Parts for your 2020 Nissan Serena-Gas struts

2020 Nissan Serena gas struts — what they do and how to look after them

Based on Nissan’s C27 Serena owner’s manual (Back Door and Dual Back Door sections), Nissan’s electronic parts catalogue (EPC/FAST) listings for “Back Door Stay” and “Upper Back Door Stay”, and common OE/aftermarket parts catalogues for the 2016–2021 C27, the 2020 Nissan Serena is fitted with gas struts on the main tailgate and on the split upper back door glass. The bonnet uses a prop rod rather than gas struts.

On the Serena, gas struts (also called gas springs or lift supports) counterbalance the weight of the rear hatch and the upper glass panel, helping them open smoothly and stay put without drooping. They make day‑to‑day use easier, reduce the effort needed to lift the tailgate, and add a layer of safety by preventing the door from slamming shut, especially on a slope or in a gust of wind.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the gas struts at least annually or every 10,000 km. A quick test is to open the door fully and see whether it holds at the top of its travel for a minute or two in mild weather. Look for a light oil film on the shaft, any binding or squeaks, and signs of a weak side (the door twists slightly when lifting). Because the Serena’s Dual Back Door uses smaller struts for the upper glass, give those a check as well.

• Common signs they’re due: the tailgate feels heavy, won’t stay up, drops in cold weather, or needs a helping hand to open.
• Care tips: don’t grease the shiny shaft, just wipe it clean. If needed, a tiny dab of dry silicone on the ball joints only—never on the rod—keeps pivots moving.

When replacement time comes, swap struts in pairs on the same door so lift and hold are balanced. Support the hatch with a prop or a helper, and fit the new units with the shaft pointing down so the internal seal stays lubricated. Match the correct Serena C27 part style and Newton rating (main back door vs upper glass), and follow Nissan service instructions for clip removal and refit. If the vehicle has a power tailgate, carry out any required initialisation after replacement and confirm the latch and height stop work as expected.

Life span varies with climate and use, but five to eight years is typical. Coastal air, dust, and frequent short lifts can shorten that. Never work under an unsupported hatch, and recycle old gas struts properly—pressurised units shouldn’t be crushed or incinerated.

FAQs

Does the 2020 Nissan Serena have gas struts?
Yes. The C27 Serena uses gas‑filled stays on the main back door and on the split upper back door glass. The bonnet uses a simple prop rod, not gas struts.

What are the signs my Serena’s gas struts need replacing?
If the tailgate or upper glass feels heavy, won’t hold at the top, drops in chilly weather, or needs a push to start opening, the struts are weakening. Oily residue on the shaft or any binding/squeaking at the pivots are further clues.

Can just one gas strut be replaced?
It’s best to replace them in pairs on the same door. A single fresh strut can twist the hatch, stress hinges, and still won’t hold the door as intended.