Parts for your 2020 Honda Cr-v-Gas struts

2020 Honda CR-V Gas Struts: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Gas struts are used on the 2020 Honda CR-V’s rear tailgate/hatch to counterbalance its weight and control opening and closing. This is confirmed by technical sources including the Honda CR-V (2017–2022) Service Manual – Body/Doors, Tailgate section, which details lift support removal/installation, and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC), which lists the tailgate stay (gas spring) for this model. The bonnet on the 2020 CR-V uses a prop rod from factory, not gas struts.

On every 2020 CR-V—manual or power tailgate—the gas struts do the heavy lifting, while the power system (where fitted) manages movement. Their job is simple but crucial: keep the hatch stable, open predictably, and prevent it from slamming shut. When they’re healthy, the tailgate feels light and controlled. When they’re tired, it sags, opens sluggishly, or drops, especially in cold weather.

Owners can treat gas struts as a wear item. A quick visual and functional check every 12 months or 20,000 km is smart practice:

• Open the tailgate and pause mid-stroke—does it hold steady?
• Listen for squeaks or hiss, look for oil mist on the shaft or end seals.
• Note any drop or bounce at the top of travel.

Replacement is straightforward but safety-first: support the tailgate with a prop or helper, swap one side at a time, and fit the new strut with the shaft pointed down to keep the internal seal lubricated. Always replace in pairs so the load is balanced and the opening height remains even. Avoid clamping the shaft, and don’t grease the chrome rod—just keep it clean, petroleum products can damage seals. Light silicone on the seal (not the shaft) can help longevity if recommended by the strut maker.

For CR-Vs with a power tailgate, weak gas struts can overwork the motor and clutch—so timely replacement protects the power unit. Choose struts that match the OE specifications for force, mounting style, and stroke length. After fitting, cycle the tailgate a few times to confirm smooth, full travel and consistent holding at the top.

If the hatch starts dropping, feels heavy, or struggles in cooler mornings, that’s the cue to renew the gas struts and bring back that easy, one-hand lift.

Popular questions about 2020 Honda CR-V gas struts

How do you know when the CR‑V’s tailgate gas struts need replacing?
If the hatch no longer stays up, drops suddenly, or feels heavy to lift—especially in colder weather—the struts are likely weak. Oil around the shaft or end fittings is another giveaway. Testing with a mid-lift pause is handy: if it can’t hold part-way, it’s time for new ones.

Can the power tailgate still need strut replacement on a 2020 CR‑V?
Yes. The power unit moves the hatch, but the gas struts still support the weight. Tired struts make the motor work harder, which can cause slow operation or errors. Replacing the gas struts often restores normal power-tailgate performance.

What gas strut specs fit a 2020 Honda CR‑V?
Use struts that match the OE force rating, mounting ends (ball/socket), and stroke/compressed length specified for the 2017–2022 CR-V body. The Honda EPC lists the correct tailgate stay assemblies by trim, matching these ensures proper opening height and latch alignment.