Parts for your 2023 Toyota C-hr-Gas struts

2023 Toyota C‑HR Gas Struts (Back Door Stays)

Gas struts are relevant and fitted to the 2023 Toyota C‑HR. Toyota’s technical documentation refers to them as back door stays, used to support and control the tailgate/hatch. This is confirmed in the Toyota C‑HR Owner’s Manual (2023) sections covering the back door and its support, the Toyota Repair Manual (TIS) procedures for “Back Door: Back Door Stay — Removal/Installation,” and the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) which lists a “Stay, Back Door” for this model year. The bonnet on this vehicle uses a prop rod rather than gas struts.

On this C‑HR, the gas struts do the heavy lifting for the tailgate. Charged with nitrogen and a dab of oil for damping, they hold the back door up securely, help it rise smoothly, and stop it slamming down. That means safer loading, less strain on hinges and latches, and a hatch that feels tidy and controlled even in a stiff southerly.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but struts wear over time. Tell‑tale signs include the hatch feeling heavy, dropping part‑way, needing a shoulder nudge to open, oily film around the rod seals, or a hiss with poor lift—especially noticeable on cold mornings. When that happens, replace them in pairs so lift is even left‑to‑right.

Good servicing habits keep them sweet for longer:

• Keep the polished rods clean—wipe off dust and road grime, don’t grease or spray silicone on them, as it can damage seals.
• Avoid hanging extra weight on the tailgate (bike racks, heavy spoilers) unless the struts are uprated to suit.
• Support the hatch with a prop or helper when changing struts—those last turns can let the door drop quickly.
• Choose quality, correct‑rating replacements, the wrong force can slam the door or over‑stress hinges.

If the C‑HR’s tailgate won’t stay up or feels lazy, a fresh pair of gas struts is a quick, affordable fix that restores the factory feel. A workshop can sort it in under an hour, and most owners appreciate the instant upgrade every time the hatch goes up.

FAQs

Does the 2023 Toyota C‑HR have bonnet gas struts?
No. The bonnet uses a prop rod. Gas struts are fitted to the back door (tailgate) only, as referenced in Toyota’s Owner’s Manual and service procedures.

How long do the C‑HR’s tailgate gas struts last?
Typically 5–10 years depending on climate and use. If the hatch sags, needs help to open, or leaves an oil smear on the strut, it’s time to replace—ideally as a matched pair.

Can stronger gas struts be fitted for accessories on the tailgate?
Uprated struts exist, but going too strong can stress hinges and latches or make closing difficult. Match any upgrade to the added weight and have a technician confirm suitability.