Used Mercedes-Benz Viano Bonnet Strut

Yes, the Viano has a bonnet that is supported by gas struts (sometimes called bonnet stay struts or bonnet lift supports) rather than a traditional prop rod, so this is a genuine and common replacement part. All variants of the Viano — regardless of engine, wheelbase or roof height — share the same front-end bonnet assembly within a given generation, so bonnet struts do exist across the model range. If you are unsure which type your vehicle has, a quick check under the bonnet will confirm whether you have gas struts or a mechanical prop.

The Viano was produced as a single generation (W639) from 2003 to 2014, with a notable facelift arriving in 2010 that brought changes to the front end including revised lights, grille and bumper styling. The bonnet strut fitment is primarily determined by which side of that 2010 facelift boundary your van sits on, so a pre-facelift (2003–2010) van and a post-facelift (2010–2014) van may not share the same struts. Always quote your registration to the breaker so they can confirm which version applies to your specific van.

These two vans sit either side of the 2010 facelift boundary within the W639 generation, which means the front-end components were revised and the struts may differ. While the bonnet itself is broadly similar in concept, whether the mounting points and strut dimensions are interchangeable across the facelift is something you should confirm with the breaker against your registration rather than assume. A reputable breaker will be able to cross-reference both vehicles and advise before you commit to buying.

Trim level — whether Ambiente, Trend or Avantgarde — does not affect bonnet strut fitment, as the bonnet and its supporting struts are shared across all trim grades within the same facelift period. You may find minor cosmetic differences such as badging or grille surrounds vary between trims, but these do not influence the strut itself. Focus on the model year relative to the 2010 facelift rather than the trim name when sourcing a used strut.

No — the wheelbase (compact, standard or long) and roof height do not affect the bonnet strut, because the front-end structure is shared across all body length and roof variants within the W639 generation. The bonnet and its struts are identical whether your van is a short-wheelbase or extra-long model. The key variable remains the pre- or post-facelift status of your van, so confirm your registration year with the breaker to get the right part.

The Viano typically uses two bonnet gas struts, one on each side (nearside and offside), to support the bonnet when open. It is generally advisable to replace both at the same time, as if one has failed the other is likely to be similarly worn and an uneven pair can cause the bonnet to sit or lift unevenly. Ask your breaker whether they can supply a matching pair from the same donor vehicle to ensure consistency.