Parts for your 2017 Subaru Xv-Gas struts

2017 Subaru XV gas struts: fitted on the rear hatch, not the bonnet

Based on technical references, gas struts are relevant to the 2017 Subaru XV. Subaru’s service/parts catalogues list gas‑charged “rear gate stays” for the XV/Crosstrek of this model year, and application guides from gas‑strut manufacturers (e.g., Stabilus Lift-O-Mat and Monroe/Max-Lift) specify rear hatch struts for the 2017 XV. The Subaru Owner’s Manual for this generation also notes a support rod for the bonnet, confirming no factory bonnet gas struts. In short: the 2017 XV uses gas struts on the rear hatch (tailgate), and a prop rod on the bonnet.

On the 2017 Subaru XV, the rear hatch gas struts do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the hatch so it opens smoothly, stays up without drama, and closes with predictable effort. When they’re tired, the hatch can feel heavy, sag in cold weather, or refuse to hold at the top of its travel — not ideal when loading the boot in a southerly.

Replacement is straightforward and a tidy bit of preventive maintenance. Typical signs it’s time to swap them out include:

• Hatch dropping or not staying fully open
• Slow or jerky opening, especially in colder temps
• Oil misting on the strut shaft or body

Good workshop practice on the XV is to replace gas struts in pairs so lift and damping remain even left‑to‑right. Always support the hatch securely (a prop or a helper) before unclipping the old struts. Don’t clamp the shiny shaft with pliers and don’t grease it — contaminants will ruin the seals. Clip the new units on ball studs with the rod facing down if the design calls for it, cycle the hatch a few times, and check that it holds at full height.

There’s no set kilometre interval — climate and use matter — but many owners see 5–10 years from factory struts. If the car lives outside or the hatch is used often, plan on earlier replacement. For the bonnet, the XV’s factory setup is a support rod, not gas struts, which keeps cost and weight down and simplifies service, aftermarket bonnet strut kits exist if desired, but they’re not OEM fitment.

Technical references consulted: Subaru Owner’s Manual (2017 XV/Crosstrek) sections on rear gate and bonnet support, Subaru parts catalogues listing “Stay, Rear Gate (gas‑charged)”, aftermarket application guides for 2017 Subaru XV rear hatch gas struts.

Popular questions

How long do the 2017 Subaru XV rear hatch gas struts usually last?
Most owners get 5–10 years depending on climate and how often the hatch is used. Cold weather and constant use shorten their life. If the hatch won’t stay up or opens sluggishly, it’s time to replace them.

Can the XV’s gas struts be re‑gassed, or should they be replaced?
They’re generally sealed units and not serviceable. Replacement with quality, vehicle‑specific struts is the recommended approach for safety and correct lift.

Does the 2017 XV have bonnet gas struts from factory?
No. It uses a support rod for the bonnet from the factory. Aftermarket bonnet strut kits are available if a hands‑free lift is preferred.