Parts for your 2010 Isuzu D-max-Gas struts

2010 Isuzu D‑MAX gas struts — are they actually used?

Short answer: no, gas struts weren’t fitted to the 2010 Isuzu D‑MAX from factory for the bonnet or the tailgate. Technical references back this up. The Isuzu D‑MAX Owner’s Manual for the 2008–2012 generation shows a bonnet prop rod, not struts. The factory Workshop Manual (Body section, Bonnet/Hood) details removal and installation of the bonnet stay/prop, with no gas spring procedure. The Isuzu Electronic Parts Catalogue (TFR/TFS 2007–2012) lists a “stay, hood” and tailgate support cables, again with no gas struts in those assemblies. The prevalence of aftermarket bonnet strut kits marketed for 2008–2012 D‑MAX/Colorado models also reflects the absence of OEM struts.

So, for a stock 2010 D‑MAX ute, gas struts aren’t a standard service item. They do show up on accessories: canopies, hard lids, toolboxes and some under‑tray storage commonly use gas struts to hold lids up. If the vehicle has any of those fitted, their struts are worth checking during regular servicing.

Why didn’t Isuzu fit gas struts on this model?

• Durability and simplicity: a steel prop rod and tailgate cables cope well with dust, mud and corrugations, and they’re hard to kill in fleet and rural use.
• Cost and weight: keeping it simple helps price and reduces parts count and long‑term maintenance.
• Serviceability: there’s nothing to leak or lose charge, and no need to replace in pairs.
• Market norms of the era: many utes of the time used prop rods and non‑assisted tailgates.

Got accessories with gas struts? Here’s some practical care. During a service, a quick look and light test goes a long way. Wipe the shafts clean and avoid grease on the chrome (it attracts grit). Make sure the rod points downward when mounted so internal oil keeps the seal happy. Check the ball‑studs and brackets for rust or looseness.

• Replace if there’s oil weeping, the lid drops or won’t stay up (especially in cold weather), movement is jerky, or the cylinder is dented.
• Always replace in pairs for even lift, and match length (centre‑to‑centre) and force (Newtons) to the lid weight.
• If retrofitting bonnet struts, use a kit designed for the 2008–2012 D‑MAX/Colorado to avoid drilling the wrong spots or stressing the bonnet skin.

Bottom line: the 2010 D‑MAX doesn’t use gas struts in factory form, but if it’s running a canopy or hard lid, those struts are fair game for periodic inspection and simple, affordable replacement when they get tired.

Does a 2010 Isuzu D‑MAX have factory bonnet or tailgate gas struts?

No. The OEM bonnet uses a prop rod and the tailgate relies on hinges and support cables. This is reflected in the owner’s manual, workshop procedures and the Isuzu parts catalogue for the 2008–2012 platform.

Can gas struts be retrofitted to the bonnet on a 2010 D‑MAX?

Yes. Aftermarket kits are available and make the bonnet easier to lift. Choose a kit specific to the 2008–2012 D‑MAX/Colorado so the brackets sit on proper mounting points. Fit both sides, follow torque specs, and ensure the rods face down.

What size gas struts suit a canopy or hard lid on a 2010 D‑MAX?

It depends on the brand and lid weight. Common canopy struts range roughly 400–500 mm extended with 200–600 N force, but always check the canopy maker’s label or markings on the old strut. If unsure, measure the extended length centre‑to‑centre and match the Newton rating.