The liftgate lift support, also known as a tailgate strut or rear hatch support, is a crucial component in vehicles with a liftgate or hatchback. It is a gas-charged cylinder that assists in lifting and holding open the liftgate, allowing easy access to the cargo area. This support ensures smooth operation and prevents the liftgate from slamming shut unexpectedly.
Over time, liftgate lift supports can wear out due to regular use and exposure to the elements. Common signs that the lift support may be failing include:
Difficulty Lifting the Liftgate: The liftgate feels heavy or requires more effort to open.
Liftgate Does Not Stay Open: The liftgate falls or closes on its own instead of staying in the upright position.
Noises During Operation: Hissing, clicking, or squeaking sounds when opening or closing the liftgate.
Visible Wear or Damage: Corrosion, bends, or leaks in the gas strut.
Difficulty Lifting the Liftgate: The liftgate feels heavy or requires more effort to open.
Liftgate Does Not Stay Open: The liftgate falls or closes on its own instead of staying in the upright position.
Noises During Operation: Hissing, clicking, or squeaking sounds when opening or closing the liftgate.
Visible Wear or Damage: Corrosion, bends, or leaks in the gas strut.
Replacing a faulty liftgate lift support is important for both safety and convenience. A malfunctioning support can lead to:
Injury Risk: The liftgate may close unexpectedly, posing a risk of injury.
Vehicle Damage: A sudden drop can damage the liftgate or items being loaded.
Reduced Accessibility: Difficulty accessing the cargo area due to a heavy or uncooperative liftgate.
Injury Risk: The liftgate may close unexpectedly, posing a risk of injury.
Vehicle Damage: A sudden drop can damage the liftgate or items being loaded.
Reduced Accessibility: Difficulty accessing the cargo area due to a heavy or uncooperative liftgate.
To prolong the lifespan of liftgate lift supports and ensure they function properly:
Regular Inspection: Check the supports periodically for signs of wear or damage.
Cleanliness: Keep the lift supports clean from dirt and debris that can cause corrosion.
Avoid Overloading: Do not hang heavy items on the liftgate that exceed the support’s capacity.
Gentle Operation: Open and close the liftgate smoothly to reduce stress on the supports.
Regular Inspection: Check the supports periodically for signs of wear or damage.
Cleanliness: Keep the lift supports clean from dirt and debris that can cause corrosion.
Avoid Overloading: Do not hang heavy items on the liftgate that exceed the support’s capacity.
Gentle Operation: Open and close the liftgate smoothly to reduce stress on the supports.
Installing new liftgate lift supports can often be a straightforward process:
1. Safety First: Use a prop rod or have someone assist in holding the liftgate open.
2. Remove Old Supports: Detach the clips or bolts holding the old support in place.
3. Install New Supports: Attach the new support to the mounting points, ensuring it snaps securely.
4. Test Operation: Gently open and close the liftgate to verify smooth operation.
*Note: Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific instructions applicable to your model.*
1. Safety First: Use a prop rod or have someone assist in holding the liftgate open.
2. Remove Old Supports: Detach the clips or bolts holding the old support in place.
3. Install New Supports: Attach the new support to the mounting points, ensuring it snaps securely.
4. Test Operation: Gently open and close the liftgate to verify smooth operation.
*Note: Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific instructions applicable to your model.*
When choosing a replacement liftgate lift support:
Compatibility: Ensure the support is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.
Quality Material: Opt for supports made from durable materials like steel or stainless steel.
Gas-Charged vs. Mechanical: Most modern vehicles use gas-charged supports for smoother operation.
Manufacturer Warranty: Consider products that come with a warranty for added peace of mind.
Compatibility: Ensure the support is compatible with your vehicle’s make and model.
Quality Material: Opt for supports made from durable materials like steel or stainless steel.
Gas-Charged vs. Mechanical: Most modern vehicles use gas-charged supports for smoother operation.
Manufacturer Warranty: Consider products that come with a warranty for added peace of mind.
Installing new tailgate struts or rear hatch supports offers several advantages:
Improved Safety: Prevents accidental closing of the liftgate.
Enhanced Convenience: Makes opening and closing the liftgate effortless.
Vehicle Value: Maintains the functionality and value of your vehicle.
Reliability: Reduces the likelihood of unexpected failures.
Improved Safety: Prevents accidental closing of the liftgate.
Enhanced Convenience: Makes opening and closing the liftgate effortless.
Vehicle Value: Maintains the functionality and value of your vehicle.
Reliability: Reduces the likelihood of unexpected failures.
While many liftgate lift supports can be replaced by vehicle owners, seeking professional assistance is advisable if:
Uncertainty About Installation: If unsure about the correct procedure.
Special Tools Required: Some vehicles may require specific tools for replacement.
Additional Issues: If the liftgate has alignment problems or other mechanical issues.
Uncertainty About Installation: If unsure about the correct procedure.
Special Tools Required: Some vehicles may require specific tools for replacement.
Additional Issues: If the liftgate has alignment problems or other mechanical issues.
Regular maintenance and timely replacement of liftgate lift supports, also known as gas springs or liftgate struts, are essential for the safe and convenient operation of your vehicle's liftgate. By keeping these components in good condition, you ensure easy access to the cargo area and prevent potential injuries or damage.
