Parts for your 2012 Nissan Serena-Gas struts

Understanding Gas Struts on the 2012 Nissan Serena

The 2012 Nissan Serena, a popular multi-purpose vehicle especially favoured in the family and commercial segments, does indeed utilise gas struts in key areas of the vehicle. Gas struts, sometimes referred to as gas springs or lift supports, are commonly found supporting the rear tailgate and occasionally the bonnet or hatch. Their main job is to make life easier when lifting heavy panels and to keep them open securely without requiring you to hold them up manually.

For the 2012 Nissan Serena, gas struts are typically fitted to the rear tailgate. The Serena's tailgate is quite large and can be heavy to lift and hold open, so gas struts provide that smooth, assisted lift and reliable hold. Without these gas struts, tailgate operation would be a bit of a struggle and somewhat hazardous, especially when trying to load or unload cargo or accessing the third row seating often found in this people mover.

Gas struts operate by using compressed gas within a sealed cylinder to exert enough force to counterbalance the weight of the tailgate. When you begin to lift the tailgate, the gas inside the strut expands, pushing the piston rod out and helping raise the tailgate with minimal effort. Then, once fully open, the strut holds the tailgate securely in place, so it doesn't slam back down or require you to hold it steady.

Over time, however, these gas struts can lose pressure or wear out due to repeated use and exposure to weather conditions. This is where maintenance and timely replacement come into play. If the tailgate starts to feel heavy when opening, or if it doesn't stay open and slowly creeps down by itself, these signs usually indicate that the gas struts have lost their effectiveness and need attention.

Looking after gas struts on a 2012 Nissan Serena isn't a complicated job, but it does require some know-how. Regular checks during servicing or even during routine vehicle cleaning can identify if the struts are showing signs of wear. Here are some helpful points about gas strut maintenance and replacement:

• Inspection: Look for any visible signs of damage, such as dents, cracks in the cylinder, or oil leakage - which could hint that the internal seals have failed.
• Performance test: Open and close the tailgate a few times and observe if it feels heavier or if it doesn't stay open properly.
• Replacement: If the struts are weak or damaged, replacing both sets at the same time is recommended to ensure even support and consistent operation.
• Quality parts: Always opt for genuine or high-quality aftermarket gas struts designed specifically for the Nissan Serena to guarantee fitment and durability.
• DIY or professional: Changing your gas struts can be a straightforward DIY task with basic tools, but some people prefer letting a trusted mechanic handle it for safety and peace of mind.

When replacing gas struts, make sure to follow the correct procedure which typically involves supporting the tailgate securely before removing the old struts to avoid injury. Once the old struts are detached, the new ones snap or bolt into place. A bit of lubrication on the mounting points can help keep everything moving smoothly.

Because the 2012 Nissan Serena is often used for practical purposes like family trips or trades, the reliability of these gas struts plays a part in overall vehicle convenience. Maintaining them helps avoid any frustrating moments when you've got your hands full and the tailgate just won't stay open. Plus, safe and effective tailgate operation reduces the risk of accidental injury from the door unexpectedly closing.

It's also worth noting that while some vehicles might not use gas struts on certain panels due to design choices, the Nissan Serena's approach is quite common and practical given the size and weight of its rear tailgate. This makes gas struts a relevant and valuable component to keep an eye on throughout the vehicle's lifespan.

Regular servicing and occasional maintenance of these parts ensure the 2012 Nissan Serena remains user-friendly and safe, helping to maintain the smooth and hassle-free experience drivers have come to expect from this beloved model. So, whether it's a quick visual check or a replacement job, looking after those gas struts is a simple but worthwhile task that keeps the Serena ready for the next adventure or the daily school run.