Parts for your 2009 Honda Civic-Gas struts

Are gas‑struts used on the 2009 Honda Civic?

For Australia and New Zealand–spec 2009 Honda Civic models (FD-series sedan and FA-series Hybrid), gas‑struts are not fitted from factory to the bonnet or the boot. The bonnet is supported by a manual prop rod, and the boot lid uses torsion bar springs at the hinges. Only certain overseas hatchback variants of this generation (such as the European FN/FK hatch, including some Type R models) use gas‑charged lift supports on the rear hatch.

This conclusion aligns with Honda’s technical literature: the 2006–2011 Honda Civic Service Manual details a bonnet support rod in the “Hood” section and torsion bar springs in the “Trunk Lid” section, the 2009 Civic Owner’s Manual illustrates use of a prop rod when opening the bonnet, and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue for AU/NZ 2009 Civic sedan/hybrid lists torsion bars and hinge hardware, not gas struts, for the boot, and no hood struts at all.

Why no gas‑struts? Honda engineered the sedan’s boot with compact torsion bars to keep weight down, preserve boot opening geometry, and minimise cost and complexity. Torsion bars and a simple prop rod are robust, easy to service, and free up packaging space around the hinges. For most owners, these systems are essentially maintenance‑free beyond occasional hinge lubrication, and they avoid the eventual loss of charge that gas‑struts can suffer after years in the sun.

Thinking about adding gas‑struts anyway? Aftermarket bonnet strut kits do exist, but fitment should be approached carefully. Poorly designed brackets can stress the bonnet frame or hinges, and can interfere with the bonnet’s designed deformation zones. Quality kits matched to the FD/FA body, correct mounting points, and stainless hardware are a must. For the boot, retrofitting gas‑struts isn’t typical due to the sedan hinge design, the OEM torsion bars provide the intended opening and closing effort.

For owners of imported 8th‑gen Civic hatchbacks that do use gas‑struts on the tailgate: replace them in pairs when the hatch no longer stays up, when lift feels weak in cold weather, or when oil misting appears on the rod. Choose struts with the correct force rating and end fittings, and avoid twisting the rods during installation.

• Technical references: 2006–2011 Honda Civic Service Manual (Body/Frame: “Hood” and “Trunk Lid”), 2009 Honda Civic Owner’s Manual (bonnet opening procedure), Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (FD/FA sedan/hybrid listings).

Popular questions about 2009 Honda Civic gas‑struts

Does a 2009 Honda Civic have gas‑struts?
For AU/NZ 2009 Civic sedans and hybrids, no. The bonnet uses a prop rod, and the boot uses torsion bar springs. Only certain overseas hatchbacks of this generation use gas‑charged lift supports on the rear hatch.

Can gas‑struts be retrofitted to the bonnet or boot?
Bonnet strut kits can be retrofitted with model‑specific brackets, but care is needed to avoid stressing the bonnet or hinges. The boot on the sedan isn’t typically converted due to its hinge and torsion bar design. Stick with quality kits and correct mounting points if proceeding.

What supports the boot and bonnet instead of gas‑struts?
The bonnet is held up by a manual prop rod. The boot lid is counterbalanced by torsion bar springs integrated into the hinge area. These parts are durable, light, and require little more than occasional lubrication of hinges and latches.