Parts for your 2016 Holden Colorado-Gas struts

Gas Struts on the 2016 Holden Colorado: What You Need to Know

The 2016 Holden Colorado is a versatile and rugged ute well-loved in Australia, especially by tradies, farmers, and outdoor enthusiasts. When it comes to gas struts, this vehicle does indeed use them, primarily on the bonnet (or hood) and in some cases for the tailgate, depending on the variant or aftermarket modifications.

Gas struts play a surprisingly important role in the everyday convenience and safety of vehicles like the Holden Colorado. While they might not be the first thing you think about with your ute, these hydraulic aids make opening and holding up heavy panels a breeze, avoiding the need for manual effort or awkward props.

In the case of the 2016 Holden Colorado, the bonnet is typically assisted by a pair of gas struts. This means that when you want to check the engine bay, you simply release the bonnet catch, and the gas struts help lift and hold the bonnet open. This is a massive help because the bonnet on a ute tends to be quite heavy, making it tricky to lift and prone to slamming shut if not securely propped.

Some Holden Colorado models or aftermarket setups might also have gas struts fitted on the tailgate of the tub. This makes opening the rear much easier and safer, especially if you're loading heavy equipment or standing behind the ute in windy conditions.

The core purpose of gas struts is to provide supportive force using compressed nitrogen gas contained within the cylinder. When you push or pull on the strut, the gas compresses or expands, offering resistance and ease of movement. This mechanism ensures smooth, controlled lifting and lowering of heavy panels. It also acts as a safety feature, preventing the bonnet or tailgate from dropping unexpectedly and potentially injuring someone or causing damage.

When it comes to maintenance or replacement of gas struts on the 2016 Holden Colorado, it's good to know these components don't last forever. Over time, the seals that hold the nitrogen gas can wear out or degrade, leading to a loss in pressure. This will result in the struts no longer being able to hold the bonnet or tailgate open effectively, which can be annoying and unsafe.

Common signs that your gas struts are due for replacement include the bonnet not staying up by itself, feeling significantly heavier when you lift it, or hearing hissing noises, which can indicate leaking gas. If any of these symptoms arise, it's a good idea to inspect the struts or have a mechanic take a look.

Replacing gas struts is generally straightforward and doesn't require specialist tools. Typically, the strut is clipped or bolted onto ball joints at either end, letting you pop off the worn one and install a new unit. However, care should be taken during this process because the bonnet or tailgate must be properly supported to avoid injury or damage as the struts are removed.

For those servicing their 2016 Holden Colorado, incorporating gas strut checks should be part of the routine. It's an easy task to give these parts a quick look to ensure they're functioning correctly. Lubrication isn't usually necessary as gas struts are sealed units, but keeping the mounting points clean and free from rust can help extend their life.

It's important to purchase the right replacement gas struts that match the Holden Colorado 2016 specifications. Using incorrect sizes or strengths can lead to poor performance or even cause premature failure of the strut. It's best to get parts from reputable suppliers or Holden dealerships to ensure compatibility and reliability.

In addition to maintenance, it's also worth mentioning how gas struts improve the overall experience of owning a Holden Colorado. They reduce the strain on your arms and back when accessing the engine or tub, enhancing safety and convenience. This is especially beneficial for tradies who need to access their gear multiple times a day or anyone doing regular maintenance themselves.

In short, gas struts are a relatively simple yet essential component fitted to the 2016 Holden Colorado. They contribute a lot to the practicality and user-friendliness of this tough Australian workhorse. Keeping them in good condition ensures the bonnet and tailgate remain easy to use, safe, and reliable over the life of the vehicle.