Parts for your 2023 Honda Cr-v-Gas struts

2023 Honda CR‑V gas struts: what they do and when to replace them

Based on technical references including the 2023 Honda CR‑V Owner’s Manual (Tailgate/Power Tailgate sections), Honda service information, and genuine Honda parts catalogues that list a “tailgate stay/support strut” for MY23 CR‑V, gas struts are indeed fitted to the rear tailgate of the 2023 Honda CR‑V. The bonnet uses a prop rod from factory, not gas struts.

On the 2023 CR‑V, the gas struts support and control the motion of the rear tailgate. They’re nitrogen‑charged dampers that help the hatch lift smoothly and stay put without dropping. On variants with a manual tailgate, a matched pair of gas struts does the heavy lifting. On power tailgate models, an electric actuator works alongside at least one gas strut to balance force and smooth the movement. Either way, they’re essential for safe, easy access to the boot.

As part of routine servicing, gas struts deserve a quick check. The tell‑tales are simple:

• Reduced lift or the tailgate won’t stay up, especially in colder weather
• Hesitation, uneven movement, or knocking noises
• Oil misting on the strut body or a nicked/chipped chrome shaft

Owners should keep the strut shafts clean and dry—no grease or paint on the rods. A soft cloth wipe is plenty, avoid solvents. Bushings at the ball joints can be inspected for play or cracking and lightly treated with silicone on the sockets if they squeak (never on the rod itself). Any bent, leaking, or weak strut should be replaced promptly to prevent a sudden drop of the hatch.

Replacement is typically done in pairs on manual tailgate versions to maintain balanced lift. For power tailgate models, follow Honda procedures so the powered side and the gas strut remain in sync. Support the tailgate securely during change‑out, use the correct end fittings, and torque fasteners to spec. Quality, model‑specific struts matched to the 2023 CR‑V’s tailgate weight will restore the factory feel and reduce load on the hinges and the power actuator where fitted.

Service intervals aren’t distance‑based, but a yearly inspection alongside wipers and tyres is a smart habit—particularly if the vehicle sees hot sun, salty air, or a lot of stop‑start shopping runs with frequent hatch use.

Popular questions

Do all 2023 Honda CR‑V models have gas struts?
Yes—every 2023 CR‑V uses gas struts on the rear tailgate. Manual tailgate variants rely on two gas struts. Power tailgate variants pair an electric actuator with a gas strut for balanced lift. The bonnet is supported by a prop rod rather than gas struts from factory.

How long do CR‑V tailgate gas struts usually last?
In typical Australian and New Zealand conditions, well‑made gas struts often last 5–10 years. Heat, dust, coastal air, and frequent hatch use can shorten that. If the hatch no longer holds itself up or feels lazy in cooler weather, it’s time to test and likely replace.

Should gas struts be replaced in pairs?
For manual tailgate models, yes—replacing in pairs keeps lift balanced and prevents side‑loading on hinges. On power tailgate versions, follow Honda guidance: the gas strut should match the system’s design so the electric actuator isn’t overworked. When in doubt, fit the correct, vehicle‑specific parts as a set.