Parts for your 2017 Honda Odyssey-Gas struts

2017 Honda Odyssey gas struts: what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are relevant to the 2017 Honda Odyssey. Factory information for the 2011–2017 model series confirms gas‑charged stays are fitted to the tailgate (manual and power tailgate variants), while the bonnet uses a simple support rod rather than struts. This is documented in Honda’s Service Manual sections for Body/Doors—Tailgate Support Strut Replacement and the Hood Support Rod procedure, and reflected in genuine parts catalogues listing tailgate gas springs for the 2017 Odyssey.

The Odyssey’s tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting behind the scenes. Charged with nitrogen and a light oil film for sealing and damping, they counterbalance the tailgate so it opens smoothly and, just as importantly, stays up without drama. On power tailgate models, the motor isn’t doing it alone—those gas struts share the load. When they’re tired, the tailgate can feel heavy, struggle to rise, reverse mid‑travel, or worse, drop unexpectedly.

Servicing is straightforward but benefits from a few pro tips. Always replace struts in pairs to keep opening force even. Support the tailgate with a prop or a helper before popping the ball sockets off. Don’t grab or grease the chrome rod—fingerprints and lubricants can damage the seals, just keep the rod clean and free of grit. Expect reduced lift in cold weather, gas pressure drops with temperature, so a marginal strut may show its age on frosty mornings. In coastal or high‑use vehicles, life span can be shorter due to salt and frequent cycling.

• Common signs they’re due: tailgate sags or won’t stay up, slow or jerky opening, audible hissing, or an oily film around the seal.
• Power tailgate notes: weak struts can make the drive unit strain, trigger beeping or reversal, and set fault codes. Fit the correct force‑rated struts for power models and cycle the tailgate after install to let the system relearn limits.
• Workshop pointers: match left/right part numbers, check the ball studs for wear, and confirm smooth operation through the full arc. Labour time is short, but safety matters—mind wind gusts.

Technical sources: Honda Odyssey 2011–2017 Service Manual (Body/Doors: Tailgate Support Strut Replacement, Hood: Support Rod), and genuine Honda parts catalogues identifying tailgate gas‑charged stays for the 2017 model year.

Does the 2017 Honda Odyssey bonnet have gas struts?
It doesn’t. The bonnet is held up by a support rod. Only the rear tailgate uses gas‑charged stays on this model series. That’s why owners might notice the tailgate feels effortless while the bonnet needs the rod clipped into place.

Do power tailgate models need special struts?
Yes—use the correct force‑rated gas struts specified for power tailgate variants. The power unit expects a certain counterbalance. Fitting the wrong rating can cause slow operation, reversal, or extra strain. After replacement, run the tailgate through several open/close cycles so the system can settle.

How long do Odyssey tailgate struts last, and what’s typical cost?
Many see 5–10 years depending on climate and use. In Australia and New Zealand, quality aftermarket pairs often land in the $120–$250 range fitted, with genuine parts typically higher. Labour is modest, but choose reputable struts to avoid repeat jobs and protect the power tailgate hardware.