Parts for your 2009 Mazda Cx-9-Gas struts

2009 Mazda CX-9 Gas Struts — What They Do and When to Replace

Technical sources confirm the 2009 Mazda CX-9 uses gas-pressurised struts on the tailgate. The Mazda CX-9 (2007–2015) Workshop Manual, Body—Liftgate, specifies gas-filled “liftgate stay dampers”, while the Body—Bonnet section shows a prop rod rather than bonnet struts. Mazda’s Electronic Parts Catalog for 2009 also lists “Stay, Liftgate” as genuine service parts. So, gas struts are absolutely relevant for the CX-9’s tailgate, including variants with a power liftgate where the motor works alongside the struts.

On the CX-9, gas struts support and control the tailgate’s movement, making it light to lift and preventing it from dropping on a windy day. They’re nitrogen-charged, oil-damped units designed to counterbalance the tailgate’s weight and smooth out the opening and closing behaviour. Even power-liftgate models rely on correctly rated gas struts so the drive unit doesn’t strain itself.

With age, heat, and regular use, gas struts lose charge and damping oil. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, five to eight years is a common service life, though vehicles parked in the sun or used on corrugations may see earlier fade. Weak struts can be a safety issue, so inspection during routine servicing is smart practice.

• Signs they’re due: tailgate won’t stay up, rises slowly or only part-way, drops suddenly near the top, needs a shove to start lifting, oily film on the rod, or a faint hiss with poor support.
• Service tips: keep the chrome rods clean and free of grit, don’t lubricate the rods (it damages seals), check ball-stud brackets and clips for corrosion or looseness, avoid slamming the tailgate.

Replacement is straightforward but should be done carefully. Always support the tailgate with a prop or a second person. Replace in pairs to keep force balanced left-to-right. Match the part to the VIN and tailgate type (manual vs power-liftgate) so the force rating is correct. Fit with the cylinder body uppermost (rod pointing down) to keep internal seals lubricated. After install, cycle the tailgate gently to confirm smooth, even support. Avoid painting, clamping, heating, or opening a strut—these units are sealed and pressurised. Disposal should follow workshop safety procedures.

A quick check of tailgate struts at every service helps prevent surprise failures in the car park and keeps the CX-9 feeling tidy and easy to live with.

Popular questions about 2009 Mazda CX-9 gas struts

Does a 2009 Mazda CX-9 have gas struts on both the tailgate and the bonnet?
The 2009 CX-9 uses gas struts on the tailgate. The bonnet is supported by a prop rod from factory. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist, but they’re not original equipment.

How long do CX-9 tailgate struts last, and when should they be replaced?
Five to eight years is typical, depending on climate and use. Replace them when the tailgate won’t stay up, opens sluggishly, or shows oil on the rods. Always replace in pairs and choose the correct force rating.

Are power-liftgate CX-9 models fitted with different struts?
Yes. Power-liftgate versions still use gas struts, but they’re specified to work with the drive motor. Selecting the right strut for the VIN and tailgate type ensures the power unit isn’t overworked.