Parts for your 2017 Nissan Serena-Gas struts

2017 Nissan Serena gas-struts: fitted, what they do, and when to replace

Based on technical documentation and parts catalogues, gas-struts are absolutely relevant to the 2017 Nissan Serena (C27). Nissan’s C27 Serena Service Manual (Body Exterior – Back Door) specifies a gas‑charged “back door stay” for the tailgate, with handling warnings typical of pressurised struts. The Nissan Electronic Parts Catalogue for the C27 also lists a Stay Assy–Back Door. Major aftermarket catalogues list tailgate gas springs for Serena C27 (2016‑on), including variants for the dual back door (flip‑up glass). The bonnet on most C27 trims uses a prop rod rather than gas-struts, so the struts apply to the tailgate and, where fitted, the upper glass panel.

On the Serena, gas-struts counterbalance the weight of the tailgate (and the flip-up glass on dual back door models), making it easy to lift and keeping it safely open. They’re sealed, nitrogen‑charged dampers that add controlled lift assistance and smooth closing, even on vehicles with power tailgate features—the motor does the driving, but the struts carry the mass and damping.

Over time, seals harden and gas pressure fades, especially with heavy use or cold weather. When that happens, the door feels heavier and may drift down—never ideal with kids or cargo under the tail. Common signs the Serena’s gas-struts are due:

• Tailgate won’t stay fully up or sags in wind or cold.
• Needs two hands to lift, or lifts jerkily.
• Oil mist on the shaft or body, or visible corrosion at the ball sockets.

Service advice for owners and fleets:

• Replace in pairs to keep lift and damping balanced.
• Support the tailgate with a prop or a helper during replacement—these doors are heavy.
• Match the exact spec: body style (with/without dual back door), trim, and any power tailgate system. Force rating and length must be correct.
• Keep the chrome shafts clean, wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Don’t grease the shaft—oils can attack the seals. Avoid clamping the shaft with tools.
• If a strut is loose on its ball-stud, replace the worn socket or the stud to prevent pop‑offs.

Quality replacements restore safe, one‑handed operation and protect the tailgate’s hinges, latch and—on powered versions—the drive motor from overwork. Done right, it’s a quick, tidy job that makes everyday use of the Serena nicer and safer.

Popular questions about 2017 Nissan Serena gas-struts

How can someone tell the Serena’s tailgate struts are failing?
If the tailgate won’t stay up, drops in cold weather, or needs more effort to raise, the gas has likely faded. A light oil film on the shaft or sluggish, uneven movement also points to wear. Replace them before the door becomes a hazard around kids or when loading the boot.

Do the gas-struts need to be replaced in pairs, and is DIY okay?
Yes—always in pairs, so lift and damping are even. DIY is doable with basic tools, but the tailgate must be safely supported. If the van has a powered tailgate, follow the service procedure to avoid forcing the motor and to recalibrate if specified in the manual.

Are there different struts for dual back door models or power tailgates?
There are. Dual back door versions can have separate struts for the main tailgate and the flip-up glass. Power tailgate trims use struts matched to the assist motor. Use the VIN or exact model code to get the right force rating and end fittings.