Parts for your 2020 Mazda Cx-5-Gas struts

Understanding Gas Struts on the 2020 Mazda CX-5

When it comes to the 2020 Mazda CX-5, gas struts play an important role, especially around the vehicle's boot or tailgate. These handy components are designed to assist in opening and holding up the hatchback door, making it easier and safer for users to access the rear cargo space without struggling with a heavy liftgate. If you own or are thinking about the 2020 Mazda CX-5, knowing what gas struts do and how to maintain or replace them can offer peace of mind and smooth functionality every time you hit the road.

Gas struts are essentially small, pressurised pistons filled with gas, usually nitrogen. Their job is to provide a controlled lifting force when you open the boot, reducing the effort needed to lift the door and then holding it open at the desired height. This prevents the boot from slamming shut, protecting you from injury and the vehicle from damage. Unlike traditional coil springs, gas struts offer a more consistent and smooth action, making them a popular choice for modern SUVs like the Mazda CX-5.

On the 2020 Mazda CX-5, gas struts are fitted on the rear tailgate hatch. These struts assist with the opening and holding up of the boot lid, which can otherwise be quite heavy due to its size and the integrated rear glass. The presence of gas struts means you don't have to struggle or exert a lot of force when opening the rear door - they deliver a nice, smooth lift and reliably hold the hatch open so you can load and unload with ease.

Maintenance of gas struts is quite straightforward but crucial for ensuring they continue working efficiently over the life of the vehicle. Even though gas struts are generally durable and designed to last many years, they can wear out or lose pressure over time. The most common signs that gas struts need attention include the hatch feeling heavier to lift than usual, not staying open on their own, or slamming shut unexpectedly. Any of these symptoms point to a strut that may be leaking gas or oil, or one that has internal damage.

When it comes to servicing gas struts on a 2020 Mazda CX-5, it is a good idea to give them a visual check during regular vehicle servicing or tyre rotation intervals. Look out for any signs of rust, dents, or oil leaks around the strut body and attachment points, as these can indicate compromised performance. Cleaning the struts is also beneficial to prevent dirt buildup, which can cause wear or damage to the seals inside the strut.

Replacing gas struts on the Mazda CX-5 is typically a quick and straightforward job. The struts are mounted with simple ball joint connectors or bolts at each end, meaning they can usually be changed without special tools. It is important, however, to use OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or high-quality replacement struts designed to meet Mazda's specifications. This ensures the correct lift force and stroke length, which are critical for safe and smooth operation.

Failing to replace worn or faulty gas struts can lead to the hatch door being a hazard. A failing strut that does not hold the boot open could unexpectedly drop, risking injury or damage to your car's bodywork. Additionally, a compromised seal within the strut allows gas to escape, which means the strut will lose its lifting force and no longer provide the help it was originally designed for.

It's worth mentioning that gas struts are also used in other areas of a vehicle, such as the bonnet or sometimes even in adjustable headrests, but for the 2020 Mazda CX-5, their primary use is found on the tailgate hatch. This design choice is made to provide convenience and safety when accessing the cargo area, without adding unnecessary complexity or cost to parts where gas struts might not offer as much benefit.

Overall, keeping an eye on the condition of your 2020 Mazda CX-5's gas struts as part of your routine maintenance helps avoid unexpected failures. If you notice your hatch feels sluggish or behaves erratically when opening or closing, get those gas struts checked or replaced sooner rather than later. This simple preventative care keeps the Mazda CX-5's rear door functioning smoothly, giving you confidence every time you load your gear or dive into the boot for a quick grab.