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12 June 2024 How to replace car boot gas struts
It's possible that you don't pay close attention to all the various components of your car. However, there's one important component that deserves attention – the boot strut, also known as the tailgate strut. Car boot struts are highly useful and play a crucial role in keeping you safe when you need to load or unload your vehicle. Here we will take a closer look at what boot struts are and explain how to replace them if necessary.
What are car boot struts?
Tailgate/boot struts are important components in a car that ensure the smooth opening and closing of the car rear hatch or tailgate. They are usually found in hatchback vehicles, SUVs, and some estate cars. The purpose of car boot struts is to support the weight of the tailgate and hold it in the open position when raised, which makes it easier for you to access the cargo area.
Tailgates of vehicles are supported by struts that consist of a piston and a cylinder filled with gas or oil. These compress when the tailgate is lifted, and the gas or oil inside the cylinder provides resistance, which assists in supporting the weight of the tailgate. This mechanism enables the tailgate to remain open without requiring any manual support, thereby allowing you to load or unload items in the cargo area with ease.
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How to change boot struts
Over time, the struts that support the tailgate of your car may become worn out and ineffective. If you find it difficult to lift your tailgate or it doesn't stay open, it could be an indication that the struts need to be replaced. Don’t worry, replacing the car boot struts is not as difficult as it may seem.
Before you begin, make sure to ask an assistant to hold the boot lid open or use a support to keep it in position. While holding the lid with one hand, carefully pry out the metal clip. Then, disconnect the gas strut from the ball attachment and repeat the same process for the lower attachment. After that, remove the old strut and clean the fittings properly.
Remember to lubricate the inside of the new gas strut end fittings before installation. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to install the new components accurately. Next, press the gas strut onto the ball attachment and repeat the process if you have a second strut. If your struts come with bolted mounting brackets, handle these parts with care to avoid damaging the paintwork. In case the brackets don't line up, you can turn the upper bracket on the rod of the new strut. Lastly, make sure to check that the gas struts are working correctly.
You can follow our tutorial below for further step-by-step instructions.
How to change the tailgate struts on your car
How to repair tailgate gas struts
Tailgate struts are precise engineering components that contain gas or oil in sealed chambers. Repairing them can be challenging as it may require disassembling and resealing these components which is why manufacturers advise against this. However, replacement struts are readily available as they are commonly found as replacement parts. These replacement struts are designed to meet vehicle specifications, such as Hyundai i10 boot struts, and can be easily purchased online. It is more convenient and safer to buy new ones than to locate and source specific components for repair.
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