Parts for your 2008 Subaru Impreza-Gas struts

2008 Subaru Impreza gas struts

Gas struts are fitted to 2008 Subaru Impreza hatch models (GH/GR, including WRX/STI) to hold up the rear liftgate. This is confirmed by Subaru’s Workshop Manual (Impreza/WRX MY2008 Body Section: “Rear Gate Stay”) and the Subaru FAST electronic parts catalogue, which lists a gas “Stay Assy – Back Door” for hatch models. The 2008 Impreza sedan (GE) uses torsion bars for the boot lid, and the bonnet on both body styles uses a manual prop rod rather than gas struts. So, gas struts are relevant to the rear hatch only on the 2008 Impreza hatch.

On the 2008 Impreza hatch, those gas-charged stays make daily life easier by controlling the rear gate’s lift and preventing it from slamming shut. They’re sealed, self-contained units filled with nitrogen that push against an internal piston to provide smooth, controlled motion. When in good nick, they let the hatch rise with minimal effort and stay safely open while loading gear, prams or the weekly shop.

Over time, heat cycles, age and contamination can let the charge and oil lose effectiveness. Typical signs they’re on the way out include the hatch falling or not staying up, needing a helping hand to lift, slow or jerky movement, or a tell-tale oily film on the strut rod. Cold mornings often make weak struts feel even weaker.

Servicing advice for a 2008 Subaru Impreza hatch is straightforward: inspect the rear gate struts during routine services, especially if the vehicle lives outdoors. Keep the chrome rods clean and dry—no grease or silicone on the rods, as it attracts grit and can damage the seals. Replace them in pairs when performance drops, mixing an old and new strut can twist the hinges. Always support the hatch securely with a prop or a mate while swapping them out. Most replacements are a simple clip-on/clip-off job at the ball-studs, but check the condition of the ball-studs and brackets and tighten any loose fasteners.

Because bonnet support on this model is a prop rod and the sedan boot uses torsion bars, there’s no gas-strut maintenance needed in those areas. Owners wanting bonnet gas struts can look at quality aftermarket kits designed specifically for the GE/GH platform, ensuring proper clearances and mounting hardware.

• Signs it’s time to replace: hatch won’t stay up, slow lift, visible oil, or a hissing/leaking sound.
• Best practice: replace in pairs, avoid contaminating the rod, and dispose of old struts responsibly.

Popular questions about 2008 Subaru Impreza gas struts

Do all 2008 Imprezas have factory gas struts?
The hatch does—two gas stays on the rear liftgate. The sedan’s boot uses torsion bars, and the bonnet on both body styles uses a prop rod. That setup matches Subaru’s factory documentation for MY2008.

Can the original gas struts be re-gassed, or should they be replaced?
They’re sealed units and are generally replaced rather than re-gassed. Re-gassing is uncommon and not always reliable. Fit quality, model-specific replacements and change both sides at once for balanced operation.

How long do hatch gas struts typically last?
Usage and climate matter, but many owners see 5–10 years. If the hatch starts dropping or struggles to lift, it’s time to swap them out—especially before winter, when cold temps expose weak struts.