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Body Mechanical & Trim

Tailgate Strut

Tailgate struts are the gas lift supports that raise and hold an SUV liftgate or soften the drop of a pickup tailgate. We list 30 struts and strut sets from $12 to $168 for 1996-2022 vehicles, from Autopart Premium, Stabilus and Sachs, with many for the Chevrolet Tahoe and Silverado 1500.

Shop tailgate strut by vehicle

Chevrolet Tahoe 12

30 parts

Signs your struts are weak

Gas struts lose pressure slowly over time. The liftgate starts to rise slowly, stops halfway, or creeps down after you open it. In cold weather the problem gets worse because gas pressure drops as the temperature falls.

A liftgate that falls can cause injury, so do not prop a failing gate with your head or shoulder. Replace weak struts as soon as you notice them.

Pairs, positions and power gates

Most vehicles use two struts, one on the driver side and one on the passenger side. Listings often sell them as a set. Replace both at the same time so they share the load evenly.

Some SUVs, such as certain Tahoe models, use separate struts for the rear window glass. Check the position field for tailgate, rear window or both. If your vehicle has a power liftgate, confirm the listing notes, because power gates use a different strut or spindle unit.

Safe replacement steps

Have a helper hold the gate open or use a prop rod before removing either strut. Release the end clips with a small flat screwdriver and pull the strut off the ball studs.

Install the new strut with the body end and shaft end oriented as the old one was, usually with the shaft pointing down. Check the fitment table for your trim and body style, since the length and force rating must match.

Tailgate Strut questions

Should I replace both tailgate struts at once?

Yes. Both struts age at the same rate, and a new strut paired with a worn one can overload the new part and twist the gate. Many listings come as a pair.

Why does my liftgate only stay up in warm weather?

Gas struts lose pressure in the cold. If the gate stays up on warm days but drops in winter, the struts are weak and due for replacement.

Do pickup trucks use tailgate struts?

Some do. Certain trucks, such as some Silverado 1500 models, use a tailgate assist or damper that slows the gate as it drops. Check the fitment table for your truck.

Not sure it fits?Tell us your year, make and model and we will check the part for you.