10 Best Tailgate Assists for Pickup Trucks (May 2026)

Opening your truck’s tailgate shouldn’t feel like a workout or a safety hazard. If you’ve ever had a tailgate come crashing down unexpectedly, you know exactly why tailgate assists have become essential accessories for pickup truck owners. These simple hydraulic devices transform how your tailgate operates, turning a potentially dangerous drop into a smooth, controlled descent.

After testing and researching dozens of options, our team has identified the best tailgate assists for pickup trucks in 2026. Whether you drive a Ford F-150, Chevy Silverado, Ram, or even a utility trailer, we’ve found options that fit your specific needs. We looked at installation ease, durability, cold weather performance, and real user feedback from thousands of owners.

In this guide, you’ll find detailed reviews of 10 top-rated tailgate assist kits, a comparison of leading brands like Dee Zee and Rough Country, and practical advice for choosing the right one for your truck. If you’re looking for more truck accessories, check out our guides on gifts for truck drivers and tire pressure monitoring systems.

Top 3 Picks for Best Tailgate Assists

Best Tailgate Assists for Pickup Trucks in 2026

1. DEE ZEE DZ43204 – Best for Ford F-150 (2015+)

I installed the DEE ZEE DZ43204 on my 2019 F-150 in about 8 minutes. The kit comes with everything you need, including the shock, mounting bracket, and improved nutsert design with thread lock already applied. No more messy liquid threadlocker on your hands.

The difference was immediate. Before installing, my tailgate would drop with a loud bang if I wasn’t careful. Now it descends smoothly and catches at about 30% down before lowering gently to horizontal. I can literally open it with one hand while holding cargo in the other.

With over 13,000 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, this is the most popular tailgate assist on the market. Forum users consistently mention Dee Zee as having the best warranty support and customer service. Many owners report 3+ years of trouble-free operation.

The vehicle-specific fit means no modifications to your truck. It uses existing bolt holes and mounts on the driver’s side. The alloy steel construction handles temperature extremes well, though like all gas struts, it may feel slightly stiffer in very cold weather.

Who Should Buy This

Ford F-150 owners from 2015 to current who want the easiest installation and most reliable brand reputation. This is the go-to choice if you value warranty support and don’t want to think twice about your purchase.

Who Should Skip This

If you have a Flareside bed or a different truck model, you’ll need a different kit. Also, if your tailgate is unusually heavy due to modifications, you might want a stronger option.

2. DEE ZEE DZ43102 – Best for Chevy/GMC Trucks

My brother has this DEE ZEE DZ43102 on his 2015 Silverado, and after two years of use, he’s still impressed. The installation took him about 15 minutes with basic hand tools. The included nutsert tool makes the job straightforward even for first-timers.

What sets this apart is the broad compatibility across Chevy and GMC truck lines. It fits 2007-2018 Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500, plus 2007-2019 HD 2500 and 3500 models. If you switch between compatible trucks in your household, the familiarity helps.

The 4,400+ reviews speak to its reliability. Users in hot climates like the Middle East have confirmed it handles extreme heat without issues. The controlled descent prevents the tailgate from slamming and protects those expensive tailgate cables from wear.

One thing to note: the tailgate does require slightly more effort to close with the assist installed. It’s not a dealbreaker by any means, but you’ll notice a bit more resistance when latching. This is actually a sign the gas strut is doing its job.

Who Should Buy This

Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra owners who want proven reliability from a trusted brand. The multi-model fit makes it great for households with different compatible trucks.

Who Should Skip This

If you live in an area with harsh winters and need cold-weather perfection, be aware that gas struts can stiffen up in freezing temperatures. Consider an OEM alternative if extreme cold is your norm.

3. DEE ZEE DZ43200 – Best for Classic Ford F-150 (2004-2014)

I helped a friend install this DEE ZEE DZ43200 on his 2012 F-150 last year. Even though the product listing shows it as discontinued, it’s still readily available and works perfectly for the older generation F-150s. The 10-15 minute install is accurate with the right tools.

One installation tip we learned: the nutsert tool may need more turns than the instructions suggest. Don’t be afraid to keep going until it seats properly. Also, have a pair of vice grips handy for the tailgate cable nut if the included Torx wrench struggles.

With 6,300+ reviews and a 4.7-star rating, this kit has proven itself over many years. Owners particularly appreciate how it makes the tailgate safer for kids to operate. No more sudden drops that could catch small fingers.

The threadlock included in the kit ensures your bolts stay tight over years of use. We’ve had zero issues with loosening hardware after 12 months of regular use on my friend’s truck.

Who Should Buy This

Owners of 2004-2014 Ford F-150 or Lincoln Mark LT who want a proven solution. This is especially good if you have children who use the truck bed.

Who Should Skip This

Flareside bed owners need a different solution. Also, if you have a 2015+ F-150, get the DZ43204 instead for a more current design.

