Parts for your 2004 Honda Odyssey-Gas struts

2004 Honda Odyssey Gas Struts — What They Do and When to Replace Them

Per Honda’s factory service information for the 1999–2004 Odyssey (Body: Tailgate) and the Honda electronic parts catalogue, the 2004 Honda Odyssey is fitted with two gas‑charged lift supports on the rear tailgate. The bonnet on this model uses a simple prop rod (no gas struts), and the sliding doors use tracks/rollers and, where equipped, power mechanisms without gas struts.

On the 2004 Odyssey, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They help raise the tailgate smoothly, hold it up while loading, and stop it from dropping on a windy day or when it’s cold. Inside each strut is nitrogen gas and a small amount of oil, over time, seals wear and gas escapes, so the hatch can start to sag or refuse to stay open. That’s the cue they’re due for replacement.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the tailgate a quick check. If it creeps down, needs extra muscle to lift, or works worse in cold weather, the struts are on the way out. A light oil film at the shaft/body join is normal, but visible wetness or drips suggest a leak. Any knocking or uneven lift also points to tired supports.

Replacement is straightforward for most home tinkerers and typically takes 15–30 minutes. Always support the tailgate securely with a prop or helper before you pop the clips. Replace both struts at the same time so the tailgate lifts evenly and to full height. Fit them rod‑down as designed, and only lubricate the ball sockets if needed—never the chrome shaft. Keep the shafts clean and free of nicks, don’t paint them, and don’t try to compress a new strut by hand.

For Odysseys with a power tailgate, switch the system off (or disconnect the battery following Honda procedure) before removal, and follow the service manual’s cautions so the motor and arms aren’t fighting you. After fitting, cycle the tailgate a few times to confirm smooth, even action and proper latching. With quality struts installed, the Odyssey’s tailgate will pop up and stay put like it should, making the weekly shop or school run that bit easier.

• Common symptoms: sagging hatch, poor lift in cold weather, needing two hands to raise, oily leakage.
• Good practice: replace in pairs, support the tailgate, keep shafts clean, and avoid spraying lubricants on the strut rod.
• Service tip: inspect operation at each service interval and after any tailgate impact.

Popular questions

How do I know if my 2004 Odyssey’s tailgate gas struts are failing?

If the tailgate won’t stay up, drops suddenly past halfway, or is much harder to lift—especially on chilly mornings—the struts are losing charge. You might also notice the hatch opens lower than normal. Visible oil leakage at the strut body is another giveaway.

Do a safe test: with the tailgate fully open on level ground, gently nudge it down. If it won’t hold its height or feels weak through the middle of its travel, it’s time to replace them.

Can I replace the Odyssey’s gas struts at home?

Yes, provided you support the tailgate with a prop or a helper. A small flat screwdriver to release the spring clips and a basic socket or spanner set is usually all that’s needed. Swap one side at a time, clips facing out for easy access, and avoid touching the chrome shaft.

If your Odyssey has a power tailgate, follow the manual to disable the system before starting, then re‑enable and test after installation.

Are bonnet gas struts fitted on the 2004 Odyssey?

No. The 2004 Odyssey uses a prop rod for the bonnet, so there are no bonnet gas struts to service or replace. Only the rear tailgate uses gas‑charged lift supports on this model.