2018 Mazda CX-5 Power Liftgate Not Staying Up

Few things are as frustrating, or potentially hazardous, as a rear liftgate that refuses to stay open on its own. If your 2018 Mazda CX-5 power liftgate is not staying up, it's a clear sign that the support struts are no longer performing their job effectively. This common issue can range from a minor inconvenience to a safety concern, especially if the liftgate falls unexpectedly while you're loading or unloading cargo.

What drivers notice on this 2018 Mazda CX-5

Drivers typically first notice the liftgate slowly sagging after being opened, or needing manual assistance to stay fully extended. In more severe cases, the liftgate might immediately fall back down, making it impossible to use the cargo area safely without propping it open. This can be particularly annoying with the convenience of a power liftgate system, as the automated opening doesn't guarantee it will remain in position.

At a glance: difficulty, repair cost, and diagnostic workflow

• Difficulty Rating: 6/10 — Moderate
• Common Symptoms: The liftgate slowly drifts downward after being opened.; You need to physically hold the liftgate up to prevent it from closing.; The power liftgate motor struggles more than usual to fully open the hatch.; The liftgate falls rapidly or unexpectedly, especially in cold weather.
• Estimated Repair Cost: $100–$900 (parts + typical shop labor)
• OEM Tooling Required: Standard OBD-II scanner and hand tools

Diagnostic workflow:

1. Confirm the symptom on your vehicle.
2. Scan for stored or pending codes with an OBD-II tool.
3. Inspect the most common causes in this guide (visual checks first).
4. Run verification tests before replacing parts.
5. Repair, clear codes, and verify on a test drive.

Symptoms and warning signs

Recognizing the early signs of failing liftgate struts can prevent more significant issues or potential injury. On your 2018 Mazda CX-5, look out for:

• The liftgate slowly drifts downward after being opened.
• You need to physically hold the liftgate up to prevent it from closing.
• The power liftgate motor struggles more than usual to fully open the hatch.
• The liftgate falls rapidly or unexpectedly, especially in cold weather.
• A squeaking or groaning noise when the liftgate is moving or attempting to stay open.
• Visible signs of fluid leaks or corrosion on the strut body.

How to verify and confirm the issue

Verifying that your 2018 Mazda CX-5's liftgate struts are failing is a straightforward process:

1. Manual Test: Open the liftgate fully. Gently push down on it. If it offers little resistance and easily closes, the struts are weak. A healthy strut will resist downward pressure significantly.
2. Visual Inspection: Examine the struts themselves. They are typically gas-filled cylinders located on either side of the liftgate. Look for:
   • Any signs of oil or fluid leaking from the strut body (a thin film of oil is normal, but a noticeable drip or wetness indicates a seal failure).
   • Corrosion or damage to the strut shaft or body.
   • Bent or compromised mounting points.
3. Temperature Check: Note if the problem is worse in cold weather. Cold temperatures can reduce the effectiveness of the gas pressure inside the struts, making them weaker.
4. Listen for Noise: While operating the liftgate, listen for any unusual noises like grinding or excessive friction, which could indicate worn internal components or binding.

Since this issue is mechanical, a standard OBD-II scanner is not typically used for diagnosis. The problem lies with the physical components designed to hold the weight of the hatch.

Common causes (most likely first)

The primary reason a 2018 Mazda CX-5 power liftgate won't stay up is almost always related to the gas-charged liftgate support struts:

• Wear and Tear: Over time, the internal seals of the gas struts can degrade, allowing the pressurized gas to escape. This is the most common cause and happens with normal use.
• Temperature Fluctuations: Extreme cold can temporarily reduce the gas pressure within the struts, making them less effective. Repeated cycles of hot and cold can also accelerate seal wear.
• Physical Damage: Accidental impacts, bending, or corrosion can compromise the strut's integrity, leading to premature failure.
• Manufacturing Defect (less common): While rare, a faulty strut could fail earlier than expected. However, for a 2018 model, age-related wear is far more probable.

