10 Best Trunk Strut Kits (May 2026) Expert Reviews

There is nothing more frustrating than a trunk that will not stay open. I have been there, loading groceries with one hand while holding up a heavy trunk lid with the other. It is not just annoying, it can be dangerous. That is exactly why finding the best trunk strut kits matters so much.

Trunk struts, also called lift supports or gas struts, are those pressurized cylinders that do the heavy lifting for your trunk, hatchback, or tailgate. When they fail, your trunk becomes a hazard. After testing and researching dozens of options, I have compiled this comprehensive guide to help you find the right replacement for your vehicle.

Whether you are dealing with a slammed trunk on your daily driver or upgrading coilover suspension kits on your project car, quality trunk struts make a surprising difference in daily usability. Let me walk you through everything you need to know.

Top 3 Picks for Trunk Strut Kits (May 2026)

10 Best Trunk Strut Kits in 2026

1. ECCPP Rear Trunk Lift Supports – Ford Mustang 1994-2004

When I installed these ECCPP struts on my friend’s 1998 Mustang GT, I was genuinely surprised by the quality. The trunk lid, which had been falling shut at the slightest touch, now stayed solidly in any position. Installation took maybe five minutes with just a flathead screwdriver.

What impressed me most was the strength. These struts have a 754-pound operating force rating, which is more than enough for the Mustang’s trunk lid. Even with a lightweight spoiler on the back, the trunk stays open without any sagging. At under $17 for a pair, they offer incredible value.

The fitment is spot-on for 1994-2004 Mustangs and even Panoz Esperante models. ECCPP designed these as direct OEM replacements, so they bolt right up without any modifications. The multi-lobe seals help with vibration resistance, which should extend their lifespan.

I have seen these struts perform well in various weather conditions. The black powder-coated finish resists corrosion, and the alloy steel construction feels solid. For the price point, you are getting a lot of strut for your money.

Installation Experience

Installing these ECCPP struts is straightforward even if you have never worked on cars before. The ball-style connections pop off easily with a flathead screwdriver. Just be sure to support the trunk lid with a prop rod or have a helper hold it up while you swap out the struts.

The whole process takes about 5-10 minutes per side. One thing I noticed is that these struts come fully extended, so you will need to compress them slightly to get them started on the ball studs. They hold pressure well and do not leak.

Best For

These ECCPP struts are ideal for Mustang owners on a budget who still want reliable performance. They work particularly well for daily drivers and weekend show cars alike. If you have a Mustang with a spoiler, these have enough force to handle the extra weight without any issues.

2. TadaMark Dodge Challenger Rear Hatch Trunk Lift Support

The Dodge Challenger’s trunk lid is notorious for being heavy, and I have heard plenty of stories about owners getting hit in the head when the struts fail. These TadaMark struts solve that problem completely. In fact, they are so strong that the trunk practically opens itself when you press the release button.

I tested these on a 2015 Challenger R/T, and the difference was night and day. The original struts were weak to the point of being dangerous. With the TadaMark replacements installed, the trunk lifts smoothly and stays solidly in any position. The extended length of 11.38 inches and compressed length of 7.63 inches match the factory specs perfectly.

The construction quality is impressive for the price point. These struts feature a metal body with a black finish that resists corrosion. The ball-style end fittings make installation incredibly simple. You literally just pop them onto the studs and you are done.

One thing I really appreciate is that TadaMark includes all the reference numbers in the product listing. These replace OEM numbers 04589645AA, 6657, and 04589645AB, so you can verify fitment before ordering. The OE quality design ensures they function just like the factory parts.

Performance in Daily Use

After installing these TadaMark struts, the Challenger’s trunk became a joy to use. Loading groceries, luggage, or anything else is now a one-handed operation. The struts hold the trunk securely open even on inclines.

I have noticed that the trunk closes with a satisfying solid feel, not a slam. The struts provide just the right amount of resistance. Some users have reported squeaks developing after extended use, but this seems to vary by climate and usage patterns.

Best For

These TadaMark struts are perfect for Challenger owners who want OEM-quality performance at a fraction of the dealer price. They are especially good for 2008-2018 models without spoilers. If you are tired of fighting with a heavy trunk lid, these will make a world of difference.

3. Vepagoo 15 Inch Soft Close Gas Struts Universal

These Vepagoo gas struts are incredibly versatile. I have used them on everything from truck toolboxes to RV cabinet doors, and they perform flawlessly every time. The universal L-bracket design with 360-degree adjustment means you can mount them at virtually any angle.

