Parts for your 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer-Gas struts

2005 Mitsubishi Lancer gas struts — what’s fitted and how to look after them

Based on the Mitsubishi Lancer CG/CH (2002–2007) Service Manual (Body/Exterior sections) and Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue for CS/CH models in Oceania, gas struts are not fitted to the bonnet or boot lid on the 2005 Lancer sedan — the bonnet uses a manual prop rod and the boot uses torsion bars in the hinges. However, the 2005 Lancer wagon (tailgate model) does use a pair of gas-charged liftgate struts from factory. So gas struts are relevant for Lancer wagons, and generally not applicable to the sedan’s bonnet or boot unless an aftermarket kit has been installed.

For 2005 Lancer wagons, gas struts do the heavy lifting on the rear tailgate, making it easy to open and preventing it from crashing down. Each strut is a sealed cylinder with nitrogen gas and a dab of oil, providing smooth, damped motion. Over time, the seals can harden and the internal gas pressure drops, especially after years of Kiwi and Aussie summers. When that happens, the tailgate may creep down, struggle to lift in colder weather, or need a firm shove to open fully.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the tailgate action a once-over. If the gate won’t stay up confidently, or there’s a hiss and stiction through the stroke, it’s time to replace the struts. They should always be replaced in pairs to keep the lift balanced and protect the hinges. Replacement is straightforward: support the tailgate safely (a second person or a prop), pop off the clip at each ball socket with a small flat screwdriver, swap the strut, then ensure the clips are fully seated. Most quality aftermarket units are pre-lubed and ready to go — no need to prime them. Avoid forcing a new strut closed by hand, let the tailgate do the work.

To extend life, keep the ball studs lightly greased, don’t use the tailgate as a leaning post, and avoid slamming it shut. If the car is parked for long periods, occasionally cycling the tailgate helps keep the seals happy. For sedans, there’s nothing to “service” on the bonnet prop or boot torsion bars beyond checking the prop’s grommets and ensuring the boot opens and closes cleanly. If bonnet gas struts are desired on a sedan, aftermarket kits exist, but they must be matched to the CH/CG body and installed per the supplier’s instructions to avoid panel misalignment.

• Common failure signs: tailgate drops or won’t hold, uneven lift, loud creak/hiss, worse in cold mornings.
• Best practice: replace in pairs, verify correct length and force rating for the wagon tailgate, and torque any bracket fasteners to spec.

FAQs

Does my 2005 Lancer sedan have gas struts from factory?
From factory, no. The sedan uses a bonnet prop rod and torsion bars for the boot lid. Only the wagon’s rear tailgate is supported by gas struts. If a sedan has bonnet struts, they’re almost certainly aftermarket.

How often should Lancer wagon tailgate struts be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval, but many last 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Replace them when the tailgate won’t stay up, feels heavy, or sags in cold weather. Always replace both sides together.

Can just one failed gas strut be replaced?
It’s not recommended. Replacing in pairs keeps the opening force even, prevents hinge twist, and restores smooth operation. Mixing an old weak strut with a new one often leads to rapid wear and poor tailgate control.