Parts for your 2014 Toyota Rav4-Gas struts

2014 Toyota RAV4 Gas Struts — What They Do and When to Replace Them

Technical sources confirm the 2014 Toyota RAV4 is fitted with gas-charged lift supports on the rear tailgate. Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists the “Stay, Back Door” for the XA40 series (2013–2018), the RAV4 workshop manual details removal/installation of these gas struts, and major aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Stabilus/Monroe) carry direct-fit lift supports for the 2014 model. The bonnet on most trims uses a prop rod rather than gas struts from factory.

On a 2014 RAV4, gas struts are there to make life easier and safer. They balance the weight of the tailgate, assisting lift and holding it open so there’s no wrestling with the door or risking a head knock. On power tailgate variants, they work alongside the motorised drive to control opening and closing smoothly.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the gas struts. They’re sealed, so there’s no topping them up—once the internal gas pressure drops or the seals wear, performance declines. Typical signs they’re getting tired include:

• The tailgate won’t stay fully up, especially in cold weather.
• Slower, jerky opening or sagging over time.
• Needing an extra shove to start moving.
• Oil film or dampness on the rod—an early clue the seal’s weeping.

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools, but safety matters. The tailgate is heavier than it looks, always support it with a prop or a mate while swapping struts. Most techs recommend replacing struts in pairs to keep lift and hold symmetrical, and to avoid overloading one side. For power tailgate models, follow the workshop procedure to prevent strain on the drive unit during refit.

There’s no fixed kilometre interval—service life depends on climate and use. Vehicles that live outdoors or see frequent tailgate cycles typically need new struts around the 5–8 year mark. During routine servicing, a quick lift-and-hold test, visual check for leaks, and a wipe of the rods to keep grit off the seals will help them last. If they’re weak, fitting quality replacements restores the easy one-hand lift and solid hold that owners expect from their RAV4.

Popular questions about 2014 Toyota RAV4 gas struts

Do I need to replace both tailgate struts at the same time?
Yes, it’s best practice. Pairing keeps lift and damping even on both sides, prevents twisting of the tailgate, and usually gives a better, longer-lasting result. Mixing an old and a new strut often makes the fresh one do all the work, shortening its life.

Why do the struts work worse in cold weather?
Gas pressure drops with temperature, and the internal oil thickens, so weak struts show their age quickest on chilly mornings. If the tailgate sags in the cold, the struts are already marginal and should be replaced.

Does the 2014 RAV4 bonnet have gas struts?
From factory, most 2014 RAV4 variants use a prop rod for the bonnet. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist, but they’re not original equipment on most trims of this model year.