Parts for your 2010 Toyota Hilux-Gas struts

Are gas struts used on the 2010 Toyota Hilux?

Short answer: from factory, no. The 2010 Toyota Hilux (N70 series) doesn’t come with bonnet or tailgate gas struts. Toyota specifies a simple bonnet support rod and a conventional tailgate without struts on these models. This is confirmed in Toyota’s service literature for the N70 Hilux (Body—Hood section of the Repair Manual) and echoed by the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for 2010, which show a bonnet support rod and clip, not a gas stay. Accessory fitments are a different story, but as-built, the vehicle doesn’t include gas struts.

Why didn’t Toyota fit gas struts? It largely comes down to durability, cost, and simplicity for a hard-working ute that cops plenty of dust, mud and corrugations. A mechanical prop rod can’t lose pressure, hates heat less, and is easy to live with in remote or rough conditions. The tailgate on these models is also designed to be light enough not to need a strut assist. Toyota’s body and equipment guidance for Hilux prioritises robust, low-maintenance solutions over convenience add-ons where possible.

Where gas struts do come into the picture is with accessories. Many owners run gas struts on:

• Aftermarket bonnet strut kits (bolt-on or minor-drill fitment)
• Hard lids and tonneau covers on the tub
• Canopy rear doors or side lift-up windows

If your Hilux has any of those accessories, it’s smart to check the struts during servicing. Signs they’re on the way out include the panel dropping unexpectedly, the lid or window lifting slowly (especially on cold mornings), or oil mist on the shaft. Replace in pairs so opening force stays balanced, match the new struts’ length, end fittings, and Newton rating to the accessory, and always support the panel while swapping them. Wipe the shafts clean with a soft cloth—don’t grease them, as sticky residue can drag in grit and chew out the seals. If fitting bonnet struts, use a quality kit that spreads load properly at the guard/hinge points and follow the torque specs provided by the kit maker.

Technical references: Toyota Hilux N70 Repair Manual (Body—Hood), Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (2010 Hilux), Toyota body/equipment mounting guidance for Hilux. These sources specify a bonnet support rod and no OE gas strut on 2010 models.

Popular questions about 2010 Toyota Hilux gas struts

Can a 2010 Hilux bonnet have gas struts fitted?
Yes. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits are widely available and usually mount to existing hinge/guard points. Some require minor drilling, better kits are bolt-on. Support the bonnet during install, stick to the kit’s instructions, and recheck fasteners after a week of driving. Using a reputable kit helps avoid guard flex or hinge misalignment.

What size gas struts do I need for my Hilux hard lid or canopy?
It depends on the brand and weight of the lid or window. Most lids have a label or manual specifying extended length, end fittings, and force (in Newtons). If unsure, measure the old strut eye-to-eye when extended and note the fittings (ball, eyelet, etc.). A common range is roughly 400–700 N for hard lids, but always match what the manufacturer specifies.

How long do gas struts last, and what are the failure signs?
Typically 3–8 years depending on quality and use. Warning signs include the panel dropping, a slow or hesitant lift in cold weather, visible oil on the shaft, or needing to “help” it open. Replace both sides at once for even action and safety. Dispose of old struts responsibly—they’re pressurised.