Parts for your 2006 Ford Falcon-Gas struts

2006 Ford Falcon gas struts: what they do and when to replace them

Referencing the Ford BA/BF Falcon workshop manuals (Body and Glass, section 501-02) and common OE supplier catalogues such as Stabilus Lift-O-Mat and Monroe Max-Lift for BA/BF applications, the 2006 Ford Falcon range uses gas struts on the sedan boot lid and the wagon tailgate, utes commonly use gas struts on hard lids and canopies. The factory bonnet on 2006 Falcons is supported by a prop rod rather than gas struts, though retrofit bonnet-strut kits are widely available.

On a 2006 Falcon, gas struts exist to counterbalance the weight of the boot or tailgate so it opens smoothly and stays put, even on a windy day at the servo. Each strut is a sealed gas spring charged with nitrogen and a small amount of oil, controlling lift and damping so panels don’t slam or sag. Over time, seals wear and gas slowly seeps, which is why older boots start dropping on cold mornings.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth giving the struts a quick check a couple of times a year. Open the boot or tailgate and pause halfway, if it can’t hold position or needs a shoulder to stay up, the struts are on the way out. A light oil film around the rod, a faint hiss, or uneven movement are other tell-tales. Cold weather will make weak struts feel even weaker.

Replacement is straightforward for most 2006 Falcons and can usually be sorted at home with basic tools. Always support the panel safely (use a prop or a mate) and replace struts in pairs so lift and damping stay even. Don’t nick or grease the chrome rod, and don’t twist the body when fitting—use the correct clips and orient the cylinder as per the part instructions. Choose struts matched to the body style and option (sedan boot, wagon tailgate, ute hard lid) and the correct force rating (in newtons) listed by reputable catalogues for BA/BF models.

There’s not much “maintenance” beyond keeping the mounting points clean and checking operation at service intervals. If a strut is tired, replacement is the go—sealed automotive gas springs aren’t normally re-gassed. With fresh struts on a BF’s boot or wagon tailgate, the car simply feels newer and safer to live with.

• Signs it’s time: boot/tailgate won’t stay up, drops suddenly, opens sluggishly, or shows oil on the rod.
• Service tip: check every 10–15,000 km, replace in pairs, match the correct BA/BF application.

Popular questions about 2006 Ford Falcon gas struts

Do 2006 Falcons have bonnet gas struts from factory?
From factory, BA/BF Falcons use a bonnet prop rod, not gas struts. Aftermarket bonnet-strut kits are available and use existing mounting points on most models, making the upgrade neat and reversible.

How long do boot or tailgate struts typically last?
Usage and climate matter, but many owners see 5–8 years before performance tails off. If the boot won’t hold halfway or drops quickly, it’s time to replace—doing both sides together keeps lift even.

Can gas struts be re-gassed, or should they just be replaced?
Most automotive gas springs are sealed and are replaced rather than re-gassed. Replacement is generally quicker, more reliable, and cost-effective for BA/BF Falcon boot and wagon tailgate struts.