What does the term "wheel bearings" refer to in undercarriage maintenance?

Wheel bearings are crucial components in undercarriage maintenance as they are designed to allow the wheels to rotate freely with minimal friction. This function is essential for the overall performance and safety of a vehicle. By reducing friction between the moving parts, wheel bearings contribute to smoother vehicle operation, better fuel efficiency, and enhanced handling.

In essence, wheel bearings support the weight of the vehicle and facilitate the smooth rotation of the wheel hub, which is vital during driving. Their design typically includes a set of balls or rollers encased within a metal ring, allowing them to manage both radial and axial loads while minimizing resistance.

The other options, while related to vehicle components, do not accurately describe the primary function of wheel bearings. For instance, although shock absorption is important and is handled by components like shocks and struts, that is not the role of wheel bearings. Similarly, while parts connected to the steering system and those assisting in wheel alignment are essential for vehicle dynamics, they serve distinctly different functions than wheel bearings.