Parts for your 2020 Ford Transit-Gas struts

2020 Ford Transit gas struts

Based on Ford’s technical literature, gas struts are not fitted to the bonnet or the standard swing-out rear cargo doors on the 2020 Ford Transit. The 2020 Transit Owner’s Manual specifies a bonnet support rod (not gas struts), and the Ford Workshop Manual (Section 501-02) covers gas struts only for vehicles equipped with the optional single-piece rear liftgate/tailgate used on certain passenger/wagon variants. Ford’s parts catalogues reflect the same: no hood/bonnet gas struts listed, but liftgate support struts are specified where a liftgate is fitted.

That’s why most vans and tippers won’t have “gas struts” to talk about—swing cargo doors use hinges and checks, and the bonnet relies on a trusty prop rod for simplicity and reliability. However, if the Transit in question has the one-piece rear liftgate, gas struts are part of the setup and matter for day-to-day usability and safety.

On a 2020 Ford Transit with the rear liftgate, gas struts do the heavy lifting—literally. They counterbalance the weight of the tailgate so it opens smoothly and stays put, even in a stiff breeze. Good struts mean no shoulder strain and no risky half-open gates dropping on someone’s head. Over time, the internal gas charge can fade, seals can weep, and cold weather can expose tired struts. Telltale signs include the liftgate creeping down, needing a big heave to open, or thudding shut in cooler temps.

For servicing, it’s smart to check liftgate hold-open force at each service interval (or at least annually), especially if the van works outdoors or clocks big kilometres. Inspect the ball-stud mounts and brackets for looseness or corrosion, and wipe the chrome shafts with a clean, dry cloth—no grease or silicone on the rods, as that attracts grit and ruins the seals. If replacement’s needed, do both sides together to keep forces balanced, and match the OE spec (length, end fittings, and Newton rating). Support the liftgate safely before removing any strut—those cylinders are under pressure, so don’t heat, puncture or clamp the shafts with pliers. Fit with the rod facing down where specified to keep the internal seals lubricated.

If the Transit has swing rear doors only, there’s nothing to maintain in terms of “gas struts” at the back—just keep the hinges and door checks in good nick. And up front, the bonnet’s prop rod is deliberately simple: fewer parts, more room under the bonnet, and reliable in tough Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

• Check liftgate hold-open at each service (or sooner if it sags)
• Clean strut shafts only, do not lubricate
• Replace struts in pairs and match OE force/length
• Inspect and tighten mounting hardware

Popular questions

How do I know if my 2020 Transit actually has gas struts?
If it has a one-piece rear liftgate/tailgate, it uses gas struts on each side. If it has twin swing-out rear doors, there are no gas struts at the back. The bonnet uses a prop rod on all 2020 Transit models per the Owner’s Manual.

How long do liftgate gas struts last?
Anywhere from 5–10 years is common, but climate and usage matter. Lots of openings each day, coastal corrosion, or frequent cold starts can shorten life. If the gate won’t stay up or needs a shove to open, it’s time to replace.

Can gas struts be re-gassed, or should they be replaced?
On Transits it’s standard to replace, not re-gas. Re-gassing is uncommon and often doesn’t restore the correct force. Fit quality replacements to the original spec and do both sides together for even lift and safe hold-open.