Parts for your 2010 Toyota Blade-Gas struts

2010 Toyota Blade gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Yes, the 2010 Toyota Blade is fitted with gas struts on the rear hatch (back door). Technical references that support this include Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the E15-series Blade (AZE154H/GRE156H), which lists “Back Door Stay Sub-Assembly” components, and Toyota body/repair manual procedures that describe checking liftgate stay performance. Major aftermarket catalogues for the Blade/Auris platform (2006–2012) also specify rear hatch gas struts as service parts. The bonnet on most 2010 Blades uses a prop rod rather than gas struts from factory.

On the Blade, the rear gas struts do the heavy lifting, safely holding the hatch open and controlling its motion so it doesn’t slam or drop. Over time, the internal nitrogen charge and seal performance decline, especially with age, heat, and dust. When they’re tired, the hatch can feel heavy, open sluggishly, or sag—more so on cold mornings.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check hatch operation. If the hatch won’t stay up, opens unevenly, or needs a shoulder to hold it, the struts are due. Replacement is straightforward and typically done in pairs to keep lift and balance even. Most units clip onto ball studs—support the hatch securely, pop the spring clips with a small flat screwdriver, swap the strut, and click the new one home. No need to grease the polished rod, just keep it clean. A light wipe with a silicone-safe cloth is fine, but avoid petroleum sprays that can damage seals.

Good-quality replacements usually last 5–10 years, depending on climate and use. Because automotive lift supports are sealed and tuned to a set force, “re-gassing” isn’t common practice in Australia or New Zealand, swapping them for new is the reliable, cost-effective fix. For anyone carrying a lot of gear or using the hatch frequently, fresh struts make the Blade feel newer and safer to live with.

• Common signs they’re worn:
  • Hatch drops or won’t stay up, especially in cold weather
  • Slow or jerky opening, squeaks, or binding
  • Needing to assist the hatch or use a prop to hold it
• Quick tips:
  • Replace in pairs for balanced lift
  • Support the hatch while working and wear eye protection
  • Keep the rod clean, don’t apply grease to the shaft

FAQs

Does the 2010 Toyota Blade have bonnet gas struts?
From factory, most 2010 Blades use a simple bonnet prop rod, not gas struts. Aftermarket bonnet-strut kits exist if a hands-free lift is wanted, but they’re not OEM on the majority of vehicles.

How long do the rear hatch gas struts last?
Typically 5–10 years in Aussie and Kiwi conditions. Heat, dust, and coastal air can age them faster. If the hatch sags or won’t stay up—especially when it’s cold—they’re due for replacement.

Can gas struts be re-gassed, or should they just be replaced?
For automotive hatch supports, replacement is the normal approach. Specialist re-gassing isn’t common for these sealed units, and new struts are usually the best-value, most reliable fix. Always replace in pairs.