Parts for your 2004 Honda Stream-Gas struts

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

Gas struts are absolutely used on the 2004 Honda Stream’s tailgate. Honda’s own technical literature refers to them as gas-pressurised “STAY, TAILGATE” units in the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for RN1–RN5 Stream models, and the Factory Service Manual (Body/Doors—Tailgate section) details removal and installation of these dampers. The bonnet on this model uses a prop rod from factory, so the struts relate to the rear liftgate.

On a 2004 Stream, the tailgate gas struts quietly do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the weight of the hatch, so it lifts smoothly and stays put without drooping over someone’s head. They’re sealed, gas-charged cylinders, and like any wearable item, they lose pressure over time—often faster in cold weather. That’s why a hatch that seems okay in summer can feel lazy or even drop in winter.

As part of regular servicing, it’s worth giving the tailgate action a once-over. If the hatch rises sluggishly, won’t hold at the top, needs a hand to get moving, or drops unexpectedly, the struts are due. A light oil film at the rod can be normal for lubrication, but visible streaking or wetness around the seals points to failure.

• Check opening effort and holding power at full extension.
• Listen for creaks, grinding, or hissing as the gate moves.
• Inspect ball studs and brackets for play, rust, or bending.
• Avoid fingerprints or grit on the shiny rod—grime can chew out the seal.

Replacement is straightforward but mind the safety: always support the tailgate with a prop or a mate before popping the clips. Replace struts in pairs to keep even lift and latch alignment. Match length, end fittings, and orientation, most gas springs are designed to be installed rod-down to keep internal lubrication where it needs to be. Reuse or replace ball studs as needed and snug everything to workshop-manual torque. Don’t clamp the rod in a vice, and never puncture or heat a strut—there’s pressure inside.

There’s not much to “service” on gas struts beyond keeping the rods clean and undamaged. Don’t spray silicone or petroleum oils on the rod, and don’t help the strut by pushing it in by hand, just operate the gate normally. Expect them to be a consumable—if the Stream’s hatch has started head-butting on windy or cold days, fresh struts make a huge difference for day-to-day ease and safety.

Do 2004 Honda Stream gas struts come in different sizes or forces?

They do vary by market and tailgate spec, which is why Honda’s EPC lists them by VIN and trim. The easiest path is to match against the original part number or a reputable vehicle-specific kit. If in doubt, measure extended length and end fittings and cross-check with a supplier who knows Streams.

Can the 2004 Honda Stream’s bonnet use gas struts?

From factory it’s a simple prop rod. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist for some Hondas, but they’re not standard on the Stream. If fitting a kit, choose one designed for the model and avoid drilling or loading thin panels without proper brackets.

Is replacing tailgate gas struts a DIY job?

Usually, yes. With the tailgate safely supported, it’s a matter of easing the retaining clips and swapping each strut. Replace both sides, check the gate opens fully and latches cleanly, and make sure the clips are properly seated. If mounts are rusty or bent, get a technician to sort it.