Parts for your 2009 Honda Cr-v-Gas struts

2009 Honda CR‑V gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are relevant to the 2009 Honda CR‑V. The rear tailgate is supported by a pair of gas‑charged lift supports, while the bonnet uses a prop rod. This arrangement is described in Honda’s 2009 CR‑V Owner’s Manual (tailgate operation and safety cautions) and detailed in the 2007–2011 Honda CR‑V Service Manual under Body—Tailgate—Tailgate Support Stay Replacement. Honda’s parts catalogues for this generation also list the tailgate gas‑charged “stays,” confirming fitment on 2009 models.

On a 2009 CR‑V, the tailgate gas struts handle the heavy lifting, counterbalancing the weight of the door so it opens smoothly and stays put, even on a breezy day at the beach or in a Bunnings carpark. They’re sealed, nitrogen‑charged dampers designed to provide consistent support over thousands of open/close cycles. When they’re healthy, the tailgate glides up with minimal effort and holds its height without sagging.

Over time, seals wear and gas pressure drops. That’s when owners notice the hatch rising slower than usual, stopping short of full height, or drifting down—especially in cold weather. A light mist of oil on the strut body, a creak at the hinges, or a thud as the door closes can also hint that the struts are due.

• Service tips: Wipe the strut shafts clean, avoid silicone or petroleum sprays on the shafts to protect the seals, lightly lube tailgate hinges and latch only.
• Safety: If support is weak, use a prop or a helper before working under the open tailgate.
• Replacement: Swap struts in pairs to keep lift balanced and predictable.

Replacement is a straightforward driveway job with basic hand tools: support the tailgate, pop off the retaining clips, and clip the new units into place with the sockets aligned to the balls. Quality aftermarket or genuine struts both fit well, go genuine if the vehicle still has factory dampers and you want OE‑level feel, or choose reputable aftermarket units for value. There’s no set kilometre interval—many last five to ten years depending on climate and use—but include a check at each service. If the hatch no longer holds itself up or won’t reach full height, it’s time.

Note: The bonnet on this model uses a manual prop, so bonnet gas struts aren’t applicable.

Popular questions about 2009 Honda CR‑V gas struts

How long do tailgate gas struts usually last?
Many last five to ten years, but life depends on climate, usage, and dust exposure. If the tailgate won’t stay up or lifts sluggishly—especially on cold mornings—the struts are near the end of their service life.

Can 2009 CR‑V gas struts be re‑gassed, or should they be replaced?
They’re sealed units. Re‑gassing isn’t recommended for this application, replacement with new struts is the reliable, cost‑effective fix.

Is DIY replacement difficult?
It’s a simple job for most handy owners. Support the tailgate securely, then release the clip at each end of the old strut and snap the new one on. Plan on 20–30 minutes and replace both sides together.