Parts for your 2020 Honda Civic-Gas struts

2020 Honda Civic gas struts

Gas struts are relevant to the 2020 Honda Civic Hatch, where they support the rear hatch/tailgate. The Sedan’s boot uses torsion springs and conventional hinges, and the bonnet on both body styles is held up by a prop rod rather than struts. This layout is supported by Honda’s technical literature: the 2020 Civic Owner’s Manual (AU/NZ) specifies a bonnet support rod, and Honda’s workshop/EPC documentation lists tailgate “damper”/lift supports for the Hatch and torsion bars for the Sedan boot.

On the 2020 Honda Civic Hatch, the gas struts do the heavy lifting—literally. They counterbalance the hatch so it lifts smoothly and stays put overhead, making loading gear a breeze and preventing the tailgate from dropping unexpectedly. Inside each strut, pressurised gas and oil work together to provide controlled movement and holding force across the full opening range.

While they’re largely maintenance-free, a quick look during regular servicing (every 10,000–15,000 kilometres) is smart. If the hatch rises slowly, needs a helping hand, sags in cold weather, or won’t stay up in a breeze, the struts are likely past their best. Oily residue on the shaft, hissing, or uneven lifting side-to-side are other tell-tales.

• Keep the exposed shaft clean—wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid grease or silicone sprays on the shaft, they attract grit and can damage the seals.
• Replace in pairs. New-and-old mixed struts can twist the hatch and shorten service life.
• Support the hatch securely during replacement. The clips are simple, but the tailgate is heavy—two people makes it safer.
• Consider climate and load. Colder temps reduce gas pressure, roof spoilers or added accessories increase weight and may warrant uprated struts.

Replacement is typically a straightforward job: carefully pry the retaining clips, pop the old struts off the ball studs, then clip the new units on until they seat with a positive click. Always use the correct spec for the 10th‑gen Civic Hatch to ensure proper lift and hold. Once fitted, confirm smooth operation throughout the stroke and that the hatch stays open at full height without drift.

Treated well, quality gas struts often last many years, but once they start to fade, timely replacement restores safe, easy hatch access and saves the back from unnecessary heaving.

• Common symptoms of worn struts:
  • Hatch won’t stay up or drops suddenly
  • Slow or uneven lift, especially when cold
  • Visible oil film on the shaft

Popular questions

Does the 2020 Honda Civic Sedan have gas struts?
No. The Sedan’s boot uses torsion springs and hinges, and the bonnet uses a prop rod. Gas struts are fitted to the Hatch’s tailgate only, as reflected in Honda owner’s manual and parts documentation.

How long do the Civic Hatch’s gas struts last?
There’s no fixed interval. Many last 5–8 years, but lifespan depends on climate, usage, and added tailgate weight. Replace when the hatch no longer lifts or holds reliably, or there’s oil seepage on the strut shaft.

Can just one gas strut be replaced?
It’s not recommended. Replacing in pairs keeps the hatch balanced, prevents twisting at the hinges, and ensures even lift and hold performance.