2008 Tahoe rear door hard to open & doesn't stay up without holding it up. I do not have the automatic door opener version. Any ideas what to check?

 

I would imagine that you just need some new struts. I haven't replaced them on the Suburban but I have replaced hood and hatch struts on other cars over the years. Struts go bad sometimes, and temp extremes can exaggerate the wear. Since you have an 08 do you still have warranty? Take it in and have the dealer replace them if so.

 

DINOROMEO: Welcome to the forum.

I agree. Most likely the gas springs or struts.

 

Thanks for the tips.
I was thinking along those lines.
I'm past my warranty mileage by about 6000 miles.
Just wanted to see if someone had the same exact problem & what was their solution.
Also wanted to see if by chance there was some sort of electronics involved.
I think I may check on the cost of the struts & replace them myself rather than give my arm or leg to the dealership to replace them.

 

Gas springs/struts are fairly easy to replace but make sure you have something in place to support the hatch before you disconnect them as the hatch is very heavy.

 

why that almost sounds like experience talking....lol

 

Yep. The hatch on my '87 IROC-Z. And I'm sure a Tahoe hatch would be a lot heavier than a glass one.

 

got my 2010 tahoe right from the dealer with that poblem. would not stay up and had to help it all the way up. took it to the dealer and they replaced the two black hydraulics on each side that help open the door. problem solved

 

My mom has an 87 Camaro with the 305 v8 and the rear hatch struts need to be replace but they cost a small fortune....yeah go figure shes 76 years old and loves that car...
has a whole 97k on it....

 

They were a nice design and fun to drive. A little dicey in the wet and snow but manageable if you didn't get crazy.