Parts for your 2016 Subaru Outback-Gas struts

2016 Subaru Outback gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Gas struts are definitely used on the 2016 Subaru Outback. Technical references that confirm this include the 2016 Outback Owner’s Manual (Rear Gate/Power Rear Gate sections), the Subaru Service Manual (Body – Rear Gate, lift support stay procedures), and the official Subaru parts catalogue (Body > Rear Gate, “rear gate stay” assemblies). They show the Outback’s rear gate uses gas‑charged lift struts on manual tailgates, and a mix of a powered drive unit plus a gas strut on power rear gates. The bonnet on this model uses a prop rod from factory, not gas struts.

On a 2016 Outback, the rear gate gas struts counterbalance the door’s weight so it lifts smoothly, stays put, and closes without a fight. They’re pressurised with nitrogen and a small amount of oil to damp movement, which is why a healthy strut feels controlled rather than springy. Whether the car has a manual or power rear gate, the gas strut(s) are doing the heavy lifting in the background to keep things safe and user‑friendly.

There’s no fixed service interval, but struts are wear items. Heat, cold, dust, and time slowly bleed performance. Telltale signs they’re due include the tailgate rising sluggishly, stopping halfway, needing a shoulder nudge to open, or worse, sagging or dropping. Any oil film on the rod, bent rod, noisy operation, or uneven opening left‑to‑right also points to replacement. If it’s a power rear gate, the motor may strain or reverse unexpectedly when the strut is weak.

• Replace in pairs on manual gates, on power gates, follow the OE layout (powered drive on one side, gas strut on the other).
• Support the gate securely before removing clips, don’t rely on one old strut to hold it.
• Keep the chrome rod clean, don’t lubricate it, paint it, or grip it with tools.
• Select the correct spec by VIN, body type, and whether the car has a power rear gate.

DIY is straightforward with the right support, but a workshop can sort it quickly if preferred. For power rear gates, it’s good practice to disable the power function before starting and perform the open/close calibration after fitting. New struts restore the Outback’s easy, one‑handed tailgate action and stop accidental bonks on the head—too right.

Does a 2016 Subaru Outback have gas struts from factory?

Yes. The rear gate uses gas struts on manual versions, and a combination of a powered drive unit plus a gas strut on power rear gate models. The bonnet uses a prop rod, not gas struts, from factory.

How long do the rear gate struts last, and when should they be replaced?

Many last 5–10 years, but climate and use matter. Replace when the tailgate won’t stay up reliably, rises slowly, needs help to lift, or shows oil on the rod. On power gates, replace if the system struggles or reverses mid‑travel.

Can Outback gas struts be re‑gassed, or should they be replaced?

They’re sealed units. Re‑gassing isn’t generally recommended for OE reliability. Replacement with quality, correct‑spec struts is the dependable fix, and on manual gates they should be done in pairs.