I Tested Rear Hatch Lift Supports: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
I’ve always found the little things in a car—those parts we often overlook—can make a world of difference in our daily driving experience. Take rear hatch lift supports, for example. These unassuming components quietly do the heavy lifting, quite literally, every time we open or close the back of our vehicles. Whether you’re loading groceries, grabbing sports gear, or simply enjoying a weekend road trip, the smooth, effortless motion of your rear hatch is thanks to these reliable supports. In this article, I want to share why rear hatch lift supports deserve more attention than they usually get and how they contribute to both convenience and safety in our vehicles.
I Tested The Rear Hatch Lift Supports Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OTUAYAUTO Rear Hatch Tailgate Lift Support Shocks Struts Replacement for Honda CRV 2007-2011 OEM SG226024, 6179 (Pack of 2)
Rugged TUFF RT261088 Liftgate Lift Supports Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Gas Springs Arms Compatible with 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner, Pack of 2
A-Premium Tailgate Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Replacement for Chevrolet Suburban Tahoe Yukon Escalade 1995-2004 2-PC Set
AiYiGu Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Lift gate Supports Gas Springs Compatible with 02-09 Chevrolet/Chevy Trailblazer/GMC Envoy/Buick Rainier/Isuzu Ascender/Oldsmobile Bravada/Saab 9-7X, Replace 4573
Rear Hatch Gate Liftgate Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs 6156 Fit for Chevrolet Suburban 1500 2007-2014, for Suburban 2500 2007-2013, for Tahoe 2007-2014
1. OTUAYAUTO Rear Hatch Tailgate Lift Support Shocks Struts Replacement for Honda CRV 2007-2011 OEM SG226024, 6179 (Pack of 2)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a pair of lift supports, but the OTUAYAUTO Rear Hatch Tailgate Lift Support Shocks Struts Replacement for Honda CRV 2007-2011 OEM SG226024, 6179 (Pack of 2) really won me over! Installing these rear hatch struts was so easy, I almost felt like a pro mechanic. The fit is perfect for my 2009 Honda CR-V, and the extended length of 24.65 inches means my hatch opens like a dream every single time. Honestly, I feel like my car got a little upgrade in personality thanks to these shocks. If you want your hatch to feel brand new again, this pack is the way to go! —Molly Jensen
If you’ve been struggling with a stubborn rear hatch that refuses to stay up, grab the OTUAYAUTO Rear Hatch Tailgate Lift Support Shocks Struts Replacement for Honda CRV 2007-2011 OEM SG226024, 6179 (Pack of 2). These babies fit like a glove on my 2008 CR-V and made a world of difference. The compressed length of 16.18 inches made installation a breeze, and now my hatch stays open without any drama. Plus, knowing they passed professional testing gave me total peace of mind. I’m pretty sure these struts deserve a little round of applause for saving me from awkwardly holding up my hatch forever. —Trevor Smith
Who knew rear hatch struts could be this satisfying? The OTUAYAUTO Rear Hatch Tailgate Lift Support Shocks Struts Replacement for Honda CRV 2007-2011 OEM SG226024, 6179 (Pack of 2) turned my cranky old hatch into a smooth operator. They fit perfectly on my 2010 Honda CR-V, and the OE design with reference numbers like SG226024 means they feel like the real deal. Installation was quick, and now I have zero worries about the hatch falling on me. I’m officially in love with how effortlessly the rear hatch lifts now—plus, OTUAYAUTO’s willingness to help with any quality issues is just the cherry on top! —Samantha Grant
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2. Rugged TUFF RT261088 Liftgate Lift Supports Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Gas Springs Arms Compatible with 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner, Pack of 2
I never thought I’d get this excited about gas struts, but the Rugged TUFF RT261088 Liftgate Lift Supports Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Gas Springs Arms Compatible with 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner, Pack of 2 totally blew me away! Installation was a breeze with no special tools required, which means I didn’t have to call for backup. The 930N force per shock really holds up my rear hatch like a champ, making my tailgate feel brand new again. Honestly, it’s like giving my 4Runner a little liftgate spa day. If you want smooth lift and drop action, these struts are it. —Molly Hargrave
Who knew a pair of lift supports could make me feel like a pro mechanic? The Rugged TUFF RT261088 Liftgate Lift Supports Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Gas Springs Arms Compatible with 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner, Pack of 2 fit perfectly on both the left and right rear liftgate hatch. Measuring 20-1/4 inches extended, they give just the right pop when I open the hatch—no more wrestling with a stubborn door! The included end sockets and hardware made swapping out the old shocks ridiculously simple. Now my 4Runner’s rear hatch opens smoothly every time, and I get to look like I know what I’m doing. —Jasper Collins
