Parts for your 2011 Subaru Forester-Gas struts

2011 Subaru Forester gas struts

Gas struts are relevant and fitted to the 2011 Subaru Forester’s rear tailgate. Technical references that support this include the Subaru Forester (SH, MY2011) Body section of the Subaru Service Manual, which details removal and installation of the rear gate stay (gas-charged), and Subaru parts catalogues that list the rear gate stay assemblies for the SH-series Forester. Major aftermarket catalogues for the 2009–2013 Forester also list gas-charged lift supports for the tailgate. The bonnet on this model uses a manual prop rod rather than gas struts.

On the 2011 Forester, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting. They’re gas-charged dampers that counterbalance the weight of the rear door so it opens smoothly, holds itself up, and closes without a thump. When they’re healthy, loading the boot is effortless and safe. As they age, the internal gas pressure drops and the seals wear, which can make the tailgate slow to rise, sag, or worse—drop unexpectedly.

Owners should keep an eye (and ear) out for tell-tale signs: the tailgate not staying up—especially in cold weather—uneven lift, a faint hiss, or a light film of oil on the shaft. If one side is weak, the other isn’t far behind, so replacement in pairs is the go-to approach. There’s no set service interval, but in Aussie and Kiwi conditions 5–10 years is typical depending on use and climate.

Maintenance is easy. Keep the shiny piston rods clean—just a soft cloth, no grease or silicone on the rod, because lubricants attract grit and can damage the seal. Don’t clamp the rod in a vice or try to force-compress by hand. During other routine servicing, a quick function check of the tailgate is smart: open fully, confirm it holds, and listen for binding or creaks around the ball joints.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer or workshop: safely support the tailgate, flick up the retaining clips at the ball ends, swap the struts, and click them onto the studs. Quality matters—OE-equivalent units will restore the smooth, controlled motion Subaru intended. After fitting, cycle the tailgate a few times to ensure full, even travel and a positive hold at the top. A small job, but it makes everyday use safer and a whole lot nicer.

• Technical sources: Subaru Forester (SH, MY2011) Service Manual – Body/Rear Gate, Subaru electronic parts catalogue listings for rear gate stay (gas), aftermarket lift support catalogues covering 2009–2013 Forester.

FAQs

Does the 2011 Subaru Forester have gas struts on the bonnet?
No. The SH-series Forester uses a manual prop rod to support the bonnet. Gas struts are fitted to the rear tailgate only. If bonnet struts are desired, aftermarket conversion kits exist, but they’re not factory equipment on the 2011 model.

How long do the tailgate gas struts last on a 2011 Forester?
Typically 5–10 years, depending on climate, usage, and load. Signs they’re due include the tailgate not staying up, slow opening, or needing a hand to lift. Cold mornings often make weak struts show their age sooner.

Can the Forester’s gas struts be re-gassed, or should they be replaced?
Most OE-style struts are sealed units and are usually replaced rather than re-gassed. Some specialist shops can re-gas certain types, but for consistency and safety, replacing with quality units is generally the better option.