# 2017 Mazda CX-5 Liftgate Won't Stay Up: Fix Sagging Tailgate

> ClearTheCode — If your 2017 Mazda CX-5 liftgate won't stay up, it's likely due to failing struts. Learn how to diagnose and fix the issue, restoring full functionality.

Source: https://clearthecode.com/articles/rear-liftgate-struts-failing-mazda-cx-5-2017
Author: ClearTheCode

# 2017 Mazda CX-5 Liftgate Won't Stay Up

Experiencing a rear liftgate that refuses to stay open on your 2017 Mazda CX-5 can be more than just an inconvenience; it's a safety concern. Many owners report the frustration of the liftgate slowly sagging or even falling rapidly, making loading groceries, gear, or even just accessing the cargo area a hazardous task. This common issue points directly to worn-out liftgate support struts, components designed to hold the tailgate securely in its open position.

## What drivers notice on this 2017 Mazda CX-5

When you open the rear hatch of your 2017 Mazda CX-5, you expect it to remain upright and stable. However, with failing struts, drivers often encounter a variety of unsettling behaviors. The once smooth, assisted lift becomes a struggle, and the gate's inability to hold itself open can lead to bumps on the head or damage to items being loaded. This specific problem is widely reported for the 2017 model year, indicating a common wear item that requires attention.

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

- **Difficulty Rating:** 6/10 — Moderate
- **Common Symptoms:** Liftgate slowly sags after opening: The most common sign is the tailgate gradually lowering itself from its fully open p; Liftgate falls rapidly when attempting to open: Instead of a controlled lift, the tailgate might drop quickly or offer n; Requires manual support to stay open: You might find yourself needing to use a broom handle, a piece of wood, or your he; Difficulty lifting the tailgate initially: The liftgate feels unusually heavy when you first try to open it, lacking the
- **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

Identifying failing liftgate struts on your 2017 Mazda CX-5 is usually straightforward, as the symptoms are quite noticeable:

-   **Liftgate slowly sags after opening:** The most common sign is the tailgate gradually lowering itself from its fully open position, often requiring you to hold it up manually.
-   **Liftgate falls rapidly when attempting to open:** Instead of a controlled lift, the tailgate might drop quickly or offer no resistance, making it dangerous to stand underneath.
-   **Requires manual support to stay open:** You might find yourself needing to use a broom handle, a piece of wood, or your head to keep the liftgate up.
-   **Difficulty lifting the tailgate initially:** The liftgate feels unusually heavy when you first try to open it, lacking the usual assist from the struts.
-   **Squeaking or groaning sounds from the struts:** As the struts wear out, the internal components might rub or bind, creating audible friction noises.
-   **Visible fluid leaks around the strut body:** Hydraulic or gas struts can sometimes leak their internal fluid or gas, which is a clear indicator of failure.

## How to verify and confirm the issue

Confirming that your 2017 Mazda CX-5's liftgate struts are the culprit is a simple process that doesn't require specialized tools:

-   **Manual Lift Test:** Open the liftgate fully. Once it's at its highest point, release it and observe its behavior. If it immediately begins to sag, or if it falls without resistance, the struts are likely failing.
-   **Visual Inspection:** Carefully examine both liftgate struts. Look for any signs of:
    -   **Fluid leaks:** A greasy or oily residue on the strut body indicates a hydraulic fluid leak.
    -   **Corrosion or rust:** Excessive rust on the strut rod or body can impede smooth operation.
    -   **Bent or damaged rods:** Any physical damage to the polished rod surface can prevent the strut from functioning correctly.
    -   **Loose or damaged end fittings:** Check where the struts connect to the liftgate and the vehicle body for play or damage.
-   **Hinge Check:** While less common, ensure the liftgate hinges themselves are not seized or binding. Try to move the liftgate slightly side-to-side when open; excessive play could indicate hinge issues, though usually, sagging is strut-related.
-   **No OBD codes:** It's important to note that failing liftgate struts will not trigger any On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) trouble codes, as they are purely mechanical components. Therefore, a scanner will not be helpful for this specific diagnosis.

## Common causes (most likely first)

The primary reason your 2017 Mazda CX-5 liftgate won't stay up is almost always related to the natural degradation of its support struts:

-   **Worn liftgate support struts (loss of gas pressure):** Over time and with repeated use, the internal gas pressure within the struts, which provides the lifting and holding force, gradually diminishes. This is the most frequent cause of sagging liftgates.
-   **Damaged or bent strut rods:** Physical impact or improper handling can bend the strut rod, preventing it from extending or retracting smoothly and causing internal seal damage.
-   **Corroded strut mounts/hinges:** While the struts themselves are usually the problem, severe corrosion at the mounting points or the liftgate hinges can add resistance or cause binding, exacerbating the issue or preventing proper movement.
-   **Extreme temperature changes:** Very cold weather can temporarily reduce the effectiveness of the gas within the struts, making them weaker until the temperature rises. Understanding common issues for your specific model, like this liftgate problem, can help you with overall vehicle maintenance. Find more information on various vehicle problems and solutions on our [articles page](/articles).

