Parts for your 2008 Nissan Primera-Gas struts

2008 Nissan Primera Gas Struts — what they do and when to replace

Gas struts are absolutely relevant on the 2008 Nissan Primera (P12). The factory service information for the P12 platform notes gas‑charged lift supports on the rear hatch and wagon tailgate (Body – Lift Gate/Back Door sections). The bonnet is supported by a manual stay rod (Engine Hood section), not gas struts, and most sedan boot lids use torsion bars rather than gas struts. Parts catalogues aligned to Nissan FAST and workshop manuals back this up, listing “stay assy – back door” for hatch/wagon variants.

On hatch and wagon models, gas struts make the tailgate easy to lift and keep it safely held open. They’re small, sealed cylinders filled with nitrogen gas and oil, using internal pressure to counter the weight of the door. When they get tired, the tailgate can feel heavy, open slowly, or drift shut—especially on cold mornings.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check how confidently the tailgate opens and whether it holds at full height. There’s no fixed replacement interval—climate and use play a big role—but many sets last 5–10 years. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions (UV, heat, coastal air), life can be shorter. When it’s time, replace gas struts in pairs so lift and damping remain even.

• Tell‑tale signs: tailgate drops or won’t stay up, jerky movement, oily weep around the rod seal, or a “half‑mast” stop in colder weather.
• Replacement tips: always support the tailgate with a prop or a mate, pop the metal retaining clips with a small flat screwdriver, fit the new strut with the rod end pointing down where applicable to keep the internal seal lubricated, click onto clean ball studs and confirm each clip is fully seated.
• Care notes: don’t force struts closed by hand, don’t lubricate the rod (keep it clean and dry), and wipe dust from the seals to reduce wear. A dab of silicone-safe lube on the external ball sockets is fine.

If the Primera in question is the sedan, remember the boot may use torsion bars, so “boot struts” won’t apply. For hatch and wagon owners though, fresh gas struts restore that smooth, confident lift and save shoulders and back from doing the heavy lifting.

FAQs

Do 2008 Nissan Primeras have gas struts on the bonnet?
Not on most P12s. The bonnet is supported by a stay rod per Nissan’s service manual. Gas struts are fitted to the rear hatch/wagon tailgate, while the sedan boot commonly uses torsion bars.

How often should the gas struts be replaced?
There’s no set schedule. Many last 5–10 years, but heat, UV and coastal air can shorten service life. Replace them in pairs when the tailgate won’t stay up, opens sluggishly, or shows oil weep.

Can they be replaced at home?
Yes, it’s a straightforward job with a small flat screwdriver to release the clips. Support the tailgate securely, swap one side at a time, and fit the new struts with the correct orientation (often rod end down). Double‑check each clip is locked before letting the weight back on.