Parts for your 2004 Honda Cr-v-Gas struts

2004 Honda CR‑V gas‑struts: what’s fitted and how to look after them

Technical references indicate gas‑struts are indeed used on the 2004 Honda CR‑V. The 2002–2006 Honda CR‑V Service Manual (Body: Tailgate/Rear Glass – “Rear Glass: Lift Support Replacement”) and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) list two gas‑filled lift supports (“stay, rear glass”, left and right) for the flip‑up rear glass. Aftermarket catalogues such as Stabilus LIFT‑O‑MAT, Monroe Max‑Lift and StrongArm also show dedicated rear window lift supports for this model year. The same Honda Service Manual section for the bonnet (“Hood: Support Rod”) specifies a manual prop rod, so there are no factory gas‑struts on the bonnet. Haynes Repair Manual for Honda CR‑V 2002–2011 likewise describes replacement of the rear glass struts and a prop‑rod bonnet.

On the 2004 CR‑V, gas‑struts do the heavy lifting for the flip‑up rear glass, taking the load as it opens and holding it safely at full height. When they’re healthy, the glass lifts smoothly and doesn’t sag. As the nitrogen charge and internal seals age, lifting becomes slow, the glass won’t stay up in cooler weather, and you may hear a faint hiss or feel stiction at mid‑stroke.

Routine servicing can include a quick strut check. With the vehicle on level ground, open the rear glass and see if it rises on its own after halfway and stays fully open for a few minutes. Any droop, uneven motion, or oil mist on the shafts points to replacement time. In typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions, expect 5–10 years of service life, high heat, coastal air, and dusty tracks can shorten that.

Replacement is straightforward and best done in pairs to keep lift and balance even. Support the glass with a prop or a mate, then swap each strut one at a time. Keep the chrome shafts clean and dry—don’t grease them, as lubricants attract grit and damage the seals. Ensure the body end mounts click home firmly and the shafts face downward when fitted (as per manufacturer orientation) to keep internal lubrication where it’s needed. Quality, matched‑spec struts with correct force ratings make all the difference, especially if accessories are fitted to the glass. Dispose of old units responsibly—gas‑struts are pressurised components.

• Tell‑tale signs: glass won’t stay up, slower lift in cold weather, visible oiling on shafts, or a “bounce” near full extension.
• Service tip: inspect each service, replace in pairs, and avoid loading the glass while open.

How can they tell if the CR‑V’s rear glass gas‑struts are failing?

If the glass won’t stay up, needs a hand to lift, drops in a breeze, or shows oily residue on the strut shafts, they’re on the way out. Cold‑weather sagging is a classic early warning. Compare both sides—uneven lift suggests replacing both.

Does the 2004 CR‑V have gas‑struts on the bonnet?

No. The factory setup uses a prop rod on the bonnet. Owners keen on strut‑assisted bonnets can look at aftermarket kits designed specifically for the 2nd‑gen CR‑V, but correct brackets and mounting points are essential.

Should gas‑struts be replaced in pairs?

Yes. Pair replacement keeps lift force balanced and prevents one tired strut overloading the fresh one. It also ensures smooth, even opening and proper holding force at full height.