Parts for your 2005 Nissan Pathfinder-Gas struts

2005 Nissan Pathfinder gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts absolutely are used on the 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (R51). Nissan’s Factory Service Manual for the R51 (Body/Back Door section) specifies the “back door stay” and “back door glass stay,” and Nissan’s parts catalogue lists these as OE components for the tailgate and flip-up rear glass. The bonnet on this model typically uses a manual prop rod, not gas struts, so the relevant gas struts are at the rear.

On the 2005 Pathfinder, the gas struts support and control the heavy tailgate and, on models with separate opening glass, the rear window. They keep the hatch steady, stop it crashing down, and make opening smooth and easy — a small part doing a big safety job. Over time, seals harden and nitrogen charge drops, especially with heat, cold, and dust. That’s when the lift feels lazy or the door won’t stay up.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check for these signs:

• Hatch or glass won’t hold itself up, especially on cold mornings
• Jerky or uneven opening/closing
• Oily film on the strut rod (seal weep)
• Visible rust on the rod or loose ball-stud mounts

Replacement is straightforward and best done in pairs so the opening force stays balanced. Support the tailgate securely with a prop or helper, pop off the clips, and swap the struts with the rod facing down when installed. Use the correct pressure rating for the R51 tailgate or glass, mixing “universal” pressures can stress hinges. Tighten ball studs to spec, and inspect hinge bushes and wiring boots while you’re there.

Maintenance is simple: keep the chrome rods clean, don’t grease or silicone the rods (lubricants attract grit and damage seals), and avoid leaning on an open hatch. If the Pathfinder tows or carries roof loads, expect struts to work harder and age faster. In hot Aussie and Kiwi summers and frosty winters, 5–8 years of service life is typical, if one goes soft, replace both.

Technical sources: Nissan Pathfinder (R51) Factory Service Manual — Body/Back Door removal and installation procedures referencing “back door stay” and “back door glass stay”, Nissan FAST parts catalogue listing OE “Back Door Stay” and “Back Door Glass Stay” for 2005 models.

Does the 2005 Pathfinder bonnet have gas struts?

No — it uses a manual prop rod from factory. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist, but they’re not OEM on the R51. If fitting a kit, follow the torque specs for brackets and check clearance with the bonnet insulation.

How long do rear gas struts last on an R51?

Typically 5–8 years in local conditions. Frequent tailgate use, carrying items on a roof rack, and temperature swings can shorten that. If the hatch won’t stay up, replace both struts together.

Can Pathfinder gas struts be re-gassed?

Most OE-style sealed struts aren’t serviceable and are replaced as complete units. Re-gassing services exist but are less common and often cost similar to quality replacements, so new struts are usually the practical choice.