Parts for your 2018 Subaru Exiga-Gas struts

2018 Subaru Exiga Gas Struts – What They Do and When to Replace

Based on Subaru’s technical literature and parts catalogues, gas struts are fitted to the rear tailgate of the 2018 Subaru Exiga (including the Crossover 7). Subaru service manuals for the Exiga body section describe the “rear gate stay” (gas-filled damper) and outline removal/installation, with cautions not to heat or puncture the sealed unit. Subaru’s electronic parts catalogues likewise list “Stay Assembly – Rear Gate” for this model year. The bonnet, however, is supported by a prop rod rather than gas struts.

The rear gas struts on a 2018 Subaru Exiga quietly do a big job: they counterbalance the tailgate’s weight so it opens smoothly, stays up securely, and doesn’t come crashing down in a gusty Wellington southerly. They’re sealed, gas-charged dampers designed for thousands of open/close cycles with minimal fuss. Over time, seals can harden and gas pressure can drop—especially in colder Kiwi and Aussie winters—so lifts become slower, and the gate may sag or need a helping hand.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to give the tailgate struts a quick once-over. Wipe the chrome shafts with a clean, dry microfibre cloth (no solvents, degreasers, silicone or oil—these can damage the seals). Check the ball-studs and brackets for play, corrosion or bent hardware. If there’s any creaking, visible weeping, or the gate no longer holds itself up, it’s time for replacement.

• Replace in pairs to keep lift and hold balanced.
• Match the correct force rating and end fittings to the Exiga’s spec.
• Support the tailgate with a prop or helper during the swap—those struts carry real weight.
• Never puncture, heat or crush a gas strut, it’s a sealed, pressurised unit.

Owners running heavier accessories—like an aftermarket spoiler, tailgate trim, or rear-mounted gear—may need uprated struts to compensate for the extra mass. Conversely, if the vehicle is stock and the tailgate is dropping, standard-spec replacements will restore the easy one-hand lift Exiga owners expect.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, many sets last 5–10 years, but climate, usage, and loadings make the difference. The best guide is real-world behaviour: if the gate won’t stay up, rises slowly, or feels heavy, fresh struts will bring back that smooth, confident action and keep family and fingers safe at the back of the car.

FAQs

Does the 2018 Subaru Exiga have gas struts on the bonnet?

No. Technical documentation for this model shows the bonnet uses a prop rod. Gas struts are fitted to the rear tailgate only, where they provide lift and holding force.

How long do the Exiga’s tailgate gas struts typically last?

Often 5–10 years, but it depends on climate, usage, and load. If the tailgate rises slowly, needs a shove, or won’t stay up—especially worse in cold weather—it’s time to replace them.

I’ve added a spoiler/bike rack—do I need different struts?

Extra weight on the tailgate can overwhelm stock struts. Using correctly rated uprated struts restores proper lift and hold. Make sure end fittings and lengths match the Exiga’s mounts.