Parts for your 2018 Toyota Rav4-Gas struts

2018 Toyota RAV4 Gas Struts: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Based on technical sources including the Toyota RAV4 (2016–2018) Repair Manual sections for Body – Back Door – Back Door Stay removal/installation, Toyota’s Electronic Parts Catalogue listings for “Back Door Stay Assembly,” and typical OEM service bulletins for the XA40 platform, the 2018 Toyota RAV4 does use gas-charged struts on the rear tailgate (manual and power back door variants). The bonnet on this model uses a prop rod rather than gas struts.

On a 2018 RAV4, gas struts support and control the rear tailgate, helping it lift smoothly and stay put without slamming or drifting. They’re sealed, nitrogen-charged units designed to deliver steady force throughout the tailgate’s travel. For anyone loading the pram, the dog, or a week’s worth of groceries, healthy struts make the back door feel light and predictable.

Over time, seals harden and gas pressure drops, especially if the vehicle sees big temperature swings or lots of dusty use. The tell-tales are familiar: the tailgate opens slower or won’t rise fully, needs a hand to start lifting, or sags back down—worse in cold mornings. Oil weeping on the shaft, clicking at the ball joints, or a choppy motion are other red flags.

Replacement is straightforward and usually done in pairs to keep lift and balance even. Always support the tailgate with a prop or a mate before popping the clips. Don’t twist the rod, don’t clamp the shaft with pliers, and don’t try to re-gas old units—they’re not serviceable. For RAV4s with a power back door, use the correct spec struts rated for the motorised system, mixing types can overload the drive unit. Orientation matters too—fit them as per the service manual so the internal seal stays lubricated.

As part of routine servicing, a quick strut check takes seconds:

• Open the tailgate fully and watch for smooth, even motion.
• Listen for creaks or clicks at the mounts.
• Inspect the chrome shaft for nicks and any oil film.
• Lightly clean the shafts—no grease or silicone on the rods, as it attracts grit and damages seals.

Quality replacements matched to the RAV4’s build (manual vs power back door) restore that easy, one-handed lift and keep the tailgate safe for kids and cargo alike.

Popular questions about 2018 Toyota RAV4 gas struts

How long do the tailgate gas struts usually last?
Many owners see 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Lots of hot-and-cold cycles, frequent tailgate operation, or exposure to dust and salt can shorten lifespan. If the door won’t hold itself up or slows down noticeably, it’s time.

Should both rear struts be replaced together?
Yes. Replacing in pairs keeps lift force balanced so the tailgate opens evenly and the mounts aren’t stressed. Mixing an old and a new strut can cause uneven motion and early wear.

Are power tailgate struts different from manual ones?
They can be. Power back door systems rely on struts with specific force ratings to work with the drive unit. Always match the replacement to the vehicle’s build spec to avoid overloading the motor or ending up with a tailgate that won’t open fully.