Parts for your 2010 Mazda Cx-9-Gas struts

2010 Mazda CX-9 Gas Struts — Purpose, Care and When to Replace

Based on technical references, gas-charged liftgate struts are fitted to the 2010 Mazda CX-9. The Mazda Workshop Manual (Body and Accessories – Liftgate) details removal/installation of liftgate support struts, and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue lists the liftgate gas spring assemblies for this model. Major aftermarket catalogues (including Stabilus Lift-O-Mat, Monroe Max-Lift and StrongArm) also specify direct-fit lift supports for 2007–2015 CX-9, confirming their use.

On the 2010 CX-9, the gas struts do the heavy lifting for the tailgate, taking the weight so it opens smoothly and stays put overhead. They’re pressurised with nitrogen and a touch of oil to damp movement, which keeps the liftgate from slamming down and makes day-to-day use easier and safer.

As the vehicle ages, seals harden and pressure bleeds off, especially after years of temperature swings. That’s when the tailgate starts to feel heavy, creeps down on a slope, or refuses to rise in cold weather. It’s a safety item as much as a convenience one, so it’s worth checking during regular servicing.

Good workshop practice is to inspect the struts annually or every 20,000 km: look for oily mist on the shaft or body, pitted or rusty shafts, and uneven or jerky movement. Wipe the shafts with a clean, lint‑free cloth—no grease or silicone spray, as lubricants can attract grit and damage the seals. If replacement is needed, do both sides at once to keep lift balanced and to avoid premature wear.

Replacement is straightforward: support the tailgate securely, pop the spring clips at each end, swap the strut, and click it onto the ball studs. Fit with the shaft pointing downwards where applicable to keep the internal seal lubricated. Avoid prying on the ball studs, if a stud is worn or loose, replace it too. After fitting, cycle the tailgate a few times to confirm smooth, even action.

Most owners find quality aftermarket or OE-equivalent struts last years, but harsh climates or frequent use can shorten life. If the CX-9’s tailgate won’t stay up, or needs a shoulder to lift, fresh struts will bring back that easy, one-hand operation with no drama.

• Common signs they’re due: tailgate sagging, slow lift (worse when cold), hissing or oil residue on the strut, or needing two hands to open.

Popular questions about 2010 Mazda CX-9 gas struts

How can someone tell if the liftgate struts on a 2010 CX-9 need replacing?
If the tailgate won’t stay up, drops suddenly, or feels heavy to lift—especially in cold weather—the struts have likely lost pressure. Visible oil film on the strut body or a pitted shaft also points to failure. Testing on level ground with nothing loaded on the tailgate gives the clearest result.

Should both liftgate struts be replaced at the same time?
Yes. They work as a pair. Mixing an old, weak strut with a new one can twist the tailgate, stress hinges, and shorten the life of the new strut. Replacing both restores balance and proper damping.

Are there bonnet gas struts on a 2010 CX-9?
Most examples use a prop rod for the bonnet rather than gas struts. If bonnet support is a concern, check the vehicle—owners can retrofit struts on some models, but the factory lift supports are for the tailgate.