Parts for your 2009 Ford Territory-Gas struts

2009 Ford Territory gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are absolutely relevant on the 2009 Ford Territory. Ford’s SY/SY II Workshop Manual (Body — Closures and Security, Section 501-03), the Ford EPC/Microcat parts catalogue, and common fitment guides from gas-spring manufacturers all list gas-charged struts for the Territory’s tailgate, flip-up rear glass, and bonnet. The Owner’s Guide for this generation also notes the separate lift-up rear window, which is supported by its own small gas struts.

On a 2009 Territory, these nitrogen-charged dampers take the heavy lifting out of opening and holding the tailgate and bonnet, and control closing so things don’t slam. They make day‑to‑day use safer and easier, especially with the sizeable Territory tailgate and the convenience of the flip-up glass.

Because gas struts slowly lose pressure over time, they’re considered wear items. A quick check every service (or at least twice a year) is smart. Look for the tell-tales:

• Tailgate or bonnet won’t stay up, rises sluggishly, or drops in cooler weather.
• Visible oil film on the rod, rust, or a notchy feel through the last part of travel.
• Needing a hand to lift the glass section, or a strut that “pops” or creaks at the ball joint.

When replacing, do them in pairs for each location (both bonnet struts together, both main tailgate struts together, and the pair for the flip-up glass if fitted). That keeps lift and damping balanced so the panel doesn’t twist hinges. Always support the panel with a prop or a mate before releasing the spring clips. A small flat screwdriver lifts the clip just enough to slip the strut off the ball, no need to fully remove the clip. Lightly lube the ball sockets with silicone spray, but never grease the chrome rod — anything sticky will chew the seals and shorten life.

Different Territory variants (spoiler, options, seven-seat configurations) can change tailgate mass, so match the strut spec by VIN or build code. Quality replacements will return that easy one-hand lift and full open height. After fitting, check the opening height in low garages and confirm smooth, controlled closing with no bounce.

Handy tips:

• Cold mornings make tired struts feel worse — if it drops in winter, it’s due.
• Expect 5–8 years from quality struts, the originals on a 2009 vehicle are well past their best by now.

Popular questions about 2009 Ford Territory gas struts

How often should Territory gas struts be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval — replace based on symptoms. If the tailgate or bonnet won’t hold itself up, rises slowly, or drops in colder weather, it’s time. Most see 5–8 years in typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, on a 2009 model, fresh struts usually transform day‑to‑day use.

Can heavier-duty struts be fitted to handle accessories?
Use the correct rating for the vehicle’s actual tailgate mass. Over-strong struts can slam open, stress hinges, or make closing hard. If you’ve added weight (spoiler, accessories on the glass), choose a proven, VIN-matched upgrade rather than guessing a higher pressure.

Why does the tailgate drop more in winter?
Gas pressure inside the strut falls with temperature, so weak struts show their age most on cold mornings. If a light nudge makes it fall or it won’t reach full height in the cold, replacement is the safe fix.