Parts for your 2000 Toyota Hilux-Gas struts

2000 Toyota Hilux gas struts — what’s actually fitted from factory?

For the 2000 Toyota Hilux (N140/N150/N160/N170 series), gas struts aren’t an original factory item on the bonnet or the tailgate. Toyota’s body/chassis repair information for this generation specifies a simple bonnet support rod, and the tailgate uses cables and conventional hinges rather than assisted struts. This is consistent with Toyota’s Owner’s Manual guidance for bonnet support and with the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue for the model year, which lists a prop rod and related clips but no hood lift supports. Technical references: Toyota Owner’s Manual (2000 Hilux), Toyota Repair Manual for Body/Chassis for N14x–N17x series, and Toyota EPC listings for 1997–2004 Hilux.

Why no gas struts from the factory? Toyota engineered this Hilux to be rugged, easy to service in the bush, and cost‑effective. Gas struts add convenience but are wear items that lose pressure over time and don’t love dust, mud and salt. A simple steel prop rod is near bomb‑proof, cheap to replace, and can’t bleed down when you’re miles from town. Likewise, the tailgate design is light enough to manage without assistance and relies on stout hinges and cables that cope well with ute life.

That said, gas struts can show up on a 2000 Hilux when accessories are added. Common examples include:

• Canopies and rear glass hatches (ARB, Flexiglass, Carryboy etc.)
• Hard lids and some soft‑close tailgate assist kits
• Aftermarket bonnet lift kits

If your ute has a canopy or hard lid, those struts are accessory‑specific rather than Toyota factory parts. Replace them using the force rating (in Newtons) printed on the strut body, match the end fittings, and swap in pairs for even lift. Keep the chrome shaft clean and dry (no grease or silicone on the shaft), and avoid using the panel as a handle—close by the frame to prevent side‑loading the strut.

If you’re considering retrofitting bonnet struts, pick stainless or nitrided shafts for coastal use, ensure brackets don’t foul the wiper cowl or guard, and verify clearance with snorkels or dual batteries. A quick test of any fitted strut: if the panel won’t stay up, rises sluggishly, or there’s an oily film around the seal, it’s time for new units.

Can gas struts be fitted to the bonnet of a 2000 Hilux?

Yes, aftermarket kits are available. They replace the factory prop rod with two small struts and brackets. Choose kits designed for the N140–N170 series so the bonnet opens to the correct height and clears accessories. Installation is usually bolt‑on