Parts for your 2008 Toyota Hilux-Gas struts

Are gas struts used on the 2008 Toyota Hilux?

For the 2008 Toyota Hilux (N70 series), gas struts were not fitted from factory to the bonnet or the tub tailgate. Toyota’s service information for the N70 body section shows a conventional bonnet support rod, not a gas stay, and the Electronic Parts Catalogue for 2008 Australian/NZ models lists a hood support rod and clip, plus tailgate hinges and cables, but no gas struts. By contrast, Toyota Genuine Accessories of the era—including canopies and hard tonneau covers—do use gas stays to hold the rear glass door or lid. So, on a stock 2008 Hilux, gas struts are relevant to accessories and aftermarket upgrades rather than the bonnet or tailgate themselves.

Technical sources referenced: Toyota Hilux N70 Repair Manual (Body—Hood) illustrating a support rod, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (AUNZ market, 2008 KUN/GGN variants) listing a hood support rod and tailgate hardware but no gas stay, Toyota Genuine Accessory fitting instructions indicating gas stays for canopy rear doors and hard tonneau covers.

Why didn’t Toyota fit gas struts to the bonnet or tailgate on this model? It comes down to practicality in tough ute duty and keeping costs lean for fleet buyers.

• Robust simplicity: A steel prop rod and cable tailgate supports are near-bulletproof off-road and on site.
• Lower cost and weight: Fewer moving parts and seals to fail, which suits hard use and fleet servicing.
• Serviceability: A prop rod doesn’t lose charge, a gas strut eventually will.
• Design intent: The tub tailgate is cable-supported, struts weren’t necessary without a heavy lid.

Owners chasing one-hand convenience often retrofit bonnet struts or add tailgate assist kits. When doing so, it pays to pick a kit designed for the N70: correct Newton rating, proper brackets, and clearances for accessories like snorkels. During any strut replacement on a canopy or hard lid, the opening panel must be safely supported—gas stays can drop a heavy lid without warning once they’re unbolted.

Popular questions about 2008 Toyota Hilux gas struts

Can 2008 Hilux owners retrofit bonnet gas struts?
Yes. There are bolt-on kits made for the N70 that use bracketry on existing mounting points. The right rating keeps the bonnet easy to lift without over-stressing hinges. Check compatibility with snorkels or bonnet protectors, and replace in matched pairs for balanced lift.

Do genuine Toyota canopies and hard lids on a 2008 Hilux use gas struts?
They do. The rear canopy glass door and most genuine hard tonneau covers are supported by gas stays. When the door or lid won’t stay up, opens sluggishly, or needs help in colder weather, the struts are due for replacement. Inspect ball studs and brackets at the same time.

What size or rating gas struts suit a Hilux canopy or hard lid?
It depends on the accessory brand and options (e.g., lining, racks). The old strut’s label often shows length and Newton rating. If not, measure extended length (centre-to-centre), stroke, shaft diameter, and end fittings, then match to the accessory maker’s spec. Always replace both sides together.