Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander-Gas struts

2016 Mitsubishi Outlander gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are absolutely relevant to the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander. The Mitsubishi workshop manual for the GF/GS-series Outlander (Body/Back Door section) specifies gas‑charged lift supports for the tailgate, and major aftermarket catalogues (Stabilus, Monroe, StrongArm) list direct-fit rear hatch gas springs for 2014–2018 Outlander models. The bonnet on this model uses a prop rod, not gas struts, which the service manual also notes — but the rear tailgate relies on a matched pair of gas struts to lift, hold and gently lower the hatch.

On this Outlander, the gas struts do three jobs: assist the lift of the tailgate so it feels light, hold it safely at full height, and damp movement so it doesn’t slam. Inside each strut is high-pressure nitrogen and a light oil film that lubricates and cushions the stroke. Over years of use, seals wear and pressure drops, especially in colder weather — that’s when weak struts really show up.

Typical signs it’s time for new struts include the hatch sagging or dropping, needing two hands to lift, a slow or jerky rise (worse on frosty mornings), oil mist around the rod, or metallic squeaks. If your Outlander has a power tailgate, it still uses gas struts, they share the lifting load with the motor, so worn struts can make the power system strain or stop short.

There’s no set replacement interval, but five to ten years is common. Coastal Aussie and Kiwi climates can shorten life thanks to salt and grit. When replacing, always do them in pairs, support the tailgate securely, and avoid twisting the body of the strut. Most units are sealed and not designed to be regassed, swapping in new, correctly rated struts is the reliable fix.

• Keep the chrome rods clean and dry, wipe with a soft cloth only (no petroleum sprays or grease).
• Check the ball sockets and clips for play or corrosion.
• Match part numbers or Newton ratings to your VIN and trim (power tailgate models may have different specs).
• For power tailgate variants, follow the manual’s initialisation procedure after fitting new struts.

Done right, fresh gas struts restore that easy one-hand lift and safe hold, making the family hauler feel brand new again.

Popular questions

Do 2016 Outlander bonnets use gas struts?
No — the bonnet uses a manual prop rod on 2016 Outlander models. The rear tailgate is where Mitsubishi fitted gas-charged struts. Some owners retrofit bonnet struts, but that’s aftermarket and not a factory setup.

Can tailgate gas struts be regassed, or should they be replaced?
Most Outlander tailgate struts are sealed units and not designed to be regassed. While some specialists offer regassing, results can be inconsistent. For safety and longevity, replacing with new, correctly rated struts is the recommended approach.

Why does my Outlander’s hatch fall more in cold weather?
Gas pressure drops with temperature. When it’s cold, a marginal strut may lose enough force that it can’t hold the hatch fully up. If you notice this, the struts are nearing end of life and should be replaced before they become a safety risk.