What is the best way to replace Audi Q7 air suspension?

Just catching up on this thread and honestly... I gotta disagree with just replacing the bags. I went through this nightmare with my 2014 and it was basically a never-ending cycle of fixing one leak just for another to pop up. First it was the bags, then the valve block, and then I fried my compressor because it was running 24/7 trying to keep up. Tbh, if youre planning a trip to the mountains, the last thing you want is that suspension failing when youre miles from a shop. I ended up going with a Strutmasters 4-Wheel Air To Coil Spring Conversion Kit AU14FM and it was the best decision I made for that car. People say it ruins the ride, but it really doesnt... it just feels more like a traditional SUV. Its a bit firmer, kinda like a sport mode setting all the time, but the peace of mind is worth it. Just make sure whatever kit you get includes the light bypass module or your dash will still be screaming at you. If you want to keep some of that comfort, maybe look into pairing some Bilstein B4 OE Replacement Shock Absorbers with the springs. Just stay away from the super cheap generic kits on eBay... those actually will make it ride like a tractor. For your 1500 buck budget, you can get a top-tier coil setup and still have money left for the alignment.

Jumping in here to share what worked for me because I was in the exact same spot about a year ago. Honestly, if you are doing mountain trips, you are gonna miss that auto-leveling air suspension like crazy if you go with coils. I was tempted to swap to springs to save cash but eventually decided to stay stock. I have been super satisfied with the decision since the ride quality stays incredible even when the car is packed with gear and kids. What I did was a bit of a hybrid approach to stay under that 1500 budget. I picked up some Aerosus Front Air Spring 4L0616039 units and paired them with a fresh WABCO Air Suspension Compressor 4L0698007D since my old one was straining from the leaks. Total for parts was right around your 1200 mark if you find a good deal online. Most people forget the compressor is basically the heart of the system and once it starts acting up, everything else fails. Tbh, replacing them myself wasnt nearly as scary as the forums made it sound. Just takes a Saturday and some basic tools... and maybe a six pack. If you are worried about reliability, just make sure you check the valve block for any debris while you are in there. Its been twelve months of heavy driving and I havent had a single warning light or saggy morning. Its totally worth the effort to keep that luxury feel, especially for those long hauls. Feel free to ask if you need help with the install steps.

I just swapped mine last month and it was amazing! Stick with the air bags, Arnott Rear Air Spring A-2574 made my ride feel like a total luxury cloud again!