Parts for your 2012 Mazda 6-Gas struts

2012 Mazda 6 gas struts — what’s fitted and how to look after them

Per Mazda’s GH-series Workshop Manual (Body – Liftgate/Back Door) and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2008–2012 Mazda 6, gas struts are factory-fitted to the rear liftgate on Hatch and Wagon models. The Sedan’s boot uses torsion bars (no gas struts), and the bonnet on all body styles uses a prop rod rather than bonnet struts. So gas-struts are relevant on a 2012 Mazda 6 only if it’s the Hatch or the Wagon with a liftgate.

Where fitted, the gas struts hold the tailgate up smoothly and safely, taking the weight so there’s no wrestling with a heavy door. They also control the liftgate’s opening speed and final height, which is handy in tight carparks and essential for safety.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth giving the tailgate struts a quick once-over. A light wipe to keep the piston rods clean, plus a listen-and-feel test, goes a long way. There’s no internal maintenance (they’re sealed units), so attention is mostly about condition and performance checks.

• Common signs they’re on the way out:
  • Tailgate won’t stay up, drops suddenly, or needs help to lift.
  • Stiction, jerky movement, or hissing/visible oil mist at the seals.
  • Cold mornings make the issue more obvious (gas pressure falls with temperature).
• Replacement tips:
  • Always replace struts in pairs to keep lift and balance even.
  • Support the tailgate securely before removing clips, a helper or prop is essential.
  • Match part numbers to body style (Hatch vs Wagon) and trim to ensure correct force and stroke.
• Service interval guidance:
  • No fixed schedule, but 5–10 years is a common lifespan depending on use, environment, and heat.
  • If the tailgate can’t hold itself at full height, treat it as due—safety first.

A fresh set of quality gas-struts restores that easy, one-hand lift and confident hold at full height—nice for everyday convenience and critical for avoiding a tailgate to the noggin. For a 2012 Mazda 6 Hatch or Wagon, it’s a straightforward, affordable job that makes the car feel newer straight away.

Popular questions about 2012 Mazda 6 gas struts

Do all 2012 Mazda 6 models have gas struts?
No. The Hatch and Wagon use gas struts on the rear liftgate. The Sedan’s boot relies on torsion bars, and the bonnet on all variants uses a prop rod. If the car has a one-piece rear liftgate, it’s using gas struts.

How long do the tailgate struts typically last?
Many owners see 5–10 years. Heat, dust, and frequent use can shorten life. If the tailgate sags, needs a shove to open, or won’t stay up—especially in cold weather—it’s time to replace the pair.

Can they be replaced at home?
Yes, with basic tools. Support the tailgate securely, pop off the retaining clips, swap the struts, and click the new ones into place. Replacing both sides together keeps lift and closing effort consistent.