Parts for your 2018 Ford Mondeo-Gas struts

2018 Ford Mondeo gas struts: what they do, and when to replace them

Technical references confirm the 2018 Ford Mondeo (CD391) hatch and wagon/estate are fitted with gas‑charged tailgate struts, including variants with a power liftgate. See Ford Workshop Manual Section 501‑02 (Body, Rear Door/Liftgate — Removal and Installation) and the 2018 Owner’s Manual under Luggage Compartment/Power Liftgate. The bonnet uses a prop rod rather than struts, and the sedan boot typically uses torsion bars, not gas struts.

On the 2018 Mondeo hatch and wagon, gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the tailgate so it opens smoothly, stays up without fuss, and closes in a controlled way. On power-liftgate cars, the motor works with the gas springs — the struts still provide the balancing force, the actuator handles the push and pull.

As part of regular servicing, it pays to give the struts a quick once‑over. If the tailgate feels heavy, won’t stay up, sags in a breeze, or opens sluggishly (especially in cold weather), the struts are likely losing charge. Visible oil misting around the shaft seals, bent rods, or damaged ball sockets are other red flags.

• Clean the strut bodies with a damp cloth, keep grit off the chrome shafts. Don’t lubricate the shafts — oils and silicone can attack the seals.
• Replace struts in pairs to maintain even lift and latch alignment. A mismatched pair can twist the tailgate and stress hinges.
• Support the tailgate securely with a prop or helper before removing clips. Struts are under load, and a falling tailgate can injure or damage glass.
• Check the ball studs and brackets for play, tighten to spec if required and replace worn hardware.

For power liftgates, use the correct spec struts (force rating and fittings), and follow the workshop procedure to recalibrate the system after fitment if required. Many Mondeo struts are simple ball‑and‑socket designs with spring clips, so DIY replacement is straightforward with basic tools. Expect service life of around 5–8 years in typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, frequent beach driving, heat, or heavy accessories on the tailgate can shorten that window. If in doubt, a quick “half‑open hold” test — where the tailgate should pause without dropping — is a handy check. Fresh struts restore that factory‑easy feel and keep the tailgate safe on the job.

• Does the 2018 Mondeo have gas struts on the bonnet?
  Most 2018 Mondeo variants use a bonnet prop rod, not gas struts. The gas struts are on the hatch or wagon tailgate. Some sedans use torsion bars for the boot rather than struts.
• How often should tailgate struts be replaced?
  There’s no fixed interval, but many last 5–8 years. If the tailgate won’t stay up, drops suddenly, or opens sluggishly, it’s time to replace them — preferably as a pair.
• Can they be replaced at home?
  Yes. Support the tailgate, pop the retaining clips, swap the struts, and clip them back on. For power liftgates, use the correct spec and follow any recalibration steps from the service manual.