If your SUV hatch is dropping on your head, it is time for a professional Vroomdan guide on how to perform a seamless honda crv tailgate struts replacement. Dealing with a failing rear liftgate is incredibly annoying, but fixing it yourself will save you hundreds of dollars in dealership labor fees. While you work on upgrading your cargo space, you should also discover the incredible hidden CR-V features that many owners don’t know about.
Your CR-V has a secret trick that starts the SUV when your key fob dies.
And 14 other things Honda never told you.
Dead fob fix · Global window down trick · The hidden folding picnic table · Walk Away Auto Lock · and 11 more.
▶ Read Now — Show Me Everything
bryansgarage.com · Bryan Mark
In This Guide
- Step-by-Step CR-V Strut Installation
- Power Liftgate vs. Manual Struts
- Cost Analysis of Tailgate Repairs
- Preventative Maintenance and Height Reset
- Overcoming Common DIY Installation Mistakes
A Step-by-Step Guide to Honda CRV Tailgate Struts Replacement
Replacing worn support shocks is one of the most straightforward and rewarding maintenance tasks you can complete at home.
Before beginning, gather your safety glasses, protective gloves, and a few basic hand tools.
Required Tools and Parts
- New set of honda crv non electric liftgate struts (or power equivalents)
- Flathead screwdriver or small plastic pry tool
- A sturdy prop rod or a helpful assistant to support the heavy tailgate
- Microfiber cloth and clean lithium grease
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Step 1: Securely Support the Heavy Tailgate
The rear hatch of a Honda CR-V is extremely heavy without functional hydraulic support.
You must use a strong prop tool or have an assistant hold the liftgate completely open.
Failing to secure the hatch can result in severe head or hand injuries if the heavy metal door slips and falls.
Never attempt this replacement alone without proper structural support holding the trunk open.
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Step 2: Locate and Release the Retaining Clips
Identify the small metal band clips located on both the top and bottom sockets of the strut.
Insert a thin flathead screwdriver directly under the metal clip and pry it outward gently.
You do not need to remove the clip completely from the assembly to release the ball joint tension.
Keep a firm grip on the tool so you do not slip and scratch your vehicle’s gloss paint.
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Step 3: Pop the Old Strut Off the Ball Studs
Once the clip is pulled back, pull the old strut socket away from the vehicle body.
Start with the bottom joint first to keep the hydraulic assembly as stable as possible.
Clean the metal ball studs with a microfiber cloth to remove old grease, grit, and road dirt.
Apply a tiny dab of lithium grease to the clean ball studs for smoother operation and corrosion resistance.
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Step 4: Mount the New Tailgate Strut
Align the socket of your brand new strut with the greased ball stud on the vehicle frame.
Push the connector firmly onto the stud until you hear it snap securely into place.
Ensure the thick cylinder portion of the strut is mounted at the top end according to industry standards.
This specific orientation keeps the internal seals lubricated and prevents premature gas pressure failure.
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Step 5: Test the Tailgate Operation Safely
Repeat the exact same procedure on the opposite side of the rear hatch for balanced support.
Remove your support prop slowly while keeping one hand on the liftgate handle to monitor weight.
Cycle the tailgate up and down three times to distribute the internal gas pressure evenly.
Verify that the hatch opens smoothly and remains securely in the fully raised position without sagging.
At Vroomdan, we pride ourselves on delivering accurate, step-by-step automotive guides that anyone can follow.
Our goal is to help you bypass expensive dealership markup fees with simple, professional garage solutions.
Visit Vroomdan for more expert maintenance resources and custom vehicle tips.
Learning how to replace trunk struts honda crv is one of the easiest ways to keep your family vehicle operating safely.
Comparing Manual Gas Shocks vs. Power Tailgate Struts
Many CR-V entry-level trims feature standard manual liftgate configurations.
These classic manual setups rely on simple, reliable honda crv trunk gas shocks replacement parts.
