Parts for your 2012 Ford Ranger-Gas struts

2012 Ford Ranger – Gas struts: what’s factory, what’s not

For the 2012 Ford Ranger (PX, global model), gas struts are not factory-fitted to the bonnet or tailgate. Ford’s Workshop Manual for Ranger PX (2011–2015), Section 501-02 Front End Body Panels, specifies a bonnet prop rod, and the Ford parts catalogue lists tailgate cables and a torsion/damper arrangement, not gas struts. Genuine Ford accessories of the era do include gas struts on certain hard tonneau lids and canopy rear windows, but these are accessory fitments rather than standard vehicle parts.

Why no gas struts from the factory? It comes down to simplicity and durability. A prop rod is cheaper, rugged and unaffected by dust, heat and off-road vibration. For a working ute, fewer moving parts can mean fewer headaches. The tailgate’s weight is handled by steel cables and, on some variants/markets, a torsion or damping device in the hinge area to control drop — again, tough and low-maintenance. Ford’s body hardware documentation for Ranger PX supports this design approach, and the lack of any OEM part number for bonnet or tailgate gas struts in the 2012 model confirms it.

Where gas struts do show up on a 2012 Ranger is in accessories:

• Hard tonneau lids (genuine and aftermarket) use a pair of gas struts to support lift and hold-open.
• Canopy rear doors and side lift-up windows typically use gas struts.
• Aftermarket bonnet strut kits are common and bolt to existing points to replace the prop rod.

If the vehicle has any of these accessory struts, they’re wear items. Typical signs they’re tired include slow lift, a lid that won’t stay up, or needing a hand in cold weather. Replacement is straightforward: support the panel, pop the spring clips, swap the strut, then re-seat the clips. Replace in pairs for even support. Keep the chrome shafts clean and dry, don’t grease them, as sticky residue attracts grit and chews out the seals. Expect service life to vary with use and climate — high heat, dust and constant loading shorten lifespan.

Considering a retrofit? Bonnet and tailgate assist kits are a tidy upgrade for convenience. Choose kits sized for the Ranger PX, with the correct force rating and end fittings, and stick with known brands so replacement parts are easy to source later.

Popular questions about 2012 Ford Ranger gas struts

Does a 2012 Ford Ranger have bonnet gas struts from factory?
No — it has a prop rod. Ford’s PX workshop documentation and OE parts listings for 2012 do not include bonnet gas struts. If struts are seen on a Ranger of this year, they’ll be an aftermarket kit added later.

Can gas struts be added to the bonnet or tailgate?
Yes. Bonnet strut kits are a common upgrade and use bolt-on brackets. Tailgate “assist” kits typically add a small damper or gas strut to slow the drop and ease lift. Choose kits made for the PX Ranger and follow torque specs provided by the kit maker.

How long do accessory gas struts last?
Anywhere from a couple of years to many, depending on use. Frequent opening, heavy lids, heat and dust all reduce life. When replacement’s due, swap them in pairs and match length, end fittings and force rating to the lid or window.