Parts for your 2020 Nissan Pathfinder-Gas struts

2020 Nissan Pathfinder gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are absolutely relevant on the 2020 Nissan Pathfinder (R52). Technical documentation confirms it: the Nissan Factory Service Manual for the R52 details the rear liftgate “lift support/liftgate stay” assemblies used to counterbalance the tailgate, including on power tailgate variants, while the bonnet uses a mechanical support rod rather than gas struts. Nissan’s Electronic Parts Catalogue and common parts catalogues also list rear liftgate gas struts for the 2020 model year.

On the Pathfinder, the rear liftgate relies on a pair of gas-charged struts to make opening smooth and to keep the hatch safely held up. Even when the vehicle’s fitted with a power tailgate, those gas struts do the heavy lifting behind the scenes, reducing load on the motor and hinges. That’s why tired struts can make the tailgate feel heavy, slam shut in a gust of wind, or cause a power tailgate to struggle or reverse.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the liftgate struts a quick once-over. They’re sealed units, so there’s no topping them up—maintenance is about inspection and timely replacement. Look for an oily film on the shaft, uneven extension, or any binding. If the hatch won’t stay up on a cool morning, or you need to help it past halfway, the gas charge is likely fading.

• Typical signs they’re due: hatch drops or won’t hold, slow or jerky opening, audible hissing, visible oil on the strut body, or the power tailgate stalls/backs off.
• Good practice: replace in pairs to keep lift effort balanced and hinge loads even.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer, but care is key. Always support the hatch securely—these are heavier than they look—and wear eye protection. Most Pathfinder struts use ball-stud mounts with spring clips: carefully pop the clip, pull the socket off, and swap the unit. Fit with the rod end down (common orientation to keep internal lubrication on the seal), ensure clips are fully seated, and check smooth operation before removing your support. Avoid greasing the chrome shaft—just wipe it with a clean, lint-free cloth. Petroleum products or paint overspray on the shaft can ruin the seals.

There’s no fixed kilometre interval, but many owners see 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Adding liftgate strut checks to each service—especially before winter and after dusty or coastal trips—helps catch issues early and keeps the Pathfinder’s tailgate working sweet as.

Popular questions about 2020 Nissan Pathfinder gas struts

Does the 2020 Pathfinder have bonnet struts?
From factory, the 2020 Pathfinder uses a prop rod for the bonnet, not gas struts. The rear liftgate does use gas struts. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist if someone prefers hands-free bonnet support, but they’re not OEM on this model year.

How long do the rear liftgate gas struts last?
Many last 5–10 years, but heat, cold, and frequent tailgate use can shorten that. If the hatch feels heavy, won’t stay up, or the power tailgate hesitates or reverses, plan on replacing both struts. A quick check at each service is the easiest way to stay ahead of failures.

Can they be replaced at home?
Yes, with basic tools and careful support of the hatch. The usual process is to prop the tailgate securely, release the retaining clips at each end, and swap the struts one at a time. If the vehicle has a power tailgate, don’t force it—switch to manual mode per the owner’s manual before starting the job.