Note: costs mentioned below are given in US dollars as a general point of reference — actual prices vary by country, currency, and local market.
Tailgate assist kits cost $25-$120 and use gas struts or torsion cables to slow a tailgate's drop and reduce lift effort by roughly 30-50%. Gas-strut kits ($60-$120) give the smoothest, most controlled motion; basic cable kits ($25-$60) are cheaper but feel more abrupt. Most install in 20-40 minutes with basic hand tools and no drilling on factory tailgate hinge points.
At a glance
| Kit type | Effort reduction | Install time | Price band (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cable/strap assist | ~30% | 15-30 min | $25-$60 |
| Gas strut assist | ~40-50% | 20-40 min | $60-$120 |
| Powered/electric tailgate | Near 100% (motorized) | Professional install | $400-$900 |
Why tailgates need assistance
Modern truck tailgates have grown heavier over the years as manufacturers add sound-deadening, reinforcement, and integrated features like step handles and cameras — many now weigh 60-100 lb. Without assistance, that weight drops fast and lifts hard, which is a real strain for repeated daily use, especially for smaller-framed drivers or anyone with a shoulder or back issue.
How gas strut kits work
Gas strut assist kits mount a small hydraulic-gas cylinder between the tailgate and the bed or frame, similar to a hatchback strut. As the tailgate opens, the strut controls the drop speed and stores energy that assists the lift back up. These give the smoothest feel and are the closest thing to a factory power tailgate without the electronics.
Cable and cushion alternatives
Cheaper cable or webbing-based kits limit how far and how fast the tailgate can swing, cushioning the final drop rather than assisting the full motion. They're a reasonable budget fix for slam-prevention but don't meaningfully reduce lifting effort the way a gas strut does.
- Gas strut kits typically bolt to existing factory mounting points — no drilling needed on most trucks
- Cable kits are the easiest DIY install but offer the least lifting help
- Look for kits rated to your specific tailgate weight, not a generic "universal" claim
- Powder-coated or stainless hardware resists rust better in truck-bed environments exposed to gravel and salt
Installation realities
Most bolt-on kits use factory hinge or frame mounting points and take 20-40 minutes with a socket set and no drilling. Some truck models with integrated tailgate dampers from the factory don't need aftermarket kits at all — check your owner's manual or tailgate spec sheet first, since adding a second assist system to an already-damped tailgate can cause it to slam shut unexpectedly.
What to avoid
Installing an assist kit on a truck that already has a factory-damped tailgate can double up the spring force and cause it to snap shut hard — check first. Mismatched strut force (too strong for a lighter tailgate) can make the tailgate swing back up on its own, a pinch hazard for hands and fingers.
Skip generic "one size fits all" kits without a weight-rating chart matched to your make and model — undersized struts barely help, oversized ones create a kickback hazard. Also avoid off-brand cable kits with exposed sharp cable ends near where hands naturally grip the tailgate.
Is it worth it?
For daily truck users loading and unloading cargo regularly, a gas strut kit pays for itself in convenience and reduced strain within the first few weeks. Occasional truck users hauling cargo a few times a month may find a basic cable kit sufficient, or decide the factory tailgate is fine as-is.
Frequently asked questions
Do tailgate assist kits work on all trucks?
Can I install a tailgate assist kit myself?
Will a tailgate assist kit damage my truck's factory tailgate hinges?
How much easier does a gas strut kit make lifting the tailgate?
Do I need an assist kit if my truck already has a damped tailgate?
Sources & further reading
- NHTSA — vehicle equipment and hardware safety guidance
- Consumer Reports — truck bed and tailgate accessory guidance
Figures, prices and policy details were current at the last-updated date above. Automotive pricing, incentives and regulations change frequently — verify time-sensitive details with the linked primary sources. Read our editorial policy and fact-checking standards.
