Parts for your 2010 Ford Fiesta-Gas struts

2010 Ford Fiesta gas-struts — what they do and when to replace them

Referencing Ford technical sources, gas struts are relevant to the 2010 Ford Fiesta hatch. The Ford Workshop Manual (2010 Fiesta WS/MK7, Section 501—Body and Paint) details removal and installation of tailgate gas struts, and the Ford ETIS/Microcat parts catalogue lists “Tailgate Gas Spring” for this model year. The bonnet on this Fiesta uses a manual prop rod from factory and is not fitted with gas struts.

On the 2010 Fiesta hatch, the gas struts on the tailgate do the heavy lifting — literally. They counterbalance the hatch, let it open smoothly, and hold it safely in the raised position so there’s no unexpected drop while loading the boot. Inside each strut is pressurised nitrogen and a little oil to control damping. Over years of everyday use, cold mornings and the odd gust of wind, that pressure fades and seals wear. When that happens, the hatch can feel heavy, open sluggishly, or refuse to stay up — all signs the struts are ready for replacement.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the tailgate gas struts a quick once-over. Look for an oily film, bent rods, cracked end fittings, or any stiction in the first part of travel. Keep the polished shaft clean, just wipe with a dry microfibre — don’t lube it, as oils can attract grit and damage the seals. If replacement’s needed, it’s best practice to swap both sides at the same time to keep lift and balance even.

Replacement is straightforward with the right tools. Support the hatch securely (a helper makes life easier), then pop off the retaining clips and swap the strut, noting orientation — most designs are fitted rod-down to keep the internal seal lubricated. Choose units that match the original force rating and fittings, reputable OEM-equivalent parts list the correct Newton rating for the Fiesta’s hatch. Avoid universal “too-strong” struts that slam the hatch upwards — they can stress hinges and glass.

There’s no factory bonnet gas strut on this model, aftermarket kits exist, but they rely on added brackets. If retrofitting, pick a vehicle-specific kit and check clearance with the bonnet and guards.

• Typical signs they’re tired: hatch won’t stay up, drops in cold weather, jerky opening, visible oil weep.
• Service tip: inspect every 12 months, replace in pairs, dispose of old struts responsibly as they’re pressurised.

Popular questions about 2010 Ford Fiesta gas-struts

How can someone tell their Fiesta’s tailgate struts are failing?
They’ll usually notice the hatch no longer pops up smoothly, needs a helping hand to rise, or won’t stay up on colder mornings. Any oily residue on the strut body, a slow or jerky action, or a hatch that drops unexpectedly are clear signs it’s time for new struts.

Can bonnet gas struts be fitted to a 2010 Fiesta?
Factory cars use a prop rod, but quality aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist. A vehicle-specific kit with proper brackets is the way to go. Check that the kit clears the bonnet and guards through the full range of motion and that the lift force isn’t excessive.

What spec should replacement tailgate struts have?
Match the original equipment: correct length, end fittings, and force rating in Newtons (printed on many OE struts). Because variants differ by body style and options, the safest bet is to select by VIN via a trusted parts catalogue so the hatch opens and holds exactly as intended.