AcuraTLFan

I popped up the hood of my mom's 99 TL, and the gas strut/shocks aren't working properly. I lift up the hood bit and the hood is suppose to rise up...but it doesn't. It doesn't even hold the hood up unless it's in the top position. Anywhere below half way, the hood will just slam shut, anywhere above that the hood will stay in that position. The hood never rises like it's suppose to. I'm wondering if it's only my mom's 99 TL that does this or ther 99 TL do this or if these gas shocks will stop working over time?

2007AcuraRL

The gas shocks will all loose their strength eventually, although it usually takes more than 4 years for that to happen. You can either get it fixed under warranty if your still covered or go to a good autoparts store. They usually have a whole section of replacement struts in the $20-30 per piece price range. Just make sure to measure the length of your existing struts first so you can get the right ones.

jean

They are not a servicable item.
Replace is the only option..maybe under warrenty
J

Shoofin

I had the same problem.. They don't open by themselves, but once open, they do stay open..That is what they are there to do...
Ed

randomwalk101

They dont' open by themselves...you know how heavy the hood is??

2007AcuraRL

once the struts start to loose their force its only a matter of time till the damn hood falls down while your head in under there. I know firsthand, because i had that happen on another car i owned. For those that live outside of perpetually warm places like Miami or LA, just watch out for the struts one cold morning! The gas inside looses even more strength when it gets cold out. then all you need is to jiggle the car a hair, or have a light gust of wind, and WHAM, the thing will come right down on your head and OUCH believe me that it hurts!!!!

69tl

isn't it part of the ware and tare??

2007AcuraRL

Well its not really wear and tear if the cylinders loose their strength after only 4 years. They should be good for at least 7 years or so under normal conditions (opening and closing the hood every now and again) before they start to get weak.