Parts for your 2017 Volkswagen Amarok-Gas struts

Gas Struts on the 2017 Volkswagen Amarok: What You Need to Know

The 2017 Volkswagen Amarok is a popular ute, well-regarded for its rugged build and versatility. When it comes to gas struts, these are the components that help lift and support heavy panels like the bonnet, tailgate, or occasionally windows. For the Amarok, gas struts are commonly fitted on the bonnet and the rear tailgate to provide smooth and controlled opening and closing action, making it easier and safer for owners to access the engine bay and cargo area. So yes, the 2017 Amarok does use gas struts on these parts.

Gas struts are essentially a type of shock absorber filled with compressed gas, generally nitrogen, and sometimes coupled with oil to provide cushioning. The idea is simple but brilliant. When you lift the bonnet or tailgate, the struts push upwards and hold the panel open without you having to bear the full weight of it. This prevents the panels from slamming shut unexpectedly, which can cause injury or damage. Plus, they make getting under the hood or into the back of the Amarok a much more manageable task.

On a ute like the Amarok, these gas struts have an important role. Australian conditions can be tough on vehicles with exposure to dust, heat, and sudden jolts from uneven terrain. Because of that, the gas struts need to be reliable and durable to consistently perform their job. The ones fitted on the 2017 Amarok are designed with this in mind, able to withstand repeated use without failing quickly.

While gas struts are robust, they aren't forever. Over time and with frequent use, the gas inside the strut can leak slowly, or the seals might degrade. When this happens, the struts lose their ability to hold the bonnet or tailgate up properly. Owners might notice the bonnet starts to feel heavier or the tailgate won't stay open on its own anymore. At that point, replacing the gas struts is the best move to keep safe and maintain the ease of use.

Checking gas struts as part of regular servicing for the 2017 Amarok is a good habit. A quick inspection can reveal whether the struts are holding pressure and functioning correctly. Some signs to look out for include:

• Difficulty lifting the bonnet or tailgate
• Panels that slowly sag or close on their own
• Visible signs of corrosion or oil leakage around the strut body
• Unusual noises like creaking or knocking when opening/closing

Maintenance of gas struts isn't complicated, but it is mostly about replacement once they start to fail rather than fixing them. Unfortunately, these struts are sealed units, meaning you can't top them up or repair them at home. The best approach is to source quality replacements designed specifically for the 2017 Amarok to ensure correct fitment and performance. Installing aftermarket parts that aren't matched properly can lead to premature failure or poor operation.

Replacing gas struts on an Amarok is usually straightforward, but it's important to be cautious. The panels they support are heavy and can drop suddenly if the struts come loose or fail during replacement. Using the right tools and having a mate hold the panel while fitting new struts is a smart idea. Some workshop manuals or parts suppliers offer step-by-step guidance to take the guesswork out of the process.

Taking care of these little helpers means your Amarok's bonnet and tailgate will keep working the way they should, making every trip smoother and safer. It also avoids potential damage caused by panels slamming shut, which can result in costly body repairs. In the long run, investing some effort in monitoring and replacing gas struts pays off with greater convenience and peace of mind.

In short, gas struts definitely form part of the picture for your 2017 Volkswagen Amarok. They help make opening and closing the bonnet and tailgate easier and safer, which is a real bonus given the Amarok's tough Australian environment. Keeping them in good nick with regular checks and timely replacements as needed means owners get the full benefit of their Amarok's design without hassle.