Parts for your 2018 Ford Kuga-Gas struts

2018 Ford Kuga gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are fitted to the 2018 Ford Kuga’s tailgate, so they’re very much relevant to this model. Ford’s workshop manual (Section 501-02, Rear Door—Liftgate) details the liftgate support strut removal/installation, and aftermarket catalogues from Stabilus Lift-O-MAT and Monroe list dedicated gas springs for the 2013–2019 Kuga/Escape. The 2018 Kuga owner’s manual also notes the bonnet is held by a prop rod, not gas struts, reinforcing that the struts are used on the tailgate only.

On the Kuga, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting—literally. They balance the weight of the boot lid so it opens smoothly and stays up without a fight. Over time, seals can wear and the nitrogen charge can drop, especially in colder climates, making the tailgate feel heavy or reluctant to stay open.

They’re not a scheduled service item, but it’s smart to check them at every service. A quick visual once-over for an oily film on the shaft, corrosion around the ends, or a bent rod is worthwhile. If the tailgate sags, drops unexpectedly, hisses, or needs a shove to lift—particularly on cold mornings—the struts are on their way out.

• Replace in pairs to keep the lift balanced and avoid twisting the tailgate.
• Match the correct strut spec (length and Newton rating) to your vehicle build and options (e.g., power tailgate, spoiler).
• Support the tailgate securely before removing any strut, don’t rely on one old strut to hold it up.
• Avoid gripping or lubricating the shiny shaft—use a light silicone on the ball studs only, and keep the shaft clean.

Most 2018 Kugas in Australia and New Zealand have conventional gas struts. If yours has a power tailgate, it still uses matched dampers and may require a calibration cycle after replacement (open/close fully a few times as per the workshop procedure). Either way, fitment is usually straightforward: pop the retaining clips, swap the struts, and click them back on the ball studs. If in doubt, a technician can handle it in minutes.

Typical service life is 5–8 years, but usage and climate play a big part. When the tailgate stops holding confidently, it’s time—waiting risks a bruised head or damaged hinges. Fresh struts bring back that easy, one-hand open-and-hold feel the Kuga left the factory with.

Popular questions about 2018 Ford Kuga gas struts

How do I know my Kuga’s tailgate struts need replacing?
Tell-tales include the tailgate dropping or drifting down, needing two hands to lift, a weak or jerky final rise, or an oily sheen on the strut shaft. Cold weather often makes a tired strut feel worse. If the tailgate won’t stay safely up, replace them promptly.

Should I replace one strut or both?
Always replace them in pairs. A single new strut paired with a weak old one can twist the tailgate, stress the hinges, and feel uneven. Two new matching struts restore smooth, balanced operation.

Are power tailgate struts different on a 2018 Kuga?
Yes. Power tailgate models use struts with specific rates and sometimes integrated assist features. Always match by VIN and option codes. After installation, perform the recommended open/close calibration so the system learns the new lift characteristics.