Parts for your 2020 Honda Odyssey-Gas struts

2020 Honda Odyssey gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are fitted to the 2020 Honda Odyssey’s tailgate and are part of both manual and power tailgate setups. Technical sources confirming this include the Honda Odyssey (2018–2020) Service Manual sections for Power Tailgate Support Strut removal/installation and the Honda electronic parts catalogue listings for tailgate support struts/stays. The bonnet on this model uses a manual prop rod, not gas struts, as shown in the service manual’s hood/bonnet support rod procedures.

On the Odyssey, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting in the background. They counterbalance the weight of the rear hatch, keep it steady through the opening arc, and prevent it from slamming shut. On power-tailgate variants, the motor does the driving, while the gas-charged struts provide the spring assist and damping so the movement stays smooth, quiet and controlled.

There’s no set replacement interval, but most owners see 5–10 years from a set depending on climate, use and load. Tell-tales they’re on the way out include the tailgate sagging or dropping, needing to be helped up by hand, slow or jerky motion, the power tailgate reversing unexpectedly, and symptoms that worsen in cold weather.

When it’s time, replacement is straightforward for a trained tech and a reasonable DIY job with care:

• Support the tailgate securely, it’s heavier than it looks.
• Pop the retaining clips at the ball ends and remove the old struts, install new ones with the rod pointing down where specified.
• On power tailgate models, follow the Honda initialisation/reset steps after fitment so the control unit learns the new assist force.

Servicing tips to stretch their life:

• Keep the shiny rod clean, don’t grease it. Wipe with a soft cloth if dusty.
• A tiny dab of suitable lubricant on the hinge/ball joints is okay, but avoid the rod and seals.
• Avoid forcing the hatch against low ceilings and don’t use the strut body as a handhold.
• Replace in pairs to keep lift and damping balanced left-to-right.

If the Odyssey’s bonnet doesn’t stay up, that’s a separate issue with the prop rod or its grommets, not the gas struts. For the tailgate, fresh quality struts restore safe, easy operation and keep the family hauler feeling new again.

Popular questions

Does the 2020 Honda Odyssey have gas struts on the bonnet?
No. The bonnet uses a manual support rod. Gas struts are fitted to the rear tailgate only, including models with a power tailgate.

How long do Odyssey tailgate gas struts last?
Typically 5–10 years, depending on kilometres, climate and usage. If the hatch sags, needs help to lift, or the power tailgate reverses or struggles, it’s time to test or replace them.

Can these be replaced at home?
Yes, with basic tools and careful support of the hatch. For power tailgates, follow the Honda reset/initialisation steps after installation so the lift operates correctly.