Parts for your 2012 Nissan Pulsar-Gas struts

2012 Nissan Pulsar gas struts — what’s fitted and how to look after them

Based on Nissan’s technical literature and parts listings, gas struts are relevant to the 2012 Nissan Pulsar hatch (C12) for the rear tailgate, but not to the bonnet, and generally not to the B17 sedan’s boot. The C12 Body/Exterior service manual identifies gas-charged lift supports on the tailgate and a simple stay rod for the bonnet, while the B17 sedan uses torsion bars for the boot lid. This setup is reflected in Nissan FAST (EPC) and common aftermarket catalogues from brands like Stabilus, Monroe, and Sachs, which list tailgate struts for C12 and no bonnet struts.

On a 2012 Pulsar hatch, those tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting, taking the weight of the hatch and holding it safely open. They’re sealed, nitrogen-charged units with a little oil inside for damping, designed to work smoothly in Aussie and Kiwi conditions. Over time, the internal pressure drops and seals harden, so the tailgate can start to sag or shut a bit too eagerly—never ideal when loading the weekly shop.

During regular servicing, it’s smart to give the struts a once-over. Look for oily residue around the rod seals, listen for graunchy or creaky pivots, and check if the hatch lifts slower in cold weather or won’t stay up on an angle. If any of that rings true, replacement is the fix—these aren’t rebuildable. Always swap struts in pairs to keep lift force balanced, and support the tailgate with a prop or a mate while changing them.

• Don’t lube the chrome rod—grease attracts grit and can damage the seals.
• Keep the rod clean, wipe off dust with a soft cloth.
• Avoid using the strut body as a handle, close the hatch by the designated pull point.

DIY replacement is straightforward: carefully flick the retaining clips at each end, pop the old strut off the ball studs, press the new one on until it clicks, then cycle the hatch to confirm smooth action. Quality aftermarket options matched to the Pulsar’s tailgate weight perform as well as OE and often come with new clips. With fresh struts fitted, the hatch will lift cleanly and stay put—no more head knocks or dodgy broomsticks.

• Does the 2012 Nissan Pulsar have bonnet gas struts?
  No. The Pulsar (C12/B17) bonnet uses a manual stay rod. Only the C12 hatch tailgate uses gas struts, the B17 sedan boot typically uses torsion bars.
• How long do Pulsar tailgate gas struts usually last?
  Commonly 5–10 years, depending on climate and use. Slow lifting, needing a helping hand, or a hatch that won’t hold on cool mornings are classic signs they’re due.
• Should both tailgate struts be replaced together?
  Yes. Replacing in pairs keeps lift and hold balanced and prevents overloading a single new strut.