You may have already experienced how clumsy and even hazardous it can be to open the tailgate of a ute (utility vehicle) and watch it tip down with a heavy crash.
Picture this: You have unpacked camping equipment at the end of a long journey. In one hand, a backpack, in the other, the tailgate is open. Then the heavy metal gate falls quickly and springs open and drags your hand with it.
Not the best experience, right? And that is what tailgate assist systems will do.
Tailgate assist is one of those minor features in the latest ute that has become a big difference in daily use. Whether carrying tools, groceries, sporting equipment, or even camping gear, it makes things more convenient and safer and gives your car an engineering touch of modernity.
We will simplify it to explain what tailgate assist is, how it works, and why it is important.
What Is Tailgate Assist?
A tailgate assist is a small mechanism that is mounted on the tailgate hinge system of a ute, and it regulates the opening and closing of the tailgate.
The tailgate assist system, instead of falling off at once because of gravity, reduces the motion, and therefore the tailgate will open very steadily and without any shock.
Just imagine a soft-close option of a modern kitchen cabinet – the door does not bang but softly glides down.
The same idea applies here. The assist system has the ability to lower the tailgate as you unlock it so that you do not need to raise the entire weight.
This makes opening the tailgate:
- Safer
- Easier
- More controlled
How Does Tailgate Assist Work?
A tailgate assist system typically operates on the hinge of the tailgate via a gas strut or hydraulic damper. Here’s how the process works step by step:
- You pull the tailgate latch.
- Gravity begins to lower the tailgate.
- The assist strut slows the movement.
- The tailgate gently glides down instead of falling.
The system will take the weight and regulate the tailgate speed opening. The majority of the systems are small, robust, and made to accommodate thousands of opening cycles.
Why Tailgate Assist Is Becoming Popular?
The tailgate assist was exclusively in the high-end trucks. However, it is currently being added to most modern Utes. There are a few key reasons why drivers love it.
1. Prevents Tailgate Slamming
Tailgates are heavy and may easily crash open. This sudden drop can damage:
- Tailgate cables
- Hinges
- Latch mechanisms
This is avoided by the tailgate assist, which slows down the movement.
2. Protects Your Hands and Arms
There is always the likelihood of you being forced to support the entire weight of the tailgate when opening it without assist systems.
This may subject one to strain or even injury in case the tailgate slips. The tailgate assistant eliminates that jolt, and the tailgate opens as easily as it can.
3. Extends Tailgate Lifespan
Repeated slamming puts stress on:
- Hinges
- Support cables
- Mounting points
Assist systems provide a smoother, lower mechanical load on the tailgate, increasing the durability of parts.
4. Makes Daily Use More Convenient
The tailgate has numerous uses per day by many drivers. Be it loading groceries, tools, sports gear, or camera equipment, having a smoother tailgate opening will make it easier to use on a daily basis.
5. Adds a Premium Feel to Your Ute
Minor improvements could help in turning a car into one that feels a lot more sophisticated. One of such upgrades that can instantly provide your ute with a premium modern experience is tailgate assist. It is a slight modification, but you realise it each time you open the tailgate.
Can You Install Tailgate Assist on Older Utes?
Yes, and that’s one of the best parts. Many aftermarket tailgates assist kits are designed to fit older ute models.
Installation usually involves:
- Attaching a gas strut
- Mounting small brackets
- Securing the assist system near the hinge
Most kits can be installed in 15 to 30 minutes with basic tools. This makes it an affordable upgrade for drivers who want modern convenience without buying a new vehicle.
Are Tailgate Assist Systems Durable?
Yes. Quality tailgates assist systems are manufactured to cope with the thousands of times it is opened. They are normally planned with:
- Heavy-duty steel brackets
- Gas struts or hydraulic dampers
- Corrosion-resistant coatings
As they work in the outdoor world, they are designed to resist:
- Rain
- Dust
- Heat
- Mud
When installed correctly, they typically require little or no maintenance.
Is Tailgate Assist the Same as a Powered Tailgate?
Not exactly. These two features have varying uses.
Tailgate Assist
- Mechanical system
- Slows down the tailgate when opening
- Prevents sudden drops
- Mud
Powered Tailgate
- Fully electronic system
- Opens and closes automatically
- Controlled by buttons or key fobs
- Mud
Tailgate assist is a less expensive and simpler upgrade.
Tailgate assist could appear to be a minor feature, but it could be a life-saving feature in daily use. It will enhance safety, convenience, and durability by avoiding abrupt drops and ensuring that the tailgates open easily.
This upgrade is something you will find yourself wondering why you did not have soon especially for owners of Utes who are used to loading up gear, tools, or other equipment.
Tailgate assist is not something that will make life easier, but it can be seen as one of those useful upgrades to your ute, which can be used at work or during recreational activities and errands.
FAQs
1. Does tailgate assist make the tailgate lighter?
Not exactly. It does not make the tailgate lighter; it just regulates the rate by which the tailgate opens.
2. Can I install tailgate assist myself?
Yes. A large number of aftermarket kits are DIY installed and typically less than 30 minutes.
3. Does tailgate assist affect towing?
No. The system does not limit towing functionality but only influences the way the tailgate opens.
4. Will tailgate assist work with heavy-duty tailgates?
Yes. The majority of the systems are engineered to support heavy steel tailgates that are present in Utes.
5. Is tailgate assist expensive?
Not really. Compared to other vehicle upgrades, tailgate assist kits are generally affordable.