Parts for your 2010 Mazda Axela-Gas struts

2010 Mazda Axela (BL) gas struts — what’s fitted and how to look after them

Gas struts are relevant to the 2010 Mazda Axela, but specifically on the Sport/hatchback’s liftgate. Technical sources confirm this fitment: the Mazda BL Series Workshop Manual (Liftgate Support — Removal/Installation) specifies gas-filled supports for the hatch, and lists a bonnet stay (prop rod) rather than bonnet struts. The same manual and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) for the 2010 Axela show torsion bars for the sedan boot, not gas struts. Aftermarket application catalogues such as Stabilus Lift-O-Mat and Monroe Max-Lift also list rear hatch gas springs for the 2009–2013 Axela/Mazda3 hatchback.

On the Axela hatch, the gas struts counterbalance the weight of the liftgate so it opens smoothly, stays up securely, and closes without a fight. They’re sealed, nitrogen-charged units with a light oil film for lubrication, doing the heavy lifting quietly in the background. Good struts make day-to-day use safer and more civilised, especially with hands full of groceries or gear.

Servicing here is mostly about inspection and timely replacement. There’s no set interval, climate and usage dictate lifespan. As part of routine servicing, a quick check is smart: open the hatch fully, feel for steady support, and listen for creaks or hissing. Any drop, bounce, or reluctance to rise (worse on cold mornings) points to weak struts.

• Hatch won’t stay up or sags, especially in cold weather.
• Needs extra shove to open, or pops up too slowly.
• Visible oil leakage, scored rod, or bent tube.
• Clicking, groaning, or hissing noises during movement.

Replace in pairs to keep lift and balance even. Always support the liftgate safely before removal, and match the new struts’ length, end fittings, and force rating to the Axela hatch spec. Install with the rod down where possible to keep the internal seal bathed in oil, and avoid grabbing or greasing the chrome rod — just keep it clean. Hinges and latch should be checked and lightly lubricated so the new struts aren’t masking sticky hardware. Bonnet struts aren’t an OEM item on this model (it uses a prop rod), and the sedan boot uses torsion bars, so only the hatch lift supports are a routine replacement item. Quality replacements restore the easy one-hand open-and-hold feel the Axela is known for.

Do all 2010 Mazda Axelas have gas struts?

No. The Sport/hatchback uses gas struts on the liftgate. The sedan’s boot relies on torsion bars, and the bonnet on both body styles uses a prop rod. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist, but they’re not factory gear.

How long do the hatch gas struts usually last?

There’s no fixed change interval. Many last 5–10 years, but cold climates, dusty conditions, or frequent use can shorten that. Replace when they no longer hold the hatch confidently or show leaks/damage.

Can gas struts be re-gassed or repaired?

They’re sealed units and aren’t serviceable in practice. Re-gassing isn’t recommended. Replacement with correct-spec new struts is the safe, cost-effective fix — and it’s best to do both sides together.