Parts for your 2018 Mitsubishi Asx-Gas struts

2018 Mitsubishi ASX gas-struts: what they do and when to replace them

Gas-struts are absolutely used on the 2018 Mitsubishi ASX — specifically on the rear tailgate. Technical references including the Mitsubishi Motors ASX/RVR/Outlander Sport workshop manual (GA2W/CF, Body – Rear Gate), the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, and aftermarket fitment guides from Stabilus Lift-O-Mat and Monroe all list gas-pressurised lift supports for the tailgate on this model year. The bonnet on the 2018 ASX uses a manual stay/prop rod rather than gas-struts.

On the ASX, the tailgate gas-struts do the heavy lifting: they counterbalance the weight of the rear hatch, help it rise smoothly, and hold it safely open. Over time, the nitrogen charge and internal seals wear, which can make the tailgate feel heavy, drop suddenly, or refuse to stay up — especially on cold mornings.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to check the gas-struts every 10,000–15,000 km or at least annually. Look for oily residue on the rod, sluggish extension, or the need to manually “help” the tailgate open. If any of that shows up, replacement is due. Best practice is to replace them in pairs so lift and hold are even on both sides.

Handy care tips:

• Keep the chrome rods clean — wipe with a soft cloth, don’t grease them, as oils attract grit and damage seals.
• Avoid using the tailgate as a handle to pull yourself up, side loads shorten strut life.
• In colder regions of AU/NZ, expect reduced force in winter, marginal struts that just cope in summer will usually fail in the cold.

DIY replacement is straightforward for most owners. Support the tailgate with a prop or a mate, then pop the retaining clips at each end with a small flat screwdriver and swap the strut. Click the new one onto the ball studs and ensure the clips are fully seated. If the ball joints are dry, a tiny dab of silicone spray on the ball (not the rod) helps assembly. If the tailgate still won’t stay up after new struts, check for binding hinges or misalignment.

While the bonnet uses a prop rod and doesn’t need gas-strut maintenance, the rear tailgate struts are a small, affordable part that make a big difference to daily convenience and safety on a 2018 ASX.

Popular questions about 2018 Mitsubishi ASX gas-struts

How long do ASX tailgate gas-struts usually last?
Most sets last 5–8 years in typical Aussie and Kiwi conditions. High heat, coastal environments, or frequent tailgate use can shorten that. If the hatch won’t hold itself up or opens lazily, they’re due.

Can they be replaced at home without special tools?
Yes. A flat screwdriver to release the locking clips and a safe way to support the tailgate is usually all that’s needed. Replace both sides together and make sure the clips lock home before testing the hatch.

Are bonnet gas-struts fitted to the 2018 ASX?
No. The 2018 ASX uses a manual stay/prop rod for the bonnet, so only the rear tailgate has gas-struts. If the bonnet feels heavy, that’s normal — there aren’t factory bonnet struts to fail on this model year.