Parts for your 2018 Mazda 3-Gas struts

2018 Mazda 3 gas struts — what’s fitted and how to look after them

Gas struts are relevant to the 2018 Mazda 3 hatchback (BM/BN, MY2018) because Mazda fits gas‑pressurised liftgate “stays” to the hatch tailgate. They are not fitted from factory to the 2018 Mazda 3 sedan boot lid (which uses torsion-bar springs), nor to the bonnet on either body style (which uses a prop rod). This setup is confirmed by Mazda’s 2018 Owner’s Manual (sections covering Liftgate and Trunk Lid), the Mazda Workshop Manual procedures titled Liftgate Stay Removal/Installation, and Mazda’s electronic parts catalogue, which lists liftgate stays for the hatch only.

On hatch models, the gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the tailgate so it opens smoothly and stays up without drama, and they slow the final movement so it doesn’t slam. Each strut is a sealed, nitrogen‑charged damper with a lubricated rod and ball‑socket ends. There’s no scheduled replacement interval, but they’re wear items, so it’s smart to include a quick check during routine servicing.

What to watch for:

• Tailgate feels heavy or won’t stay up, especially in colder weather.
• Slow lift or a jerky, uneven motion.
• Oily film, dents, or nicks on the shiny rod.
• Clicking or binding at the ball joints.

Handy servicing and replacement tips:

• Inspect function every 12 months or 20,000 kilometres as part of a general bodywork and hardware check.
• Keep the rods clean, wipe with a soft cloth. Don’t grease the rod—oil and grit can chew out the seals.
• Replace in pairs for even support. Support the tailgate with a prop or a helper before unclipping a strut.
• Match the new struts to the exact BM/BN hatch spec. The force rating is set by Mazda, too strong or too weak will cause issues.
• Install in the same orientation as removed and ensure the spring clips fully engage on the ball studs.
• If a bracket or ball stud is loose, tighten to spec and check for cracks or corrosion.
• Don’t attempt to re‑gas or drill a strut. They’re sealed units and under pressure—replace instead.

Got a 2018 Mazda 3 sedan? You won’t find factory gas struts on the boot, and the bonnet uses a prop rod. Aftermarket kits exist, but they require added brackets and careful fitment, many owners stick with the original setup for reliability and warranty peace of mind.

FAQs

Which 2018 Mazda 3 models have gas struts?
Hatchbacks have gas struts on the tailgate. Sedans use torsion bars on the boot, and both body styles use a prop rod for the bonnet. This matches Mazda’s 2018 Owner’s Manual and the workshop removal/installation procedures for the liftgate stay on the hatch.

How long do the hatch gas struts usually last?
Typically 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Cold weather can make a tired strut feel much weaker. If the tailgate won’t stay up or needs a hard shove to lift, it’s time to replace—ideally as a pair.

Can gas struts be re‑gassed, or do they need replacing?
They’re sealed, high‑pressure units, so re‑gassing isn’t recommended. Replacement is the safe, cost‑effective route. Quality aftermarket or genuine parts fitted correctly will restore the original feel.