Parts for your 2012 Toyota Land cruiser-Gas struts

2012 Toyota Land Cruiser Gas Struts

Gas struts are absolutely used on the 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser 200 Series. Toyota’s Body Repair Manual and Repair Manual for the 200 Series (hood/bonnet and back door sections) identify “Stay Assembly, Hood” and “Back Door Damper” components, and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue lists dedicated gas-charged struts for the bonnet and the upper back-door glass. Major OE suppliers’ fitment guides for this model also specify gas struts for these positions, so they’re very much relevant to this vehicle.

On a 2012 Land Cruiser, gas struts do the heavy lifting for the bonnet and the upper half of the split tailgate. They store energy in a nitrogen charge and oil-damped piston, helping the panel rise smoothly and stay safely open. That means less shoulder strain, no sudden slams, and a lot fewer swear words on windy days or on the side of a corrugated track.

Because they’re sealed and rely on internal gas pressure and rubber seals, struts are wear items. Heat, age and dust eventually knock the stuffing out of them. At 10-plus years old, many 200 Series are due for fresh struts, especially if the bonnet starts dropping, the back door won’t stay up, or lift slows right down in cold weather.

• Common signs they’re cooked: the panel won’t hold open, you need two hands to lift, there’s a light oil weep on the shaft, or you hear a faint hiss and feel dead spots.
• Good service habits: inspect every service, keep the chrome shafts clean, don’t grease them, and replace in pairs so lift is even on both sides.

Replacement is straightforward with the right support. Always prop the bonnet or glass, swap one side at a time, and check the new struts’ force rating suits the spec (aftermarket accessories like bonnet protectors or rear ladders can change the required force). Avoid grabbing the shaft with pliers, and ensure ball-stud fittings are snug and clips are correctly seated.

If you’re wondering about “re-gassing”, most Land Cruiser struts are sealed units—proper replacement is the reliable fix. With quality parts, you’ll get years of smooth, safe operation across Aussie and Kiwi conditions.

• When to replace: when they can’t hold the panel at full open or need noticeable assistance to lift.
• Safety note: a failed strut can let a heavy panel drop—support it before working underneath.

Popular questions

Do all 2012 Land Cruisers have gas struts?
Yes. The 200 Series uses gas struts on the bonnet and on the upper back-door glass of the split tailgate. Different trims and markets share the same basic setup, though part numbers and force ratings can vary slightly.

How long do the gas struts typically last?
Many last 5–10 years depending on climate and use. By a decade, reduced lift and panels not staying up are common. If one side is weak, replace both so the lift is even and reliable.

Can gas struts be re-gassed on a Land Cruiser?
They’re generally sealed units and not designed for re-gassing. Replacement with quality, correctly rated struts is the dependable solution and usually quick to do.