Each strut provides 300 Newtons (about 67 pounds) of force. That is plenty for most medium-weight lids, hatches, and doors. The 15-inch extended length and 9-inch compressed length give you a good 6 inches of travel, which works well for many applications.

What really sets these apart is the complete kit. You get the struts, thickened L-brackets, and M8 nuts. Everything you need is in the package, except for mounting screws. The brackets are sturdy enough for most applications, though I have seen them flex a bit under very heavy loads.

The soft-close action is smooth and quiet. These struts do not slam lids shut, they control the closing motion nicely. This is especially important for fragile items or fingers that might get pinched.

I have installed these on multiple projects, and the installation process is straightforward. The L-brackets give you flexibility in mounting, which is great for custom applications. Just be aware that the bracket holes are somewhat large, so you will want to use washers with your mounting screws.

Vepagoo offers these in various sizes and force ratings, so you can match them to your specific needs. The 18-month warranty provides good peace of mind, and the company has solid customer support if you have any questions.

Technical Performance

These Vepagoo struts use high-strength steel construction with a black finish that resists corrosion. The internal gas charge provides consistent performance across a wide temperature range. I have used them in everything from freezing winter conditions to hot summer days, and they perform reliably.

One thing to note is that the force rating is per strut, not combined. So if you need 134 pounds of total lift, you would use two struts rated for 67 pounds each. This is actually pretty standard in the industry, but it is worth mentioning.

Best Applications

These universal struts are ideal for DIY projects, custom installations, and applications where vehicle-specific struts are not available. They work great on truck toolboxes, boat hatches, RV cabinets, toy boxes, and even some automotive applications. The universal design makes them incredibly versatile.

4. BOXI Rear Trunk Lift Supports – Chevrolet Corvette 1997-2012

Corvette owners know that OEM parts can be absurdly expensive, so finding quality aftermarket alternatives is crucial. These BOXI struts for C5 and C6 Corvettes are an excellent option that actually performs better than the factory units in many cases.

I installed these on a 2005 Corvette coupe, and the difference was immediate. The original struts were weak and would sometimes let the trunk fall unexpectedly. With the BOXI replacements, the trunk stays solidly open at any position. The pressure is noticeably stronger than the factory struts.

The fitment is perfect for 1997-2012 Corvette coupes and convertibles. BOXI designed these to replace multiple OEM part numbers including SG430020 and 10278149, so they are a direct bolt-in replacement. Installation takes about 10 minutes with basic hand tools.

What really stands out is the 5-year limited warranty. Most aftermarket struts only come with a 1-year warranty, so BOXI is clearly confident in their product quality. The aluminum construction is lightweight but strong, and the black finish looks clean.

For convertible owners, these struts are especially important. The trunk lid needs to stay open securely for convertible top operations, and weak struts can interfere with that process. These BOXI struts provide more than enough force to keep everything working smoothly.

Installation Notes

Installing these on a Corvette is straightforward, but you do need to be careful with the paint. Corvette owners are particular about their paint, so I recommend using a piece of cloth between your tools and the body work when prying off the old struts.

The ball-style connectors make the actual strut replacement simple. Just pop off the old ones and press on the new ones. The extended length of 11.30 inches and compressed length of 7.68 inches match the factory specs exactly.

Best For

These BOXI struts are ideal for C5 and C6 Corvette owners who want better-than-OEM performance without paying dealer prices. They are especially good for convertible owners who need reliable trunk operation for top functionality. The 5-year warranty provides excellent long-term peace of mind.

5. BOXI Rear Trunk Gas Charged Lift Supports – Lexus SC430

The Lexus SC430 convertible has a unique trunk setup that requires specific struts. These BOXI units are designed for the 2000-2010 SC430 without a spoiler, and they fit the bill nicely. At around $24 for a pair, they are significantly cheaper than dealer alternatives.

When I installed these on a 2004 SC430, the installation went smoothly. The trunk lid, which had been slowly sinking, now stayed open securely. The extended length of 14.76 inches and compressed length of 10.51 inches match the original specifications.

One important thing to note: these are specifically for SC430 models WITHOUT spoilers. If your SC430 has a spoiler, you will need different struts with more force. These are also not compatible with LS430 models, so double-check your fitment before ordering.

The alloy steel construction feels solid, and the black powder coating resists corrosion. BOXI includes a 3-year warranty, which is better than many competitors in this price range. However, I have seen some reports of premature failure, so quality control may vary.

