Parts for your 2013 Mazda 3-Gas struts

2013 Mazda 3 Gas Struts

Based on the Mazda3 (BL) Workshop Manual and Mazda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2013 model year, gas struts are factory-fitted to the liftgate on the hatchback, while the bonnet uses a manual prop rod and the sedan boot uses a torsion spring system, not gas struts. Those sources list a “liftgate support cylinder” for the hatch but no bonnet or sedan boot gas supports, confirming where gas struts are relevant on the 2013 Mazda 3.

On the 2013 Mazda 3 hatch, the gas struts are there to safely counterbalance the weight of the tailgate, making it easy to lift and keeping it held open without drama. They’re nitrogen-charged dampers that deliver smooth, controlled motion and protect hinges and bodywork from slamming. In everyday use—school runs, shopping, surf gear in and out—the difference between healthy struts and tired ones is night and day.

Because struts are sealed, they gradually lose pressure over time. Heat, dust, and coastal air across Australia and New Zealand can accelerate wear, so it’s smart to include a quick check of the liftgate action in regular servicing.

• Common signs they’re due: the hatch won’t stay up without help, opens sluggishly, drops in cold weather, shows an oily film on the shaft, or creaks at the ball joints.
• Service tip: replace in pairs. That keeps lift and balance even, protecting hinges and glass.

Replacement is straightforward, but safety matters. Support the hatch with a prop or have a mate hold it. Use a small flat screwdriver or pick to lift the retaining clip on each end—don’t remove the clip completely—and pop the strut off the ball stud. Match the orientation of the old unit when fitting the new one, press firmly until the clip snaps home, and check both ends are fully seated. If a bracket is worn, swap it out at the same time.

• Do: wipe the chrome shaft with a clean, dry cloth, dab a little silicone-safe lube on the ball sockets only.
• Don’t: grease the shaft, paint it, or clamp it with tools—any nick can ruin the seal.

There’s no fixed interval—most original struts last 5–8 years depending on climate and use. If the hatch feels heavier or won’t hold itself up, that’s the cue. Quality, vehicle-specific replacements restore the light, controlled lift the Mazda 3 hatch is known for.

FAQs

Does the 2013 Mazda 3 bonnet have gas struts?
From factory, no. The 2013 Mazda 3 uses a manual prop rod for the bonnet. If hands-free lifting is preferred, there are aftermarket bonnet strut kits designed for this model that use existing mounting points.

Do all 2013 Mazda 3 models use gas struts?
The hatchback uses a pair of gas struts on the liftgate. The sedan’s boot uses a torsion spring system instead, so it doesn’t have gas struts from factory.

Should liftgate struts be replaced in pairs?
Yes. Replacing both ensures even support, proper opening height, and consistent damping. Mixing an old weak strut with a new one can load the hinges unevenly and reduce service life.