Parts for your 2016 Holden Barina-Gas struts

2016 Holden Barina gas struts — fitment, purpose, and service tips

Referencing Holden/GM Service Information for the TM Barina (T300 platform) and the Holden/GM Electronic Parts Catalogue, gas-charged struts are factory-fitted on the 2016 Holden Barina hatch to support the tailgate. The bonnet is supported by a manual prop rod (no gas strut from factory), and the Barina sedan’s boot typically uses torsion rods rather than gas struts. That means “gas struts” are absolutely relevant for the 2016 Barina hatch’s tailgate, and generally not applicable to the bonnet or the sedan boot in OEM form.

On the Barina hatch, the gas struts do the heavy lifting—literally. They counterbalance the weight of the hatch so it opens smoothly, stays up securely, and closes without a fight. Beyond convenience, they’re a safety item: healthy struts prevent the hatch from sagging or dropping on someone’s head, especially on windy days or when the car’s parked on an angle.

Like any sealed, nitrogen-charged component, struts lose pressure over time. A Barina that needs a shove to open the hatch, won’t stay up, or drops as the weather cools is sending a clear message. Other tells include oily weeping around the rod seal, a hiss with little resistance, and a hatch that rises sluggishly then stalls half-way.

• Replace in pairs to keep lifting force even.
• Support the hatch with a prop or helper before removing any strut.
• Don’t grease the shiny rod—the lubricant attracts grit and can ruin the seal.
• Keep the rod clean, a quick wipe during routine washing helps longevity.

DIY replacement is straightforward: ease back the metal retaining clip at each end with a small flat screwdriver, pop the old strut off the ball studs, then press the new one on until it clicks. Expect 10–20 minutes per side. Choose struts matched to the TM Barina hatch, force rating and end fittings matter for proper lift and latch alignment. If the hatch still feels heavy after new struts, check hinge friction and latch alignment before blaming the new parts.

For workshop servicing, it’s smart to check hatch balance at every service, especially before winter. In Australia and New Zealand’s variable climates, most Barina hatch struts last 5–10 years, higher heat or coastal conditions can shorten that window.

• Do 2016 Barina sedans have gas struts on the boot?
  Typically, no. The TM Barina sedan boot uses torsion rods from factory, not gas struts. Aftermarket conversions exist, but they’re not OEM and may alter boot opening feel and hinge loads.
• How often should Barina hatch gas struts be replaced?
  There’s no fixed interval. Many last 5–10 years. Replace when the hatch won’t stay up, needs a push to start rising, or sags in cooler weather. Always replace both sides together.
• Can gas struts be re-gassed, or should they be replaced?
  Most automotive hatch struts are sealed units and are replaced, not re-gassed. Quality replacements are affordable and restore the correct lift and holding force straight away.