Parts for your 2016 Toyota Hiace-Gas struts

Understanding Gas Struts on the 2016 Toyota Hiace: Purpose, Maintenance, and Replacement Tips

The 2016 Toyota Hiace is a popular workhorse, known across Australia for its reliability and versatility. When it comes to its various components, gas struts play a pretty important role on many vehicles, especially commercial vans like the Hiace. For those not quite sure what gas struts are or whether the 2016 Hiace uses them, here's a clear explanation to guide you through.

Gas struts, sometimes called gas springs or lift supports, are those handy little cylinders filled with compressed gas, often nitrogen. They help lift and hold open heavy panels like tailgates, bonnets, or side doors, making it easier for drivers and passengers to load up or get into the vehicle. Rather than relying on brute strength or mechanical hinges, gas struts do the heavy lifting smoothly and quietly.

On the 2016 Toyota Hiace, gas struts are definitely used, particularly on the rear tailgate and in some models, the bonnet. These gas struts make opening and closing heavy panels much easier, especially when you have your hands full or when you're working on a busy job site. Without these, managing the weight and swing of the tailgate or bonnet could get cumbersome and unsafe.

Why are gas struts relevant to the Hiace? Well, the van's design often includes a large rear door or tailgate to maximise access to the cargo area. Given the size and weight of these doors, having gas struts fitted means users don't have to struggle lifting or holding them open, preventing strain or injury. It also protects the vehicle's bodywork from slamming shut unexpectedly, which can cause damage over time.

When it comes to servicing the 2016 Hiace, checking and maintaining the gas struts should definitely be part of the routine, especially for businesses relying on their vans daily. Over time, gas struts can lose pressure or get damaged from exposure to the elements, repeated use, or even accidental knocks. This leads to less support and difficulty in keeping the door or bonnet open, sometimes resulting in the door slamming or even causing injury.

Here are some key points that owners or fleet managers should keep an eye on for gas strut maintenance and replacement:

• Regularly inspect the gas struts for signs of wear, such as leaks, rust, dents, or weakened pressure.
• Check that the struts still hold the tailgate or bonnet firmly when opened, if they don't, it's a clear sign they need replacing.
• Clean gas strut shafts to remove dirt, grime, or corrosion that can affect the seal and reduce lifespan.
• Avoid applying grease or oil to the strut shafts since this can attract dirt and damage seals.
• Be cautious when replacing gas struts, as getting the correct part numbers and specifications is crucial to ensure proper fit and function.
• Consult the Toyota Hiace owner's manual or authorised service centre for exact details about replacement parts and procedures.

Replacing the gas struts on a 2016 Hiace is usually straightforward but requires care. It helps to support the tailgate or bonnet securely before removing the old struts to prevent accidents. Most replacement gas struts come as a matched pair to maintain balanced support and safe operation.

Choosing genuine Toyota parts or high-quality aftermarket gas struts is important too. Cheaper options might save a few dollars upfront but often wear out faster or don't offer the same smooth operation, leading to extra hassle down the track.

For Hiace operators who rely on their vans for trades, deliveries, or daily commutes, well-maintained gas struts mean less effort on those long days loading and unloading. Plus, it's a boost to safety, reducing the chances of panels slamming shut unexpectedly in windy conditions or busy work environments.

It's also worth noting that some 2016 Toyota Hiace models might have different gas strut setups depending on body style and specifications. Whether it's a commuter van, panel van, or crew cab, confirming which gas struts are fitted and suitable replacements helps avoid mismatches.

Bottom line, gas struts on the 2016 Toyota Hiace play a quiet but essential part in daily vehicle operation. Keeping them in good condition saves effort, improves safety, and protects the van's hardware. So, the next time the tailgate feels heavier than usual or won't stay put, it's wise to check the gas struts and get them sorted. A little care on these often-overlooked components can keep the Hiace running smoothly for plenty more kilometres.