2020 CX-5 Power Liftgate Not Holding Open: Fixes & Costs

Experiencing a power liftgate that refuses to stay open on your 2020 Mazda CX-5 can be more than just an inconvenience; it can be a safety hazard. Whether the hatch slowly sags, struggles to lift, or unexpectedly falls, a failing liftgate can make loading groceries, gear, or children a frustrating and potentially dangerous task. This guide will walk you through understanding why your 2020 CX-5 power liftgate is not holding open and how to diagnose and fix the problem.

What drivers notice on this 2020 Mazda CX-5

Owners of a 2020 Mazda CX-5 often report specific behaviors when their power liftgate system begins to fail. These symptoms point directly to a loss of support or power within the liftgate mechanism.

• The liftgate falls unexpectedly or closes on its own after being opened.
• The hatch does not stay open at its full height, instead sagging or slowly lowering.
• You need to manually hold the liftgate open with significant effort.
• The power assist motor sounds strained, makes grinding noises, or struggles to lift the hatch.
• The liftgate stops at an incorrect height or operates intermittently.
• Difficulty manually lifting the hatch, indicating a lack of assistance from the gas struts.

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

• Difficulty Rating: 6/10 — Moderate
• Common Symptoms: Slow or uncontrolled closing: The liftgate doesn't hold its position and slowly descends, or drops quickly and forcefull; Inability to stay fully open: Even after reaching its maximum height, the liftgate might sag a few inches or gradually c; Increased effort to manually open/close: If the power assist fails, you'll notice it takes much more strength to operate; Unusual noises from the motor: A grinding, whining, or clicking sound during power liftgate operation can signal a faili
• 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

Beyond the immediate annoyance of a falling liftgate, several specific symptoms can indicate the underlying issue in your 2020 CX-5:

• Slow or uncontrolled closing: The liftgate doesn't hold its position and slowly descends, or drops quickly and forcefully.
• Inability to stay fully open: Even after reaching its maximum height, the liftgate might sag a few inches or gradually close.
• Increased effort to manually open/close: If the power assist fails, you'll notice it takes much more strength to operate the hatch by hand.
• Unusual noises from the motor: A grinding, whining, or clicking sound during power liftgate operation can signal a failing motor or gear issue.
• Intermittent operation: The liftgate works sometimes but not others, or only opens partially.
• Error messages: While less common for simple strut failure, the instrument cluster might display a warning related to the liftgate system if there's an electrical fault.

How to verify and confirm the issue

Confirming the problem on your 2020 CX-5 involves a few practical checks to pinpoint whether the issue lies with the gas struts, the power liftgate motor, or other components.

• Visual Inspection of Gas Struts: Open the liftgate (carefully, using a prop if necessary). Inspect the two gas-filled struts (cylinders) on either side of the hatch. Look for signs of oil leaks, rust, or physical damage. A leaking strut is a clear indicator of failure.
• Manual Lift Test: With the liftgate safely propped open, try to gently push it down. If it offers little resistance and collapses easily, the gas struts are almost certainly weak or completely failed.
• Power Operation Test: Use all methods to open and close the liftgate: the button on the key fob, the interior button, and the button on the liftgate itself. Observe the consistency and smoothness of its movement. Listen for any abnormal sounds from the power liftgate motor.
• Scan Tool Check (if applicable): While weak struts won't trigger an OBD-II code, a failing power liftgate motor or control module might. Connect an OBD-II scanner to your vehicle and check for any stored Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) in the body control module or liftgate control module. For more advanced diagnostics, refer to our [Browse OBD-II codes](/codes) guide.
• Check for TSBs: Occasionally, manufacturers issue Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for known issues. Check with a Mazda dealership or online resources for any TSBs related to 2020 CX-5 power liftgate operation. You can find more general repair guides at All repair guides.

Common causes (most likely first)

Several factors can lead to a 2020 CX-5 power liftgate not holding open, ranging from simple wear and tear to more complex electrical failures.

• Worn Gas Struts: This is by far the most common cause. Over time, the gas pressure inside the struts leaks out, reducing their ability to support the weight of the liftgate. This is a normal wear item.
• Cold Weather: Gas struts are less effective in cold temperatures, as the gas inside contracts, reducing pressure and their ability to hold the liftgate open.
• Power Liftgate Motor Failure: If your CX-5 has a power liftgate, the electric motor responsible for assisting the liftgate's movement can weaken or fail. This can result in slow operation, incomplete opening, or complete failure to lift.
• Liftgate Control Module (LCM) Issues: Less frequently, the electronic control module that manages the power liftgate system can malfunction, leading to erratic or non-existent operation.
• Wiring or Connector Problems: Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors to the power liftgate motor, sensors, or control module can disrupt communication and functionality.
• Physical Damage or Obstruction: Although less common, physical damage to the liftgate hinges, body, or an obstruction could prevent proper operation.

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Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes

Addressing a 2020 CX-5 power liftgate that won't stay open typically starts with the simplest and most common causes.

