Parts for your 2016 Lexus Is-Gas struts

2016 Lexus IS gas struts — are they actually fitted?

Short answer: no, the 2016 Lexus IS doesn’t come with gas struts from the factory. According to the 2016 Lexus IS Owner’s Manual (bonnet opening procedure) and Lexus service documentation for the XE30 platform, the bonnet is supported by a manual support rod, and the boot lid uses torsion bars within the hinge assembly rather than gas-charged lift supports. Lexus parts catalogues for this model list a bonnet support rod and clip, but no OEM hood or boot gas strut assemblies for the sedan.

Why did Lexus go this way? A few sensible reasons:

• Reliability and cost: a steel prop rod and torsion bars are simple, light, and rarely fail compared with gas struts that can lose charge over time.
• Packaging and safety: the IS in various markets integrates pedestrian safety features around the bonnet and cowl area. Keeping the lift mechanism simple avoids clashes with those systems and under-bonnet packaging.
• Consistent feel: torsion bars provide a predictable boot action without temperature-related performance swings seen with some struts.

What does that mean for servicing? There aren’t any factory gas struts to replace on this model. Instead, it’s worth checking the bonnet support rod clip so it holds the rod securely and inspecting the bonnet and boot hinges for smooth movement. A light lubricant on hinge pivots and a look for corrosion or play goes a long way. The boot torsion bars are under significant preload, so leave adjustment or replacement to a technician with the right tools and procedures.

Keen on the convenience of gas struts? Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist for the 2016 IS and typically use existing mounting points. Choose quality dampers with stainless or coated brackets to handle Aussie and Kiwi conditions, confirm compatibility with any market-specific bonnet safety systems, and follow torque specs so the bonnet alignment isn’t affected. As they’re not OEM, factor in that they’re a modification and may not be covered by manufacturer warranty.

• Does the 2016 Lexus IS have gas struts on the bonnet or boot?
  From factory, no. The bonnet uses a support rod and the boot uses torsion bars. This is reflected in the 2016 Owner’s Manual procedures and Lexus repair/parts documentation for the XE30 IS.
• Can gas struts be retrofitted to the bonnet?
  Yes, several bolt-on aftermarket kits are available. Confirm they clear any market-specific bonnet safety components, and use corrosion-resistant hardware. No drilling is usually required, but follow the kit’s torque specs and recheck fasteners after a few drives.
• What maintenance replaces “gas strut” servicing on this model?
  Inspect and secure the bonnet rod clip, clean and lightly lubricate bonnet and boot hinges, and have any boot torsion bar concerns handled by a technician due to stored spring energy.