What: The purpose of shock absorbers is to control spring action and hold tires firmly on the road. Tires are really just an air spring. And, like any spring, they will continue to bounce until the bounce energy is absorbed. Springs dissipate some of this energy, but it’s the shock that absorbs excess energy from the spring.
How: Shock absorbers turn this motion energy into heat energy and dissipate it into the atmosphere.
Like ball joints, shock absorbers require frequent inspection. When a shock stops dampening spring oscillations:
• Steering and handling become more difficult.
• Braking action may be affected.
• There is excessive bouncing after stops.
• Springs can bottom out.
• And cupping can appear on tires.
Routinely inspect shock absorbers and replace them before these problems begin.