Parts for your 2021 Honda Cr-v-Gas struts

2021 Honda CR‑V gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are relevant and fitted to the 2021 Honda CR‑V. Technical references such as the 2021 CR‑V Owner’s Manual for the RW/RT series and Honda’s Electronic Parts Catalogue show the tailgate uses a pair of gas‑charged lift supports (including on power tailgate variants). The bonnet, however, is held up by a manual prop rod, not gas struts.

On a 2021 CR‑V, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the hatch, slow and smooth the movement, and help keep the door safely open at full height. On models with a power tailgate, the struts still share the load with the drive motor, reducing strain and delivering a controlled open and close. When the struts are tired, the tailgate feels heavier, may not stay up in cooler weather, or the power tailgate might beep and reverse because it senses excessive resistance.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the struts a quick once‑over. Wipe the exposed shafts with a clean, damp cloth, check for oil misting, dents, or corrosion, and listen for squeaks or binding. Avoid lubricants on the shafts—oils and grease can damage the internal seals. If one side is weak, replace both struts as a pair to keep lift and balance even.

• Common signs they’re due: tailgate drops or won’t hold, opens sluggishly, needs a hand to start moving, or the power tailgate stops partway.
• Typical lifespan: often 5–10 years, shorter in hot climates, with lots of use, or if the tailgate is routinely loaded (e.g., accessories hanging off it).
• Safety tip: always support the tailgate during testing or replacement—use a prop or a helper.

Replacement is straightforward for a trained tech. With the tailgate supported, the old struts are unclipped at each end and new units are clicked into place in minutes. Correct orientation matters, and worn ball studs or clips should be renewed if loose. For power tailgates, healthy struts protect the motor and gears from overwork, so don’t put it off if you notice sagging or stalling.

Keeping the gas struts tidy and replacing them before they go completely soft preserves everyday convenience and prevents surprise tailgate drops—especially handy on a wet Kiwi morning or a hot Aussie arvo.

Do 2021 CR‑V bonnets use gas struts?

No. The 2021 CR‑V bonnet is supported by a manual prop rod. Gas struts are used at the tailgate only, including on vehicles with a power tailgate system.

How long do the tailgate gas struts usually last?

Many owners see 5–10 years, but climate and usage make a big difference. If the tailgate starts dropping, opens slowly, or won’t hold up in cooler weather, plan to replace both struts.

Can weak struts damage the power tailgate?

Yes. If the struts are weak, the electric drive works harder, which can cause the tailgate to stop and reverse or overload the system. Fresh struts reduce strain and keep the power tailgate operating smoothly.