This document summarizes the purpose and function of shock absorbers. It discusses how shock absorbers limit vehicle spring oscillations to provide a smooth ride by absorbing kinetic energy from the suspension system and dissipating it as heat. Shock absorbers damp vibrations by providing resistance to spring and wheel motion. They improve vehicle handling, traction, and stability. The document then describes how hydraulic shock absorbers work during compression and rebound stages using pistons, valves, and fluid flow between chambers. It also shows diagrams of telescopic and mono-tube shock absorber designs.