Parts for your 2004 Nissan Navara-Gas struts

Are gas struts used on the 2004 Nissan Navara (D22)?

Based on technical sources, gas struts were not factory-fitted to the 2004 Nissan Navara (D22) for the bonnet or the tailgate. The Nissan D22 Series Service Manual (2002–2004), Body (BL) and Hood sections, specifies a bonnet prop rod, not gas lift supports. The Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue (FAST) for the D22 (2004), Hood group (651) and Rear Body/Tailgate listings, shows parts like the bonnet stay (prop) and tailgate cables/hinges, with no gas strut assemblies listed. That confirms gas struts weren’t part of the original equipment for bonnet or tailgate on this model.

Why weren’t they used? The D22 was designed as a tough, work-focused ute where simplicity and durability were prioritised. A simple bonnet prop rod is cheap, reliable, and easy to service in remote or harsh conditions. Likewise, the tailgate is supported by cables and hinges—robust and proven for heavy, dirty use on site or farm. Gas struts introduce seals and pressurised components that can suffer in dusty, muddy environments if not maintained.

There’s one common exception: accessories. If the Navara has a fibreglass canopy, hard lid, or lift-up rear window, those panels almost always use gas struts. Those are accessory-specific parts supplied by brands like ARB, Caddy, Flexiglass, or similar. In those cases, maintenance does matter—keep the chrome shafts clean, avoid grabbing them with pliers, and replace struts in pairs if the lid or window won’t stay up or drops in cold weather.

Owners keen on convenience can retrofit bonnet strut kits or tailgate dampers to a 2004 D22. These aftermarket kits add lift and damping, making the bonnet easier to raise and slowing the tailgate drop. Quality brackets and correct mounting are important, follow the kit instructions, torque fasteners properly, and re-check clearances after a few drives.

• Signs it’s time to replace accessory gas struts: panel won’t stay up, slow lifting, oily mist on the shaft, or worse performance in cold temps.
• Care tips: wipe shafts with a clean dry cloth, don’t lubricate the shafts, replace in pairs to keep even lift and latch alignment, always support the panel during replacement.

Technical references used: Nissan Navara D22 Series Service Manual (2002–2004), Body (BL) and Hood sections, Nissan FAST Electronic Parts Catalogue for D22 (2004), Hood (651) and Rear Body/Tailgate groups.

Popular questions

Does a 2004 Nissan Navara have bonnet gas struts from factory?
No. The D22 uses a bonnet prop rod from factory. The Nissan D22 Service Manual and FAST parts listings show a prop stay and related clips, with no factory gas strut option for the bonnet.

Can gas struts be fitted to the 2004 Navara’s bonnet or tailgate?
Yes—aftermarket kits are available. Bonnet strut kits add lift assistance, while tailgate dampers slow the drop. Choose a kit designed for the D22, follow the fitting instructions, and re-check fasteners after use.

What about gas struts on a canopy or hard lid?
Most canopies and hard lids use gas struts. Sizing depends on the brand and model of the accessory. Check the strut label or the canopy maker’s spec, and replace in pairs if the lid or glass won’t stay up.