C5 mark 1 front suspension hard ride

[kevino]

Think I might need a new height sensor for the front of my c5! Noticed it nodding when I was walking away from the c5. Is it an easy job to replace the sensor? What are the costs involved?

[Paul-R]

Not a direct answer but I found my Mk1 C5 did the nodding thing when the front wheels were left turned one way or the other when parked. Remembering to straighten the steering before parking solved my problem.

[GiveMeABreak]

Plus one on my previous MkI. Do try and keep the wheels straight ahead as the ‘nodding’ will cause the pump motor to keep engaging every time it raises and thus will put an unnecessary strain on the unit and possibly cause it to overheat if left to continue. The other negative impact will be a considerable drain on your car battery especially if it continues to do this overnight.

I believe this affected early MKIs and there was a suspension ECU update that could be applied via the dealer depending on the version of the ECU.

[wheeler]

I believe this affected early MKIs and there was a suspension ECU update that could be applied via the dealer depending on the version of the ECU.

Thats correct. There is also a wiring modification that can be done to add a relay that cuts power to the BHI when the network goes to sleep after about three minutes which also stop the problem. This was for models that couldn’t be updated.

[wurlycorner]

Interesting about the software update... (since mine does this also)

Presumably that was a 'known issue' that the dealers should update for free?
Does anyone have any details on it please? (was there a service update reference number, or something?)

If not done as a recall though, I wonder if it would still be possible to get it done without being asked to bend over the service desk with pants round my ankles..?

[GiveMeABreak]

It wasn't part of a recall Iain - another one of the 'if the customer mentions it - check version, apply software update or workaround if other' type of things - however I suspect that as it is out of warranty they will do it for you, but at a charge of course for the diagnostic and download time if applicable.

As to the other, what exactly are 'pants'?

[wurlycorner]

Actual pants (of the posing variety naturally);


Not what the 'mercans call these things;

[GiveMeABreak]

Ahh, budgie smugglers, got you!