Taking the rubber shock absorber of a certain model of vehicle engine (referred to as the rubber shock absorber) as the research object, the performance changes of the rubber shock absorber before and after service were analyzed from the aspects of the macroscopic function of the rubber shock absorber and the microscopic molecular structure of the rubber material. The results showed that the rubber shock absorber underwent a certain degree of fatigue aging and hot-oxidation aging during service, with a change in the size of the rubber shock absorber and a decrease in the crosslinking density of the rubber material. From the perspective of the static load deformation, the rubber shock absorber with a longer service life still had a damping effect. Reducing the creep of the rubber material and improving its oil resistance and high temperature resistance were important ways to extend the lifespan of the rubber shock absorbers. This study could provide reference for the design, maintenance and replacement of the rubber shock absorber.