One of the functions of hydraulic shock absorbers and McPherson struts is to help control

• A. Ride height
• B. Jounce and rebound
• C. Steering feedback
• D. Tire wear

Answer: (B)

The main idea is damping suspension motion to keep the wheel and body from bouncing excessively. Hydraulic shock absorbers and McPherson struts are dampers that resist movement as the wheel hits a bump and then as it returns to normal position. This control over compression (jounce) and extension (rebound) keeps the tire in contact with the road, improves ride quality, and stabilizes handling after irregularities in the road. Ride height is determined mostly by the springs, not the dampers, so damping doesn’t set ride height. Steering feel comes from suspension geometry and steering components, while tire wear depends on factors like alignment and tire condition; dampers help reduce bouncing that can contribute to uneven wear, but the primary function is controlling jounce and rebound.