Parts for your 2019 Ford Transit-Gas struts

2019 Ford Transit gas-struts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm gas struts are indeed used on the 2019 Ford Transit, but only where the vehicle is fitted with a one-piece rear liftgate/tailgate (commonly on Wagon/Bus variants). Cargo vans with 50/50 rear “barn” doors do not use gas struts, and the bonnet uses a prop rod rather than struts. This configuration is documented in Ford Workshop Manual (2015–2019 Transit, Section 501-02 Body Closures) under “Liftgate Support Strut — Removal and Installation”, and reflected in the Ford parts catalogue (EPC) listings for liftgate support struts on tailgate-equipped models and a bonnet prop rod on all models.

On liftgate-equipped 2019 Transits, the gas struts take the weight of the tailgate, control the opening speed, and hold it securely in the open position. That means safer loading, less effort to lift, and reduced chance of the tailgate drifting down in wind or cold weather. Over time, the pressurised charge inside a strut slowly diminishes, seals harden, and the struts lose force — especially noticeable on chilly mornings common across Australia and New Zealand.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check the tailgate’s balance and the struts’ condition. If the liftgate no longer rises by itself after the first push, won’t reach full height, sags, or needs to be held up, the struts are due. Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer, but many owners prefer a workshop because the door must be safely supported and the correct Newton (N) rating chosen for the exact body style and glass configuration. Always replace struts in pairs, keep fingers clear of the ball joints, and never try to “re-gas” or puncture a strut — they’re sealed and under pressure.

• Visual clues: oil weep around the rod seal, bent rod, or corroded end fittings.
• Functional clues: slow opening, bounce on full extension, or a liftgate that drops unexpectedly.
• Care tips: don’t grease the rod, keep grit off the seal area, and avoid forcing the gate closed when iced up.

For Transits with rear barn doors, gas struts aren’t relevant, door checks and hinges should be inspected and lubricated instead. For the bonnet, expect a prop rod across all 2019 models, there’s no factory bonnet gas-strut setup in the Ford service information for this year.

Popular questions

Which 2019 Transit models actually have gas struts?
Wagon/Bus variants with a one-piece rear liftgate use gas struts. Cargo vans with 50/50 rear doors don’t. The bonnet uses a prop rod on all models. If the rear door lifts as a single panel, it has struts, if it’s two swinging doors, it won’t.

How long do gas struts last on a 2019 Transit?
Many last 5–10 years, but climate and usage matter. Frequent cycling, heat, salt air, and dust can shorten life. If the gate won’t stay up, rises sluggishly, or needs a shoulder to help, they’re ready to be changed.

Can they be replaced at home?
Yes, with the right tools and safe support under the tailgate. Swap one side at a time, use the correct force rating, and always replace in pairs. If in doubt, a workshop can match the spec and fit them quickly.