What is the purpose of shock absorbers in a suspension system?

Shock absorbers play a crucial role in a vehicle's suspension system by dampening the oscillations of the springs. When you drive over bumps or irregular surfaces, the springs in the suspension compress and expand to absorb the impact. However, this movement of the springs can lead to excessive bouncing or oscillation, which can affect ride quality and vehicle control. The primary function of shock absorbers is to control this movement by providing resistance to the spring's oscillations.

By dampening these oscillations, shock absorbers help maintain tire contact with the road, improve handling, enhance vehicle stability, and contribute to overall ride comfort. This function is vital for ensuring that the vehicle behaves predictably during various driving conditions, allowing for smoother and safer driving experiences.