How to Repair Gas Struts
If you go to open a storage hatch or tailgate, and instead of the smooth lift you're expecting the lid slams shut or won’t stay open, a failed gas strut is probably to blame. This situation is not only frustrating, it’s potentially hazardous - especially if the strut is holding up something heavy.
If you’ve got a faulty strut and want to know whether there’s a way to repair it, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common issues that cause gas struts to fail, what you can realistically fix, and when it’s time to replace instead of repair.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Can you repair gas struts
- Common gas strut issues, and the ones you can fix
- What not to do
- How to get your gas struts working again
- When to replace instead of repair
- How to choose the right replacement strut
Can You Repair Gas Struts?
Technically, gas struts can be repaired. However, in most cases it's not practical - or safe! - to do so. Because most gas struts are sealed units, pressurised with nitrogen gas and oil for smooth operation, once the internal seal is compromised or the pressure is lost, repair becomes complicated and potentially dangerous without the proper tools and expertise.
So, while it’s possible to repair a gas strut in theory, in a specialist workshop, most people will find that replacement is the safer, quicker, and more cost-effective route.
That said, some minor issues can be fixed or improved without replacing the whole unit.
Common Gas Strut Issues (and What You Can Fix)
Here are some of the most frequent gas strut problems, along with guidance on what can be done about them:
Weak or Failing Lift
Symptoms: the strut no longer holds weight, drops slowly, or fails to extend fully.
Causes: loss of internal gas pressure due to seal failure, wear and tear, or age.
Can you fix it? Sadly not. Once gas pressure is lost, it can’t be safely recharged without specialised equipment. Your best bet is to replace the strut.
Jerky or Noisy Operation
Symptoms: the motion feels rough, stuttered, or makes squeaking noises.
Causes: dirt, rust, or lack of lubrication on the piston rod or end fittings.
Can you fix it? Sometimes. You can try cleaning the exposed rod with a soft cloth and applying a light lubricant to the joints, not to the rod itself. If performance improves, no replacement is needed.
Stiff or Jammed Movement
Symptoms: the strut is hard to compress or won’t extend smoothly.
Causes: misalignment, bent rod, damaged fittings, or corrosion.
Can you fix it? Only if it’s an external issue. Check that the mounting brackets are aligned and that nothing is obstructing movement. If the rod is bent, the strut must be replaced.
Detached or Loose End Fittings
Symptoms: the strut pops off during operation or feels wobbly.
Causes: worn or damaged ball sockets, loose brackets, or missing retaining clips.
Can you fix it? Often this is fixable. End fittings can be replaced separately. Just make sure they match the original spec in size and type.
Visible Oil or Gas Leakage
Symptoms: oily residue on the piston rod or around the seal.
Causes: internal seal failure.
Can you fix it? No, these symptoms are a sign the strut is failing internally and needs prompt replacement to remain functional and safe.
Safety First: What Not to Do
As we mentioned earlier, gas struts are sealed, high-pressure components. They are hazardous when treated incorrectly, and attempting to open, drill, or re-gas them at home definitely qualifies. Doing so is dangerous and strongly discouraged.
⚠️ DANGER: DO NOT ATTEMPT
- Do not try to recharge a gas strut yourself
- Do not attempt to cut or open a sealed strut
- Do not use makeshift replacements for a strut
If you are in any doubt whatsoever, replace the strut. They’re affordable, widely available, and come pre-configured for safe and easy installation.
How to Get Your Gas Struts Working Again (Without Full Replacement)
While repairing the internal mechanism of a strut isn't feasible, you can still improve performance or address external problems. Here's how:
- Clean and Lubricate
Wipe the piston rod with a clean cloth to remove dirt and debris. Apply a dry silicone lubricant to end fittings if needed but avoid oil-based sprays on the rod itself, as they can damage the seal.
- Check Alignment
Ensure mounting points haven’t shifted. Misaligned brackets can cause binding and reduce the lifespan of the strut.
- Replace Fittings
If the ball sockets, brackets or clevis ends are damaged, you can often replace just these parts. Many suppliers offer end fittings as separate accessories.
- Upgrade to a Stronger Strut
If your current struts are functioning but not quite strong enough, you may need ones with a higher force rating. Check out our guide on gas strut sizing for help finding the right spec.
When It’s Time to Replace Instead of Repair
In most cases, the following signs mean it’s time for a full gas strut replacement:
- The strut no longer supports the load
- You see visible oil or gas leakage
- The piston rod is bent or scored
- The strut was installed more than 5–7 years ago
Even if a strut is technically still functional, replacing it can restore smooth operation and prevent future failures.
Choosing a Replacement Gas Strut
Need help choosing the right replacement? You’ll need to know:
- Extended length (centre of end fitting to centre of end fitting)
- Stroke (distance piston travels)
- Force rating (in Newtons)
- End fittings (e.g., ball socket, eyelet, bracket)
Our guide to gas strut sizing has more in-depth information, and you can contact our team for tailored advice.
In Summary
Gas struts are incredibly useful, but when they stop working, full repair is rarely an option. Even with specialist equipment and complete knowledge, attempting repair can be unsafe and it’s a risk not worth taking. While some external issues like alignment or fittings can be addressed, internal failures generally require a complete replacement.
The good news? Struts are easy to replace and widely available. With the right measurements and a few simple checks, you can restore smooth, reliable motion in no time.