRM) can fail to cause the Level Control System Malfunction warning to come on. Call the closest BMW dealer and ask if the FRM module update is covered under a warranty or open recall. You will need to provide your BMW VIN.

Suspension Air Bag

A faulty suspension airbag (spring) can cause a Level Control System Malfunction. The suspension air spring may crack and no longer hold air, which causes the vehicle to drop to a critically low level.

If you notice your BMW has dropped when parked but raises when you start the engine, you may have a bad air spring or leak in one of the air supply lines. To avoid burning the air compressor, get your vehicle repaired as soon as possible. When there is an air leak, the air compressor has to work overtime to compensate for it. It is recommended (but not required) to replace both rear air springs simultaneously if one of them is bad.

Air Suspension Compressor

Air sensation compressors can wear out and eventually fail to generate enough pressure. The air compressor is under the floor in the back of the car.  Remove the trunk floor cover to get to it from inside the vehicle.

Typically, you will notice that the car drops in all four corners or on the back and won’t raise. A faulty air suspension compressor is a symptom, even though a defective fuse or relay can cause similar symptoms.

Blown Fuse

A blown fuse for the air compressor can cause a Level Control System Failure Malfunction on a BMW.

Most BMWs have at least two fuse boxes, and you need to inspect the corresponding fuses, typically a 40A fuse. One fuse box is usually inside the vehicle, on the side of the dashboard. Depending on the model, another fuse box will be in the engine bay or the trunk area.

Damaged Connector

If the suspension is overextended, the wires to the rear level sensors can become corroded or damaged. Remove the rear wheels and inspect both level sensors. Unplug the electrical connector from the level sensor and check the wires. Use a digital multimeter to check the continuity.

Other possible problems

• SLS Module – Level system control failure. The level module can get water inside and fail. The level control module gets input from various sensors and communicates with other modules via BUS.
• Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) system
• The air supply line disconnected at the airbag.
• The owner deleted the air suspension and installed coilovers.

Troubleshooting

Several components, including rear-level sensors, leaking air supply lines, or a faulty air compressor, can cause a Level Control System Failure Malfunction. The only way to determine why you are getting a Level Control System Failure Malfunction warning is to connect a BMW scanner and read the fault codes from the air suspension (SLS) module.

The YOUCANIC Full System Scanner is a perfect example of an OBD-II scanner for troubleshooting your BMW. This powerful device can read and clear fault codes from all the systems, perform bidirectional tests, perform maintenance and repair resets, and perform many more professional-grade functions that can help you determine the cause of your vehicle’s problem.

Additional Resources

1. BMW X5 Repair by Problem Area – TrueDelta.com
2. BMW 7 Series Air Ride Diagnostics – KnowYourParts.com

We hope you find the BMW Level Control System Failure Malfunction guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your BMW.

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