You need to replace the whole thing.
This^ I had to replace my entire unit....
Are there any preventive measures you would recommend in order to keep it from going bad? Like lowering/raising it once every 6 months or something?
I'm driving around with the same, except mine seems to work fine. I gashed a tire and have my full size spare on now so I'm driving with no backup. However, I did just get 4 stock wheels/tires for $160 off craigslist. A little corrosion needs some attention, nonetheless a steal.
Are there any preventive measures you would recommend in order to keep it from going bad? Like lowering/raising it once every 6 months or something?
I'm driving around with the same, except mine seems to work fine. I gashed a tire and have my full size spare on now so I'm driving with no backup. However, I did just get 4 stock wheels/tires for $160 off craigslist. A little corrosion needs some attention, nonetheless a steal.
Ecally is right..... My replacement unit was a chain and is significantly better/more durable than the wire unit it replaced..... Lube once a year or so and it should last the life of the vehicle....
Any link to what you replaced it with?