Parts for your 2018 Honda Civic-Gas struts

2018 Honda Civic gas struts: what’s fitted and how to look after them

Referencing Honda’s own documentation, gas struts are relevant to some, but not all, 2018 Honda Civic variants. The 2018 Civic Hatchback (FK-series) uses gas-filled lift supports on the tailgate, as shown in the Honda Parts Catalogue and workshop manual illustrations for the rear hatch. By contrast, the 2018 Civic Sedan and Coupe (FC/FG-series) do not use gas struts on the bonnet or boot, the bonnet is supported by a prop rod and the boot lid uses torsion bars. These details are consistent with the 2018 Honda Civic Owner’s/Service Manuals and the Honda EPC (Electronic Parts Catalogue) for the FK/FC platforms.

For hatch owners, those tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting: they counterbalance the weight of the hatch so it opens smoothly and stays put, even on a windy Wellington day or during a scorching Aussie summer. Inside each strut is high-pressure nitrogen and oil that provide consistent damping and lift assistance, keeping the tailgate movement controlled and safe.

Over time, heat cycles and plain old use can weaken the seals. That’s when owners start noticing clues: the tailgate feels heavier, needs a helping hand to rise, or sags instead of staying parked at full height. A light mist of oil around the rod seals, a faint hiss, or inconsistent operation in cold mornings are other tell-tales. Because both sides share the load, replacement is best done as a pair to keep lift and closing forces balanced.

There’s not much to “service” on sealed gas struts, and most can’t be re-gassed. The smart move is a quick check during routine servicing: inspect the shafts for nicks or corrosion, wipe away dirt with a clean cloth, and confirm the tailgate holds at full extension. Avoid lubricants on the shaft—they attract grit and can damage seals. If replacement is needed, support the hatch safely, flick up each strut’s spring clip with a small flat blade, pop the strut off its ball studs, and fit the new ones with the rod pointing down. No special tools, just common sense and care.

Why no gas struts on Sedan/Coupe bonnets and boots? Honda opted for a simple prop rod and torsion bars on those body styles to save weight, space, and cost, while maintaining reliability—choices that align with many compact sedans of the era.

• Replace in pairs for even lift and safe operation.
• Check at each service or every 15,000 km for smooth movement and full hold.
• Avoid pressing down on the tailgate glass to close, use the handle to prevent side-loading the struts.

Popular questions about 2018 Honda Civic gas struts

Does a 2018 Civic have gas struts on the bonnet or boot?
Hatchbacks have gas struts on the tailgate. The Sedan and Coupe use a bonnet prop rod and torsion-bar boot hinges, so no gas struts there.

How long do tailgate gas struts last on a Civic hatch?
Typically 5–10 years depending on climate and use. If the hatch won’t stay up or needs help to lift, it’s time for a new pair.

Can Honda Civic gas struts be re-gassed?
Most OEM struts are sealed and designed for full replacement rather than re-gassing. Swapping in a matched pair is the reliable fix.