Parts for your 2003 Toyota Highlander-Gas struts

2003 Toyota Highlander (Kluger) gas struts — purpose, care, and when to replace

Technical sources confirm gas struts are fitted to the 2003 Toyota Highlander (called Kluger in Australia and New Zealand). Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for ACU20/MCU20 lists gas-charged “Stay Assy, Back Door” for left and right sides (commonly referenced as 68950‑48020 and 68960‑48020), and Toyota service literature notes the back door (tailgate) uses gas-filled supports. Major catalogues from Stabilus (Lift-O-Mat), Monroe, and other OE suppliers list direct replacements for the 2001–2007 Highlander/Kluger tailgate. The bonnet on most trims uses a prop rod, not struts.

On this model, gas struts safely hold the tailgate up and control the lift and drop so it doesn’t come down like a tonne of bricks. They’re sealed, nitrogen-charged dampers that provide smooth, progressive support across the tailgate’s travel. When they’re healthy, opening is easy and the tailgate stays put