Parts for your 2017 Nissan Navara-Gas struts

2017 Nissan Navara gas struts — what’s fitted and what isn’t

For the 2017 Nissan Navara (D23/NP300), gas struts are not fitted to the bonnet or tailgate from factory. The bonnet uses a manual support rod, and the tailgate relies on cables and hinges without a gas-damped assist. Gas struts may be present on dealer- or aftermarket-fit accessories such as canopies, hard lids and some tonneau covers, but they’re not part of the standard ute setup.

Technical sources that support this: the 2017 Navara Owner’s Manual depicts a bonnet support rod rather than a gas damper, the D23/NP300 Service Manual’s body/hood procedures describe a support rod (no gas strut hardware or charging specs are listed), and Nissan/dealer accessory brochures position bonnet strut kits and tailgate-assist dampers as accessories, not standard equipment. Collectively, these documents indicate the vehicle itself wasn’t delivered with gas struts on bonnet or tailgate.

Why Nissan didn’t use gas struts here comes down to durability, simplicity and cost. A prop rod and cable-supported tailgate are robust in tough Aussie and Kiwi conditions—dust, corrugations, beach runs and farm life. They’re cheap to build, easy to service and don’t lose charge over time like a gas damper can. The Navara’s steel bonnet is manageable with a prop, and the tailgate is designed to be sturdy without the need for a damper, leaving struts as a nice-to-have accessory rather than a must-have.

Owners keen on an easier lift-and-hold action can retrofit quality bonnet struts or a tailgate-assist kit. Most reputable bonnet kits use existing mounting points and are a straightforward install with basic tools. Tailgate options include damped struts or torsion-style assist systems to slow the drop and lighten the lift. Go for stainless or coated hardware, correct force ratings matched to a D23/Navara, and stick with known brands for bracket strength and clearance with snorkels, battery trays or canopy setups.

• Choose vehicle-specific kits labelled for Navara D23/NP300.
• Replace struts in pairs for even support.
• Wipe the shafts with a clean cloth, don’t grease the piston.
• Inspect brackets and rivnuts after corrugated-road use.
• If you frequently beach launch or tow, rinse after salt exposure.

Technical sources referenced (no external links supplied): Nissan Navara (D23/NP300) Owner’s Manual, 2017 edition, Nissan Navara D23/NP300 Service Manual – Body/Hood sections, Nissan Genuine Accessories/Dealer accessory guides for D23 listing bonnet strut and tailgate-assist kits as accessories.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Navara gas struts

Can the 2017 Navara bonnet be fitted with gas struts?
Yes. Bolt-on bonnet strut kits designed for the D23/NP300 are widely available and usually use existing holes, so no drilling is required. Installation typically takes 20–40 minutes with basic tools.

Keep the original prop rod in place as a backup, and choose a kit with the right force rating so the bonnet opens smoothly without over-stressing the hinges.

Does the Navara tailgate come with a gas strut from factory?
No. The factory tailgate uses cables and hinges only. If a softer, controlled drop or lighter lift is wanted, a tailgate-assist damper or torsion-assist kit can be fitted. Many can be installed at home, just follow torque specs and re-check fasteners after a few drives.

How long do aftermarket gas struts last on a Navara?
Typically 3–7 years, depending on brand quality, usage and exposure. Regularly wipe the strut shafts, avoid damage to the seals, and replace in pairs when lift support weakens or the tailgate drops too quickly.