Parts for your 2013 Isuzu D-max-Gas struts

2013 Isuzu D‑MAX gas struts — are they actually a thing?

Short answer: from factory, the 2013 Isuzu D‑MAX doesn’t use gas struts on the bonnet or the tub tailgate. The Isuzu D‑MAX Owner’s Manual for the RT series (2012–2016) shows a bonnet support rod in the “Hood/Bonnet” section, not gas struts. The Isuzu workshop/Body manual for the same generation describes the tailgate assembly with hinge, latch and support cables, again with no gas springs. You’ll see the same story in the OEM electronic parts catalogue listings for this model year, which include a bonnet support rod and tailgate support cables, but no gas strut part numbers. Gas‑stays do appear on some genuine and aftermarket canopies for the rear glass, yet those are accessories, not part of the base ute.

Why no gas struts on the 2013 D‑MAX from new? It’s mostly down to simplicity and durability. Isuzu designed this generation to cop harsh Aussie and Kiwi conditions, so a steel prop rod for the bonnet and cable-supported tailgate meant fewer seals to fail and less sensitivity to dust, heat and mud. It also keeps costs and weight down across workhorse and fleet trims where fancy hardware isn’t a must-have.

• Reliability in rough use: a solid prop rod outlasts a pressurised gas spring when exposed to red dust, salt air and under‑bonnet heat.
• Lower weight and cost: fewer parts and seals, easier to manufacture and service.
• Serviceability anywhere: a rod or cable is easy to inspect and replace in the field.
• Tailgate design: the tub is engineered around cables for load support, damped “assist” struts are aftermarket solutions, not OE in 2013.

Plenty of owners still like the convenience of gas struts. If retrofitting, stick with a vehicle‑specific kit that includes rated struts and proper brackets for the D‑MAX’s mounting points. Fit both sides together, torque the brackets correctly, and recheck fasteners after a few drives. Keep ball studs clean and lightly lubricated, avoid solvent sprays on the strut shaft seals, and replace struts as a pair when they get weak or noisy. For tailgate assist kits, make sure the setup doesn’t compromise the tailgate cables or latch alignment.

Do 2013 D‑MAX bonnets come with gas struts from factory?

No. The RT‑series Owner’s Manual specifies a bonnet support rod. If gas struts are fitted, they’ll be aftermarket. Choose a D‑MAX‑specific kit and follow the included torque specs so the brackets don’t shift on the guards.

Does the 2013 D‑MAX tailgate use gas struts or a damper?

Factory tailgates use support cables and a standard hinge/latch. Tailgate “assist” dampers or struts are popular aftermarket additions to soften the drop and reduce effort, but they weren’t OE on 2013 models.

Are canopy window gas struts part of the vehicle?

Only if a canopy is fitted. Many canopies use gas stays on the rear glass. These are service items—replace in pairs when they won’t hold the glass up or if the shafts are rusty or weeping oil.