Trunk Strut

Replace one or both trunk lid gas struts on the 2009 Aston Martin DB9 to restore proper trunk support and operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Trunk lid gas strut × 2 — Use OEM Aston Martin specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Open trunk lid fully and have an assistant support it, or position a suitable prop (padded 2x4 or adjustable prop rod) to hold the trunk lid open safely
3. Verify the assistant or prop can support the full weight of the trunk lid before removing any struts

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate strut mounting points
   Identify the gas strut(s) supporting the trunk lid. Verify the actual strut count against OEM documentation for this vehicle, as some DB9 configurations use a single strut. Each strut has a ball socket connection at the upper (trunk lid) end and a ball socket connection at the lower (body) end. The ball sockets are retained by spring clips.
2. 2

   Remove upper strut connection
   At the trunk lid end of the strut, locate the ball socket retention clip. Use a flat-blade screwdriver or trim tool to carefully pry the spring clip away from the ball socket while pulling the strut body away from the ball stud. The clip may have a tab or slot for tool engagement. Once the clip is released, pull the strut socket off the ball stud. Repeat for the second strut if replacing both.
   ⚠Ensure the trunk lid is fully supported before removing this connection. Do not rely on the remaining strut alone.
3. 3

   Remove lower strut connection
   At the body end of the strut, use the same technique to release the ball socket retention clip with a flat-blade screwdriver or trim tool. Pry the clip away from the ball socket while pulling the strut away from the ball stud. Remove the strut from the vehicle. Repeat for the second strut if replacing both.
4. 4

   Install new strut lower connection
   Position the new gas strut with the body (piston rod end) oriented the same way as the original strut. Align the lower ball socket over the body-mounted ball stud and press firmly until the spring clip engages with an audible click. Tug on the strut to verify the connection is secure.
5. 5

   Install new strut upper connection
   Extend the strut as needed and align the upper ball socket over the trunk lid-mounted ball stud. Press firmly until the spring clip engages with an audible click. Verify the connection is secure by tugging on the strut. Repeat installation for the second strut if replacing both.
6. 6

   Remove trunk support
   With both new struts installed and verified secure, carefully remove the prop or have your assistant release support of the trunk lid. Allow the struts to support the lid gradually to confirm proper function.

Reassembly

1. No disassembly of other components is required for this procedure

Verification

• Open the trunk lid from fully closed position. The lid should open smoothly with minimal effort and remain fully open without assistance
• Close the trunk lid slowly. The struts should provide controlled damping throughout the closing motion without slamming
• With the trunk open, apply gentle downward pressure on the trunk lid. Both struts should provide equal resistance with no sagging or imbalance
• Inspect both ball socket connections at all four mounting points to ensure clips are fully engaged and connections are secure with no play

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