Parts for your 2013 Toyota Corolla-Gas struts

2013 Toyota Corolla gas struts — what they do and when to replace

Are gas struts relevant on a 2013 Toyota Corolla? Yes — for the hatch. Technical sources indicate the 2013 Corolla hatch (E18 series) uses gas-charged lift supports on the rear hatch/tailgate, while the bonnet is supported by a prop rod and the sedan’s boot uses torsion bars rather than gas struts. References include Toyota Owner’s Manual content for the hatch “Back door (hatch)” operation, Toyota Repair Manual body section covering the “Back Door Stay” removal/installation, and Toyota parts catalogues listing a “Stay, Back Door” for E18 hatch models but no gas strut for the sedan’s boot.

On the 2013 Corolla hatch, the gas struts take the weight of the tailgate, help it lift smoothly, and hold it safely open — no wrestling the hatch on a windy arvo. Each unit is a sealed, nitrogen-charged damper with internal oil, designed to deliver controlled motion and stable hold-open force.

If the hatch starts dropping, opens sluggishly, or needs a hand to get moving, the struts are likely tired. In Aussie and Kiwi climates, heat and UV can hasten seal wear, and colder mornings will make a weak strut feel even lazier. Most owners see 5–10 years out of a set, so a 2013 hatch is right in the window for replacement if not already done.

Best practice is to replace gas struts in pairs to keep the lift and hold balanced. During a service, a quick check is easy: open the hatch fully and see if it holds firm without creeping down, and inspect the strut rods for oil misting or nicks. Any sign of leakage or pitting means it’s time.

• Replacement tips: support the hatch safely, swap one side at a time, keep the rod clean, and install with the rod pointing down (as per Toyota procedure) to keep internal lubrication correct.
• Care notes: don’t grease the rod, don’t clamp the body in a vice, and don’t “re-gas” — most Corolla struts are sealed units, fit quality OE-equivalent parts instead.
• Safety: a weak strut can let the hatch fall — use a prop or a mate to hold it up while changing.

Choosing good-quality replacements restores that easy one-hand lift and solid hold at full height, making daily use safer and less of a juggle with shopping, school bags, or a pram.

Popular questions

Does a 2013 Corolla sedan have gas struts?
Not from factory. The sedan boot uses torsion bars to counterbalance the lid, and the bonnet is held with a prop rod. Only the hatchback tailgate has gas struts. Some owners fit aftermarket bonnet strut kits, but they’re not OE.

Should gas struts be replaced in pairs?
Yes. Replacing both keeps lift and hold even, prevents twisting at the hinges, and ensures the new strut isn’t overworking against a weak mate. It also gives a more consistent open height and smoother action.

Can Corolla gas struts be re-gassed?
Typically no. They’re sealed units. Once the gas charge or seals are done, the correct fix is replacement with new struts that match the original force and fittings.