What is the Function of Shock Absorbers?
2 Answers
The function of shock absorbers is to suppress the oscillations caused by the rebound of springs after absorbing shocks and the impacts from the road surface. When driving on uneven roads, although the shock-absorbing springs can filter out the vibrations from the road, the springs themselves still undergo reciprocating motion. Shock absorbers are used to suppress this spring bouncing. If the shock absorbers are too soft, the vehicle body will bounce up and down; if they are too hard, they will create excessive resistance, hindering the normal operation of the springs. During the modification of the suspension system, stiff shock absorbers should be paired with stiff springs. The stiffness of the springs is closely related to the vehicle weight, so heavier vehicles generally use stiffer shock absorbers.
The role of shock absorbers is to make driving smoother and more comfortable. They absorb vibrations when the car encounters bumpy roads, preventing the springs from bouncing back and forth. Otherwise, the car would jolt up and down severely, making the ride feel like being on a small boat and getting seasick. More importantly, shock absorbers help keep the tires firmly on the road, preventing skidding or loss of control during turns, making high-speed driving safer. In fact, they also protect the chassis components, reducing wear and extending their lifespan. After driving for so many years, I've found that if the shock absorbers are broken, the steering wheel shakes uncontrollably, and fuel consumption increases, so timely inspection and replacement are necessary. Usually, pay attention to any squeaking sounds and regularly check the oil seals to prevent leaks, which can save you trouble in the long run.