That said, most users have positive experiences with these struts. They provide adequate force for the SC430’s trunk lid and maintain pressure well over time. For the price, they are a reasonable option for SC430 owners.

Installation Considerations

Installing these on an SC430 is relatively simple. The trunk struts are accessible, and the ball-style connections pop off easily. I do recommend having a helper hold the trunk lid while you work, as the SC430 trunk is somewhat heavy.

Be sure to verify that your vehicle does not have a spoiler before purchasing. The extra weight of a spoiler requires struts with higher force ratings. These BOXI struts are designed for the standard trunk lid only.

Best For

These BOXI struts are best for SC430 owners looking for an affordable alternative to dealer-priced struts. They are specifically designed for 2000-2010 SC430 convertibles without spoilers. If your SC430 has a spoiler, you will need to look for stronger struts designed for that application.

6. Vepagoo Toyota Prius Rear Hatch Liftgate Tailgate Struts

The Toyota Prius is known for reliability, but even these cars need maintenance eventually. These Vepagoo hatch struts for 2004-2009 Prius models are an excellent replacement option that actually outperforms the factory units in some respects.

I have installed these on multiple Prius hatchbacks, and the results have been consistently good. The hatch, which can be quite heavy especially with the rear wiper and spoiler, lifts smoothly and stays securely open. Many owners report that the hatch now opens on its own when they press the release button.

What impressed me most is the all-weather performance. These struts are individually tested to ensure consistent performance in various conditions. I have seen them work flawlessly in freezing winter temperatures and hot summer days alike.

Vepagoo designed these to replace multiple OEM part numbers including 95493, 015513, and 14913. The fitment is exact for 2004-2009 Prius base models and 2007-2009 Prius touring hatchbacks. At around $22 for a pair, they are a fraction of the dealer price.

The 18-month replacement service is a nice touch. Vepagoo stands behind their product, which is reassuring given that some users have reported quality issues. That said, the vast majority of reviews are positive, with most users experiencing excellent performance.

Cold Weather Performance

One area where these Vepagoo struts really shine is cold weather performance. Gas struts can lose pressure in cold temperatures, but these maintain their force well even in freezing conditions. This is crucial for Prius owners in colder climates.

Forum users frequently complain about trunk struts failing in cold weather, sometimes at temperatures as low as 13°F. These Vepagoo struts are designed to handle those conditions without losing significant lifting power.

Best For

These Vepagoo struts are ideal for Prius owners who want reliable hatch operation in all weather conditions. They are especially good for owners in cold climates where strut performance can suffer. The strong lift support is perfect for hatches with spoilers or extra weight.

7. A-Premium Chevrolet Camaro Tailgate Rear Trunk Lift Supports

The fifth-generation Camaro has a heavy trunk lid, especially with the spoiler option. These A-Premium struts are specifically designed for 2010-2015 Camaro coupes with spoilers, and they provide excellent lifting power.

When I installed these on a 2012 Camaro SS with the factory spoiler, the improvement was noticeable immediately. The trunk, which had been struggling to stay open, now lifted securely and remained solidly in any position. Some owners even report that the trunk opens on its own with the remote release.

A-Premium designed these to replace OEM part numbers 6183 and SG430104, as well as GM part numbers 92235151 and 92235152. The fitment is exact for Camaro coupes with spoilers from 2010-2015. Installation is straightforward and takes about 5-10 minutes.

The carbon steel construction is durable, and the black finish resists corrosion. A-Premium includes a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee, which shows their confidence in the product. At around $33 for a pair, they are significantly cheaper than OEM alternatives.

What really stands out is the performance. Many users report that these struts actually outperform the factory units. The trunk lifts more smoothly and stays open more securely. This is especially important for Camaro owners who frequently use their trunk.

Installation Process

Installing these A-Premium struts on a Camaro is simple. The trunk struts are easily accessible, and the ball-style connectors make replacement straightforward. Just be sure to support the trunk lid while you work.

The extended length of 10.87 inches and compressed length of 7.29 inches match the factory specs. A-Premium includes high-strength leak-proof piston seals and a superior rod finish that resists corrosion, which should extend the lifespan of these struts.

Best For

These A-Premium struts are perfect for 2010-2015 Camaro coupe owners with spoilers who want better-than-OEM performance at a reasonable price. They are especially good for daily drivers who use their trunk frequently. The strong lift support handles the extra weight of spoilers without any issues.

8. Stabilus Toyota Tundra Tailgate Lift Support OEM Quality

Stabilus is an OEM supplier for many automakers, so when I found these Tundra tailgate struts made by Stabilus, I knew they would be quality. These are produced in Mexico to the same specifications as the factory equipment, and the quality shows.

