Parts for your 2013 Honda Civic-Gas struts

2013 Honda Civic gas struts — what’s fitted, why it matters, and how to look after them

Based on Honda’s technical literature, gas struts are fitted only to the 2013 Honda Civic Hatch tailgate, not to the Sedan or Coupe. The Owner’s Manual for the 2013 Civic Hatch (Tailgate section), the 2012–2015 Honda Civic Service Manual (Body—Hood and Trunk/Tailgate), and Honda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue confirm: the Hatch uses gas-charged lift supports on the rear tailgate, while the Sedan/Coupe boot uses torsion bars and the bonnet is held up by a manual prop rod. That’s why “gas struts” aren’t relevant on Sedan/Coupe bonnets or boots—Honda engineered those with simpler, lighter mechanisms to save cost and packaging space.

For the 2013 Civic Hatch, the tailgate gas struts (also called gas stays or lift supports) counterbalance the weight of the hatch so it lifts smoothly and stays put overhead. They make everyday use easier—no need to shoulder the tailgate—while keeping things safe when loading gear or a pram.

Like any pressurised component, gas struts lose charge and damping over time. Common signs they’re due for replacement include the hatch dropping or not staying up, slower lift (especially on cold mornings), a hiss or squeak, or a light film of oil on the shaft. When these show up, replacement in pairs is best practice to keep lift and hold even on both sides.

Replacement is a straightforward job for a workshop or a keen DIYer, but the hatch must be safely supported first. Ball-stud sockets should click firmly on, and any retaining clips refitted correctly. Don’t grease the exposed shafts—lubricants attract grit and can damage the seals. Just keep the rods clean, and avoid forcing the hatch closed mid-stroke.

There’s no fixed service interval for gas struts, in Aussie and Kiwi conditions most owners see 5–10 years of service, depending on climate, how often the hatch is used, and any extra weight (spoiler, accessories). During regular servicing, a quick check—opening effort, hold at full extension, and any leakage—helps catch issues early. If the hatch has become heavier to lift or sags, it’s time to swap them out. Quality aftermarket or genuine equivalents both do the job, the key is matching the correct force rating and end fittings for the FK-series Civic Hatch.

• Symptoms to watch: hatch won’t stay up, slow or uneven lift, visible oil on rods
• Good habits: replace in pairs, keep rods clean, support hatch during work
• Not applicable: Sedan/Coupe boot (torsion bars) and bonnet (prop rod), no gas struts fitted

FAQs

How long do the gas struts last on a 2013 Civic Hatch?
Most owners in Australia and New Zealand can expect around 5–10 years. Heat, cold snaps, dusty roads, and frequent tailgate use shorten that window. If the hatch feels heavy or won’t hold, replace them rather than trying to re-gas—they’re designed as sealed units.

Do the 2013 Civic Sedan or Coupe have gas struts?
No. The Sedan and Coupe use torsion bars for the boot and a prop rod for the bonnet. Honda’s service information and parts catalogues show no gas struts on those body styles, so there’s nothing to service or replace in that area.

Should both tailgate struts be replaced together?
Yes. Changing one can leave the hatch lifting unevenly and puts extra load on the older unit. Replacing in pairs restores the correct balance, lift speed, and hold at full extension.