What is the purpose of shocks in the suspension system?

The purpose of shocks in the suspension system is to control the rate of impact and rebound of the springs. When a vehicle goes over bumps or irregularities in the road, springs compress and expand in response to these impacts. Shocks—or shock absorbers—work to dampen these movements, ensuring that the vehicle's ride remains smooth and stable. By modulating the speed and extent of the spring's action, shocks prevent excessive bouncing and help maintain tire contact with the road surface, which is crucial for safety and handling.

The other options address different aspects of a vehicle's performance or suspension system but do not accurately describe the specific role of shocks. For example, while the suspension system does support the vehicle's weight and maintain ride height, this is primarily the function of the springs themselves. Steering response can be influenced by various factors, but it is not directly enhanced by the shocks. Fuel efficiency is a complex aspect influenced by numerous variables, and shocks are not designed to directly improve it.