Parts for your 2017 Volvo Xc60-Gas struts

2017 Volvo XC60 gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are absolutely used on the 2017 Volvo XC60. Volvo’s official VIDA workshop information includes procedures titled “Bonnet, gas spring—replace” and “Tailgate, gas spring—replace” for this model year, and the Volvo Genuine Parts Catalogue lists gas springs for both locations. OEM suppliers such as Stabilus (Lift-O-MAT) and major aftermarket catalogues also specify lift supports for the 2009–2017 XC60 range. On vehicles with a power tailgate, the gas struts work alongside an electric drive unit to control lift and damping.

On the XC60, gas struts take the grunt work out of lifting the bonnet and tailgate, then hold them up securely. That means safer access to the engine bay and an easier load-in at the back, without wrestling a heavy panel. Over time, seals and nitrogen charge inside the strut can fade, so performance drops—often first noticed on cold mornings.

• Typical signs it’s time for new struts:
  • The bonnet or tailgate won’t stay up, or sags unexpectedly.
  • Slow, jerky opening, worse in colder weather.
  • Needing a helping hand to lift the panel.
  • Oily film around the rod or end caps, or a faint hiss.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check strut operation and the mounting ball-studs for play or corrosion. Wipe the chrome rods with a clean, dry cloth—don’t grease or spray silicone on them, as that can damage the seals. For the tailgate, replace struts in pairs to keep lift even, mixing old and new can twist the hinges or stress a power-drive unit.

DIY replacement is straightforward on the XC60: safely prop the panel open, then release the spring clips at each end and swap the strut. Always support the bonnet or tailgate—don’t rely on a weak strut. For power tailgate cars, follow the vehicle’s alignment/initialisation routine after fitting (typically cycling the tailgate fully and setting the stop height), and check pinch protection works properly.

Quality matters here—choose struts that match the original force rating and length for your VIN. With the right parts fitted, an XC60’s bonnet and tailgate will lift smoothly and stay put, just as they should.

Does the 2017 Volvo XC60 use gas struts on both the bonnet and tailgate?

Yes. The bonnet and tailgate each use gas struts on all 2017 XC60 variants. On power tailgate models, the gas struts work in tandem with an electric drive unit to control lift and smooth motion.

How long do the gas struts last, and what are the signs they’re failing?

Expect roughly 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Common symptoms include slow or uneven lifting, panels that won’t stay up, and performance that’s noticeably worse in cold weather. Any oil residue on the rod is a giveaway the internal seal is on the way out.

Can the XC60’s gas struts be replaced at home?

Usually, yes. With the panel safely propped, the clip-on ends make swap-over quick. Replace tailgate struts in pairs. If your car has a power tailgate, take care not to strain the drive unit and perform the tailgate re-learn/initialisation after fitting, if unsure, a workshop can handle it in a few minutes.