Parts for your 2018 Holden Colorado-Gas struts

Understanding Gas Struts on the 2018 Holden Colorado

The 2018 Holden Colorado is a reliable and tough ute that plenty of Aussies use both for work and weekend adventures. When it comes to parts like gas struts, many owners wonder if this component is part of their vehicle and how it plays a role in day-to-day use. So, does the 2018 Holden Colorado use gas struts, and what should you know about them?

To clear things up, gas struts are indeed fitted to the 2018 Holden Colorado, primarily used to support the bonnet (or hood) and sometimes the tailgate or rear hatch on certain models or configurations. These little mechanical helpers are so common in modern vehicles because they make opening and holding up heavy panels safe and easy without the need for a prop rod or manual effort.

Gas struts work using compressed nitrogen gas sealed inside a cylinder with a piston. When you lift the bonnet or tailgate, the strut pushes against the weight, absorbing the force and holding it open gently and securely. This not only reduces strain on the user but also helps prevent accidental slams and damage to the vehicle's bodywork.

For the Holden Colorado, the most common place to find gas struts is under the bonnet. Older models or base variants might use a traditional prop rod instead, but from the mid to late 2010s, many utes started to feature gas struts for convenience and safety. Having your bonnet fitted with gas struts means you can lift the bonnet with less effort and it will stay up firmly while you check under the hood or carry out maintenance.

Maintenance and replacement of gas struts on the 2018 Holden Colorado is pretty straightforward but important if you want things to keep working smoothly. Over time, gas struts can lose pressure or fail due to wear and tear, exposure to the elements or physical damage. When this happens, the bonnet might not stay up properly or could even slam shut unexpectedly, posing a safety risk.

Here are some useful tips and advice about caring for your gas struts:

• Regular inspection: Every service or check-up, it's a good idea to look over the gas struts. Check for visible damage, corrosion, or signs that the strut isn't holding pressure well, like the bonnet slowly dropping after you lift it.
• Keep them clean: Dirt and grime can cause seals to wear and make the struts less effective. Wiping down gas struts with a damp cloth every so often, especially after off-road trips or harsh weather conditions, can prolong their life.
• Avoid manual force: Don't try to force the strut open or closed as this can damage the internal seals or the cylinder.
• Replacement: If a gas strut starts failing, it's best to swap it out for a new one rather than trying to repair it. Replacement struts for the Holden Colorado are generally easy to source from dealerships or auto parts stores, and fitting them is a straightforward job that can be done DIY if you're handy, or by a mechanic during routine servicing.
• Pair replacement: Always replace gas struts in pairs where applicable to maintain balanced support and ensure smooth operation of the bonnet or tailgate.

Overall, gas struts offer great convenience and added safety on vehicles like the 2018 Holden Colorado. Their role is simple but important, easing the daily routine of checking under the bonnet or loading the back of your ute. Keeping them in good nick means less hassle and a more secure experience every time you open your hood or tailgate.