Parts for your 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer-Gas struts

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer gas struts: fitment, purpose, and service tips

Technical references indicate mixed factory fitment for gas struts on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer (CJ). The Mitsubishi Lancer CJ Workshop Manual (Body: Hood/Boot) specifies a bonnet support rod and a torsion-bar boot counterbalance for the sedan, meaning no factory gas struts there. By contrast, the Mitsubishi Lancer CJ/Sportback Workshop Manual (Body: Liftgate) details gas strut “gas springs” on the rear liftgate. The Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue backs this up, listing liftgate gas springs for the Sportback and none for the sedan’s bonnet or boot. So: gas struts are relevant to the 2009 Lancer Sportback tailgate, but not to the sedan’s bonnet or boot.

For the 2009 Lancer Sportback, gas struts do the heavy lifting—literally. These nitrogen-charged “gas springs” support and control the tailgate so it lifts smoothly, stays up securely, and closes without fuss. Over time, seals wear and internal pressure drops, especially with heat, dust, and regular use. When that happens, the tailgate can feel heavy, rise slowly, or sag—none of which is ideal on a wet arvo with hands full of shopping.

Good servicing practice is simple and safe:

• Inspection cadence: check operation at regular services. A quick test for smooth lift, solid hold at full height, and no shudder on the way down is usually enough.
• Replace in pairs: struts age together. Swapping both keeps lift and balance consistent.
• Clean, don’t lube: keep the shiny rod clean and dry, avoid grease or silicone on the rod as it attracts grit and can damage seals.
• Mind the clips: use a small flat tool to ease the spring clip, support the tailgate with a prop or a mate while changing them.
• Match the spec: choose struts with the correct force rating, length, stroke, and end fittings specific to the CJ Sportback.

Typical lifespan is 5–10 years, shorter in hot climates or with frequent use. Telltales for replacement include an oily film on the rod, slow or partial lift, needing a hand to start movement, or the gate dropping in cold weather. New struts sharpen the car’s day-to-day practicality and, more importantly, keep the tailgate safely overhead—no surprises on the back of the head.

While the CJ sedan doesn’t use factory gas struts, owners sometimes fit aftermarket bonnet kits. If doing so, choosing vehicle-specific hardware and following the supplied load and mounting guidance is key to avoid panel misalignment or hinge stress.

Popular questions about 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer gas struts

Do all 2009 Lancers have gas struts?
Not all. The CJ Sportback (hatch) uses gas struts on the rear liftgate. The CJ sedan uses a bonnet prop rod and a torsion-bar system for the boot, so no factory gas struts there. Owners of the sedan sometimes fit aftermarket bonnet strut kits, but these weren’t standard.

How long do Lancer Sportback tailgate struts last, and should they be replaced in pairs?
Most last around 5–10 years, depending on climate and use. Replacement in pairs is recommended to keep lift and balance consistent, prevent twisting of the tailgate, and ensure equal hold at full height.

Can gas struts be re-gassed, or is replacement better?
Some specialist shops re-gas struts, but for vehicle tailgates it’s usually more cost-effective and predictable to fit new units. Fresh struts ensure the correct force rating, correct travel, and fresh seals—all important for a safe, stable liftgate.