How do air springs function in a suspension system?

Air springs function by using air pressure to support the weight of the vehicle. These components are designed to replace conventional leaf or coil springs within a suspension system. Unlike traditional springs that rely on their material properties to absorb weight and impact, air springs utilize compressed air contained within a flexible, durable rubber bladder. This enables them to adjust to varying loads and maintain ride height by increasing or decreasing the air pressure within the spring.

When the vehicle's weight increases, the air inside the spring can be compressed, allowing it to adapt and maintain stability while still providing the necessary support. Conversely, if the load decreases, the air pressure can be reduced, allowing for a softer ride. This adjustability not only enhances ride quality but also improves handling characteristics and overall vehicle dynamics, which can be especially beneficial for vehicles that carry heavy loads or experience frequent changes in cargo weight.

While the other options address different aspects of suspension systems, they do not accurately describe the primary function of air springs. For instance, using hydraulic fluid pertains more to hydraulic systems rather than air springs, and the option concerning the replacement of struts and shocks is misleading since air springs work in conjunction with those components rather than entirely substituting them. Additionally, while absorbing impact is a function of suspension systems