Parts for your 2000 Nissan Pulsar-Gas struts

2000 Nissan Pulsar gas struts

Based on factory documentation and catalogues for the N15-series (1995–2000), the 2000 Nissan Pulsar hatchback uses gas-charged lift supports on the rear hatch. Nissan’s N15 Body section service manual refers to these as back door gas stays, and the Nissan FAST parts catalogue lists a back door stay for the hatch variant. Independent workshop guides for the N15 (e.g., Gregory’s/Haynes) also detail hatch strut replacement. For the same model-year sedan, the boot is supported by torsion bars and the bonnet by a prop rod, so gas struts aren’t fitted on those panels.

For owners of the 2000 Pulsar hatch, the gas struts do a simple but crucial job: they safely lift and hold the tailgate open, using a sealed nitrogen charge and internal oil to control movement. When they’re healthy, the hatch pops up smoothly and stays put without any shoulder workout. Over time, seals harden and gas pressure drops, especially with heat, dust and daily use. That’s when the hatch starts sagging, rises slowly, or needs a hand to stay open — not ideal when loading the groceries in a southerly.

Replacement is straightforward and best done in pairs so the opening force stays balanced. Support the hatch securely with a prop or helper, flick the retaining clips with a small flat screwdriver, and pop the old struts off the ball studs. Clip the new struts on with the rod facing down, then ensure the clips are fully seated. Avoid gripping or greasing the chrome shaft — keeping it clean and dry helps the seals last. If the ball studs are worn or rusty, it’s worth swapping them at the same time.

Signs it’s time to replace include:

• Hatch won’t stay up, drops, or rises very slowly.
• You have to push to start it opening, especially in cold weather.
• Visible oil misting on the strut body or a nicked shaft.

When choosing replacements, match the correct Newton rating and end fittings for the N15 hatch. Oversized “heavy-duty” units can stress hinges and make closing a chore, while under-specced struts won’t hold. Most quality units last many years, on a 2000 car, if they haven’t been done yet, they’re living on borrowed time. As part of regular servicing, a quick hatch lift test and a wipe of the shafts to keep grit off is all that’s needed — gas struts are sealed and maintenance-free beyond that.

• Do 2000 Nissan Pulsar sedans have gas struts?
  No. The N15 sedan uses torsion bars in the boot and a prop rod for the bonnet. Only the hatchback has gas struts on the tailgate.
• How can someone tell the Pulsar hatch struts are failing?
  The hatch won’t stay up, needs a shove to open, moves in jerks, or shows oily residue on the strut body. Cold mornings often make weak struts obvious.
• Can stronger gas struts be fitted to handle a spoiler?
  A small increase in force can help with a light accessory, but going too strong can strain hinges and latches. It’s best to use the correct rating recommended for the N15 hatch and the accessory weight.