Parts for your 2007 Honda Odyssey-Gas struts

2007 Honda Odyssey gas struts – what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are absolutely used on the 2007 Honda Odyssey — specifically on the rear tailgate. The bonnet uses a simple prop rod, not gas struts. This is backed by the Honda Odyssey 2005–2010 Service Manual (Body and Power Tailgate sections) and the Honda EPC/OEM parts catalogue, which list “Stay, Tailgate” gas-charged supports for 2007 models, including those with the power tailgate. Aftermarket fitment charts (e.g., Stabilus Lift-O-Mat application data) also specify twin tailgate lift supports for 2005–2010 Odysseys.

On this Odyssey, the tailgate gas struts take the weight of the door, help it lift smoothly, and hold it safely open. On power-tailgate variants, they work alongside the electric actuator — the motor doesn’t do all the heavy lifting on its own, so healthy struts are key to smooth, safe operation.

They’re sealed, maintenance-free units, so the focus is on inspection and timely replacement. Typical signs it’s time to swap them out include:

• Tailgate dropping, not staying up, or closing itself in wind
• Slow or uneven opening, especially worse in cold weather
• Visible oil mist on the rod or a bent/damaged shaft
• Power tailgate reversing or beeping and refusing to open fully

Best practice is to replace Odyssey tailgate struts in pairs to keep lift and hold balanced. Use the correct spec units — force ratings and end fittings matter — and always support the tailgate securely during the job. Avoid grabbing or greasing the chrome rods, just keep them clean. A light lubricant on hinges and latches is fine, but keep it off the strut shafts and seals.

For power-tailgate models, switch the system off (or disconnect the battery) before removal, then follow the service manual to initialise the tailgate after fitment so the control unit relearns travel limits. A quick check of hinge alignment and latch operation helps prevent extra load on the new struts.

There’s no set replacement interval, but most factory struts are well past their best after 8–12 years. On a 2007 Odyssey, if the gate doesn’t pop up confidently or sags at the top of travel, fresh gas struts will make daily use heaps easier and safer.

Popular questions

Do 2007 Honda Odyssey bonnets use gas struts?
No. The bonnet is held up with a prop rod. Gas-charged struts are fitted to the rear tailgate only, as detailed in the Honda service manual and OEM parts catalogues. If the bonnet feels heavy, that’s normal — there are simply no hood struts to replace on this model.

How long do Odyssey tailgate gas struts last?
Many last 8–12 years, but age, use, temperature swings, and dust can shorten their life. If the tailgate won’t stay up, opens sluggishly, or sags in colder weather, it’s time for new struts — ideally as a matched pair.

Does the power tailgate still need gas struts?
Yes. The electric actuator relies on the gas struts to counterbalance the tailgate’s weight. Weak struts make the motor work harder and can cause the tailgate to stop short or reverse. After replacement, re-initialise the power tailgate per the service manual so it knows the correct open and close limits.