The invention relates to a method for controlling an electric compressor of a pneumatic suspension system which can be switched on and off according to requirements. The temperature of the compressor is calculated according to a temperature model and the compressor is switched on or off in accordance with the calculated temperature. Said control device takes into account the air pressure surrounding the vehicle as an input variable for calculating the temperature of the compressor in accordance with the temperature model and the parameters of the temperature model are adapted in accordance with said air pressure.