Are Car Shock Absorber Buffers Useful?
3 Answers
Car shock absorber buffers are useful. Made from rubber materials, they assist in shock absorption and cushioning, similar to shock absorbers and suspension springs. During the operation of the shock absorber, the suspension spring converts road impacts into repeated spring bouncing motions, while the shock absorber refines and accelerates the attenuation of the spring's inherent vibrations, with the shock absorber top buffer transmitting these forces to the vehicle body as a cushion. For vehicles not originally equipped with shock absorber buffers, installing them can significantly enhance the vehicle's vibration filtering quality and also contribute to noise control to some extent.
After installing suspension cushion buffers on my older SUV, I do feel more comfortable going over speed bumps, but it really depends on the situation. If you frequently drive on rough roads or have an older vehicle with worn-out springs, the buffers can help support the springs, reducing metal-on-metal squeaking and decreasing body sway when hitting potholes. However, there's really no need to install them on brand-new cars that are only a year or two old, as they might interfere with the factory-tuned suspension. My neighbor bought cheap off-brand rubber blocks that crumbled within six months, so if you're going to buy them, choose polyurethane material and make sure they're properly aligned and securely fitted into the spring gaps during installation. Remember, they're not a miracle cure – if your shock absorbers are truly worn out, you'll still need to replace the entire set.
Once while hauling goods on a mountain road, the mechanic installed suspension buffer cushions on the rear wheels. After installation, I noticed reduced body roll during cornering, especially with a full load—tire rubbing against the wheel arches became less frequent. However, they can shorten the shock absorber's lifespan, and the rubber hardens in winter, making the ride even bumpier. A mechanic friend tested them and found that older cars with weakened spring support could see a 20% comfort improvement, but they're a bad idea for modified cars or air suspension systems. Always get a wheel alignment after installation, or tire wear will worsen.
