Parts for your 2020 Mazda 3-Gas struts

2020 Mazda 3 gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Mazda’s BP-series Workshop Manual (Body – Liftgate Stay) and the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2019–2023 Mazda 3, gas-charged struts are factory-fitted to the 2020 Mazda 3 Hatch liftgate. The sedan’s boot lid uses torsion bars (no gas struts), and the bonnet on both body styles is supported by a prop rod from factory. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist, but they’re not OE. So if it’s a hatch, gas struts are absolutely relevant, if it’s a sedan, they’re not fitted to the boot from factory.

On the 2020 Mazda 3 Hatch, the gas struts (also called liftgate stays) take the weight of the tailgate, help it rise smoothly, and hold it open safely. They’re nitrogen-charged dampers with a little oil inside to keep things lubricated and controlled. When they’re healthy, the liftgate feels light and predictable, when they’re tired, it can sag, drop, or need a helping hand to open — not ideal on a wet day at the shops.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth a quick check. Keep the chrome rods clean and dry, and don’t grease them — oil and grit will chew out the seals. In Aussie and Kiwi climates, heat and UV can shorten their life, especially on cars parked outside. Heavier accessories like spoilers can also hasten wear. Most owners see 5–8 years out of a set, but it varies.

• Signs they’re due: the liftgate won’t stay up, rises slowly or unevenly, needs a shove to start moving, hisses or knocks, or shows an oily film around the rod seal.
• Replacement tips: swap them in pairs, support the liftgate securely, and use the correct BP-series hatch part to suit the VIN. It’s a simple clip-on/clip-off job, but mind your fingers and the glass.

Workshops usually check operation at service time — it takes seconds and can prevent a nasty bump on the head. If you own a 2020 Mazda 3 Sedan, there’s no liftgate gas strut to service, the torsion bars rarely need attention unless the boot’s been modified. For bonnet convenience on either body style, an aftermarket strut kit is an option, but stick to reputable kits designed for the BP platform.

Popular questions about 2020 Mazda 3 gas struts

Does my 2020 Mazda 3 have gas struts from factory?
Hatch: yes, on the liftgate. Sedan: no, the boot uses torsion bars. The bonnet uses a prop rod on both. This layout is confirmed by the BP-series Mazda Workshop Manual and Mazda’s parts catalogue.

How long do Mazda 3 hatch liftgate struts last in Australia or New Zealand?
Typically 5–8 years, depending on climate, parking habits, and added weight on the tailgate. If the hatch won’t stay up or needs a shove to open, it’s time to replace them.

Can gas struts be re-gassed, or should they be replaced?
Most OE-style struts are sealed units. While some services offer re-gassing, replacement with quality, vehicle-specific units is usually more reliable and cost-effective for the BP hatch.