Parts for your 2013 Toyota Land cruiser-Gas struts

2013 Toyota Land Cruiser gas struts — purpose, replacement and servicing

Gas struts are absolutely relevant on the 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser (200 Series). Technical references including Toyota’s Repair Manual for the 200 Series (Body Mechanical—Hood/Back Door) and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue identify gas‑charged stay assemblies for the bonnet and for the upper back door glass on split tailgate models. Toyota’s OE terminology lists these as “Stay Assembly, Hood” and “Stay, Back Door Glass,” confirming factory fitment.

On this Land Cruiser, gas struts do the heavy lifting: they counterbalance and smoothly control the weight of the bonnet and the upper tailgate glass, so everything opens easily, holds itself up, and closes in a controlled way. That means safer access to the engine bay and the cargo area, fewer chances of a sudden drop, and less strain on hinges and latches. They’re nitrogen‑charged, sealed units designed to deliver consistent support and damping across a wide temperature range—handy in Aussie summers and chilly Kiwi mornings alike.

Because gas struts gradually lose charge and internal lubrication over time, they’re considered wear items. As part of routine servicing for a 2013 Land Cruiser, it’s smart to check their performance yearly or every 20,000 km. If the bonnet or glass feels heavy, won’t stay up, rises sluggishly, or needs a shoulder to keep it open, it’s time to replace. Technicians typically replace struts in pairs on the same opening to keep lift and damping balanced.

• Safety first: always support the bonnet or glass with a prop or a helper before removing struts.
• Replace in pairs: matching force keeps the panel true and prevents hinge twist.
• Don’t re‑gas: workshop practice and Toyota procedures treat these as non‑serviceable, fit new quality units to the original spec.
• Protect the shaft: keep it clean, don’t grease or paint it, and avoid nicking the chrome.
• Inspect mounts: check ball studs and brackets for play or corrosion, torque fasteners to spec.

Cold weather can make a tired strut feel worse, and roof racks or added accessories can load the rear glass more than standard. Where extra weight is fitted, choose appropriately rated replacements. With fresh bonnet and back door glass struts, the 2013 Land Cruiser feels factory‑solid again—no more head‑bonks or one‑handed contortions at the servo.

Popular questions about 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser gas struts

How long do the gas struts last?
Most owners see 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Frequent hot/cold cycles, dust, and added accessory weight can shorten their life. If the panel won’t stay up or lifts lazily, plan a pair replacement.

Are bonnet struts and tailgate glass struts the same?
No. They’re different lengths and forces, engineered for specific panels. Always match to the Land Cruiser’s VIN or OE spec to get the correct fit and lift performance.

Can gas struts be re‑gassed?
Not recommended. Toyota service literature treats them as sealed, non‑serviceable items. For safety and consistent performance, replace with new, quality struts rather than attempting a re‑gas.