Parts for your 2017 Toyota Camry-Gas struts

2017 Toyota Camry gas struts: what’s fitted and what to service

For the 2017 Toyota Camry (XV50 series), factory gas struts are not used on the bonnet or the boot. The bonnet is supported by a manual support rod, and the boot lid is counterbalanced by torsion bars within the hinge mechanism. This layout is confirmed by Toyota’s Owner’s Manual instructions for opening the bonnet (which specify using the support rod), Toyota’s Repair Manual (TIS) body sections that illustrate the hood with a support rod and the trunk with torsion bar hinges, and Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), which lists a hood support rod and trunk torsion bars but no lift supports for this model and year.

Why didn’t Toyota use gas struts here? On a mid-size sedan like Camry, a prop rod and torsion-bar boot setup are lighter, cheaper, and very reliable over time. Gas struts are more common on heavy tailgates (think SUVs and hatches) where assisted lifting and controlled closing make a bigger difference. For the Camry’s bonnet and boot, Toyota’s solution keeps things simple and cost-effective without compromising day-to-day usability.

Owners who prefer the convenience of gas-assisted lifting can consider aftermarket bonnet strut kits designed for the XV50 Camry. Quality kits typically use existing mounting points, but fitment varies, some require brackets or minor drilling. If fitting aftermarket struts, it’s worth checking local compliance requirements and choosing reputable hardware that won’t stress the bonnet or guard mounting points.

• Technical sources that confirm this:
  • Toyota Camry 2017 Owner’s Manual (bonnet operation shows a support rod, not gas struts)
  • Toyota Repair Manual (TIS) for XV50: Body sections for Hood/Trunk depict support rod and torsion-bar hinges
  • Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for ASV50/AVV50: lists hood support rod and trunk torsion bars, no lift supports
• What to service instead:
  • Bonnet: Make sure the support rod clip holds firmly, and lightly lube the hinge pivots and latch. Replace a bent or loose prop rod/clip.
  • Boot: Keep hinge pivots and latch clean and lubricated. If the lid won’t stay up or feels too heavy/light, the torsion bars may need adjustment—this is under stored tension, so leave it to a professional.

Popular questions

Does a 2017 Toyota Camry have gas struts on the bonnet or boot?
No. From factory, the 2017 Camry uses a bonnet support rod and torsion bars for the boot lid. This is shown in Toyota’s Owner’s Manual, Repair Manual (TIS) body diagrams, and the Toyota EPC listings for this model year.

Can gas struts be retrofitted to the 2017 Camry bonnet?
Yes, aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist for the XV50. Choose a model-specific kit, follow torque specs, and check for any drilling or bracket requirements. After installation, verify smooth opening and that the bonnet sits correctly without panel misalignment.

What should be serviced if there are no gas struts?
Look after the bonnet prop rod and retaining clip, lubricate bonnet and boot hinges and latches, and inspect the boot’s torsion-bar mechanism if the lid isn’t behaving properly. Because torsion bars store energy, adjustment or replacement should be handled by a trained tech.