Date Published: March 20, 2026 | Last Modified: 1 hour ago | 4 minute read by Jeremy Letourneau at Redwater Dodge

When you're looking for a Rig Ready Ram, the most critical decision isn't just the hemi under the hood, it's what’s holding that power to the pavement. Jeremy at Redwater Dodge gets asked one question more than any other: "Should I get the air suspension or stick with the coils?"

Both systems have their loyalists, but the right choice depends entirely on your environment, your towing needs, and your long-term maintenance preferences. Below, we break down the engineering reality behind these two systems to help you decide which setup belongs on your driveway.

The Luxury of Air: Why Choose Air Suspension?

Ram’s class-exclusive air suspension system is often touted as the "gold standard" for light-duty and heavy-duty comfort. But what does that mean in the real world?

Superior Ride Quality: Unlike traditional springs, airbags are infinitely adjustable. They absorb road vibrations and harsh bumps more effectively than steel coils, providing a "cloud-like" ride even when the bed is empty.

Precision Self-Leveling: This is the game-changer for towing. When you hook up a heavy trailer, the system automatically detects the load and pumps air into the rear bags to level the truck. This prevents "squatting," ensuring your headlights stay pointed at the road and your steering remains responsive.

Adjustable Ride Height: Need to clear a low garage? Lower the truck. Heading off-road? Raise it for better ground clearance. This versatility is something a fixed coil simply cannot match.

The Canadian Reality: Cold Weather & Air Suspension

While air suspension sounds like a dream, our Alberta winters can be a reality check. Jeremy from Redwater Dodge notes that the extreme cold presents specific challenges:

Moisture Freezing: Condensation can get trapped in the lines. When it hits -30°C, that moisture freezes, potentially locking your suspension in one height or throwing a dashboard error.

Component Wear: Rubber air bellows are prone to cracking over time when exposed to extreme temperature swings and heavy road salt.

The "Salt Factor": Our roads are notoriously hard on underbodies. Road salt can lead to premature corrosion of the air compressor and electronic sensors.

The Reliability of Coils: Simple, Stout, and Proven

If you value simplicity and long-term durability above all else, the coil suspension is your best friend.

Lower Maintenance Costs: There is no compressor to fail, no airlines to leak, and no sensors to calibrate. A coil spring is a piece of engineered steel that just works.

Built for the Long Haul: Jeremy confirms that for long-term reliability (think 10+ years), coils are the winner. The parts are significantly cheaper to replace if they ever do wear out, and any shop in North America can service them.

Consistent Performance: Whether it’s +30°C or -40°C, a coil spring performs exactly the same. You don't have to worry about the "system" failing you when you're 100 miles into the backcountry.

The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

Choose Air Suspension if: You trade your truck every 3–5 years, you tow frequently, and you prioritize a premium, comfortable ride above all else.

Choose Coil Springs if: You keep your trucks for the long haul, you operate in extreme cold climates, and you want to minimize potential repair bills as the odometer climbs.

Jeremy Letourneau -- Sales Associate at Redwater Dodge

Ready to build a truck that laughs at Alberta off-roading? Visit us at the store or give us a call today.