Parts for your 2004 Subaru Forester-Gas struts

2004 Subaru Forester gas-struts: purpose, care and when to replace

Gas-struts are absolutely used on the 2004 Subaru Forester. Technical references that confirm this include the Subaru Forester SG Factory Service Manual (Body section “Rear Gate”), which details the twin gas-charged lift supports on the tailgate, Subaru parts catalogues for SG (MY03–MY08) listing rear gate lift supports as serviceable items, and common aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Stabilus Lift-O-Mat, Monroe Max-Lift) that supply direct-fit rear hatch struts for this model. The bonnet on most 2004 Foresters is held by a prop rod rather than gas-struts, but the rear tailgate relies on a pair of gas-charged supports.

On a 2004 Forester, the gas-struts do the heavy lifting for the rear hatch, making it easy to open and keeping it safely up while loading the boot. Over time, seals wear and the internal gas charge drops, especially in colder climates, so lift performance fades. Servicing of your 2004-subaru-forester gas-struts generally means monitoring their condition and replacing them as a pair when they’re tired.

• Common signs they’re due: the tailgate sags or won’t stay up, needs a helping hand to rise, opens slowly (worse in cold weather), or shows oil misting at the shaft.
• Check every service or 12 months, more often if the vehicle lives outdoors or does lots of tailgate use.

Replacement is straightforward and usually a 10–20 minute job with basic tools. Always support the tailgate securely (a second person or a prop is a must) before removing a strut.

1. With the hatch supported, pry up the small retaining clips at each end of the old strut using a flat screwdriver—don’t remove the clip fully, just release it.
2. Pull the strut off the ball studs. Note orientation.
3. Press the new strut onto the studs until it clicks. Ensure the cylinder end faces up if specified by the manufacturer.
4. Repeat on the other side, then gently test for smooth, full travel.

Tips for longer life: keep the exposed shafts clean, don’t push the hatch up by the glass, and avoid forcing it closed. Replace in pairs for balanced support and to prevent twisting the hinges. If the vehicle carries tailgate add-ons (lamps, racks), choose heavy-duty rated struts to match the extra weight. A quick visual check during regular servicing helps catch weak struts before they turn into a safety risk.

Popular questions

Are bonnet gas-struts fitted on a 2004 Subaru Forester?
Most 2004 Foresters use a manual prop rod for the bonnet, not gas-struts. If bonnet lift feels heavy, that’s normal for a prop-rod setup. Owners who prefer hands-free lifting sometimes retrofit aftermarket bonnet strut kits designed for the SG chassis.

Do I need to replace both rear hatch struts, or can I do one?
It’s best to replace both. New and old struts won’t share the load evenly, which can twist hinges and reduce the life of the fresh strut. Pair replacement restores smooth, safe lifting and proper balance.

What brand or spec should I choose for replacement struts?
Choose OEM-equivalent or reputable aftermarket units matched to the SG Forester’s tailgate. If you’ve added weight (e.g., accessories on the hatch), opt for higher force-rated struts recommended for that load. Check fitment by VIN or model year to ensure the ball-socket size and length are correct.