Parts for your 2015 Subaru Forester-Gas struts

2015 Subaru Forester gas struts — what they do and when to replace

Technical documentation for the 2015 Subaru Forester (SJ) confirms the vehicle is fitted with gas‑charged stay assemblies on the rear liftgate. Subaru’s 2015 Forester Service Manual (Body: Rear Gate) specifies “gas-charged stay” components and outlines removal/installation, and the Subaru global parts catalogue (FAST) lists two rear gate stays for SJ Forester variants. The bonnet, however, uses a factory prop rod rather than gas struts, which is also shown in the same sources.

On this Forester, gas struts (also called lift supports or stays) counterbalance the weight of the tailgate so it opens smoothly and stays up without drama. They’re sealed units charged with nitrogen gas and a touch of oil, so they deliver steady assist throughout the travel and cope better with wind or a bit of driveway angle than old-school springs.

Like any wear item, the struts lose charge and damping over time. Owners usually notice the tailgate sagging, dropping faster than normal, or refusing to stay up—especially on cold mornings when internal pressure is lower. A faint hiss, oil film around the rod seal, or needing to “help” the gate past halfway are classic signs they’re due.

Good practice for servicing a 2015 Forester includes giving the struts a quick check whenever the rear wiper, latch, or tailgate trim is being worked on. Look for smooth, even motion with no binding, no oily residue at the seal, and firm holding at full extension. Wipe the chrome rods with a soft cloth, don’t lubricate them—grease attracts grit and can damage the seals.

• Replace in pairs to keep lift and balance even.
• Support the tailgate securely during replacement—use a prop or a helper.
• Match the exact spec: models with a power tailgate use different-rate struts to work with the actuator.
• Expect earlier fatigue in very hot/cold climates or on vehicles that live outdoors.

Most home mechanics can swap them in minutes: pop the retaining clips, ease the ends off the ball studs, then click the new units on. If clips are reused, ensure they’re fully seated. If the ball studs show corrosion or play, replace them too. Choosing quality, vehicle-specific struts keeps the tailgate light to lift, safe overhead, and easy to live with for years.

Popular questions about 2015 Subaru Forester gas struts

How do you know the rear gate gas struts need replacing on a 2015 Forester?
Tell-tales include the tailgate drifting down, dropping the last 10–20 cm, or needing a shove to get moving. Cold weather often makes weak struts obvious. Any oil mist on the rod or end fittings is another nudge to replace.

Are power tailgate models different?
Yes. SJ Foresters with a power rear gate use struts calibrated to work with the power actuator. Fit the correct specification so the motor isn’t overworked and the open/close speeds stay within the control module’s expectations.

Can you lubricate gas struts to extend life?
No. Don’t spray the chrome rods—lubricants collect grit and can nick the seals. Just keep the rods clean and undamaged. Once a strut loses charge or leaks oil, replacement is the fix.