How does the self leveling system function

[Bob Buxbaum]

Sounds like a stupid question ---- BUT ..... I have owned vehicles with self leveling. One was a Freightliner Snap-On tool truck. It had a rear ride height sensor. Another is my 2002 BMW 5 series wagon. It has a rear right height sensor. There have been others, and all had a a physical sensor that one could see and tough.

I now have a 2021 EX with factory automatic load leveling. I can find a sensor, and the Kia dealership can not find ANY information in either the service or parts departments. Why do I want to find it? Well, one of the reasons is that Tellurides ALL ride nose high, and I would like to raise the rear if I can. Second, a nose high attitude is bad for fuel mileage and makes ANY vehicle more sensitive to wind --- and these things ARE !!!

I am sure it IS functioning as I have towed at the limit (and maybe a bit more ----shhhhhhhh!!!!!!!). I could tell it was a bit "floaty" before I pulled a trailer. Maybe it's the Pirellis that came on it. (Never been a fan.)

So. if anyone knows the ins and outs of the factory load leveling, I would like to know more. The dealership knows squat.

 

[Lith_SXPN]

Telluride's leveling system is very rudimentary system to say the least. You can find discussion on it below.

Self-Leveling Suspension

Does anyone have experience with the self-leveling suspension yet? Does it have benefits for those not towing but hauling lots of people? If you don't have it does the rear end sink with a lot of weight (cargo and/or passengers)?

tellurideforum.org

What Are Nivomat Self-Leveling Shocks?

We're often asked what exactly a Nivomat shock absorber is, and what the difference is compared to a regular shock absorber? Here are the answers to some of your frequently asked questions. Nivomats are self-leveling monotube shock absorbers designed by Sachs, which utilize the movement of...

blog.fcpeuro.com

Nivomat Shock Absorbers: Self-Leveling Monotube Ride Control Units

The Nivomat Shock Absorber is a self-leveling monotube shock absorber developed by Sachs. Nivomat shocks are used by Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Jaguar, Kia, Mitsubishi, Saab, Volvo and other OEMs. The system is also available on the GM Suburban and Tahoe as part of ZW7 Premium Smooth Ride...

www.brakeandfrontend.com

 

[DarkMossJustin]

Kia's self-leveling rear shock absorbers are made by Mando, but this video from SACHS Nivomat pretty much explains the concept:

 

[Wiluride]

So in a nutshell... the self leveling option on a Telluride gives you slightly weaker springs and has shocks that are designed to work at a pre-defined height and use valving and internal mechanics to add some hydraulic 'spring' when the shock is shorter than the design height.

To replace you have to replace both coil spring and shock. Anything aftermarket that would change the length of the rear shock will cause problems when original self leveling shock is in place.

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[DarkMossJustin]

So in a nutshell... the self leveling option on a Telluride gives you slightly weaker springs and has shocks that are designed to work at a pre-defined height and use valving and internal mechanics to add some hydraulic 'spring' when the shock is shorter than the design height.

To replace you have to replace both coil spring and shock. Anything aftermarket that would change the length of the rear shock will cause problems when original self leveling shock is in place.

Pretty much.

IF the Telluride can capture enough market share to justify third-party brands like Monroe and Gabriel making shock absorbers/suspension aftermarket parts for the Telly, we might see some better options, but for now, one can tow safely with the standard shock absorbers and if y'all have any questions about towing safety with the Telly, get in touch with @2020Telly or check out his previous discussions regarding weight distribution systems, tongue weight, and a number of concerns about safe towing with the Mando self-leveling rear shocks.