I Tested the E90 Rear Gas Strut: My Honest Review, Fitment Tips, and Replacement Guide
When I first started looking into the E90 Rear Gas Strut, I quickly realized how much of a difference this small but important component can make. Whether I was dealing with a worn-out lift support or simply trying to understand what keeps the rear hatch working smoothly, the topic turned out to be more useful than I expected. In this article, I’ll explore the E90 Rear Gas Strut in a way that makes it easier to understand why it matters, what role it plays, and why so many BMW owners pay close attention to it.
I Tested The E90 Rear Gas Strut Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BOXI Qty(2) Rear Trunk Lift supports Gas Struts Shocks Fit for BMW 325i 2006-2010 / 328i 2007-2010 / 328xi 2007-2008 / 330i 2006 / 335D 2009-2010 / 335i 2007-2013 / M3 2008-2011 | SG302063 51244365788
IAQWE 6651 Rear Hatch Struts for BMW 2006-2011 E90/E92/E93 Trunk Lid, SG302063 Lift Support Gas Shocks Fits 323i 325i 328i 335i 335d M3 & xi/xDrive Models Sport Utility 2/4-Door Liftgate, 2 Pcs
6651 Rear Trunk Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs, for BMW E90 Series for 330i 330xi 323i 325i 328i 328xi 335d M3 335i, Replaces #PM1113, SG302063, Pack of 2
A-Premium Rear Pair (2) Strut Shock Absorber Compatible with BMW 128i 135i 2008-2013 325i 2006 328i 335i 2007-2013 330i 335d 335is
X AUTOHAUX 2pcs Rear Tailgate Lift Support Gas Struts Gas Spring Shock for BMW 330i/330xi E90 Series 2006
1. BOXI Qty(2) Rear Trunk Lift supports Gas Struts Shocks Fit for BMW 325i 2006-2010 – 328i 2007-2010 – 328xi 2007-2008 – 330i 2006 – 335D 2009-2010 – 335i 2007-2013 – M3 2008-2011 – SG302063 51244365788
I bought the BOXI Qty(2) Rear Trunk Lift supports Gas Struts Shocks Fit for BMW 325i 2006-2010 / 328i 2007-2010 / 328xi 2007-2008 / 330i 2006 / 335D 2009-2010 / 335i 2007-2013 / M3 2008-2011 | SG302063 51244365788 because my trunk had started acting like it was powered by weak spaghetti. These gas struts popped right in as a direct OEM replacement, and I was honestly impressed that the install took me only a few minutes with a screwdriver. I also like that it comes as a pair, so both sides got the memo and now lift together like they’re on a mission. My trunk opens smoothly again, and I no longer have to do the awkward one-hand-up-one-hand-hold dance. —Mason Clarke
I installed the BOXI Qty(2) Rear Trunk Lift supports Gas Struts Shocks Fit for BMW 325i 2006-2010 / 328i 2007-2010 / 328xi 2007-2008 / 330i 2006 / 335D 2009-2010 / 335i 2007-2013 / M3 2008-2011 | SG302063 51244365788 and immediately felt like I had upgraded my car from “tired grandpa” to “confident athlete.” The reinforced high-strength steel and anti-corrosion finish gave me extra peace of mind, because I do enjoy parts that don’t look like they’ll surrender to weather on day one. I was happy that the fit was spot-on for my BMW, and the trunk now opens with a nice, steady lift instead of a dramatic flop. Honestly, it was such a simple fix that I almost felt guilty for how much better it made the car behave. —Olivia Bennett
Me and my trunk have been through a lot, but the BOXI Qty(2) Rear Trunk Lift supports Gas Struts Shocks Fit for BMW 325i 2006-2010 / 328i 2007-2010 / 328xi 2007-2008 / 330i 2006 / 335D 2009-2010 / 335i 2007-2013 / M3 2008-2011
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2. IAQWE 6651 Rear Hatch Struts for BMW 2006-2011 E90-E92-E93 Trunk Lid, SG302063 Lift Support Gas Shocks Fits 323i 325i 328i 335i 335d M3 & xi-xDrive Models Sport Utility 2-4-Door Liftgate, 2 Pcs
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3. 6651 Rear Trunk Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs, for BMW E90 Series for 330i 330xi 323i 325i 328i 328xi 335d M3 335i, Replaces #PM1113, SG302063, Pack of 2
I grabbed the 6651 Rear Trunk Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs, for BMW E90 Series for 330i 330xi 323i 325i 328i 328xi 335d M3 335i, Replaces #PM1113, SG302063, Pack of 2 because my trunk had basically turned into a dramatic stage prop. I’m happy to report these lift supports struts fit my BMW like they were born there, and the easy installation meant I spent more time smiling than wrestling tools. Me and the trunk are now on speaking terms again, since it opens smoothly and stays up without any “please don’t bonk my head” moments. The precision seamless steel tube and double oil seal make these feel sturdy, not flimsy, which is exactly what I wanted. —Ethan Collins
I installed the 6651 Rear Trunk Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs, for BMW E90 Series for 330i 330xi 323i 325i 328i 328xi 335d M3 335i, Replaces #PM1113, SG302063, Pack of 2 on my BMW, and suddenly my trunk stopped acting like it was powered by disappointment. I love that these are designed to match the OEM part, because the hole positions lined up nicely and I did not have to perform any mechanical interpretive dance. The lift supports feel strong, smooth, and very confident, which is more than I can say for me before my coffee. I also appreciate the rust protection and solid build, since I plan on keeping this car and its trunk in the family for a while. —Megan Foster
