As with any other metal part on a vehicle, the top plate of an air spring is subject to rust which ultimately will eat an air-escaping hole into it. And, though pistons generally are made of corrosive-resistant aluminium or composite plastic material, they are subject to pitting from salt.

The pitting eventually will wear a hole (or holes) into the rubber bellow as it slides over the piston in its normal course of operation. Road debris also can be flung against the piston, causing it to crack.

Solution: Periodically check condition of the air spring. Check for excessive oil or water in the air supply. Check seals, avoid excessive greasing, watch for content spillage. Check for debris build up at the piston, girdle hoops, bead plate. Keep them clean. Use soap and water - never use a petroleum-based cleaner.

Deterioration of the top plate or piston - can be caused by chemicals, and/or the result of road debris. Both problems finally create premature failure