Parts for your 2020 Holden Commodore-Gas struts

2020 Holden Commodore gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical sources — including the Holden Commodore ZB Owner’s Manual (MY20), GM Global Service Information procedures for Insignia/Commodore “Rear Compartment Lid Support Strut Replacement”, and GM Genuine Parts/EPC listings for liftgate gas springs — the 2020 Holden Commodore is fitted with gas struts on the rear liftback/tailgate (and on the Sportwagon tailgate). Bonnet support can vary by variant, with some using a prop rod. So yes, gas struts are definitely relevant on this model.

On the 2020 Commodore, gas struts do the heavy lifting for the rear hatch or wagon tailgate. They’re nitrogen-charged dampers designed to counterbalance the weight of the panel, making it easy to open with one hand and keeping it safely held at full height. They also help control the closing motion so things don’t slam and shake the car to bits.

Like any pressurised component, they wear with age, heat, cold, and use. Most owners will see 5–8 years out of a set, but hard use, frequent cargo loading, or very hot/cold climates can shorten that. If the hatch starts dropping, opens sluggishly, needs a helping hand to stay up, or leaves an oily film on the strut body, it’s time to replace them.

• Replace in pairs to keep lift and balance even.
• Support the hatch/tailgate securely before removing clips.
• Fit with the rod facing down (shaft low) to keep seals lubricated.
• Don’t grease the chrome shaft — just keep it clean, a dab of silicone on ball joints is fine.

For wagons with powered tailgates, follow the reset/initialisation steps in the service info after fitting struts so the system relearns height and load. Always choose OE or a quality aftermarket match with the correct force rating for your exact body style, cheap, under-spec units make the door heavy, while over-strong ones can stress hinges and mounts.

Maintenance is mostly about inspection. During regular services, a quick wipe of the shafts, a check for scoring or leaks, and a gentle feel test for smooth, even resistance is all that’s needed. Struts aren’t repairable, if they’re weak or weeping, swap them. When replacing, also inspect ball studs and brackets for play and torque them to spec from the service manual. Simple job, big safety and convenience payoff.

Popular questions about 2020 Holden Commodore gas struts

How long do the gas struts typically last on a 2020 Commodore?
Most owners can expect roughly 5–8 years, depending on climate and usage. If the hatch won’t stay up on a cool morning or sags when loaded, that’s a sign they’re due.

Can just one strut be replaced?
It’s not recommended. Replacing in pairs keeps the lift balanced and prevents uneven loading on hinges and mounts.

Does the 2020 Commodore have bonnet struts?
The rear liftback/tailgate uses gas struts across the range. Bonnet support varies by variant, some use a prop rod. If bonnet struts aren’t fitted, retrofit kits are available, provided they suit the ZB platform mounting points.