Parts for your 2019 Volkswagen Amarok-Gas struts

2019 Volkswagen Amarok gas struts — what they do and how to look after them

Gas struts are absolutely relevant on the 2019 Volkswagen Amarok. According to Volkswagen’s workshop information (ElsaWin/ElsaPro) for the Amarok 2H series, the bonnet is supported by a gas‑filled support strut, and the Volkswagen ETKA parts catalogue (Group 8 – Body, Bonnet) lists a gas‑filled stay for the MY19 vehicle. The Amarok’s factory tailgate, on the other hand, uses support cables and a hinge assist without a gas damper, tailgate “slow‑down” or lift‑assist gas struts are typically aftermarket. Volkswagen Genuine Accessories also supply hard lids and canopies that use gas struts for their lift mechanisms.

On this ute, the bonnet gas strut makes lifting smooth and controlled, then keeps the bonnet safely up while you’re checking fluids or doing a quick service. Over time, the internal seal and nitrogen charge can fade, especially with Aussie and Kiwi heat, dust and plenty of bonnet cycles. That’s when owners notice the bonnet getting heavy, sagging in cold weather, or rising sluggishly.

There’s no scheduled replacement interval in Volkswagen servicing, it’s a “replace on condition” item. A quick look during regular services is smart:

• Bonnet feels heavy, drops or won’t stay fully open
• Oil film or dampness on the strut body
• Jerky motion, hissing, or a bent/pitted rod
• Worse performance on cold mornings

When renewal’s due, replace in pairs where the design uses two, and match the strut by VIN for the correct force and end fittings (as noted in ETKA). Support the bonnet with a prop or second person, then swap the strut with basic hand tools. Don’t clamp the shiny rod, don’t heat or puncture a strut (they’re pressurised), and recycle the old unit responsibly.

For owners with hard lids or canopies, those gas struts do the same job: controlled lift and hold‑open. They often see even more heat and UV, so a periodic function check is worthwhile. If a tailgate damper is desired, choose a quality kit engineered for the Amarok hinge geometry to avoid stressing the tailgate and cables.

Technical references: Volkswagen ElsaWin/ElsaPro Workshop Manual for Amarok (2H, MY19) – Bonnet: Gas‑filled strut, removing and installing, Volkswagen ETKA (2H) Group 8 Body – Bonnet components, Volkswagen Genuine Accessories catalogues for Amarok canopies and hard lids (gas‑strut assisted).

• Does the 2019 Amarok have gas struts on the tailgate from factory?
  No. The factory tailgate uses support cables and hinge assist without a gas damper. Many owners fit aftermarket tailgate dampers for a softer, controlled drop. Genuine and quality aftermarket hard lids and canopies commonly use gas struts, but the standard tailgate itself doesn’t include them from new.
• How long do bonnet gas struts last on an Amarok in Australia or New Zealand?
  Typically 5–10 years, depending on climate, usage and exposure. High heat, dust, lots of short trips and frequent bonnet opening can shorten life. If the bonnet starts to feel heavy or sags in cold weather, it’s time to test and likely replace.
• Can a home mechanic replace Amarok bonnet gas struts?
  Yes. It’s a straightforward DIY with a second person or a prop to safely hold the bonnet. Match the correct part by VIN, replace in pairs if applicable, and avoid gripping the rod. Torque fasteners to spec per the workshop manual and dispose of the old struts safely.