Parts for your 2016 Ford Transit-Gas struts

2016 Ford Transit gas struts: where they’re used, why they matter, and how to look after them

Technical sources confirm gas struts are used on the 2016 Ford Transit when the vehicle is built with the single-piece rear liftgate (commonly on Transit Wagon/passenger variants). The 2016 Ford Transit Owner’s Manual includes liftgate-specific cautions referencing the support struts, and the Ford Workshop Manual details “Liftgate Support Strut — Removal and Installation” for these models. Ford’s Electronic Parts Catalogue also lists a “Liftgate Support Strut” for 2015–2019 Transit with liftgate, but none for cargo vans with 180°/270° swing-out rear doors. Those swing-out doors use hinges and check straps, not struts, and the bonnet on this model uses a support rod rather than gas struts. So, gas struts are relevant to 2016 Transit vehicles equipped with the rear liftgate.

On liftgate-equipped 2016 Ford Transit models, gas struts do the heavy lifting—literally. They counterbalance the weight of the liftgate so it opens smoothly, stays up without drama, and closes with a controlled, easy motion. That means safer loading at the back of the van and less strain on hinges and bodywork. When the struts are in good nick, there’s no slamming, sagging, or wrestling the door in a windy Bunnings car park.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check the liftgate balance and strut condition. Struts are sealed, nitrogen-charged units, over time they lose pressure or their internal seals wear. Technicians should inspect for oily residue on the shaft, sluggish extension in cool weather, and any liftgate drop or bounce. If the gate won’t hold itself fully open, the struts have likely had their day.

Replacement is straightforward and typically done in pairs to keep lift and hold even. Always support the liftgate securely before removing any hardware, and fit struts that match the original length, end fittings, and force rating specified for the 2016 Transit liftgate. Re-using old clips or mixing brands can invite rattles or premature wear. Avoid lubricating the chrome shaft—grease or silicone can attract grit and damage the seals. A quick wipe with a clean, damp cloth is enough.

Good practice during service includes:

• Confirming the liftgate holds at full travel without drifting.
• Checking ball-stud mounts and brackets for play or corrosion.
• Listening for creaks at the ends and checking clip engagement after fitment.

With typical use, many liftgate gas struts last five to eight years, but coastal conditions, heavy daily cycling, and frequent high-temperature exposure can shorten that. Keeping the struts clean and replacing them at the first signs of weakness protects the liftgate, prevents injuries, and keeps the Transit feeling factory-fresh.

• FAQs

Do all 2016 Ford Transits have gas struts?
Not all of them. Only models with the single-piece rear liftgate use gas struts. Cargo vans with twin swing-out rear doors don’t have struts, and the bonnet on the 2016 Transit uses a support rod rather than struts.

How long do Transit liftgate struts last, and when should they be replaced?
Many last five to eight years, depending on climate and usage. Replace them if the liftgate won’t stay up, rises slowly (especially in cold weather), or there’s oil on the shaft. Always replace in pairs for even support.

Can 2016 Ford Transit gas struts be re-gassed, or should they be replaced?
OE-style struts are sealed units, in most cases they’re replaced rather than re-gassed. While some specialists offer re-gassing, using new struts to the correct spec is usually the most reliable and time-efficient fix.