Parts for your 2013 Ford Escape-Gas struts

2013 Ford Escape gas struts — fitted, useful and worth keeping fresh

Yes, gas struts are relevant to the 2013 Ford Escape. Technical references confirm the model uses gas‑charged support struts on the tailgate/liftgate. The Ford Workshop Manual (2013 Escape/Kuga, Section 501‑03 Body Closures) includes “Liftgate Support Strut — Removal and Installation”, and Ford’s parts catalogue lists both standard liftgate gas struts and variants used alongside the power‑liftgate actuator. The bonnet on this model is supported by a prop rod from factory, not gas struts.

On a 2013 Escape, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting: they counterbalance the weight of the hatch so it opens smoothly, stays up without sagging, and closes in a controlled way. On vehicles with a power tailgate, one side is a powered actuator and the other side is still a conventional gas strut providing balanced support. When these struts tire out, the tailgate can feel heavy, drop unexpectedly, or refuse to stay up — especially in cold weather.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the gas struts every 10,000–15,000 km or at each service visit. Look for these signs that it’s time to replace:

• Tailgate drops, won’t stay up, or needs an extra shove to open
• Movement is jerky, with squeaks or clunks at the pivots
• Oil misting on the strut body or visible corrosion on the rod
• Performance worse on cold mornings

Replacement is straightforward with the right care. Support the tailgate safely with a prop or a helper, then release the spring clip at each ball‑socket and pop the old strut off. Don’t pull the clip right off — just lift it enough to free the socket. On non‑power liftgates, always replace struts in pairs so lift is balanced. For power‑liftgate cars, replace the correct side with the specified part and follow the workshop manual procedure for any needed calibration. Refit the sockets onto clean ball studs, confirm secure engagement, and test the tailgate through full travel.

Maintenance is low‑fuss: keep the chrome rods clean and free of grit, never paint or clamp the rods, and don’t lubricate them with grease — it attracts debris and damages the seals. If a strut is weak, don’t risk it, a falling tailgate can injure fingers and bonnets. Fresh, quality struts make daily use easier and keep the Escape feeling tidy and solid.

Popular questions about 2013 Ford Escape gas struts

Does the 2013 Ford Escape have gas struts on the bonnet?
From factory, the bonnet uses a prop rod, not gas struts. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits are available if someone prefers hands‑free opening, but they’re not original equipment.

How long do the tailgate gas struts usually last?
Typically 5–10 years depending on climate and usage. Heat, dust, and frequent cycling shorten life. If the hatch won’t stay up or feels heavy — especially when it’s cold — they’re due.

Can only one tailgate strut be replaced?
On non‑power liftgates, replace both together to keep lift even and prevent twisting. If the vehicle has a power liftgate, use the correct matched component (powered side vs passive strut) and follow calibration steps as outlined in the workshop manual.