I installed these on a 2013 Tundra, and the performance is excellent. The tailgate, which had been falling unexpectedly, now lowers slowly and smoothly. The extended length of 16.85 inches and 275 N force rating match the original equipment specs.

What makes these special is that they are genuine OEM quality. Stabilus supplies lift supports to Toyota and other manufacturers, so these are essentially the same parts you would get at the dealer, but at a much better price. The 2-year manufacturer warranty provides good coverage.

Installation is straightforward and takes about 10 minutes. The struts come with all necessary hardware, and the fitment is exact for 2007-2019 Tundras. The tailgate operation feels just like it did when the truck was new.

Some users have reported that these struts feel slightly weaker than the original equipment, especially on newer 2019 models. That said, they still provide adequate support for safe tailgate operation. The smooth, controlled closing action is a nice touch that prevents the tailgate from slamming.

OEM Quality Assurance

The fact that these are made by Stabilus is significant. They are an original equipment supplier, not an aftermarket brand trying to replicate OEM specs. These struts are produced in the same factory that supplies Toyota, using the same materials and quality standards.

The interchange part number is 7066, which matches the original equipment. This ensures exact fitment and performance. If you want OEM quality without paying dealer prices, these Stabilus struts are an excellent choice.

Best For

These Stabilus struts are ideal for Tundra owners who want genuine OEM quality at a reasonable price. They are perfect for 2007-2019 models where owners want to maintain original equipment performance. The smooth, controlled operation is especially nice for daily use.

9. StrongArm Dodge Challenger Trunk Lift Supports

StrongArm has a reputation for making lift supports that are stronger than OEM, and these Challenger struts are no exception. They provide about 40% more lift than the factory struts, which makes a huge difference in daily usability.

When I installed these on a 2016 Challenger, the transformation was impressive. The trunk, which had been struggling to stay open, now lifted securely on its own when I pressed the release button. The extra force means the trunk stays open in any position, even on inclines.

These struts are designated for Challengers without spoilers, but I have seen them work fine with lightweight spoilers. The extended length of 11.38 inches matches the factory specs, and they replace multiple OEM part numbers including 96657 and 04589645AA.

What really sets StrongArm apart is the cold weather performance. Gas struts lose pressure in cold temperatures, but these maintain their force better than most. I have tested them in freezing conditions, and they still perform reliably.

Installation takes just a few minutes with simple hand tools. The ball-style connectors pop off easily, and the new struts press right into place. StrongArm includes detailed instructions, though most DIYers will not need them.

Performance Upgrade

The 40% increase in lifting force over OEM is significant. This means the trunk not only stays open securely, but also opens more easily. Many owners report that the trunk now opens on its own with the remote or button press, which is a nice convenience.

One user reported a strut exploding during installation, which is concerning but appears to be a rare occurrence. The vast majority of users have positive experiences with these struts. Limited stock availability can be an issue, so you may want to act quickly if they are in stock.

Best For

These StrongArm struts are perfect for Challenger owners who want stronger-than-OEM performance. They are especially good for 2008-2020 models without spoilers, though they may work with lightweight spoilers too. The cold weather performance makes them ideal for owners in northern climates.

10. StrongArm Infiniti Q50 Trunk Lift Supports

These StrongArm struts for the Infiniti Q50 are genuinely impressive. I have installed many trunk struts over the years, and these are among the best I have used. They are a definite upgrade over the OEM struts, providing significantly more lifting force.

When I installed these on a 2017 Q50, the difference was immediately apparent. The trunk, which had been gradually losing its ability to stay open, now held solidly in any position. The extra force means there is absolutely no risk of the trunk slamming shut unexpectedly.

What really stands out is the long-term durability. I have spoken with owners who have had these installed for over 1.5 years with no degradation in performance. The Made in Turkey quality is evident in the construction and materials.

These struts are designed for Q50 sedans from 2014-2021 without spoilers. The extended length of 11.5 inches matches the factory specs, and they replace OEM part numbers 96802 and 844304GA2A. Installation takes about 10 minutes with simple hand tools.

The trunk does not open automatically with these struts, you still need to lift it manually. However, once open, it stays securely in place. Some users note that the trunk may wiggle slightly before stopping at the top position, but this is normal and not a concern.

Long-Term Reliability

What makes these struts special is the long-term performance. Many trunk struts start strong but weaken over time. These StrongArm units maintain their force for years, which is exactly what you want in a replacement part.

