How Do I Tell If My GM SUV Has Rear Autoride Suspension?

How Do I Tell If My GM SUV Has Rear Autoride Suspension?

Posted by Rob C on Oct 6th 2025

To determine whether your GM SUV (such as a Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, or Cadillac Escalade) has rear Autoride suspension (a type of automatic load-leveling and adaptive damping suspension), here are several ways to check:

✅ 1. Look for RPO Code Z55 (Autoride)

The most definitive way is to check your RPO codes (Regular Production Option codes), usually found on:

  • The glovebox sticker (older models)

  • Driver’s side door jamb

  • Or in the service parts identification label (on newer models, this may be found in the trunk or online through a VIN decoder)

? Look for code Z55, which means your vehicle has the Autoride system.

✅ 2. Check the Rear Shocks for Wires or Air Lines

Physically inspect the rear suspension:

  • Autoride shocks will have electrical connectors (for damping control) and sometimes air lines (for load leveling).

  • A standard shock will just be a metal cylinder with no wires or lines attached.

Tip: The wires may be hard to see unless you're under the vehicle with good lighting.

✅ 3. Watch for a Compressor Noise After Starting

Autoride systems typically include an air compressor for leveling.

  • Turn the ignition to ON (engine doesn’t need to start).

  • Listen near the rear of the SUV — if you hear a short buzzing or humming noise, it could be the compressor running to adjust ride height.

✅ 4. Check the Instrument Cluster for Suspension Messages

Some vehicles display messages like:

  • “Service Autoride Suspension”

  • Or show suspension modes if you can toggle them

If you see this or have seen it in the past, that’s a good sign your vehicle is equipped with Autoride.

✅ 5. Use the VIN and a GM VIN Decoder

Look for Z55 or premium ride control suspension in the equipment list.

Summary Table

Method What to Look For
RPO Code Look for Z55 on glovebox/door label
Visual Shock Inspection Wires and/or air lines on rear shocks
Compressor Sound Brief buzzing from rear at startup
Dashboard Messages “Service Autoride” or similar alerts
VIN Lookup Use online tools to find Z55 code

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