Parts for your 2012 Toyota Blade-Gas struts

2012 Toyota Blade gas struts

Gas struts are absolutely relevant on the 2012 Toyota Blade. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists the rear “Back Door Stay Sub‑Assembly” (gas‑charged lift supports) for the E15‑series Blade, and the owner’s handbook diagrams show the tailgate supported by a pair of stays. Toyota’s service information (TIS) procedures also cover removal and refit of the back door stays on this model. The bonnet, by contrast, uses a factory prop rod rather than gas struts, which is typical for Corolla/Auris/Blade platforms of this era. So if someone’s chasing gas struts for a 2012 Blade, they’re talking about the tailgate.

On a Blade, the tailgate gas struts take the weight of the hatch so it lifts smoothly and stays put, even on a windy Wellington hill or a hot day in Perth. They’re nitrogen‑charged dampers that counterbalance the tailgate and keep it controlled through the full arc, saving shoulders and preventing the hatch from dropping on heads. When they’re healthy, the tailgate pops up easily and holds firm at full height, when they’re tired, it feels heavy, rises slowly, or sags back down.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the gas struts a quick once‑over. Wipe the chrome shafts with a clean, damp cloth (no solvents or grease on the shafts), check for a light oil film weep around the seals, and listen for a gritty feel as the shaft moves. Also check the ball studs and clips for play and surface rust. Because gas pressure falls as temps drop, a strut that seems “just OK” in summer can be hopeless on a frosty morning.

• Common signs they’re due: tailgate won’t stay up, needs a hand to start, lifts unevenly, or creaks/hisses excessively.
• Best practice: replace in pairs to keep lift and balance even.

Replacement is straightforward: support the tailgate safely (a mate or a prop), flick the retaining clips with a small flat screwdriver, pop the old struts off, then press the new ones onto clean ball studs until they click. Don’t remove the clips completely, just lift them enough to release. Avoid twisting the shaft in the body and never clamp the rod. Choose quality units matched to the Blade’s spec, higher‑force “performance” struts can slam the hatch and stress hinges, while under‑spec units won’t hold up. In normal Kiwi and Aussie conditions, expect 5–10 years of service, shorter if the car lives outdoors or the tailgate is used constantly. A quick check every service pays its way in safety and convenience.

Does the 2012 Toyota Blade have bonnet struts?

No, the Blade leaves the factory with a bonnet prop rod. If bonnet gas struts are desired, there are aftermarket kits, but they’re not OEM on this model. Any retrofit should use brackets designed for the E15 platform to avoid stressing the bonnet frame.

How long do tailgate gas struts last on a 2012 Blade?

Typically 5–10 years in Aussie and NZ climates. Heat, UV, and frequent use shorten life. If the hatch droops in cold weather or won’t hold full open, they’re ready for replacement.

Can just one tailgate strut be replaced?

It’s not recommended. Replacing in pairs keeps lift force even, prevents twisting the hatch, and delivers a smoother, safer open and close.