Parts for your 2008 Volvo Xc60-Gas struts

2008 Volvo XC60 Gas Struts: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Per Volvo technical documentation (Volvo VIDA service information and the Volvo Electronic Parts Catalogue for the first‑generation XC60 launched in 2008/MY2009), the rear tailgate of the XC60 is supported by gas‑charged struts (lift supports). The bonnet on most variants uses a prop rod rather than gas struts. So yes — gas struts are relevant and fitted on the boot/tailgate of a 2008 Volvo XC60, including both manual and power‑assisted tailgates.

On the XC60, tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting: they counterbalance the weight of the boot lid so it opens smoothly, stays up securely, and closes without a fight. When they’re healthy, you’ll notice a controlled, quiet motion. As the nitrogen charge fades with age, the tailgate can start to feel heavy, open more slowly (especially in cold weather), or even drop unexpectedly — none of which is ideal for heads, backs, or shopping.

Typical signs it’s time to replace the struts include: the boot won’t stay up on its own, you have to help it the last bit of travel, it sags in a breeze, or there’s oil misting on the strut body. Volvo guidance and industry practice suggest replacing struts in pairs to keep lift and balance even. If your XC60 has a power tailgate, it still relies on gas support