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AUTOEXE Bonnet Dampers for Mazda RX8 (Series 1 & 2, 2003-2012)

Ditch the factory prop rod for gas-assisted bonnet support that holds hands-free. Cleaner bay access on every service, detail or show.

Mazda RX8 bonnet dampers with red gas struts, black brackets and bolts

$360

Mazda RX8 bonnet dampers from AUTOEXE replace the standard prop rod with a pair of precision, high-pressure gas struts. Lift the bonnet and it holds itself at full open, no rod to locate, no rod to knock aside mid-task. The kit suits every RX8 built from 2003 to 2012, covering both Series 1 and Series 2 without modification.

Mazda RX8 Bonnet Dampers, AUTOEXE Kit Features

  • High-pressure gas strut design holds the bonnet at full open with light, smooth action in both directions.
  • Opening the bonnet lets heat escape the engine bay immediately. It means you are venting hot air the moment you pull up, rather than trapping it against the engine.
  • Dedicated mount brackets distribute load across the bonnet and frame. No drilling is required, fitment is fully bolt-on.
  • With the factory lock stay removed, the engine bay opens up completely. The result is unobstructed bay access when leaning in to service, detail or simply check fluid levels.
  • Finally, AUTOEXE engineers this kit specifically for the RX8 platform. Bracket geometry and strut calibration are dialled in for the Mazda bonnet structure. See the full range at the AUTOEXE official website.

For RX8 enthusiasts, the difference is felt every single time the bonnet goes up. No fumbling for the prop rod in poor light, no relocating it when you need to reach across the engine. These gas struts also make a real difference at shows. A proper set of RX8 bonnet dampers lets the engine bay present cleanly without a rod cutting across the view, whether you are competing or simply proud of what is under there.

For a complete engine-bay upgrade, the CUSCO Strut Brace Type OS (Front) with Brake Cylinder Stopper is a purposeful underbonnet addition that looks at home in a prop-free bay. Pair it with the AUTOEXE Brake Fluid Cap, which replaces the plain factory reservoir cap with a branded piece, the first thing noticed when the bonnet dampers lift and hold.

Additional information

RX8 Model

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SKU AE-BDP-S1S2 Category Types , Brand:

Related RX8 Upgrades

This bonnet damper kit is one of the best Mazda RX-8 upgrades you can make to your Series 1 (2003-2008) or Series 2 (2009-2012). Bonnet damper kits are among the top Aftermarket mods you can buy from AUTOEXE for owners who want better performance and reliability from their RX8. If you are looking for rx8 bonnet dampers for sale in Brisbane (QLD), Sydney (NSW), Melbourne (VIC), Canberra (ACT), Adelaide (SA), Darwin (NT) or Perth (WA), you’ll find high-quality Japanese Exterior upgrades at RX8 Upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these bonnet dampers fit both Series 1 and Series 2 RX8 models?

Yes. The AUTOEXE bonnet damper kit (MSE2960) covers the complete RX8 model range, fitting both Series 1 (2003-2008) and Series 2 (2009-2012) cars on a single kit.

Do I need to keep the original prop rod once the dampers are fitted?

No. The gas struts fully replace the factory prop rod, holding the bonnet open hands-free at its full raised position. The prop rod is no longer needed once the kit is installed.

How difficult is it to install RX8 bonnet dampers?

AUTOEXE designs the MSE2960 kit specifically for the Mazda RX8 platform, so fitment and calibration are matched to the factory bonnet geometry. No cutting or fabrication is required, and the installation follows a straightforward bolt-on process.

Will the struts hold the bonnet open reliably over time with daily use?

The AUTOEXE bonnet dampers are built for frequent, repeated cycling - whether that is a quick oil check or an extended service session. The gas struts are designed to maintain consistent hold force across regular long-term use.

What is the part number for the AUTOEXE RX8 bonnet damper kit?

The AUTOEXE bonnet damper kit for the RX8 carries part number MSE2960, covering all models from 2003 to 2012.

Is this worth fitting just for car shows, or is it practical for everyday servicing too?

Both. The bonnet dampers clear the prop rod from the engine bay for a cleaner presentation at shows, and they make routine servicing and detailing noticeably easier - no rod to locate, reposition, or knock aside while working over the engine.

What other engine-bay upgrades pair well with these bonnet dampers?

The CUSCO Strut Brace Type OS (Front) with Brake Cylinder Stopper is a purposeful underbonnet addition that suits a prop-rod-free bay. The AUTOEXE Brake Fluid Cap is a neat finishing touch, replacing the plain factory reservoir cap with a branded piece visible the moment the bonnet goes up.