Parts for your 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer-Gas struts

2004 Mitsubishi Lancer Gas Struts — What’s Fitted and How to Look After Them

Based on the Mitsubishi Factory Service Manual for the CG/CH series (2002–2007) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, the 2004 Lancer sedan does not use gas struts for the bonnet or boot, the bonnet is supported by a prop rod and the boot lid uses torsion bars. The Lancer wagon (CS5W), however, is factory-fitted with a pair of gas-charged tailgate struts to support the rear liftgate. Evolution CT9A sedans of the same era also use a prop rod and torsion bars rather than gas struts. These sources confirm that gas struts are relevant only to the wagon’s tailgate on 2004 Lancers.

For owners of the 2004 Lancer wagon, gas struts are the unsung heroes that hold the tailgate safely overhead while loading the weekly shop or the pram. They’re small, sealed dampers filled with nitrogen that provide controlled lift and steady support, so the tailgate doesn’t slam down or drift onto your head.

Like any wear item, gas struts lose charge and damping over time—especially with heat, dust, and constant use in Aussie and Kiwi conditions. There’s no set replacement interval, but if the tailgate feels heavy, won’t stay up on cooler mornings, or shows an oily film around the shaft, the struts are on the way out. Replace them in pairs to keep lift and balance even.

Swapping them is usually a quick job: support the tailgate safely with a prop, pop off the retaining clips at each end, swap the strut, and click the clips back in. A light wipe to keep the chrome shaft clean is all the “maintenance” they need—no grease or silicone on the shaft, as contamination can damage the internal seals. Check the ball-stud mounts for corrosion or looseness while you’re there.

Quality matters. OE or OE-equivalent struts matched to the wagon’s tailgate weight and length give the best result. Avoid universal units that don’t match the original extended length and force rating. If the tailgate still feels lazy with new struts, inspect hinges and the latch alignment for binding.

Tell-tale signs it’s time to act:

• Tailgate sags, drops, or needs a helping hand to lift
• Works better in warm sun than on cold mornings
• Oil mist on the strut body or shaft, or notchy movement
• Audible creaks from mounts or loose hardware

Given the age of a 2004 wagon, fresh gas struts are a simple, cost-effective safety and convenience upgrade that most owners will notice straight away.

FAQs

Does a 2004 Mitsubishi Lancer sedan have gas struts?
No. The sedan’s bonnet is held by a prop rod and the boot lid uses torsion bars. Only the wagon variant from this era uses gas struts, and they’re on the tailgate.

What gas struts fit the 2004 Lancer wagon tailgate?
Use vehicle-specific struts that match the original extended length, end fittings, and force rating. OE or OE-equivalent units designed for the CS5W tailgate will give proper lift and safe hold without over-stressing hinges.

Can the original gas struts be re-gassed?
Some specialists can re-gas, but on older units with worn seals it’s usually better value to replace with new OE-equivalent struts. New units restore full performance and typically last longer than a re-gas on tired hardware.