Parts for your 2018 Toyota Corolla-Gas struts

2018 Toyota Corolla gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references including the Toyota Repair Manual and Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for the ZRE182R Corolla Hatch and ZRE172R Corolla Sedan, gas struts are factory-fitted to the rear hatch of the 2018 Corolla Hatch. The 2018 Corolla Sedan uses torsion bars for the boot and a prop rod for the bonnet, so it doesn’t have gas struts in those locations. That means gas struts are relevant for hatch owners, while sedan owners won’t find them on their car from factory.

On the 2018 Toyota Corolla Hatch, the rear gas struts do the heavy lifting: they assist the tailgate to open smoothly, hold it safely at full height, and tame the closing motion so it doesn’t slam. They’re nitrogen-charged, sealed units with internal oil for damping. In day-to-day use, they keep the back door easy to operate even with a loaded shop, and reduce stress on hinges, mounts and trims.

There’s no fixed service interval, but in Aussie and Kiwi conditions most hatch struts last around 5–8 years. Heat, coastal air and frequent use can shorten that. Tell-tales they’re on the way out include the hatch sagging or dropping, slow or uneven lift, a need to “help” it up, squeaks or binding, and a fine oil mist or rust on the piston rod.

Replacement is straightforward and usually a DIY-friendly 15–30 minute job. Always support the tailgate with a prop or a helper, then pop the retaining clips and swap the struts. It’s best practice to replace them as a pair for balanced lift and latch alignment. Match by VIN to get the correct force rating and end fittings, quality OEM or reputable aftermarket units are both fine. Avoid compressing new struts by hand and don’t use pliers on the chromed rod.

For ongoing care, keep the rods clean with a dry microfibre cloth—no grease or silicone sprays on the shaft, as they can damage the seals. Check the ball studs and brackets for play, and listen for clicks or knocks that suggest worn mounts. If a strut has leaked or the hatch won’t stay up, it’s time—these parts aren’t designed to be re-gassed. Dispose of old struts responsibly as pressurised items via metal recycling.

• Fitted on 2018 Corolla Hatch: rear hatch gas struts
• Not fitted on 2018 Corolla Sedan: boot/bonnet gas struts

Popular questions

Which 2018 Corolla models have gas struts?
Hatch models have gas struts on the rear hatch. Sedan models use torsion bars for the boot and a prop rod for the bonnet, so they don’t have factory gas struts in those spots.

How do you know if the hatch struts are failing?
If the tailgate won’t stay up, rises slowly, needs a helping hand, or shows oil on the rod, the struts are likely tired. Cold mornings often make a failing strut show its age sooner.

Do both struts need replacing?
Yes, replace in pairs. New-and-old mixes can twist the hatch, cause uneven lift, and stress mounts. It’s a simple, affordable job that keeps the back door safe and easy to use.