Parts for your 2014 Toyota Hilux-Gas struts

2014 Toyota Hilux gas struts — what’s actually fitted from factory?

For the 2014 Toyota Hilux (AN10/AN20 series), gas struts are not factory equipment on the bonnet or the tailgate. Technical references such as the Toyota Owner’s Manual for this generation, Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for 2005–2015 Hilux models, and body/exterior procedures in Toyota service information show a bonnet supported by a simple prop rod and a tailgate retained by stay cables. There are no OEM gas-lift strut part listings for these locations on the 2014 ute, which is consistent across SR, SR5 and most regional trims of this model year.

Why didn’t Toyota fit gas struts here? It comes down to the Hilux’s design brief. As a workhorse ute, the platform prioritises durability, simplicity and cost-effective serviceability. Prop rods and cable stays are robust in dusty, muddy, high-vibration environments, and they’re easy to replace anywhere from the back shed to a remote workshop. Tailgates on trays are also meant to handle heavy loads, traditional cable stays keep the mechanism straightforward and strong without introducing gas-charged components that can be damaged when hauling or when accessories are added.

• Simplicity and reliability in harsh conditions
• Lower cost and easy field service
• Compatibility with heavy loads and tray accessories

Owners often ask about upgrades. Aftermarket kits are available to add bonnet gas struts and “tailgate assist” dampers to a 2014 Hilux. These aren’t Toyota factory parts, but quality kits can make the bonnet easier to lift and help control the tailgate’s drop. If retrofitting, choose corrosion-resistant hardware, follow torque specs, rust-proof any drilled holes, and check clearances with accessories (bull bars, snorkels, canopies). A good rule for gas struts is to keep the chrome rods clean, avoid side-loading them, and replace in pairs when wear shows up (weak lift, uneven movement, oil misting).

If the vehicle runs a canopy, those lift-up windows or doors usually do use gas struts — but those are canopy-manufacturer parts, not Hilux OEM. The same care rules apply: keep the rods clean, don’t grease them, and swap both if one gets tired.

• Does a 2014 Hilux have factory gas struts on the bonnet or tailgate?
  No. The 2014 Hilux uses a prop rod for the bonnet and cable stays for the tailgate. This is confirmed by Toyota owner’s literature, the EPC (which lists a hood support rod and clip, but no lift struts), and service procedures for the AN10/AN20 series.
• Can gas struts be retrofitted to a 2014 Hilux?
  Yes. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits and tailgate assist dampers are common. Pick a reputable kit, protect any drilled metal with primer/paint, and recheck fasteners after a few cycles. Note that these are upgrades, not OEM parts.
• How should aftermarket gas struts be maintained on a Hilux?
  Keep the chrome rods clean and dry, don’t lubricate them with grease or oil, and avoid using the strut as a handle. Replace in pairs if lift weakens, movement becomes jerky, or you see oil film around the seals.