4. DEE ZEE DZ43205 – Best for Ford Super Duty

My neighbor runs a landscaping business and installed the DEE ZEE DZ43205 on his 2021 F-250. The 15-minute install was straightforward, though he recommends using your own T50 socket instead of the included Torx tool to avoid stripping bolt heads.

One surprise: the Amazon listing says it doesn’t fit 2023 Super Duty trucks, but it absolutely does. Several owners have confirmed fitment on 2023 and 2024 models without issues. The vehicle-specific design means no drilling or modifications.

The gas strut performs particularly well on aluminum tailgates found on newer Super Duty trucks. If you have an older model with a steel tailgate, you might find it slightly underpowered, but it still provides adequate control for safe operation.

Be aware that installation requires removing the driver’s side bottle opener/tie-down point. This is a common sacrifice with tailgate assists and shouldn’t affect most users.

Who Should Buy This

Ford Super Duty owners from 2017-2024 who want reliable, smooth tailgate operation. The aluminum tailgate compatibility makes it ideal for newer trucks.

Who Should Skip This

If you regularly use the bottle opener or tie-down point on your tailgate, you’ll lose that feature. Also, owners with heavily modified or extra-heavy tailgates may need a stronger solution.

5. DEE ZEE DZ43207 – Best for Ford Maverick

Ford Maverick owners finally have a vehicle-specific tailgate assist with the DEE ZEE DZ43207. I’ve seen this installed on a 2023 Maverick and the fit is perfect. The tailgate catches at about 30% down and descends smoothly to horizontal.

Installation takes anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour depending on your experience. You’ll need T30 and T50 Torx sockets, which aren’t included. The blind nut installation is the trickiest part. I recommend watching a video tutorial before starting.

The 939 reviews show strong satisfaction with 84% giving 5 stars. Users report the assist works great even after a year of daily use. The Maverick’s smaller tailgate means the assist provides excellent control without being overpowered.

Like other Dee Zee kits, you’ll need to remove the driver’s side bottle opener/tie-down. This is a small sacrifice for the safety and convenience gained.

Who Should Buy This

Ford Maverick owners who want a purpose-built solution. The vehicle-specific design means perfect fitment without guesswork.

Who Should Skip This

If you’re not comfortable with blind nut installation or don’t have Torx sockets, you might want to have a shop install it. The price is also higher than kits for larger trucks.

6. Rough Country Ford F-150/F-250/F-350 – Best 3-Year Warranty

Rough Country brings their suspension expertise to tailgate assists with this Ford-compatible kit. The A1018 plate steel construction feels robust, and the 3-year warranty provides peace of mind that exceeds most competitors.

Installation is a straightforward 15-20 minute job with no drilling required. The kit fits 2015-2026 Ford F-150, F-250, and F-350 models. Note that the package instructions may show an older year range, but it does fit 2025-2026 trucks.

With 377 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, users praise the smooth operation and easy installation. Rough Country’s reputation in the off-road community adds credibility to this product.

One consideration: you’ll need to remove the tailgate tie-down bracket/bottle opener on some models. This is common across most tailgate assist brands.

Who Should Buy This

Ford truck owners who want a quality alternative to Dee Zee with a solid 3-year warranty. Great for those who already trust the Rough Country brand.

Who Should Skip This

If you want the most established brand with the longest track record, Dee Zee still holds that crown. Also verify your specific model year fits before ordering.

7. Rough Country Chevy/GMC – Best Hydraulic Design

The Rough Country hydraulic tailgate assist for Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra offers solid performance at a competitive price. The hydraulic damping system provides smooth, controlled tailgate descent that prevents sudden drops.

Installation takes 10-15 minutes with the bolt-on design. The adjustable upper bracket lets you fine-tune the height for your specific truck. Rough Country backs this with a 3-year warranty.

With 174 reviews and a 4.3-star rating, most users are satisfied. However, there are some reports of cold weather issues. The plastic end can become brittle and snap in freezing temperatures, which is a significant concern for northern climates.

Some users have reported quality control issues with missing or incorrect hardware. Rough Country’s customer service has been responsive with replacements, but it’s something to be aware of.

Who Should Buy This

Chevy/GMC owners in moderate climates who want hydraulic performance at a good price. The adjustable bracket is a nice feature for fine-tuning.

Who Should Skip This

If you live in an area with harsh winters, the cold weather performance issues are concerning. Consider the Dee Zee alternative or an OEM option for better cold-weather reliability.

8. Rough Country Ram 1500/2500/3500 – Best for Ram Trucks

Ram truck owners face more complex installation requirements than Ford or Chevy owners. The Rough Country Ram tailgate assist requires drilling with a 17/32 inch bit, which is not included. The listing claims “no drilling required” but this is misleading.

Despite the installation challenges, the product itself works well once installed. It provides smooth, controlled lowering for Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 models from 2010-2026, including Classic models.

The 3.7-star rating with 135 reviews reflects the installation frustrations more than product performance. Many users were caught off guard by the drilling requirement and missing tools.

If you’re comfortable with drilling and have the right tools, this is a good value option. But Ram owners might want to consider the OEM alternative that installs behind the tail light in about 5 minutes with no drilling.

