Parts for your 2016 Ford Mondeo-Gas struts

2016 Ford Mondeo gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are absolutely relevant to the 2016 Ford Mondeo. Technical references including the Ford Workshop Manual (Section 501-03: Body Closures and Security) and Ford parts catalogues for AU/NZ and Europe specify liftgate/tailgate gas springs for the 2015–2019 Mondeo hatch and wagon. These sources also show the bonnet supported by a prop rod from factory, not gas struts. Independent data sets such as Haynes/Autodata mirror this: tailgate/hatch uses gas struts, bonnet does not.

On a 2016 Mondeo hatch or wagon, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the tailgate’s weight, slow it near the end of travel so it doesn’t slam, and keep it steady in a gusty Kiwi nor’wester or an Aussie southerly. If the vehicle has an optional power tailgate, the struts share the load with the motor so the system opens smoothly without overworking the drive unit.

Like any sealed gas spring, Mondeo struts wear with age and temperature cycles. A tell-tale sign is a tailgate that feels heavier, rises slowly (especially on cold mornings), stops halfway, or sags back down. A light sheen of oil on the rod is normal, but wet leaks or damaged rod coatings call for replacement. In most cases, it’s smart to replace them as a pair to keep lift and damping even on both sides.

Servicing tips for owners and techs are pretty straightforward:

• Support the tailgate securely before removing a strut — they carry a surprising amount of weight.
• Release the spring clip at the ball socket, don’t fully remove it unless the design requires it.
• Install new struts with rod down (where applicable) to keep internal lubrication where it’s needed.
• Avoid gripping or greasing the chrome rod, just wipe it clean with a soft cloth. Petroleum grease attracts grit and damages seals.
• Check the ball studs and brackets for play or corrosion and torque to the workshop spec.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but in Aussie and Kiwi conditions many sets last 5–8 years. If a power tailgate begins to strain, stall, or bang on shut, weak struts are often the culprit — fresh struts protect the motor and restore the gentle, controlled motion the Mondeo is known for.

Does the 2016 Ford Mondeo have bonnet gas struts?

No. Factory documentation shows a simple prop rod for the bonnet on 2016 Mondeo models. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist if someone wants hands-free lifting, but they’re not OEM on this model year.

How long do Mondeo tailgate gas struts usually last?

Typically 5–10 years depending on climate, usage, and how often the hatch is opened. Sluggish lift in cold weather, a hatch that won’t stay up, or visible leaks are good cues it’s time to replace them — ideally as a matched pair.

Will weak struts harm a power tailgate?

They can. When the gas springs fade, the power drive works harder to lift and control the tailgate, which can speed up wear or trigger faults. Replacing tired struts often restores normal power-tailgate operation and reduces strain on the mechanism.