Vibration Theory and Terminology: Damping

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Aztek and 2004 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Damping An Object Or Material To Dissipate Or Absorb Vibration

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Callout	Component Name
1	Low Damping
2	High Damping

Damping is the ability of an object or material to dissipate or absorb vibration. The automotive shock absorber is a good example. The function of the shock absorber is to absorb or dampen the oscillations of the suspension system.