Parts for your 2015 Honda Odyssey-Gas struts

2015 Honda Odyssey gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references — including the Honda Odyssey 2011–2017 Service Manual (Body/Power Tailgate), the Honda parts catalogue for the 2015 Odyssey (listing left/right tailgate lift support struts and power tailgate struts on applicable trims), and industry application data from lift-support manufacturers — the 2015 Honda Odyssey is fitted with gas-charged struts on the rear tailgate. Models with a power tailgate use an integrated powered lift strut assembly alongside a gas-charged support, manual tailgate variants use a pair of gas struts. The bonnet uses a prop rod rather than gas struts.

On this people-mover, gas struts counterbalance the weight of the rear tailgate, so it lifts smoothly and stays put without dropping on someone’s head. On power-tailgate versions, the system blends electric actuation with gas pressure for controlled opening and closing. Over time, seals wear and nitrogen charge drops, especially in colder weather, so lift can feel lazy or the hatch may sag.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to check the tailgate’s behaviour. If it’s slow to rise, won’t hold at full height, feels uneven side-to-side, or shows an oily film on the strut body, it’s time to replace. For manual tailgates, replace struts in pairs to keep balance and avoid twisting the hinges. For power tailgates, replace like-for-like (powered vs non-powered side) and follow the reinitialisation steps in the service manual after installation.

• Support the tailgate safely with a prop or helper before starting.
• Release the clip or fastener at each ball joint, never lever against the polished shaft.
• Avoid lubricants on the strut shaft — they attract grit and damage seals. Keep ball studs lightly greased.
• On power units, isolate the system (ignition off) and perform tailgate calibration after fitment.

Most owners see 5–10 years from a set, but heavy use, heat, or coastal environments can shorten that. Replacement is usually a quick job — a few minutes per side — and immediately restores safe, easy lift. If the tailgate needs a shove to get moving, or drops in a breeze, don’t wait, weak struts can stress hinges and power actuators.

Using quality, vehicle-specific struts keeps opening height correct and ensures the power tailgate module senses load properly. That means fewer beeps, fewer retries, and a tailgate that behaves itself every school run.

Does the 2015 Honda Odyssey have gas struts on the bonnet?
No. The 2015 Odyssey bonnet is held up by a prop rod. Gas-charged struts are used on the rear tailgate, with power-tailgate models incorporating a powered strut assembly alongside a gas support.

Should tailgate gas struts be replaced in pairs?
For manual tailgates, yes — pairs keep lift even and prevent hinge twist. On power-tailgate versions, replace the failed unit with the correct type (powered vs non-powered side) and consider the companion if performance is mismatched. Always reinitialise the power tailgate after replacement.

What are the signs my Odyssey’s gas struts are worn?
Slow lift, needing a push to start moving, dropping from full height, a hiss with little resistance, or oil residue on the cylinder. Performance often worsens in colder mornings — a classic clue the charge is fading.