Parts for your 2007 Toyota Ractis-Gas struts

2007 Toyota Ractis gas struts: what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical sources, gas struts are absolutely relevant to the 2007 Toyota Ractis. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the NCP100/NCP105 platform lists a left and right “Back Door Stay (Gas)” for the tailgate, and the Toyota Repair Manual includes procedures for removing and installing the back door stay. Major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Stabilus Lift-O-Mat and Monroe Max-Lift) also list dedicated rear lift supports for 2005–2010 Ractis. The bonnet on this model generally uses a prop rod rather than gas struts, but the rear hatch is supported by a pair of gas-charged stays.

On a 2007 Ractis, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting—literally. They’re nitrogen-charged and oil-damped, making the hatch open smoothly, stay up securely, and close without a slam. When they’re healthy, there’s no wrestling with the hatch and no risk of it dropping on someone’s head. When they’re tired, the tailgate can feel heavy, creep down, or refuse to hold itself up, especially on cold mornings when pressure drops a touch.

Tell-tale signs it’s time to replace them include a hatch that won’t stay up, a need to “help” the lift, slow or uneven movement, oily residue on the shaft, or any kinks or rust on the body. Because both sides share the load, replacing them as a pair is the smart move to keep the lift even and predictable.

Servicing and care are straightforward. Keep the shiny piston rods clean and dry—no grease or silicone sprays on the rods, as they attract grit and can damage the internal seals. Give the ball-studs and mounting points a quick check for looseness or corrosion during routine servicing. If removal is needed, always support the tailgate with a prop or a mate before popping the spring clips, note the orientation of each strut, and tighten the mounts to the workshop manual spec. Never heat, puncture, or crush a gas strut, they’re pressurised and must be recycled appropriately.

Quality aftermarket units work well and often represent great value, while genuine Toyota parts offer OE fit and feel. In normal use, struts commonly last 5–10 years, but climate, use, and load (bike racks or tailgate tents) can shorten that. If the hatch has lost its easy, one-hand lift, fresh struts make the Ractis feel new again.

• Common symptoms of worn struts: hatch droop, slow lift in cold weather, oily film, or needing two hands to raise.
• Best practice: replace in pairs, support the hatch during work, and avoid contaminating the piston rods.

Popular questions about 2007 Toyota Ractis gas struts

Do all 2007 Ractis models have gas struts on the bonnet?
Most 2007 Ractis vehicles use a prop rod for the bonnet, not gas struts. The gas-charged struts are fitted to the rear tailgate. A quick look under the bonnet will confirm whether your car has a prop rod.

How long should the tailgate struts last, and do they need to be replaced in pairs?
It’s common to see 5–10 years out of a set, depending on climate and use. Because both struts share the load, replacing them in pairs keeps lift force balanced and ensures smooth, safe operation.

Can worn gas struts cause damage or safety issues?
Yes. A weak strut can let the hatch drop unexpectedly, which is a safety risk. It can also put extra stress on hinges and the latch. If the tailgate won’t stay up, it’s time to replace the struts.