Body Mechanical & Trim
Hood Strut
A hood strut is a gas lift support that raises the hood and holds it open while you work. We carry 120 hood struts from $2 to $68 for vehicles from 1994-2023, from Stabilus, Rhino Pac, Sachs, API and Action Crash, with fits for the Ford Expedition, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen Jetta and Jeep models.
Shop hood strut by vehicle
Signs of worn hood struts
Gas struts lose pressure with age. You may notice the hood will not stay up, drops slowly, or needs help to lift. Cold weather makes weak struts worse. Oil on the shaft is another sign of a failed seal.
A hood that falls can cause injury, so use a prop rod or a sturdy support while you wait for new struts.
Pairs and positions
Most vehicles with hood struts use two, one on each side. Listings show left, right, or a left and right pair, and some are sold as a 2 piece set. Replace both at once so the hood is supported evenly.
Match the length, force and end fittings for your model and year in the fitment table. Struts that look alike can differ in force.
Replacing hood struts
Have a helper hold the hood or prop it securely. Most struts use ball sockets with a small retaining clip. Lift the clip with a flat screwdriver and pull the end off the ball stud. Replace one side at a time so the other strut helps hold the hood.
Mount the new strut in the same direction as the old one. Never puncture or heat old struts, as they hold pressurized gas.
Hood Strut questions
Do hood struts come in pairs?
Some listings are a 2 piece set and some are single struts. Check the quantity on each listing and order two if your vehicle uses one per side.
Why will my hood not stay up?
The gas struts have most likely lost pressure. Replacement is simple and usually takes only a few minutes per side. Cold weather often makes a weak strut more obvious.
Can I replace hood struts myself?
Yes. Support the hood, release the clips at each end, and snap the new struts on. Replace one side at a time so the hood stays supported.