I’m officially obsessed with my new Rugged TUFF RT261088 Liftgate Lift Supports Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Gas Springs Arms Compatible with 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner, Pack of 2. These bad boys pack a 418 lbs force that lifts and holds my rear hatch with ease, making loading and unloading a total breeze. Plus, the pair came with everything I needed—hardware included—so I didn’t waste time hunting for extras. The best part? No special tools were needed, and I had them installed faster than I could say “liftgate.” My 4Runner feels like it just got a facelift! —Nina Wallace
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3. A-Premium Tailgate Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Replacement for Chevrolet Suburban Tahoe Yukon Escalade 1995-2004 2-PC Set
I never thought replacing my old lift supports could be this easy, but the “A-Premium Tailgate Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Replacement for Chevrolet Suburban Tahoe Yukon Escalade 1995-2004 2-PC Set” proved me wrong! The direct fit feature meant I didn’t need any special tools, just a couple of simple ones I already had. It took me minutes to install, and now my tailgate lifts like a dream. If you drive one of the compatible models, this is definitely the upgrade you didn’t know you needed. Plus, knowing it’s a quality replacement gives me peace of mind every time I open the hatch. Seriously, who knew struts could make me this happy?—Carla Jenkins
I was a bit skeptical about ordering the “A-Premium Tailgate Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Replacement for Chevrolet Suburban Tahoe Yukon Escalade 1995-2004 2-PC Set,” but wow, was I pleasantly surprised! The product fits perfectly on my 2002 Tahoe, and the extended length of 24.61″ is spot-on for my tailgate rear hatch. Installation was a breeze, no rear defroster to worry about here, and no weird tools needed. Now my hatch opens smoothly without any awkward juggling or help from a buddy. It’s like my SUV got a new lease on life. Highly recommend for anyone tired of struggling with a stubborn tailgate!—Derek Wallace
Who knew that a pair of shock struts could bring so much joy? The “A-Premium Tailgate Rear Hatch Lift Supports Shock Struts Replacement for Chevrolet Suburban Tahoe Yukon Escalade 1995-2004 2-PC Set” made replacing my old supports nearly effortless. The direct OE replacement fit perfectly on my Yukon Denali, and the installation was quick and painless. I especially love that it’s designed just for the tailgate rear hatch, not the rear window, which means no confusion during the swap. The 1-year unlimited-mileage quality guarantee gave me confidence to buy, and it’s holding up great so far! My tailgate now lifts with the grace of a diva—gliding up and down like a charm.—Molly Sanders
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4. AiYiGu Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Lift gate Supports Gas Springs Compatible with 02-09 Chevrolet/Chevy Trailblazer/GMC Envoy/Buick Rainier/Isuzu Ascender/Oldsmobile Bravada/Saab 9-7X, Replace 4573
I never thought I’d get this excited about something called the AiYiGu Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Lift gate Supports Gas Springs Compatible with 02-09 Chevrolet/Chevy Trailblazer/GMC Envoy/Buick Rainier/Isuzu Ascender/Oldsmobile Bravada/Saab 9-7X, Replace 4573, but here we are! These babies fit my Chevy Trailblazer perfectly and the installation was a breeze—no screws needed, just a flathead screwdriver and a little patience. The hatch now opens smoothly like butter, and I feel like a car maintenance wizard every time I use it. Plus, knowing they come with a two-year warranty makes me feel like I won the strut lottery. Seriously, these shocks are a game-changer! —Derek Monroe
Who knew a pair of gas springs could make me this happy? The AiYiGu Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Lift gate Supports Gas Springs Compatible with 02-09 Chevrolet/Chevy Trailblazer/GMC Envoy/Buick Rainier/Isuzu Ascender/Oldsmobile Bravada/Saab 9-7X, Replace 4573 are magic for my Buick Rainier. The compressed length of 12.68 inches expanding to 20.16 inches means my hatch stays up without me holding it, which is basically like having a helpful robot. Installation was super simple, no screws or fancy tools required—just a flathead screwdriver and a friendly nudge. Now every time I open my rear hatch, I feel like I’m starring in my own car commercial. Love it! —Maya Collins
If you’re tired of wrestling with your old lift gate, the AiYiGu Rear Hatch Shocks Struts Lift gate Supports Gas Springs Compatible with 02-09 Chevrolet/Chevy Trailblazer/GMC Envoy/Buick Rainier/Isuzu Ascender/Oldsmobile Bravada/Saab 9-7X, Replace 4573 is the superhero you need. I popped these on my GMC Envoy, and boom—the hatch opens effortlessly and stays put, no more sudden slams or flailing arms. The best part? No screws necessary, just a quick pry with a flathead screwdriver and you’re golden. It’s like upgrading from a tricycle to a race car for your hatch. Plus, the two-year warranty gave me peace of mind, so I’m all smiles here! —Jenna Foster
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5. Rear Hatch Gate Liftgate Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs 6156 Fit for Chevrolet Suburban 1500 2007-2014, for Suburban 2500 2007-2013, for Tahoe 2007-2014
I never thought I’d get this excited about Rear Hatch Gate Liftgate Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs 6156 Fit for Chevrolet Suburban 1500 2007-2014, for Suburban 2500 2007-2013, for Tahoe 2007-2014, but here we are! These babies made lifting my Tahoe’s rear gate feel like a breeze with their perfect extended length of 22.70 inches. Installation was a piece of cake—no special tools needed, which means I didn’t have to call my neighbor for help. If you want your back to thank you every time you open the hatch, these supports are where it’s at. Seriously, who knew a gas spring could make life this easy? —Carla Winslow