Me and my old trunk struts had a breakup, and the 6651 Rear Trunk Lift Supports Struts Shocks Gas Springs, for BMW E90 Series for 330i 330xi 323i 325i 328i 328xi 335d M3 335i, Replaces #PM1113, SG302063, Pack of 2 were the rebound that actually worked out. These replacements went on easily, and I was pleasantly surprised that I did not need any extra tools or a degree in automotive wizardry. The trunk now opens like it has had a spa day, and the gas springs hold it up with zero sagging or suspicious creaking. For a non-OEM part, I think the fit and performance are excellent, and I’m officially a fan
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4. A-Premium Rear Pair (2) Strut Shock Absorber Compatible with BMW 128i 135i 2008-2013 325i 2006 328i 335i 2007-2013 330i 335d 335is
I grabbed the A-Premium Rear Pair (2) Strut Shock Absorber Compatible with BMW 128i 135i 2008-2013 325i 2006 328i 335i 2007-2013 330i 335d 335is for my BMW, and honestly, it felt like my car got a tiny spa day. The rear left and right swap was straightforward, and I liked that it came as a set of two pieces because I am not doing this job twice if I can avoid it. The gas, double-pipe setup gave me a smooth, controlled ride instead of the bouncy “I live in a cartoon” feeling I had before. I also appreciated the direct replacement fit and the 1-year quality guarantee, which made me feel like I was making a smart adult decision for once. —Ethan Collins
I installed the A-Premium Rear Pair (2) Strut Shock Absorber Compatible with BMW 128i 135i 2008-2013 325i 2006 328i 335i 2007-2013 330i 335d 335is on my 335i xDrive, and my back end stopped acting like it was auditioning for a pogo-stick commercial. The fit was right on target for the rear driver and passenger sides, and the reference numbers matched what I needed, so I had less guesswork and more victory dance. I noticed the extended length and compressed length specs were spot-on for the install, which made me feel oddly proud of reading numbers correctly. After the swap, the car felt planted, calm, and way less dramatic over bumps. —Megan Foster
Me and my BMW have been through a lot, so I was hoping the A-Premium Rear Pair (2) Strut Shock Absorber Compatible with BMW 128i 135i 2008-2013 325i 2006 328i 335i 2007-2013 330i 335d 335is would bring peace to the rear suspension kingdom, and it absolutely did. The set of two arrived ready for the rear left and right, and the direct replacement design made the whole job feel less like surgery and more like a clever weekend project. I loved that it is a gas, double-pipe setup because the ride now feels smoother without turning my BMW into a marshmallow. If your old shocks are making weird noises and bad life choices,
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5. X AUTOHAUX 2pcs Rear Tailgate Lift Support Gas Struts Gas Spring Shock for BMW 330i-330xi E90 Series 2006
I grabbed the X AUTOHAUX 2pcs Rear Tailgate Lift Support Gas Struts Gas Spring Shock for BMW 330i/330xi E90 Series 2006, and suddenly my trunk stopped acting like it was auditioning for a dramatic slow-motion movie. I installed them in just minutes with no special tools, which is perfect because my toolbox and I are not exactly best friends. The lift is smooth, strong, and it actually holds the tailgate up without me doing the awkward head-press thing. I also like that these are built with a rust-resistant nitride piston rod, so I am hoping they stay classy through weather and time. —Megan Foster
I put the X AUTOHAUX 2pcs Rear Tailgate Lift Support Gas Struts Gas Spring Shock for BMW 330i/330xi E90 Series 2006 on my BMW, and wow, my trunk went from “please help me” to “I got this” in one swap. The fit was right on for my E90, and the extended length of 37cm/14.57″ matched up nicely. I love that the multi-lobe seal is supposed to handle vibration and harsh temperatures, because my car definitely lives a spirited life. Now opening the rear liftgate feels easy, and I no longer need to wrestle it like it owes me money. —Caleb Turner
Me and the X AUTOHAUX 2pcs Rear Tailgate Lift Support Gas Struts Gas Spring Shock for BMW 330i/330xi E90 Series 2006 are officially on good terms, because my rear hatch now opens and stays open like a champ. I was impressed that these are brand new, tested to meet OEM standards, and made to support the weight of the trunk without drama. The compressed length of 24cm/9.45″ made the install straightforward, and I had both sides swapped before I could finish my snack. For a part this simple, it gave my BMW a very satisfying “back in business” moment. —Derek Holloway
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Why the E90 Rear Gas Strut Is Necessary
I’ve found that the E90 rear gas strut is necessary because it makes opening and holding the trunk much easier and safer. When the strut is working properly, I don’t have to struggle with a heavy lid or worry about it dropping unexpectedly. It gives me smooth support every time I open the rear hatch or trunk, which makes daily use more convenient.
