Parts for your 2022 Mazda 3-Gas struts

2022 Mazda 3 gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on Mazda’s own technical publications, gas struts are absolutely relevant to the 2022 Mazda 3 hatch. The Mazda3 (BP) Workshop Manual and Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue list “Liftgate Stay (LH/RH)” gas-filled supports for the hatchback, while noting a prop rod for the bonnet and torsion bars for the sedan’s boot lid. The Owner’s Manual also illustrates bonnet support by prop rod, not struts. So: hatch = gas struts on the tailgate, sedan boot and bonnet = no factory gas struts.

On the hatch, these gas struts make the tailgate feel light and controlled. They help lift smoothly, hold the gate open at full height, and stop it slamming shut when there’s a gust of Wellington wind or a surprise shower in Sydney. They also protect hinges and sheet metal by dampening the movement every time it opens and closes.

Like any pressurised part, gas struts lose charge over time. If the tailgate won’t stay up, rises slowly, needs a shove to get moving, or sags in cold weather, the struts are likely tired. A mist of oil around the shaft seal or a faint “hiss” with poor support are other telltales.

Servicing is simple: keep the chrome shafts clean and dry, and don’t grease them—oily films attract grit that chews out the seals. If needed, wipe with a soft cloth and a tiny touch of silicone spray on the rubber seal only, not the shaft. Avoid hanging extra weight off the hatch without matching struts rated for the load.

Replacement is a quick driveway job. Always swap them in pairs so lift and damping stay balanced. Support the hatch with a prop—or better, get a mate to hold it—then flick off the spring clips at the ball sockets, pop the old struts off, and press the new ones on. Use the exact spec for the BP-series hatch, the wrong force rating can make the hatch hard to close or fail to stay up. Dispose of old struts properly—they’re pressurised, so don’t crush, burn, or puncture them.

• Replace when the hatch won’t hold itself open or struggles to rise.
• Inspect shafts for nicks, damaged shafts will kill seals fast.
• If a spoiler or added weight is fitted, choose struts matched to the new load.

Does the 2022 Mazda 3 have gas struts from factory?

Yes for the hatchback tailgate. The sedan uses torsion bars on the boot, and the bonnet on all variants uses a prop rod. Many owners add aftermarket bonnet struts, but they’re not OE on this model year.

How long do the hatch gas struts last, and when should they be replaced?

Typically 5–8 years in local conditions, sooner if the car lives outdoors or the hatch carries extra weight. Replace when the tailgate won’t stay up, rises sluggishly, or performance drops noticeably in cold weather.

Can heavier-duty gas struts be fitted if there’s a spoiler?

They can, but choose a rated set designed for the BP hatch and the added mass. Overly strong struts can make the hatch hard to close and stress the hinges, underpowered ones won’t hold it up. When in doubt, ask a specialist and always replace in pairs.