1. Safety First: Before attempting any work, ensure the liftgate is securely propped open with a sturdy rod or have a helper hold it firmly. A falling liftgate can cause serious injury.
2. Inspect Gas Struts: Visually examine both liftgate struts for any signs of leakage (oily residue), rust, bending, or damage. Even if only one strut is leaking, it's best practice to replace both as a pair.
3. Replace Gas Struts (if faulty):
   • Purchase new gas struts specifically designed for your 2020 Mazda CX-5. Ensure they are compatible with power liftgate systems if your vehicle has one. You can often find these at auto parts stores or through [Mazda vehicle hub](/vehicles/mazda).
   • With the liftgate safely supported, use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the metal clips at each end of the old strut, detaching it from the ball joints.
   • Remove the old strut.
   • Snap the new strut onto the ball joints, ensuring the clips engage securely.
   • Repeat for the other strut. Test the liftgate operation carefully.
4. Diagnose Power Liftgate Motor (if struts are good): If new struts don't resolve the issue, the power liftgate motor or its electrical system may be at fault.
   • Check the fuse for the liftgate system in your CX-5's fuse box (consult your owner's manual for location).
   • Use a scan tool to check for any specific DTCs related to the liftgate control module. This can point to motor, sensor, or module failures.
   • Listen closely to the motor during operation. If it hums, clicks, or strains without moving the hatch, the motor itself or its gearing may be failing.
   • Visually inspect wiring and connectors leading to the motor for damage or corrosion.
5. Reset/Reprogram (if applicable): After replacing components, some power liftgate systems may require a specific reset or relearn procedure. Refer to your vehicle's service manual for exact steps.

Repair options and cost factors

The cost to fix a 2020 CX-5 power liftgate not holding open varies significantly depending on the underlying cause and whether you perform the repair yourself or hire a professional.

• DIY Gas Strut Replacement:
  • Parts Cost: $50–$150 for a pair of quality aftermarket gas struts. OEM struts may cost $100–$250.
  • Difficulty: Low to moderate. Requires basic hand tools and careful attention to safety.
• Professional Gas Strut Replacement:
  • Total Cost: $150–$300. This includes the cost of parts plus 1-2 hours of labor at typical shop rates.
• Power Liftgate Motor Replacement (Professional):
  • Parts Cost: Power liftgate motors are significantly more expensive, often ranging from $300–$800+ for the OEM part.
  • Labor Cost: 2-4 hours of labor, adding $200–$800 to the total.
  • Total Cost: $500–$1600+, depending on parts and labor rates.
• Electrical Diagnosis and Repair:
  • Cost: If the issue is wiring or a control module, diagnosis can be time-consuming. Expect hourly shop rates (typically $100–$200/hour) for diagnostic time, plus the cost of any replacement electrical components.

Factors influencing the final cost include the choice between OEM and aftermarket parts, your local shop's labor rates, and the complexity of diagnosing electrical issues.

When to see a professional

While replacing gas struts is often a straightforward DIY task, there are times when professional assistance is highly recommended for your 2020 CX-5.

• If replacing the gas struts doesn't resolve the problem, indicating a more complex issue.
• If you suspect an electrical problem with the power liftgate motor, control module, or wiring, as these require specialized diagnostic tools and expertise.
• If you lack the necessary tools, experience, or confidence to safely perform the repair yourself.
• If the liftgate is completely inoperable, stuck, or poses an immediate safety risk.
• For complex diagnostic issues that might require access to manufacturer-specific scan tools or detailed wiring diagrams, a professional technician can save you time and potential frustration. You can explore more about your vehicle by visiting [Browse vehicles](/vehicles) or [CX-5 model hub](/vehicles/mazda/cx-5).

Frequently asked questions

Can I drive my 2020 CX-5 with a failing power liftgate?

Yes, you can drive your 2020 CX-5 with a failing power liftgate, but it's not recommended for safety reasons. A liftgate that won't stay open or falls unexpectedly can cause injury or damage to property. For short-term use, you might manually secure it with a prop rod or bungee cords, but repair should be prioritized.

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

Liftgate struts on a 2020 CX-5 typically last between 5 to 10 years under normal conditions. However, their lifespan can be shortened by frequent use, exposure to extreme temperatures, or if the liftgate frequently carries extra weight, such as from certain bike racks or heavy accessories.

Is it hard to replace the liftgate struts on a 2020 CX-5?

Replacing the gas struts themselves on a 2020 CX-5 is generally considered a straightforward DIY task that requires basic hand tools and can often be completed in about 30 minutes. The most critical step is ensuring the liftgate is safely and securely supported throughout the process to prevent it from falling and causing injury.

Sources and further reading

Consult your Mazda owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules and procedures. Online forums dedicated to the Mazda CX-5 can also provide valuable insights and shared experiences from other owners.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for OEM service procedures. Always consult a qualified technician for safety-critical work.

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