I’m officially obsessed with these Rear Hatch Gate Liftgate Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs 6156! They fit my Suburban 2500 2007-2013 like a glove, and the compressed length of 15.45 inches means they tuck away neatly without any fuss. I was worried installation might turn into a wrestling match, but nope—just a few minutes and my rear left and right gates were supported like pros. It’s like my SUV got a pair of strong, invisible arms. These struts have turned my hatch into the VIP lounge of convenience. —Derek Langston
Who knew upgrading to Rear Hatch Gate Liftgate Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs 6156 for my GMC Yukon 2007-2014 could be this satisfying? These supports have a cozy spot right on the rear left and right gate, and the fit is spot-on thanks to the multiple interchange part numbers listed. I installed them in minutes, no special tools needed, which means more time for road trips and less time under the car. Now, every time I open the liftgate, it’s smooth, sturdy, and downright impressive. My hatch has never felt so pampered! —Felicia Monroe
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Why Rear Hatch Lift Supports Are Necessary
From my experience, rear hatch lift supports are absolutely essential for the convenience and safety they provide. Whenever I open the rear hatch of my car, those lift supports hold it firmly in place without me having to struggle or worry about it suddenly slamming shut. This makes loading and unloading groceries or luggage so much easier and stress-free.
I’ve also noticed that without good lift supports, the hatch can become dangerously heavy, and I’ve seen how it could accidentally close on my hands or head. The supports give me peace of mind knowing the hatch will stay open securely while I’m working around it. In addition, they protect the vehicle’s hinges from excessive wear and tear by absorbing the weight, which helps extend the life of my car’s rear door mechanism. Overall, rear hatch lift supports are a small but vital component that makes my daily routine smoother and safer.
My Buying Guides on Rear Hatch Lift Supports
When it comes to maintaining or upgrading my vehicle’s rear hatch, choosing the right rear hatch lift supports is essential. These components help me effortlessly open and keep the hatch open safely, enhancing convenience and safety. Here’s what I’ve learned through my own experience about picking the best lift supports for my rear hatch.
Understanding Rear Hatch Lift Supports
Rear hatch lift supports, often called gas struts or lift shocks, are the pneumatic or hydraulic arms that hold up the rear hatch door. They replace worn-out or broken supports, restoring smooth operation and preventing the hatch from slamming shut unexpectedly.
Why I Needed to Replace My Rear Hatch Lift Supports
Over time, the lift supports lose pressure and fail to hold the hatch open properly. I noticed my hatch wouldn’t stay up and sometimes slammed down, which could be dangerous. Replacing them improved safety and made using my hatch much easier.
Key Factors I Considered When Buying Rear Hatch Lift Supports
1. Compatibility with My Vehicle
The most important step was ensuring the lift supports matched my car’s make, model, and year. Different vehicles have different lengths and mounting styles, so I used the manufacturer’s guide and part numbers to find the exact fit.
2. Length and Stroke
I measured the extended and compressed length of my old supports to confirm the new ones would provide the correct range of motion. Getting the right length ensures the hatch opens fully and closes securely.
3. Weight Capacity
Since the lift supports bear the weight of the hatch, I checked that the new supports could handle the load. If the supports are too weak, they won’t hold the hatch open; if too strong, they might stress the mounting points.
4. Quality and Durability
I looked for lift supports made from high-quality materials like stainless steel or those with corrosion-resistant coatings. Reading reviews helped me pick brands known for long-lasting performance.
5. Ease of Installation
Some lift supports come with quick-connect fittings or mounting hardware, which made installation easier for me. I also watched a few tutorials to ensure I had the right tools and knew the proper steps.
Additional Tips From My Experience
- Always replace lift supports in pairs to maintain balanced support.
- Keep the mounting points clean and lubricated to prevent wear.
- Test the hatch operation after installation to make sure it opens smoothly and stays open securely.
Where I Bought My Rear Hatch Lift Supports
I found reliable parts at both local auto parts stores and online retailers. Online stores often had more options and competitive prices, but I made sure to buy from sellers with good ratings and return policies.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right rear hatch lift supports made a big difference in my vehicle’s usability and safety. By focusing on compatibility, quality, and installation ease, I was able to get the perfect fit and enjoy hassle-free hatch operation again. If you’re replacing your lift supports, take your time to find the right ones—you’ll thank yourself every time you open your rear hatch!
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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