Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Lancer-Gas struts

2016 Mitsubishi Lancer gas struts – what’s fitted and how to look after them

Referencing Mitsubishi’s Group Repair Manual for the CJ/CF Lancer (Body: Hood/Trunk/Rear Gate) and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, the 2016 Lancer sedan uses a bonnet prop rod and boot torsion bars, so there are no factory gas struts on the bonnet or boot lid. However, the Lancer Sportback (hatch) of the same generation is fitted with a pair of gas‑charged tailgate struts. This is also reflected in common OEM/aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Stabilus/Monroe), which list tailgate struts for the Sportback and none for the sedan’s bonnet or boot.

For Lancer Sportback owners, those tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They’re small, sealed cylinders charged with nitrogen and a bit of oil, designed to support and control the rear gate so it opens smoothly and stays put overhead. When they’re healthy, the tailgate pops up with minimal effort and doesn’t sag on a windy arvo at the beach or in a cold Dunedin morning.

Like any wear item, gas struts lose pressure over time. Heat, cold, and sheer use gradually reduce their force. Telltale signs it’s time for fresh ones include the hatch dropping a touch when parked nose-up, needing a hand to start lifting, moving slower than usual, or showing an oily mist around the rod seal. If any of that rings a bell, replace them as a pair so the lift and balance stay even.

Servicing is simple: check the struts during routine services (every 10,000–20,000 km or annually), keep the chrome rods clean, and don’t lubricate them—grease only attracts grit and damages seals. Avoid leaning on the tailgate as it opens and don’t slam it shut, smooth operation helps the seals last. When replacing, match the correct length, end fittings, and force rating for the Lancer Sportback, and use a support prop while you swap them—those little clips can release suddenly. Quality struts usually click straight on with basic hand tools.

There’s no factory bonnet or boot gas strut setup on the 2016 Lancer sedan because the prop rod and torsion bars are robust, inexpensive, and lighter. If a hands‑free bonnet is desired on the sedan, aftermarket conversion kits exist, but they’re not OEM and should be chosen carefully to avoid panel misalignment or hinge stress.

Does the 2016 Lancer sedan have gas struts on the bonnet or boot?

No. The sedan uses a bonnet prop rod and boot torsion bars. Only the Lancer Sportback (hatch) of the same era uses gas struts on the tailgate.

How long do tailgate gas struts last on a Lancer Sportback?

Many last 5–8 years, but climate and use make a big difference. If the hatch sags, needs a hand to lift, or moves slowly—especially in cold weather—it’s time to replace them.

Can gas struts be re‑gassed, or should they just be replaced?

They’re sealed units, so re‑gassing isn’t standard practice. Replacement with the correct spec struts is the reliable, cost‑effective fix.