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What is different on this year and model

The 2018 Mazda CX-5 often features a power liftgate system, which means there's an electric motor and associated electronics that assist in opening and closing the hatch. While the motor handles the initial movement, the gas struts are still crucial for holding the liftgate open once it reaches its full extension. If the struts are weak, the motor may struggle more to fully open the gate, and it certainly won't prevent the gate from sagging or falling once the motor disengages its holding function. Therefore, even with a power liftgate, failing struts are the primary culprit for the 'not staying up' symptom. If the liftgate doesn't open or close at all, or stops mid-travel, then the power liftgate motor or its control module might be the issue, but for simply not staying open, focus on the struts.

Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes

1. Confirm Strut Failure: Perform the manual and visual tests described above. If the struts are leaking or provide little resistance, they are the problem.
2. Gather Tools and Parts: You'll need replacement liftgate struts (ensure they are specific to your 2018 Mazda CX-5 power liftgate, as non-power versions may differ), a flathead screwdriver or small pry tool, and possibly a second person to help hold the liftgate.
3. Support the Liftgate: This is critical for safety. Have a helper hold the liftgate firmly in the fully open position, or use a sturdy prop. Never work under an unsupported liftgate.
4. Remove Old Struts: Most struts are held in place by simple clips or ball-and-socket joints. Use a flathead screwdriver or pry tool to carefully pry open the retaining clips at each end of the strut. Once the clips are released, the strut can be pulled off the ball studs.
5. Install New Struts: Align the new strut's ends with the ball studs. Push firmly until they snap into place. You may hear a click. Ensure the retaining clips are securely seated.
6. Test Operation: Once both new struts are installed, remove the prop and carefully operate the liftgate manually and using the power function. It should now stay open firmly.

For more general repair guides, you can always check out our collection of articles.

Repair options and cost factors

Addressing a 2018 Mazda CX-5 power liftgate not staying up typically involves replacing the gas struts. Here's what to expect:

• DIY Replacement: This is a relatively easy repair for most DIYers. Parts (a pair of new struts) typically cost between $50 and $150, depending on the brand (OEM vs. aftermarket). The total cost will be primarily for the parts, plus any basic tools you might need.
• Professional Repair: If you're not comfortable performing the repair yourself, a mechanic can replace the struts. Labor costs usually range from $50 to $150, in addition to the parts cost. This brings the total estimated repair cost to $100–$300.

Cost factors include the brand of replacement struts (OEM parts are generally more expensive but offer factory fit and performance), and regional labor rates if you opt for professional service. You can explore more Mazda-specific information on our Mazda vehicle hub or specifically for your model at the CX-5 model hub.

When to see a professional

While replacing liftgate struts is often a straightforward DIY task, there are times when professional help is advisable:

• Safety Concerns: If you are unable to safely support the liftgate or are uncomfortable working with tools.
• Uncertain Diagnosis: If replacing the struts doesn't resolve the issue, or if the liftgate exhibits other symptoms (e.g., motor not working, electrical problems), a professional can accurately diagnose underlying electrical or mechanical failures with the power liftgate system.
• Damage to Mounting Points: If the ball studs or mounting brackets on the vehicle or liftgate are damaged, a more involved repair may be necessary.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive my 2018 Mazda CX-5 with failing liftgate struts?

Yes, you can drive your CX-5 with failing liftgate struts, but it's not recommended for extended periods. The primary risk is the liftgate falling unexpectedly when opened, which can cause injury or damage to cargo. It also makes loading and unloading cumbersome and unsafe.

How long do Mazda CX-5 liftgate struts typically last?

Liftgate struts on a Mazda CX-5 typically last between 5 to 10 years, depending on usage frequency, environmental conditions, and manufacturing quality. Extreme temperatures and frequent heavy use can shorten their lifespan, leading to earlier failure.

Are aftermarket liftgate struts as good as OEM for my 2018 Mazda CX-5?

Aftermarket liftgate struts can be a cost-effective alternative to OEM parts for your 2018 Mazda CX-5. Many reputable aftermarket brands offer good quality and performance. However, ensure you choose a brand with positive reviews and verify compatibility with your specific power liftgate model to ensure proper fit and function.

Sources and further reading

• All repair guides
• Browse vehicles
• Browse OBD-II codes

This information is not a substitute for OEM service procedures; always use a qualified technician for safety-critical work.