Rubber bushings in the steering system serve what purpose?

Rubber bushings in the steering system primarily function to absorb vibration. They act as dampers that minimize the transfer of road noise and vibrations from the chassis to the steering components and ultimately the driver. By doing so, these bushings contribute to a smoother and more comfortable driving experience.

In the context of steering systems, absorbing vibrations is critical because the steering components are subjected to various forces from the road and the vehicle's movement. If these vibrations were transmitted directly to the steering wheel, it could lead to a less stable feel and even driver fatigue during extended driving. The flexibility and resilience of rubber allow it to compress and deform, effectively dissipating energy and reducing the harshness of vibrations.

The other options relate to functions that are not specific to the primary role of rubber bushings in the steering system. Connecting shafts is typically the role of couplings or linkages, providing rigidity is more related to components like control arms or tie rods, and adjusting alignment usually involves mechanisms such as camber or toe adjustment systems.