Have noticed recently that during very cold weather the hydraulic lifts for the rear hatch fail to hold it in the UP position. Is this normal or typical? Do they need to be replaced?

 

Most likely needs to be replaced. I've had these aftermarket Amazon ones for 3 or so years with zero issues.



Note: One strut is not strong enough to hold the hatch up, so i'd suggest having someone help you hold the hatch. If you're doing it solo, you can use the broom like they do in that video, or let it rest against your head/shoulder while you pop the struts off and replace them. If you're resting it on your head/shoulder, use a flathead screwdriver to pop off both of the metal clips on the existing struts, then either pry/leverage it off with the screwdriver or pull them off with force.

 

I got OEM from Scottsdale Arizona. Maybe I will do mine this weekend.

Salim

 

Where did you get yours? Do you have to replace the clips he pryed off? It does not look like he did in the video.

 

The new struts should have the metal clips pre-installed (the Amazon linked ones in post #2 do)

 

Always use the posted stuff as guideline and follow the instructions that come with the unit you purchased.

Technically it is a ball and socket joint and something needs to be done to prevent the ball to fall out of the socket. The clip hold s the ball in the socket.

I bought it from the Lexus dealership in Scottsdale Arizona. They sell stuff through eBay.

Salim