Parts for your 2010 Nissan Pathfinder-Gas struts

2010 Nissan Pathfinder gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical sources, gas struts are absolutely relevant to the 2010 Nissan Pathfinder (R51). The Nissan Pathfinder (R51) Service Manual (Body/Exterior—Back Door section) specifies gas “stays” for the tailgate and the flip-up back glass. The Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue likewise lists “Stay Assy – Back Door” and “Stay Assy – Back Door Glass” for this model year. For clarity, the bonnet on the 2010 Pathfinder uses a prop rod rather than gas struts, which is consistent with the service manual’s bonnet support description and the lack of bonnet strut listings in OE and aftermarket catalogues.

On the Pathfinder, gas struts support and control the lift and smooth closing of the tailgate and the separate flip-up rear glass. They store gas pressure to counter the weight of the door, so opening feels light and controlled, and the door stays up safely without a shoulder or broom handle doing the work. When healthy, they make daily use far easier—especially when loading gear or wrangling kids and groceries—with a consistent, damped motion that protects hinges and latches.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check the struts a couple of times a year—particularly before winter. Gas struts are sealed units and aren’t re-gassed in normal workshop practice, when they weaken, they’re replaced. Typical lifespan is several years, but heat, cold, dust, and frequent use can speed up wear. If they’re getting tired, replace them in pairs on the tailgate for balanced support, do the separate glass struts as a set too if fitted. During replacement, always support the door with a prop or a helper, flick back the retaining clips, swap the unit, then reseat the clips. Keep the chrome shafts clean—no grease or petroleum sprays on the shaft, as they can damage seals. A light silicone-safe lube on the ball joints (not the shaft) is fine. If the tailgate feels heavy, sags, or won’t stay up—don’t wait. Weak struts are a safety risk and can stress hinges, alignment, and latches over time.

• Signs they’re failing: tailgate drops or won’t stay up, slow or jerky lift, oily residue on the shaft, or needing two hands to raise.

FAQs

Does the 2010 Nissan Pathfinder have bonnet gas struts?
No. Technical documentation for the R51 shows a prop rod for the bonnet. Gas struts are fitted to the tailgate and the flip-up rear glass only.

How long do the tailgate struts last on a Pathfinder?
There’s no fixed interval. Many sets last 5–10 years, but cold weather, dust, heavy use, and accessory loads on the tailgate can shorten their service life. Replace them when lift or hold is no longer reliable.

Should both rear struts be replaced together?
Yes—on the tailgate, replace as a pair for even support and proper damping. If the vehicle has separate glass struts, treat those as a pair as well.