Parts for your 2013 Nissan Serena-Gas struts

Gas Struts on the 2013 Nissan Serena: What You Need to Know

The 2013 Nissan Serena is a popular multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in Australia, known for its spacious interior, family-friendly features, and reliability. When it comes to gas struts, these components do play a role on this vehicle, especially concerning the tailgate or the sliding doors depending on the model variant. Gas struts, sometimes called gas springs or lift supports, are designed to assist in lifting and holding open heavy panels like the tailgate or hatch back, providing an effortless and safe way to access the boot space.

On the 2013 Nissan Serena, gas struts are most commonly found on the rear tailgate. The rear tailgate can be quite heavy, and gas struts make it easy to open and keep open without any risk of the gate slamming shut unexpectedly. This makes loading and unloading gear or groceries far more convenient and safe for the driver or passengers. Additionally, some models may feature gas struts on the sliding doors, although this is less common and tends to depend on the trim level and market specifications.

The main purpose of gas struts is to provide a controlled force that counterbalances the weight of a hatch or door. They contain compressed gas inside a sealed cylinder, which creates pressure against a piston rod. This pressure force assists in lifting the panel while also holding it in the open position. Unlike a regular mechanical hinge that relies purely on the user's strength, gas struts allow for smoother, slower, and more controlled movements making the operation feel effortless.

Another key benefit is safety. Without gas struts, the heavy tailgate would require a person to hold it open manually, which can be risky, especially if they need both hands to load items or when kids are around. Gas struts reduce the risk of injury from a sudden gate closure and prevent damage to the vehicle from slamming. They also improve convenience by allowing hands-free or one-handed tailgate operation once the struts are doing their job properly.

Since gas struts are pressurised components, they can wear out or lose effectiveness over time. Typical signs that the gas struts on a Nissan Serena are failing include the tailgate slowly sinking closed, needing extra force to open, or not staying open on their own. These symptoms occur because the seals inside the gas strut cylinder can degrade, allowing gas to leak and pressure to drop. Exposure to the elements, dirt, and corrosion can also take a toll on the struts.

Routine servicing of your 2013 Nissan Serena should include inspection of the gas struts to ensure they remain in good condition. Unlike mechanical parts that require greasing or adjustments, gas struts are mostly maintenance-free but they do have a limited lifespan. If your vehicle's tailgate gas struts show signs of wear or don't perform as expected, it's advisable to replace them as soon as possible to avoid inconvenience or potential safety hazards.

Replacing gas struts on the Nissan Serena is generally straightforward. The struts are typically attached to the vehicle with snap-fit ball joints or simple bolts, which makes swapping them out something a handy DIYer can potentially manage. However, it is crucial to replace both struts at the same time to ensure balanced lifting force. Installing just one new strut alongside an old, worn unit can lead to uneven support and premature failure of the new strut.

When purchasing replacements, it's best to go for OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts or high-quality aftermarket struts that meet Nissan's specifications. Cheap or incompatible gas struts might not provide the right pressure or durability, which can lead to further issues. Installation usually involves lifting the tailgate carefully and supporting it while the worn struts are removed and the new ones fitted.

Gas struts are a key convenience feature for the 2013 Nissan Serena, enhancing daily usability and safety of the vehicle. Keeping an eye on their condition and replacing them when necessary will ensure the tailgate remains easy to use and safe for everyone. Proper maintenance and timely replacement will help maintain the Serena's functionality, making loading and unloading smooth and hassle-free for years to come.