Parts for your 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer-Gas struts

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer gas struts — what’s fitted and how to look after them

Based on technical references including the Mitsubishi Lancer CJ/CF Factory Service Manual (Body group, liftgate and bonnet sections), the Mitsubishi ASA Electronic Parts Catalogue for the CJ/CF platform, and common workshop databases like Mitchell1 ProDemand and the Haynes Lancer 2007–2017 manual, gas struts are factory-fitted to the rear hatch of the 2015 Lancer Sportback (5-door). The 2015 Lancer sedan uses a support rod for the bonnet and torsion bars for the boot lid, so it doesn’t have factory gas struts on those panels. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits do exist, but they’re not original equipment.

On a 2015 Lancer Sportback, the gas struts (also called lift supports or gas springs) take the load of the tailgate, making it lighter to lift and steady to hold open. They’re pressurised with nitrogen and a light oil film to keep the shaft lubricated, so when they tire out with age you’ll notice the hatch getting lazy, dropping in cold weather, or needing a hand to stay up.

They’re a wear-and-tear item. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions, many last 5–10 years, but heat, dust, and frequent use can shorten that. Best practice is to replace them in pairs to keep lift balanced and to avoid twisting the tailgate. Always support the hatch with a prop (or grab a mate to hold it) before unclipping the old struts. Most use simple spring clips over ball studs—pop the clip, slide the strut off, and click the new one on. Don’t grease the chrome shaft, just keep it clean and free of grit. A light wipe with a lint-free cloth is plenty.

Choosing the right replacements? Match the body style (Sportback), the extended/compressed lengths, end fittings, and the force rating (Newtons) stamped on the old strut. If the old markings are gone, use the VIN to cross-check in a parts catalogue. Quality matters—cheap units can sag quickly or feel too strong, slamming the hatch on close. If the hatch sits uneven or creaks after fitting, check the ball studs and hinges for looseness and make sure both struts are the same spec.

For sedan owners: not seeing gas struts is normal. Mitsubishi used a bonnet prop rod and boot torsion bars on the sedan to save weight, cost, and space—both are reliable and low-maintenance. If you want the convenience of a strut-assisted bonnet, look for a reputable conversion kit designed for the CJ/CF Lancer, and follow the installation guidance carefully.

• Signs it’s time to replace: hatch won’t stay up, drops in the cold, oil mist on the strut, or jerky movement.
• Quick care tip: avoid pushing the hatch up by the glass, lift from the handle to keep loads even.

FAQs

Does my 2015 Lancer have gas struts from factory?
Sportback (5-door) models have gas struts on the rear hatch. The sedan uses a prop rod for the bonnet and torsion bars in the boot, so no factory gas struts there. Aftermarket bonnet kits are available if you want them.

How often should Lancer gas struts be replaced, and can it be DIY?
There’s no fixed interval—replace when holding force drops. Many owners see 5–10 years. DIY is straightforward with basic tools: support the hatch, pop the clips, swap both struts, and test. Having a helper makes it safer.

What specs do I need when ordering new struts?
Match body style (Sportback), length, end fittings, and Newton rating. If unsure, read the markings on your old struts or use your VIN with a parts catalogue to get the correct spec. Always replace in pairs.