Parts for your 2017 Toyota Avensis-Gas struts

2017 Toyota Avensis gas struts

Gas struts are used on the 2017 Toyota Avensis Touring Sports (estate) to support and control the rear tailgate. Toyota’s T27 Avensis service literature (Body – Back Door – Back Door Stay) specifies gas-charged stays for the wagon tailgate, and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue lists left and right back door stays for T27 wagon models up to 2018. Aftermarket technical catalogues from major OE suppliers (e.g., Stabilus Lift-O-Mat and Monroe Max-Lift) also list dedicated tailgate gas struts for the 2017 Avensis estate. By contrast, the saloon’s boot lid typically uses torsion springs, and the bonnet across the range is supported by a prop rod rather than gas struts. So, gas struts are relevant for the 2017 Avensis Touring Sports tailgate.

On the Avensis Touring Sports, the tailgate gas struts make everyday use easy and safe. They counterbalance the weight of the tailgate, slow its travel, and hold it open at full height so there’s no unexpected drop. That’s especially handy when loading the pram, the esky, or the weekly shop. Over time, seals can age and nitrogen pressure can fall, so the tailgate might lift sluggishly or drift down—more noticeable on cold mornings.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth a quick look-over every 12 months or 20,000 kilometres. Wipe the chrome rods clean, check for oil misting, dents or corrosion on the cylinders, and listen for any binding. If the tailgate needs a helping hand to open, won’t stay up, or lifts unevenly, the struts are due for replacement. They’re sealed units—no re-gassing in normal practice—so swapping them out is the go.

Replacement is straightforward with basic tools, but it’s best done with a mate on hand or with the tailgate safely propped. Always replace in pairs, match the original length, end fittings and force rating, and keep the rod orientation the same as OE. Pop the spring clip, swap the strut, then ensure the clips are fully seated. Don’t clamp or twist the polished rod, and never puncture or heat a strut—it’s a high-pressure component. Avoid lubricating the rod, grease attracts grit and damages the seals. A fresh pair restores that smooth, controlled lift and keeps heads and fingers out of harm’s way.

• Quick checks: tailgate stays up at full height, opens smoothly, no oil film on rods, no creaks or binding.
• Cold-weather tip: a slightly slower lift in winter can be normal, but drifting down means the struts are weak.

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Avensis gas struts

How long do Avensis tailgate gas struts usually last?
Most owners see 5–10 years depending on use, climate and how often the tailgate is cycled. Heat, dust and salt air can shorten life. If the gate won’t stay up, needs a push to start moving, or you notice oil misting on the rod, it’s time to replace them—ideally as a pair.

Can the original gas struts be re-gassed, or should they be replaced?
Automotive gas springs are generally sealed-for-life. While some specialists can re-gas certain units, it’s rarely cost-effective or guaranteed. For the Avensis Touring Sports, the reliable fix is to fit new, correct-spec struts.

Does the 2017 Avensis saloon use gas struts on the boot or bonnet?
The saloon’s boot typically uses torsion springs, not gas struts, and the bonnet uses a prop rod. Only the Touring Sports (estate) tailgate is factory-fitted with gas struts.