E36 Hood Strut Issues You Shouldn’t Ignore: Practical Tips for BMW Owners & Buyers
The BMW E36 hood strut is a small component, but its performance has a direct impact on daily maintenance safety and long-term hood alignment. Many BMW E36 owners only notice the problem when the hood suddenly drops or refuses to stay open. In reality, hood strut degradation is gradual and predictable.
GASTAC article focuses on real-world E36 hood strut issues, replacement timing, and OEM-based selection insights that are often overlooked.
How E36 Hood Struts Fail Over Time
Unlike electronic components, hood gas springs fail slowly. On the E36 platform, the most common failure patterns include:
- Gradual loss of lifting force rather than sudden failure
- Acceptable performance in warm weather but weak support in winter
- Hood staying open only at certain angles
- Increased stress on hood hinges due to uneven force
These symptoms indicate internal gas leakage or seal aging, even if no external oil residue is visible.
Below is a condensed OEM reference table frequently used by GASTAC manufacturers and distributors when developing or sourcing E36 hood struts.
| Product Images | Product Title | Product Price | OEM |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
51238119558 BMW 3 Series Hood Lift Strut |
$13 | 95675, 1585BP, 51 23 8 119 558, 51238119558, 613389, 6341, 6538ZC, E95675, SG302008, SG302008 |
 |
51231906286 BMW 318i Hood Lift Support |
$6.5 | 95517, 10128, 11811906286, 120154, 1464BM, 4470, 51231906286, 614257, 7206ID, 72848, 8195543, 901339, E95517, SG402001, SG402001 |
 |
51258132679 BMW Convertible Top Cover Strut |
$15 | 51258132679, 5B8056LV, 5B-8056LV, 5B8056LVW, 5B-8056LV-W, 8056LV, SG402046 |
When Should You Replace an E36 Hood Strut?
Replacement is recommended when:
- The hood no longer stays open without assistance
- Seasonal temperature changes noticeably affect lifting force
- The vehicle is undergoing restoration or engine bay refurbishment
- The struts are more than 10–15 years old
Preventive replacement improves safety and reduces stress on surrounding components.
Why Choose Gastac Gas Struts ?
- Nitrided piston rod delivers long-lasting, corrosion-resistant performance
- Backed by a free 2-year warranty for peace of mind
- Factory-direct Gastac Gas Spring for consistent quality and value
- Free, easy returns if the product does not fit
- Fast delivery: typically ships within 5–10 business days
