Parts for your 2016 Mazda Cx-9-Gas struts

2016 Mazda CX-9 Gas Struts

Referencing the Mazda Workshop Manual for the TC CX-9 (Body: Liftgate/Back Door – Liftgate Stay Damper) and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue (Group 62: Body Fittings – Stay, Liftgate), the 2016 Mazda CX-9 is fitted with gas‑charged struts on the rear liftgate, including models with a power tailgate. The bonnet uses a manual prop rod from factory, so bonnet gas struts are not supplied as OEM equipment.

On the 2016 CX-9, the rear liftgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the weight of the tailgate, control the opening speed, and hold it safely at full height. On vehicles with a power tailgate, the gas struts share the load with the electric actuator, reducing strain on the drive unit and ensuring smooth, quiet operation. Good struts make everyday use easier and safer—no shoulder heave to lift the gate, and no nasty surprises from a hatch that sags or drops, especially in cold weather.

There’s no fixed interval for replacement, but they’re a wear item. As part of routine servicing (say every 10,000–15,000 km), it’s smart to check liftgate operation. The tailgate should rise steadily without jerks, hold its height without drifting, and close without binding. Keep the chrome rod on each strut clean—just wipe with a soft cloth, don’t lubricate the rod. A tiny dab of suitable grease on the ball studs is fine, but avoid getting any on the rod or seals. Temperature affects performance, so test both on a cool morning and when warm.

When replacement’s due, always renew struts in pairs to keep the lift balanced. Support the tailgate securely with a prop or helper before you pop the clips. Swap one side at a time, matching the original orientation and socket positions. After fitting, cycle the tailgate fully open and closed a few times, for power tailgates, perform the initialisation routine as per the workshop manual so the control unit learns the new lift characteristics. If the gate is powered and feels laboured, don’t force it—recheck alignment and mounting points.

• Common signs they’re failing:
  • The tailgate won’t stay up or drops suddenly.
  • Slow or uneven lift, worse in cold weather.
  • Hissing, binding, or visible oil film on the rod.

Does the 2016 Mazda CX-9 bonnet have gas struts?

No. The 2016 CX-9 uses a manual prop rod for the bonnet. Gas struts are fitted to the rear liftgate only from factory.

How long do the liftgate gas struts typically last?

Usage, climate, and how often the tailgate is cycled all play a part, but many owners see 5–8 years before performance tails off. If the gate sags, needs a big shove to open, or leaves an oily film on the rod, it’s time to replace.

Can gas struts be replaced at home on power tailgate models?

Yes, with care. Support the tailgate, replace both struts, and then initialise the power tailgate as per the workshop procedure. If the gate binds or the motor strains, stop and check mounting points, or have a technician take a look.