Parts for your 2020 Ford Escape-Gas struts

2020 Ford Escape gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical documentation confirms gas struts are relevant on the 2020 Ford Escape. Ford’s Workshop Manual (WSM) for the 2020 Escape/Kuga, section 501-03 Body Closures, details removal and installation of the liftgate support struts, the 2020 Escape Owner’s Manual includes liftgate safety guidance, and the Ford Parts Catalogue lists “liftgate support strut” for this model. These sources show the tailgate uses gas‑charged struts, while the bonnet is supported by a prop rod rather than struts.

On the 2020 Escape, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the weight of the tailgate so it rises smoothly and stays put, whether it’s a manual or power liftgate. Even power liftgates rely on gas struts to share the load, reducing strain on the motor and hinges. Inside each strut is compressed nitrogen and a little oil, that combination gives controlled, damped movement without wobble or slam.

There’s no fixed service interval, but they are wear items. Heat, cold, dust and age gradually reduce charge pressure, so most vehicles will see the best life from their struts in the first five to eight years. As part of regular servicing, a quick check makes sense: open the tailgate, note how smoothly it rises, whether it holds at full height, and whether one side lags.

• Common signs they’re tired:
  • Tailgate sags, won’t stay up, or drops in cold weather
  • Uneven or jerky movement, one side doing more work
  • Oil film or dirt build-up on the rod, audible hiss and no damping
  • Power liftgate stalls, reverses, or “bounces” at mid‑travel

Replacement is straightforward and should be done in pairs to keep the load balanced. Always support the tailgate safely before unclipping the ends, a prop or helper is a must. Avoid gripping the polished rod with pliers, don’t grease it, and keep solvents off the seals. For power liftgates, disable power operation first and perform the simple height/calibration routine after fitting (procedure is outlined in Ford service literature and the Owner’s Manual). New quality struts restore lift height, protect hinges, and keep the power system happy.

Quick care tips: keep the rod clean with a soft cloth, expect reduced lift in very cold temps (that’s normal), and if one strut fails, budget to replace both. It’s a small job that makes the Escape feel newer every time the tailgate opens.

Popular questions

Does the 2020 Ford Escape have gas struts on the bonnet?
No. Ford’s service information shows the bonnet uses a prop rod. Gas‑charged struts are fitted to the tailgate only, including models with a hands‑free or power liftgate.

How often should the 2020 Escape’s tailgate struts be replaced?
There’s no set kilometre interval. Replace when they can’t hold the tailgate up, movement is jerky, or one side is weaker. In local conditions, many owners see 5–8 years, but frequent heat, cold, or dust can shorten that.

Can a handy owner replace the tailgate struts at home?
Yes. With the tailgate safely supported, each strut unclips at both ends. Swap them in pairs, avoid touching the rod surface, and re‑enable and recalibrate the power liftgate if fitted. If unsure, a workshop can do the job quickly during a routine service.