Parts for your 2016 Nissan Pathfinder-Gas struts

2016 Nissan Pathfinder gas struts

Gas struts are indeed used on the 2016 Nissan Pathfinder (R52) — specifically on the rear tailgate/back door. The factory Electronic Service Manual for the 2016 R52 identifies the back door “gas-charged stay” and includes safety cautions about not puncturing or heating the unit. Nissan’s parts catalogue lists the “Stay Assy–Back Door” for this model year, while the bonnet is supported by a manual prop rod rather than gas struts. This setup is also mirrored by mainstream aftermarket catalogues that supply rear lift supports for the tailgate on 2016 Pathfinders but show no bonnet strut listings.

On this Pathfinder, the gas struts do the heavy lifting of the tailgate, taking the weight so it opens smoothly and stays put without dropping. Even models with a power tailgate still rely on gas-charged stays to balance the door while the motor drives movement. Over time, seals wear and nitrogen pressure bleeds off, which is why a once-sprightly tailgate can start sagging or feel heavy on a cold morning.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth giving the tailgate gas struts a quick check. Look for oil misting at the rod seal, listen for graunchy spots in the stroke, and test whether the gate can hold itself open at full height. Avoid greasing the rod — it attracts grit and chews out the seals. Just keep the chrome rod clean and free of nicks.

• Common signs they’re due: the tailgate won’t stay up, opens slowly, drops in the wind, or needs a shoulder to finish the lift.
• Notice it’s worse in winter? That’s typical of tired gas struts losing pressure.
• Visible oil at the rod or a bent tube means replacement, not repair.

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools, and most units use ball sockets with spring clips. Support the tailgate safely (a mate, prop, or stand), then swap one side at a time to avoid twisting the door. Match length and force rating to the R52 spec, mixing non-matched struts can stress hinges or the power-lift mechanism.

• Don’t compress new struts by hand — fit them and let the tailgate guide the stroke.
• If the vehicle has a power tailgate, follow the service manual’s initialisation steps after fitting.
• Treat replacements in pairs for balanced lift and latch alignment.

There’s no fixed interval — expect 5–8 years in typical ANZ conditions. If the gate feels heavy or starts head-butting, it’s time.

Popular questions about 2016 Nissan Pathfinder gas struts

How long do the tailgate gas struts usually last?
Most see 5–8 years, depending on climate and use. Heat, dust, and frequent loading cycles shorten life. If the gate won’t hold at full height or needs a shove to get moving, the struts are nearing the end and should be replaced in pairs.

Can they be replaced at home, or does it need a workshop?
They’re DIY-friendly if you’ve got a safe way to support the tailgate and a flat-blade screwdriver to release the clips. Power tailgate models add a short calibration step from the service manual, which many owners handle easily. If the hinges are misaligned or the door has damage, a workshop visit is wiser.

Do power tailgate Pathfinders still have gas struts?
Yes. The motor handles movement, but gas struts counterbalance the weight and stabilise the door. If they’re weak, the motor strains, the opening/closing action gets jerky, and the gate may not hold position, so timely replacement protects the power system.