Parts for your 2000 Subaru Forester-Gas struts

2000 Subaru Forester gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical references including the Subaru Forester 2000MY Factory Service Manual (Body section: Rear Gate) and Subaru Genuine Parts Catalogue for MY00 Forester (Body/Rear Gate) specify gas‑charged lift supports on the rear tailgate. Aftermarket application catalogues from major suppliers also list rear liftgate gas struts for the 1997–2002 Forester range. The bonnet on this model uses a prop rod rather than gas struts. So yes—this Forester is fitted with gas struts on the tailgate, but not on the bonnet.

On a 2000 Subaru Forester, the gas struts are there to safely lift and hold the rear tailgate open. They’re small, pressurised dampers that balance the weight of the hatch, so the door goes up smoothly and stays put without a wrestling match. When they’re fresh, loading the pram, the dog, or the weekly shop is effortless.

Like any pressurised component, gas struts gradually lose charge over time. Heat, cold, age, and a bit of road grime all chip away at performance. If the tailgate starts dropping on cooler mornings, opens sluggishly, or needs a shoulder bump to stay up, the struts are telling their story. A light film of oil around the rod seal, or any visible scoring on the shaft, also points to replacement time.

Best practice is to replace them in pairs. It keeps lift and hold even on both sides, protects the hinges, and delivers that crisp, factory feel. Replacement is a straightforward job with basic tools:

• Support the tailgate securely with a second person or a proper support stand.
• Pop the retaining clips, swap one strut at a time, and ensure the sockets are fully seated.
• Don’t grease the shafts—just keep them clean and dry. Wipe with a soft, lint‑free cloth.

There’s no fixed service interval, most originals last many years. In Aussie and Kiwi conditions—especially coastal—expect to renew somewhere between 5–10 years, sooner if the vehicle lives outdoors. Avoid forcing struts closed by hand, keep the rod free of nicks, and remember performance drops in colder weather, which is normal.

If a bonnet upgrade is on the wish list, note the 2000 Forester wasn’t factory‑fitted with bonnet gas struts. Aftermarket conversion kits exist, but they’re an add‑on, not a service item.

• How long do tailgate gas struts last on a 2000 Forester?
  In typical Aussie and NZ use, many see 5–10 years before they get lazy. Coastal air, frequent use, and exposure to sun will shorten that. If the hatch won’t stay up or sags in cold weather, it’s time.
• Does the 2000 Forester have bonnet gas struts?
  No. The bonnet uses a prop rod from factory. Owners can fit an aftermarket kit if they prefer, but it’s not a standard component on this model year.
• Should gas struts be replaced in pairs?
  Yes. Pair replacement keeps lift balanced and prevents twisting the tailgate and hinges. Mixing new with old can feel odd and wear components unevenly.