Shock absorber
Controls how quickly suspension motion settles.
Between suspension and body, sometimes integrated into a strut.
Fluid passes through controlled passages to resist compression and rebound movement.
A motion brake stopping a spring from bouncing repeatedly.
Repeated bouncing, leakage or reduced control can involve dampers, mounts or tires.
Wear is condition-based and strongly affected by roads, loads, impacts and seals. There is no universal replacement mileage.
Links and bushings are smaller repairs than complete adaptive struts or air-spring systems; alignment may be needed after work.
A damper controls motion; it does not perform the same job as a BMW’s weight-bearing spring.
BMW passenger cars and SAVs; spring, damper and axle design depend on chassis and options.