Ford Transit Connect Bonnet Strut Replacement Parts

Yes, the Ford Transit Connect uses gas-pressurised bonnet struts (sometimes called bonnet lifters or bonnet stay struts) to hold the bonnet open when raised, replacing the traditional manual prop rod found on older vehicles. All generations of the Transit Connect are fitted with these as standard. If your strut has lost pressure and the bonnet no longer stays up on its own, a used replacement from a breaker is a common and cost-effective fix.

The first-generation Transit Connect ran from 2002 through to 2013, so both a 2008 and a 2013 vehicle sit within the same generation and share the same front-end structure. That said, Ford facelifted the Mk1 Transit Connect in 2009, which brought changes to the bonnet, lights and front panels, and whether the bonnet strut itself interchanges across that facelift boundary is something you should confirm with the breaker against your exact registration before buying.

The second-generation Transit Connect launched in 2014 and is a completely different platform from the Mk1 (2002–2013), so the two generations are not interchangeable. Always make sure the breaker is supplying a part from the correct generation for your van. Mixing generations is one of the most common fitment mistakes on the Transit Connect.

No, the trim level does not affect bonnet strut fitment on the Transit Connect — the bonnet and its supporting hardware are shared across all trim grades within a generation, whether that's base spec, Trend, or Limited. You may find that higher-spec vans have slightly different bonnet finishes or badges, but the strut itself is the same mechanical component. Any same-generation strut from a breaker should suit your van regardless of trim.

The second-generation Transit Connect received a facelift in 2018, which refreshed the front end including the bonnet, grille and lights, so a 2015 pre-facelift strut and a 2019 post-facelift strut may not be the same part. You should confirm with the breaker whether the strut from the earlier Mk2 crosses the 2018 facelift boundary and fits your specific vehicle — quoting your registration will help them check. Don't assume compatibility just because both vans are Mk2 Transit Connects.

No, the engine and gearbox have no bearing on bonnet strut fitment — the bonnet and its struts are part of the front bodywork and are identical across petrol, diesel, and electric variants within the same generation. Whether your van has a 1.5 EcoBlue, 1.6 TDCi, or any other engine, the strut requirement is determined by generation and facelift period only. Simply confirm the correct generation with your breaker and the engine need not come into the conversation.