Parts for your 2000 Nissan Pathfinder-Gas struts

2000 Nissan Pathfinder Gas Struts

Gas struts are absolutely used on the 2000 Nissan Pathfinder (R50) for the rear tailgate. Technical references confirm this fitment: the Nissan Factory Service Manual for the R50 lists a “Back Door Stay” in the Body (BL) section, and Nissan’s parts catalogue (FAST) shows “Stay Assy – Back Door” with common OE numbers such as 90450-0W000 and 90450-0W025 depending on market and build. Aftermarket catalogues from known lift-support suppliers also catalogue rear hatch gas struts for this model. The bonnet on this Pathfinder generation uses a prop rod from factory in most markets, not gas struts.

On the Pathfinder, the rear gas struts do the heavy lifting and controlled damping when the tailgate swings up, keeping it safely held at full height. They’re nitrogen-charged with a light oil film for sealing and lubrication, so they lift smoothly, resist sudden drops in wind, and stop the hatch from slamming. When they’re healthy, opening the back is a one-hand, no-drama job.

Like any pressurised component, gas struts lose charge over time, especially with age, cold weather, or shaft damage. Classic signs on a 2000 Pathfinder are a hatch that won’t stay up, rises slowly, needs a helping hand, or drops unexpectedly. A light oil smear on the shaft is normal, but heavy oil leakage, bent rods, cracked end fittings, or loose ball studs mean it’s time to replace.

For ongoing care during regular servicing, the workshop will typically:

• Wipe the exposed shafts with a clean, dry cloth (no grease or silicone on the rod).
• Check end fittings, ball-studs and mounting brackets for play, corrosion or cracks.
• Listen and feel for binding or stiction through the opening stroke.
• Confirm full lift height holds for at least 60 seconds, including in cooler conditions.

Replacement is straightforward but should be done safely. Support the tailgate with a prop or a second person, then swap one strut at a time. On the R50, the struts use ball-and-socket ends with spring clips—carefully lift the clip just enough to release the socket, don’t fully remove and lose it. Always replace in pairs to keep lift height and balance consistent. Avoid compressing new struts by hand, and never nick or scratch the chrome shaft. If the hatch hinges or brackets are worn, sort those at the same time so the new struts aren’t stressed. With fresh, quality units fitted, owners regain that easy, confidence-inspiring lift the Pathfinder’s rear door should deliver.

Popular questions

Does the 2000 Pathfinder have gas struts on the bonnet?
From factory, most 2000 Pathfinders use a prop rod on the bonnet, not gas struts. The gas struts are fitted to the rear tailgate. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits do exist if a hands-free bonnet is preferred, but they aren’t original equipment.

How often should rear hatch gas struts be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, but many last 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Replace when the tailgate won’t stay up, needs help to rise, or drops in cold weather. Always replace in pairs and inspect the mounts at the same time.

What’s the correct part for a 2000 Pathfinder tailgate strut?
OE references commonly include “Stay Assy – Back Door” with numbers like 90450-0W000 or 90450-0W025, varying by market and VIN. It’s best to confirm via the vehicle’s VIN or build plate to ensure the correct force rating and end fittings.