However, premium modern trims like the EX-L and Touring feature complex electric power tailgates.
If you experience any honda crv power tailgate problems, the diagnosis and hardware require a different approach.
Electric struts contain internal motorized drive spindles alongside pressurized gas chambers.
These electronic units are significantly heavier and require precise wire harness routing through the interior panels.
Installing aftermarket crv non-electric liftgate struts on an electric liftgate will burn out your hatch motor.
Always match your replacement parts exactly to your CR-V’s factory specifications and trim package.
Refer to your official Honda owner’s manual to verify your specific model options and safety tolerances.
Honda CR-V Power Tailgate Repair Cost Analysis
Replacing your rear hatch components can vary wildly in price depending on the route you choose.
The standard honda crv power tailgate struts replacement cost at a dealership ranges from $800 to $1,200.
This high price is driven by specialized OEM electronic parts and expensive mechanic labor hours.
If your vehicle has manual struts, a set of honda crv gas shocks rear liftgate units will only cost you $30 to $60.
Choosing to do this project in your own garage can save you hundreds of hard-earned dollars.
Some budget-conscious owners look into a used honda crv tailgate struts replacement option.
However, we highly recommend avoiding used gas shocks because their internal seals are already worn.
Buying fresh aftermarket or new OEM parts ensures long-term reliability and safety for your family.
Let us look at a detailed breakdown of estimated replacement costs below.
| Strut Type | DIY Cost Range | Dealership Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Manual Gas Shocks (Pair) | $30 – $60 | $150 – $250 |
| Power Liftgate Strut (Single) | $150 – $300 | $600 – $900 |
| Power Liftgate Struts (Pair) | $300 – $550 | $1,000 – $1,400 |
Knowing the average honda crv power tailgate struts replacement cost helps you negotiate fairly if you must visit a local shop.
Preventative Maintenance and Resetting Your Tailgate Height
Once your new struts are installed, you must maintain them to maximize their operational lifespan.
Wipe the polished metallic shafts of the struts once a month with a clean microfiber cloth.
This simple habit prevents abrasive road dust from destroying the delicate rubber seals over time.
If you have an electric system, you might need a honda crv power tailgate opening reset after installation.
To complete a successful honda crv power tailgate opening limit reset, manually move the hatch to your desired height.
Press and hold the tailgate button on the hatch inner panel until you hear multiple beeps.
This calibrated setting prevents your heavy liftgate from hitting low garage ceilings or low-hanging pipes.
Always perform this reset whenever you disconnect the battery or swap the support struts.
Overcoming Common DIY Mistakes During Installation
Many vehicle owners make the mistake of replacing only one strut at a time to save money.
Replacing only one strut puts uneven stress on the new unit and causes rapid premature wear.
You must always replace liftgate struts in pairs to ensure even weight distribution and smooth operation.
Another frequent error is using sharp metal tools directly against the vehicle body paint.
Slip-ups can lead to scratched metal panels that eventually develop rust issues in wet climates.
Be extremely careful during any honda crv door panel removal if routing new power cables.
If you need a complete guide on how to replace trunk struts honda crv, review our steps carefully.
Taking your time will prevent broken plastic clips and expensive, frustrating diagnostic mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
“I’ve driven a CR-V for 4 years and didn’t know this existed.”
— The most common reaction when this article is shared
Did you know your backup camera has a hidden top-down ‘drone view’? Or that your cruise control automatically downshifts on steep mountain hills to save your brakes?
bryansgarage.com · Bryan Mark
Conclusion
Upgrading your rear struts is a fast, satisfying DIY project.
Ready to get the most out of your SUV? Check out more guides on Vroomdan or email us at contact@vroomdan.com — our team is here to help you discover more SUV secrets and maintenance guides.
Disclaimer: Always consult your official Honda Owner’s Manual before performing any DIY modifications. Information provided is for educational purposes and depends on specific vehicle model years, trim levels, and individual modifications.