For all who have tried and were disappointed with aftermarket struts, or had disastrous installation stories, look into this company. Strutwise. They repair, recondition, and refill your OEM struts. They work on struts for all sorts of high-end vehicles and airplanes from all around the world.
Strutwise Gas Strut Repair | About StrutWise Technical Services
When I had my 3rd Gen my struts were losing lifting capability especially in the winter. I called the company and spoke with the owner. He talked me through the process to remove, pack, and ship the struts to him. The company is in Canada so there’s a little customs value declaration issue he will explain. He also said he would increase the strut pressure to overcome increased weight and cold temps. The struts came back in about 10 days. Since they’re OEM all the hardware fit perfectly and they worked great, they pushed the hatch up strongly and a little faster in all weather. It did take a little more effort to close them.
IIRC the cost was about $75 for the service and shipping was about $40. It was worth it to me. This is an important mechanism, it’s gotta be done right.
BTW: When removing and installing the struts I used a ladder and a 2x4 to prop up the hatch. And a helper when raising and lowering the unsupported hatch.