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## Step-by-step diagnosis and fixes

Addressing a sagging liftgate on your 2017 Mazda CX-5 typically involves replacing the faulty struts. Here's a general guide:

1.  **Safety First:** Before attempting any work, securely prop the liftgate open using a sturdy support rod, a piece of lumber, or a helper. Never rely on one failing strut to hold the liftgate open.
2.  **Locate the Struts:** The liftgate support struts are typically found on either side of the rear liftgate, connecting the liftgate itself to the vehicle's body.
3.  **Inspect Visually:** Re-examine both struts for any obvious signs of damage, leaks, or corrosion. Often, one strut might fail before the other, but it's best practice to replace them in pairs.
4.  **Remove Old Struts:** Most modern liftgate struts are held in place by simple clips at each end. Use a small flat-head screwdriver to gently pry up the metal clip, then pull the strut end off the ball joint. Repeat for both ends of the strut. Be prepared for the liftgate to become heavier once a strut is disconnected, even with a prop.
5.  **Install New Struts:** With the old strut removed, align the new strut's ends with the ball joints. Simply push the strut ends onto the ball joints until they click into place. The clips should automatically secure them. Ensure both ends are firmly seated.
6.  **Test Functionality:** Once both new struts are installed, carefully remove your prop rod and slowly lower and raise the liftgate to confirm it now holds itself open securely and operates smoothly. For more detailed repair guides and general automotive advice, you can always visit our [articles page](/articles).

## Repair options and cost factors

When your 2017 Mazda CX-5 liftgate won't stay up, you generally have two main repair options:

-   **DIY Replacement:** This is often the most cost-effective solution. Liftgate struts are readily available from automotive parts stores or online retailers. The cost of a pair of aftermarket struts for a 2017 Mazda CX-5 typically ranges from $40 to $100. OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts might be more expensive, ranging from $80 to $200 per pair. The installation process is relatively straightforward for most DIYers with basic hand tools.
-   **Professional Replacement:** If you're not comfortable performing the repair yourself, a professional mechanic can replace the struts. The labor cost will vary depending on the shop's rates, but typically, this is a quick job (30 minutes to an hour). Expect to pay for the parts plus an additional $50 to $150 in labor. While more expensive, it ensures the job is done correctly and safely. For more general repair advice across various makes and models, explore our extensive collection of [articles](/articles).

Always ensure you purchase struts specifically designed for your 2017 Mazda CX-5 to ensure proper fit and function. You can browse various vehicle-specific parts and information on our [vehicles page](/vehicles).

## When to see a professional

While replacing liftgate struts is a common DIY task, there are situations where consulting a professional mechanic is advisable:

-   **Unsure about DIY:** If you lack confidence in your mechanical skills or don't have the necessary tools.
-   **Difficulty removing old struts:** If the old struts are seized, corroded, or difficult to detach from their mounting points.
-   **Suspect other damage:** If you notice damage to the liftgate hinges, body panels, or wiring (especially for power liftgates, though the 2017 CX-5 typically has manual struts) that goes beyond simple strut replacement.
-   **Lack of proper tools/safety equipment:** Always prioritize safety. If you cannot safely prop the liftgate or handle the components, a professional is the best choice.

## Frequently asked questions

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

Liftgate struts on a 2017 Mazda CX-5, like most vehicles, typically last between 5 to 10 years, or roughly 50,000 to 100,000 cycles of opening and closing. Their lifespan can be influenced by factors like climate (extreme cold can reduce their effectiveness) and frequency of use.

### Can I drive my 2017 Mazda CX-5 with failing liftgate struts?

Yes, you can safely drive your 2017 Mazda CX-5 with failing liftgate struts, as they do not affect the vehicle's driving dynamics or safety while in motion. However, it poses a significant safety risk when the liftgate is open, as it could fall and cause injury or damage.

### Are liftgate struts difficult to replace on a 2017 Mazda CX-5?

Replacing liftgate struts on a 2017 Mazda CX-5 is generally considered a straightforward repair that most DIYers can accomplish with basic hand tools in about 15-30 minutes. The most critical step is ensuring the liftgate is securely propped open to prevent injury during the process.

## Sources and further reading

*   Mazda CX-5 Owner's Manual
*   Automotive service bulletins and forums

This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for OEM service procedures; always use a qualified technician for safety-critical work.

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