Parts for your 2016 Honda Cr-v-Gas struts

2016 Honda CR‑V gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources confirm the 2016 Honda CR‑V is fitted with gas‑charged struts on the tailgate. Honda’s service information for the 2015–2016 CR‑V (Body: Tailgate—lift support removal/installation) and Honda’s electronic parts catalogue list left and right tailgate lift supports for this model. Aftermarket catalogues from major suppliers also specify tailgate gas struts for the 2012–2016 CR‑V range. The bonnet on this model uses a manual prop rod, not gas struts.

On a 2016 CR‑V, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the door’s weight so it opens smoothly, stays up safely, and closes without a fight. Whether the vehicle has a manual liftgate or a power tailgate, the gas struts are the muscle that support the hatch and protect hinges, latches, and (where fitted) the power actuator from strain.

There’s no set replacement interval—these are serviced on condition. In Aussie and Kiwi climates, they typically last 5–10 years, but age, heat, dust, and salty air can shorten their life. If the tailgate rises slowly, won’t stay up (especially on cold mornings), needs a helping hand, or leaves a light oil film on the strut shaft, it’s time to replace them. Weak struts on power tailgates can make the motor work overtime, so sorting them early helps avoid bigger bills.

Swapping CR‑V struts is usually a straightforward DIY with a helper or a sturdy prop. Most use spring clips—pop the clip, slide the old strut off the ball stud, then click the new one on. Always support the tailgate, wear eye protection, and never heat or puncture an old strut. Best practice is to replace in pairs so lift and hold are balanced. Match length, end fittings, and force rating, and install with the rod end down so the internal seal stays lubricated.

A quick bit of TLC goes a long way:

• Keep the shiny shaft clean and free of nicks—don’t grab it with pliers or spray silicone on it.
• A tiny dab of suitable grease on the ball stud can prevent squeaks (avoid the shaft).
• If equipped with a power tailgate, re‑initialise the system after fitment per the service manual and check operation across the full travel.

When fitted and working properly, fresh gas struts make the CR‑V’s tailgate feel light, safe, and easy—exactly how it should be.

Does the 2016 Honda CR‑V have gas struts on the tailgate or the bonnet?

It uses gas‑charged struts on the tailgate. The bonnet is supported by a manual prop rod from factory. This setup is confirmed by Honda’s service information for the 2015–2016 CR‑V body section and the official parts listings for tailgate lift supports.

How long do tailgate gas struts last on a 2016 CR‑V?

There’s no fixed schedule, but many last 5–10 years. Cold weather, coastal conditions, and dusty use can shorten their life. Replace them when the hatch sags, opens sluggishly, or leaves an oily film on the shaft.

Do both struts need replacing, and can it be DIY?

Yes—replace in pairs for balanced lift and proper hold. It’s a simple DIY job for most owners: support the tailgate, release the spring clips, and click the new struts on. If you’ve got a power tailgate, follow the reset procedure after fitment and check operation end‑to‑end.