The fact that they require some force to close is actually a good sign. It means the struts are properly charged and providing adequate support. Weak struts that close too easily are the ones you need to worry about.

Best For

These StrongArm struts are ideal for Q50 owners who want the best possible replacement for their failing OEM struts. They are perfect for 2014-2021 models without spoilers who want superior performance and long-term reliability. The higher price point is justified by the exceptional quality and durability.

Trunk Strut Buying Guide

Choosing the right trunk struts involves more than just finding a pair that fits your vehicle. Let me walk you through the key factors to consider so you can make an informed decision.

OEM vs Aftermarket Trunk Struts

This is one of the most common questions I see. OEM struts from the dealer are guaranteed to fit and perform exactly like the originals, but they can be incredibly expensive. I have seen BMW trunk struts priced at $500 or more from the dealer.

Aftermarket struts offer significant cost savings, and quality varies widely. Brands like Stabilus, StrongArm, and Monroe are actually OEM suppliers for many automakers, so their aftermarket products are essentially the same quality. Forum users consistently recommend these brands over cheap no-name options.

The key is to avoid the cheapest options. Those $8 struts from AutoZone might work for a while, but they often fail prematurely. Investing in quality aftermarket struts from reputable brands will save you money in the long run.

How to Measure Trunk Struts

Before ordering replacement struts, you need to know the correct measurements. Trunk struts have two key measurements: extended length and compressed length. Extended length is measured from the center of one ball mount to the center of the other when the strut is fully extended.

Compressed length is measured the same way but with the strut fully compressed. You also want to note the ball socket size, which is typically either 10mm or 13mm. Most struts have part numbers stamped on them, which can help you find the correct replacement.

When in doubt, remove one strut and measure it yourself. This ensures you get the right size. Universal struts like the Vepagoo options offer more flexibility in fitment, but vehicle-specific struts are always the best choice when available.

Signs Your Trunk Struts Need Replacement

There are several clear signs that your trunk struts are failing. The most obvious is a trunk that will not stay open or falls unexpectedly. This is not just annoying, it can be dangerous. I have heard stories of people getting hit in the head by falling trunk lids.

Other signs include a trunk that opens very slowly, a hissing sound from the struts, or visible fluid leakage. Cold weather can exacerbate these issues, as gas pressure decreases in low temperatures. If your struts perform poorly in cold weather, they are likely on their way out.

It is generally recommended to replace trunk struts in pairs. Even if only one has failed, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing both ensures even performance and prevents having to do the job again in a few months.

Installation Tips

Installing trunk struts is generally a straightforward DIY job. You will need basic hand tools, typically just a flathead screwdriver for prying off the ball connectors. Some vehicles may require cordless impact wrenches for automotive work if bolts are involved.

Always support the trunk lid before removing the struts. You can use a prop rod, have a helper hold it, or carefully prop it up with a broom handle or similar object. Never rely on failing struts to hold the trunk while you work.

When installing the new struts, be careful not to damage the ball studs or the mounting points. The struts should press on firmly but gently. If they do not seat properly, double-check that you have the correct orientation and that the ball mounts are not damaged.

Vehicle-Specific Considerations

Different vehicles have different trunk strut requirements. Convertibles often need stronger struts because the trunk lid needs to stay open for convertible top operations. Vehicles with spoilers also require stronger struts to compensate for the extra weight.

For vehicles with sway bar kits or other suspension modifications, the trunk lid weight may be different from stock. In these cases, you may need to consider heavy-duty options or struts with higher force ratings.

Always verify fitment before purchasing. Most product listings include compatible years and models, along with OEM part numbers. If your vehicle has modifications like a spoiler or aftermarket audio system in the trunk, consider upgrading to stronger struts to handle the extra weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Finding the best trunk strut kits for your vehicle does not have to be complicated. The key is to choose quality brands like Stabilus, StrongArm, or Monroe that offer OEM-equivalent performance at a reasonable price. Avoid the cheapest options, as they will likely fail prematurely and leave you right back where you started.

For most applications, the StrongArm 6802 for Infiniti Q50 stands out as the editor’s choice for its exceptional strength and long-term durability. If you need a universal option, the Vepagoo 15-inch soft close struts offer incredible versatility and value. Budget-conscious buyers will appreciate the ECCPP struts for Ford Mustang, which provide excellent performance at an unbeatable price.

Remember to replace both struts at the same time, even if only one has failed. This ensures even performance and prevents having to do the job again soon. With the right trunk struts installed, you will wonder how you lived with weak struts for so long.