Parts for your 2007 Subaru Forester-Gas struts

2007 Subaru Forester gas struts — rear tailgate stays that do the heavy lifting

Gas struts are absolutely relevant on the 2007 Subaru Forester. Technical sources including the Subaru Electronic Parts Catalogue (listing “rear gate stay” assemblies for the 2007 Forester), the Subaru factory service information (which shows the bonnet is supported by a manual prop rod, not struts), and aftermarket fitment catalogues from brands like Stabilus Lift-O-Mat, Monroe Max-Lift and StrongArm (all listing rear lift supports for 2003–2008 Forester models) confirm the vehicle is factory-fitted with gas-pressurised struts on the rear hatch/tailgate.

On a 2007 Forester, the rear gas struts take the weight of the tailgate, control its opening speed, and hold it safely at full height. That means easier loading, less strain on hinges, and fewer close calls when the weather turns cold and weak struts start to sag. If the tailgate won’t stay up, opens sluggishly, drops in a breeze, or shows oily residue on the piston rod, the struts have likely lost charge and are ready for replacement.

Because these struts work as a matched pair, it’s smart to replace both sides at the same time. Choose OEM or quality aftermarket units with the correct length, end fittings and force rating for the 2007 Forester, a VIN or rego lookup with a reputable supplier avoids guesswork. During servicing, keep the chrome rods clean and dry—don’t grease them—and check the end sockets and mounting studs for wear. A light silicone spritz on the tailgate hinges (not the strut rods) helps the whole system move freely.

Swapping them over is typically a quick DIY: support the tailgate with a prop or helper, flick up the retaining clips with a small flat screwdriver, and pop the old struts off. Click the new ones on ball-stud first, then body, making sure the clip seats fully. Give the hatch a few open/close cycles to confirm smooth action and full lift height. Never drill, heat, or crush old struts—treat them as pressurised cylinders and dispose of them safely through metal recycling where accepted.

• Replace in pairs for balanced lift and proper latch alignment.
• Inspect every service, especially before winter.
• Avoid using the tailgate as a handle to pull the car closed—use the strap or grab point.

How can you tell if the rear gas struts need replacing?

Common signs include the tailgate dropping or sitting low, needing help to rise, slowing down in cold weather, or leaving an oily film on the rod. If it can’t hold itself fully open, it’s time.

What specs should the replacement struts have?

Match the original length, end fittings and force rating. Using a VIN or vehicle lookup with a trusted brand ensures the correct spec for a 2007 Forester without guessing pressures.

Does the 2007 Forester’s bonnet have gas struts?

No—the factory bonnet uses a prop rod, as shown in Subaru service and owner information. Aftermarket bonnet-strut kits exist, but confirm clearance and mounting integrity before fitting.