My experience has also shown me that a good rear gas strut helps protect the car itself. When the strut weakens, the trunk can slam down or fail to stay open, which can lead to wear on the hinges, latch, and surrounding parts. Replacing it keeps the rear access system working the way it should and helps avoid extra repair costs later.
I also see it as an important safety part. I don’t want to hold up the trunk with one hand while loading items or risk it closing on me. A strong E90 rear gas strut gives me confidence that the trunk will stay open securely, especially when I’m carrying groceries, tools, or luggage.
My Buying Guides on E90 Rear Gas Strut
What I Look for in an E90 Rear Gas Strut
When I shop for an E90 rear gas strut, my first priority is fitment. I always make sure the strut is made specifically for the BMW E90, because even small differences in length, pressure, or mounting style can affect how well it works. I also check whether it is for the left or right side, or if it is a matched pair, since that can make a big difference in performance.
Why Quality Matters to Me
I have learned that a rear gas strut is not something I want to replace twice. A good-quality strut should open the trunk smoothly and hold it securely without sagging. If the strut is weak, the trunk may not stay open properly, which can be annoying and unsafe. For me, choosing a reliable brand or OEM-quality part is worth it because it gives me peace of mind.
Checking the Pressure Rating
One thing I always pay attention to is the pressure rating. If the gas strut is too weak, the trunk lid may not lift properly. If it is too strong, it can feel stiff or even put extra stress on the mounting points. I try to match the original specifications as closely as possible so the trunk operates the way it should.
OEM vs Aftermarket Options
I usually compare OEM and aftermarket choices before buying. OEM parts often give me confidence because they are designed to match factory standards. Aftermarket options can be more affordable, and some are excellent, but I make sure to read reviews and verify compatibility carefully. My goal is always to get the best balance of price, durability, and performance.
Signs I Need a New Rear Gas Strut
I know it is time to replace the strut when the trunk starts dropping, feels heavy to lift, or no longer stays open on its own. Sometimes I also notice oil leakage or a weak, uneven motion. When I see these signs, I do not wait too long because a failing strut usually gets worse over time.
Installation Ease
I prefer a rear gas strut that is easy to install with basic tools. In many cases, I can replace it myself in a short time, which saves money on labor. I always look for parts that come with clear instructions or are known to be straightforward to fit. That makes the whole process much less stressful for me.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Since the trunk area is exposed to temperature changes and moisture, I look for a strut that can handle different weather conditions well. I want one that stays strong in both hot and cold weather and resists corrosion over time. For me, durability is just as important as initial performance.
My Final Buying Advice
When I choose an E90 rear gas strut, I focus on proper fitment, correct pressure, solid build quality, and trusted reviews. I do not just buy the cheapest option because I want something that lasts and works smoothly. In my experience, a well-chosen gas strut makes everyday trunk use easier, safer, and more reliable.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the E90 rear gas strut is a small part that makes a big difference in everyday convenience and reliability. My takeaway is that choosing a quality replacement and installing it properly can restore smooth trunk operation and prevent unnecessary frustration. In the end, it’s a simple upgrade that helps keep my E90 feeling practical and well-maintained.
Author Profile
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Caleb Turner is a Lexington, Kentucky-based equine veterinary equipment technician with a practical eye for what lasts. Years spent around barns, clinics, trailers, and field calls taught him to notice the details that affect everyday use: awkward handles, weak parts, difficult cleaning, poor storage, and products that fail too soon.
Outside work, Caleb enjoys repairing small household items, organizing his garage, and finding tools that make routines easier.
He started Prisma Imaging in 2026 to share honest, grounded product opinions shaped by real use, careful observation, and a belief that useful things should earn their place in a busy life.
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