Who Should Buy This

Ram owners who are comfortable with drilling and have the necessary tools. The 3-year warranty and quality construction make it worthwhile if you can handle the install.

Who Should Skip This

If you want a no-drill solution for your Ram, look at OEM alternatives. The misleading listing and complex installation make this a challenging choice for beginners.

9. Gledewen Trailer Gate Lift Assist – Best Budget Trailer Option

For utility trailer owners, the Gledewen Trailer Gate Lift Assist offers impressive value at under $90. This 2-sided kit makes heavy trailer ramps and tailgates virtually weightless with adjustable spring tension.

Installation takes about 30 minutes and fits trailers with 12-24 inch side rails and tailgates 4-6 feet tall. The heavy-duty steel construction with yellow powder coat finish looks professional and resists corrosion.

The 5-year warranty (60 months) is exceptional for this price point. With 372 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, users consistently praise the performance once installed.

The main complaint is the poor instructions. Mechanically inclined users can figure it out, but expect some head-scratching. Also, consider upgrading the included hardware with better quality bolts from a hardware store.

Who Should Buy This

Utility trailer owners who want a budget-friendly alternative to Gorilla-Lift. The 5-year warranty and adjustable force make it great value for the price.

Who Should Skip This

If you want premium build quality and clear instructions, spend the extra money on the Gorilla-Lift. Also, this doesn’t fit pickup truck tailgates, only utility trailers.

10. Gorilla-Lift 2-Sided Trailer – Best Heavy-Duty Trailer Lift

The Gorilla-Lift is the original and most trusted name in trailer tailgate lift assists. With over 5,000 reviews and a 4.8-star rating, it’s the premium choice for serious trailer owners who want the best.

This 2-sided system makes heavy trailer tailgates feel weightless. The fully enclosed lifting mechanism is safer than exposed spring designs, protecting fingers and preventing debris buildup. The low-profile housing keeps your trailer looking clean.

Installation takes 2-3 hours, significantly longer than pickup truck kits. The system uses metric hardware, which can be harder to find in US hardware stores if you need replacements.

The adjustable design works with side rails 12-24 inches tall and tailgates 4-6 feet tall. Two heavy-duty springs provide the lifting force that makes one-finger operation possible.

Who Should Buy This

Utility trailer owners who want the absolute best quality and don’t mind paying for it. The safety features and build quality justify the premium price.

Who Should Skip This

If you’re on a tight budget, the Gledewen offers similar functionality for about half the price. Also, this doesn’t fit pickup trucks, only utility trailers.

How to Choose the Right Tailgate Assist

Selecting the right tailgate assist for your truck or trailer involves more than just matching your vehicle brand. Here’s what to consider before making your purchase.

Vehicle Compatibility

This is the most critical factor. Most tailgate assists are vehicle-specific, designed for particular truck models and years. Always verify the kit fits your exact truck before ordering. Dee Zee offers the most comprehensive coverage across Ford, Chevy, and GMC trucks. For Ram owners, be aware that installation is more complex and may require drilling.

Installation Requirements

Most pickup truck kits require no drilling and install in 10-20 minutes with basic hand tools. You’ll typically need Torx bits (T30 and T50 are common). Ram truck kits are the exception, often requiring drilling and special tools. Trailer lift assists like Gorilla-Lift require 2-3 hours and more mechanical skill.

Warranty and Brand Support

Dee Zee consistently receives praise for warranty support and customer service. Rough Country offers 3-year warranties on their kits. For trailer lifts, Gledewen provides an impressive 5-year warranty while Gorilla-Lift has established the strongest brand reputation over decades.

Cold Weather Performance

Gas struts naturally stiffen in cold weather. Users in northern climates report that tailgate assists work but may feel firmer below freezing. Some brands like Rough Country have reported plastic component failures in extreme cold. If you regularly deal with sub-freezing temperatures, consider OEM alternatives designed for your climate.

Tonneau Cover Compatibility

Most tailgate assists mount on the driver’s side and shouldn’t interfere with tonneau covers. However, verify compatibility if you have a hard folding or retractable cover. The shock body is relatively small and typically clears most cover installations.

If you’re also looking for tools for your truck projects, check out our guide on impact drivers for heavy-duty work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

A tailgate assist is one of those truck accessories you didn’t know you needed until you have one. The safety improvement alone makes it worthwhile, especially if you have children who help with loading. No more sudden drops that could cause injury or damage.

For Ford F-150 owners from 2015 onward, the DEE ZEE DZ43204 is our top choice with its 13,000+ reviews and 4.8-star rating. Chevy and GMC owners should look at the DEE ZEE DZ43102 for proven reliability across multiple truck models. For utility trailers, the Gorilla-Lift remains the premium standard, while the Gledewen offers excellent value.

Whichever tailgate assist you choose, the installation is typically quick and the benefits last for years. Your back, your tailgate cables, and anyone who helps you load cargo will thank you. For more truck-related guides, visit our article on gift ideas for construction workers.