Parts for your 2013 Toyota Rav4-Gas struts

2013 Toyota RAV4 gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are absolutely relevant on the 2013 Toyota RAV4. The model’s rear liftgate (back door) is supported by a pair of gas-charged stays/struts, and power tailgate variants use the same style of struts alongside an electric actuator. This is confirmed by Toyota’s factory Repair Manual procedures for “Back Door Stay — Removal/Installation” and “Power Back Door System” (Toyota TIS, RAV4 XA40, 2013), and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, which lists “Stay Assembly, Back Door” for 2013 RAV4 body codes such as ZSA42/ASA44. Major application catalogues from gas spring manufacturers also list rear door gas struts for this model year. Note: the bonnet on most 2013 RAV4 variants uses a prop rod, not gas struts.

On this RAV4, the gas struts take the load of the tailgate, helping it rise smoothly and stay put while loading the boot. Good struts make everyday use a breeze, tired ones make the back door heavy and unpredictable. Because they’re sealed, there’s no routine lubrication—maintenance is mostly inspection and timely replacement.

• Common signs they’re due: the liftgate won’t stay up, drops in cold weather, rises sluggishly, or needs a helping hand to start lifting.
• Check them during regular servicing—at least annually, or sooner if the tailgate feels heavy.
• Replace in pairs to keep lift and holding force balanced.
• Keep the chrome shafts clean and dry, don’t grease them, as oils attract grit and damage seals.
• Remember temperature matters—gas pressure dips in the cold, so borderline struts often show up in winter.

When it’s time to replace, support the back door safely (a prop or an assistant) before popping off the retaining clips. The job is usually quick with basic tools. For power tailgate models, follow the Toyota procedure closely so the system learns the correct open height and operates smoothly. Choose OE or quality OE-equivalent struts with the correct force rating and end fittings, mismatched pressure can cause the door to shoot up too fast or fail to hold.

If the RAV4 tows often or carries accessories on the tailgate, expect more frequent replacement. Fresh struts restore that confident, one-hand lift and secure hold—no surprises and no sore shoulders.

(Technical references: Toyota Repair Manual via Toyota TIS — RAV4 XA40, 2013, Back Door Stay and Power Back Door sections, Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue, Body > Back Door > Stay Assembly, 2013 RAV4.)

Popular questions about 2013 Toyota RAV4 gas struts

How long do the rear gas struts typically last?
Many last 5–8 years, but lifespan varies with climate and use. Frequent opening, heavy accessories on the tailgate, and cold winters can shorten service life. If the door won’t stay up or struggles to lift, that’s the cue to replace—don’t wait until it drops on someone.

Can they be replaced at home?
Yes, most owners can handle it with a small flat screwdriver and a helper. Support the tailgate securely, flick the clip, swap the strut, and click it home. On power tailgate models, follow the reset/initialisation steps in the manual so the open height and operation are spot on.

Are power tailgate struts different from manual ones?
They look similar but may run a different force rating and work with an actuator. Always buy by VIN or exact model details to get the correct struts—mixing types can cause poor lift or erratic operation.