Parts for your 2021 Volkswagen Amarok-Gas struts

2021 Volkswagen Amarok gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Volkswagen’s technical sources — the Amarok (Type 2H) body section in ETKA (VW’s official parts catalogue) and the factory workshop information (Elsa/ErWin) — the 2021 Amarok is fitted with gas-filled bonnet struts from the factory. Those sources list the bonnet “gas pressure springs” and outline removal/installation procedures. The tailgate, by contrast, uses hinge assistance and support cables rather than a factory gas damper, while canopies and hard lids (if fitted) use accessory gas struts.

On a 2021 Amarok, the bonnet gas struts make life easier by taking the weight as the bonnet is lifted and then holding it safely open. They’re nitrogen-charged, sealed units designed for smooth, controlled movement. When they’re healthy, the bonnet pops up confidently and stays put, even on a breezy day at the beach or on a job site.

During regular servicing, it’s smart to give the struts a quick once-over. Look for oily residue on the cylinder, bent rods, cracked end fittings, or clips that have gone walkabout. If the bonnet feels heavy, won’t stay up, drops in cold weather, or you’re propping it with a broom handle, the struts are due. Best practice is to replace them in pairs so lift and hold are even on both sides.

Fit quality matters. Choose OEM or reputable aftermarket struts with the correct force rating for the Amarok. The swap is straightforward but do support the bonnet securely first — they are under pressure. Pop the retaining clips, swap the struts, make sure the ball-stud mounts are snug to spec, and clip orientation is correct. Don’t grease the shiny rod, just keep it clean. A light spritz of silicone-safe lubricant on the joint sockets (not the rod) is fine if they creak.

Because they’re sealed, gas struts aren’t really serviceable or “re-gassable” in any reliable way, so replacement is the go when performance fades. Check them at every service interval (typically 12 months/15,000 km in AU/NZ conditions) and sooner if the ute works hard, sees a lot of dust, or runs a canopy or hard lid with extra struts. Always handle old struts with care — they’re pressurised — and dispose of them responsibly.

• Key signs they’re failing: heavy bonnet, slow or uneven lift, bonnet won’t hold, oily film on the cylinder.
• Good habits: replace in pairs, keep the rod clean, avoid levering on the strut body, support the bonnet during work.

Do Amaroks come with tailgate gas struts from factory?

No. The 2021 Amarok tailgate uses support cables and hinge assistance rather than a factory gas damper. If a soft-open function is wanted, there are reputable aftermarket tailgate dampers that pair neatly with the OEM setup.

How long do Amarok bonnet gas struts usually last?

In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, five to ten years is common, but high heat, dust, frequent opening, or lots of beach work can shorten that. If the bonnet won’t stay up or feels noticeably heavier, don’t wait — swap them out.

Can Amarok gas struts be re-gassed, or do they have to be replaced?

They’re sealed nitrogen units, so proper, durable re-gassing isn’t a realistic option. Replacement with correctly rated new struts is the reliable solution and restores safe, smooth bonnet action straight away.