Parts for your 2015 Subaru Xv-Gas struts

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

Per the 2015 Subaru XV/Crosstrek factory Service Manual (Body section – Rear Gate) and OEM parts catalogues used by dealerships and aftermarket suppliers, this model runs gas‑charged lift supports on the rear hatch/tailgate. The bonnet is supported by a prop rod from factory, not gas struts. So gas struts are absolutely relevant to the XV, specifically for the rear liftgate.

On the XV, the gas struts take the weight of the tailgate, help it lift smoothly, and keep it safely propped open while loading the boot. They also damp the last bit of travel so the gate doesn’t slam, which saves wear on hinges, latches, and the body shell. In day‑to‑day use they make the hatch feel light and easy, even in a stiff southerly.

These struts are sealed units charged with nitrogen and a light oil. Over time they lose pressure from normal seal wear, especially with age, heavy use, or cold winters. Owners will usually notice the hatch feels heavy, won’t stay up on a chilly morning, opens unevenly, or leaves a light film of oil on the rod. Any dropping or sudden sagging is a safety issue and calls for immediate replacement—ideally as a pair so lift and balance match.

• Service tip: give the strut rods a quick wipe during regular servicing, keep grit off the seals. Don’t grease the rods—lubricants attract dust and can damage seals.
• Inspection interval: check operation every service (around 10,000–15,000 km). Typical life is 5–8 years, depending on climate and use.

Replacement is a straightforward driveway job. Support the hatch securely with a prop or a helper. Pop the small retaining clips at each end with a flat screwdriver, ease the old strut off the ball studs, then click the new one on—rod end down to keep internal seals bathed in oil. Never try to compress a new strut by hand, and don’t drill or heat old units—they’re pressurised. Dispose of spent struts as metal recycling through your local waste facility.

Choosing parts is easy: match length, end fittings, and force rating in Newtons to the XV spec via VIN or a trusted parts catalogue. Quality OEM‑equivalent brands (the same style used by Subaru) will give the right lift and last the distance. There are aftermarket bonnet‑strut kits if a hands‑free bonnet is desired, but they’re not factory‑fitted on the 2015 XV.

• Does the 2015 Subaru XV have gas struts on the bonnet?
  From factory, no—the bonnet uses a prop rod. The gas struts are fitted to the rear hatch only. Aftermarket bonnet‑strut kits do exist if hands‑free bonnet support is wanted, but they’re not OEM equipment.
• How long do the rear hatch gas struts last on a 2015 XV?
  Typically 5–8 years. Cold weather, lots of tailgate use, or dust around the seals can shorten that. If the hatch won’t stay up—especially on chilly mornings—it’s time to replace the pair.
• Can the XV’s gas struts be replaced at home?
  Yes, with basic tools. Support the hatch, pop the retaining clips, and swap them over—about 10–20 minutes per side. Replace both together for even lift and safety.