Which statement is true regarding shock absorbers?

Shock absorbers play a critical role in vehicle safety and comfort by dampening the impact from road irregularities and maintaining tire contact with the road. The statement highlighting that shock absorbers should have no leaks, be secure, and be devoid of loose or missing nuts or bolts emphasizes essential criteria for their proper functioning.

Shock absorbers that are leaking fluid can result in reduced performance, leading to a less stable vehicle and poor handling, particularly when navigating curves or uneven surfaces. If shock absorbers are not securely mounted or exhibit loose or missing hardware, they might not perform effectively, which could compromise the safety of the vehicle during operation.

The other options present factors that may be related, but they do not encompass the comprehensive checks that are fundamental for assessing shock absorbers during a pre-trip inspection. For example, while replacing cracked shock absorbers is critical, it does not address the need for ensuring that the existing units are securely mounted and free of leaks, which can significantly affect their performance. Similarly, while protective painting may help with corrosion, it is not a direct indicator of the shock absorbers' operational integrity. Visibility and oxidation do not provide practical insights into their functionality.