Parts for your 2013 Holden Commodore-Gas struts

2013 Holden Commodore gas struts

Based on Holden and GM technical literature, gas struts are absolutely used on the 2013 Holden Commodore. The Holden VE Series II and early VF service manuals and Electronic Parts Catalogue list gas‑charged lift supports for the bonnet across sedan, Sportwagon and Ute, and twin gas struts for the Sportwagon tailgate. The sedan’s boot lid uses torsion bars rather than gas struts, and the Ute tailgate is not factory‑strutted. These fitments are also mirrored in application data from major manufacturers such as Stabilus (LIFT‑O‑MAT) and Monroe Max‑Lift for AU/NZ vehicles. Sources: Holden/GM Service Information (VE/VF Body—Bonnet Support Strut, Tailgate/Rear Lid sections) and Holden VE/VF EPC.

On a 2013 Commodore, gas struts do the heavy lifting—literally. They safely support the bonnet, and on Sportwagon models they manage the tailgate too, so there’s no wrestling gear or risking a head knock. Each unit is a sealed, nitrogen‑charged damper that provides smooth, controlled lift and prevents a sudden drop, even in a stiff Southerly or when you’ve got your hands full.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check the struts. Wipe the exposed shafts clean, make sure the clips and ball studs are snug, and never grease the shafts (that attracts grit and chews out the seals). Age, heat and cold all take their toll, once the gas charge fades, the strut won’t hold like it used to, especially on frosty mornings.

• Signs they’re due: the bonnet or tailgate won’t stay up, rises slowly or unevenly, drops in the last third of travel, there’s an oily film around the rod seal, or you hear a faint hiss and feel little resistance.
• Best practice: replace in pairs, match the correct force rating and end fittings, and install rod‑down as designed for proper lubrication.

Replacement is a quick job with basic tools: support the bonnet or tailgate, flick the retaining clips with a small flat screwdriver, pop the old units off, and click the new ones on. Torque any bracket fasteners to spec, and double‑check smooth operation before calling it done. Because the cylinders are pressurised, don’t heat, puncture or crush them—dispose of old struts via your workshop’s recycling stream.

For most owners, a quick inspection at each service interval (or at least yearly) keeps things sweet. In Aussie heat or coastal environments, expect service life around 5–10 years, wagons often go sooner because those big tailgates work harder. If the bonnet’s starting to feel like arm day, it’s time.

Which 2013 Commodores actually have gas struts?

All body styles use gas struts on the bonnet. The Sportwagon also runs two gas struts on the tailgate. The sedan’s boot uses torsion bars, not struts, and the Ute tailgate isn’t factory‑fitted with gas struts (though aftermarket kits exist).

How long do gas struts last on a Commodore, and when should they be replaced?

Most see 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Replace when the bonnet or wagon tailgate no longer stays up confidently, moves slowly, or drops near the end of travel. If in doubt, change them in pairs for balanced operation.

Can Holden Commodore gas struts be re‑gassed?

They’re sealed units, so re‑gassing isn’t recommended. It’s more reliable and usually cheaper to fit quality replacements matched to the correct force and fittings.