Parts for your 2018 Subaru Forester-Gas struts

2018 Subaru Forester gas struts — what they do and how to look after them

Gas struts are relevant and fitted to the 2018 Subaru Forester’s rear gate (tailgate). Technical sources confirm this: the Subaru Forester (SJ, MY2018) Service Manual, Body section “Rear Gate”, specifies gas‑charged rear gate stays, the Subaru genuine parts catalogue lists “Stay Assy – Rear Gate (Gas Charged)” for MY2018 Forester, and major application guides from Stabilus Lift‑O‑Mat/Monroe Max‑Lift include rear hatch lift supports for 2014–2018 Forester. The bonnet on this model uses a prop rod rather than gas struts, so gas struts apply to the tailgate only.

On a 2018 Forester, the rear hatch gas struts (also called lift supports or rear gate stays) do the heavy lifting. They counterbalance the weight of the tailgate, let it glide open, and hold it up safely while loading the boot. On trims with a power tailgate, the system still relies on gas struts to share the load and keep movement smooth alongside the powered actuator.

As part of routine servicing, it’s worth giving the struts a quick once‑over. Wipe the exposed rod with a clean, dry cloth, and make sure the ball studs and mounts are snug. Avoid any grease on the rod itself — it attracts grit that can chew out the seals. A light silicone on the ball joints only is fine. Cold mornings in Aus or Aotearoa can make tired struts show their age, if the hatch rises slowly, won’t stay up, or drops in a breeze, they’re due.

Replacement is straightforward for most owners and is usually best done in pairs so lift and damping stay balanced. Support the hatch with a prop or a mate, then pop off the spring clips at the socket ends and swap the struts over, rod pointing down when fitted. For power tailgates, follow the service manual steps — some models require a simple initialisation after fitment.

Choose quality gas springs matched to OE force rating. Over‑strong units can stress hinges, under‑rated ones won’t hold. Never heat, puncture or crush a gas strut — they’re pressurised. If there’s oil mist on the rod or body, the seal’s done. That’s your cue to replace rather than “nurse it along”.

• Typical signs: hatch sags or won’t hold, jerky travel, hissing, or visible oiling.
• Service tip: replace in pairs, support the hatch, and confirm smooth, hands‑free hold at full height.

How long do Forester tailgate gas struts usually last?

Many see 5–10 years depending on climate and use. Heat, dust, coastal air and frequent opening can shorten life. If the hatch won’t stay up or opens sluggishly, they’re ready for replacement regardless of age.

Can they be replaced at home, or is a workshop needed?

Most owners can DIY the swap in 15–30 minutes with basic tools. Always support the hatch securely. If the vehicle has a power tailgate, follow the reset/initialisation procedure from the service manual, or have a workshop handle it.

Do they need lubrication or servicing?

The strut rod should stay clean and dry — no oil or grease on the rod. A dab of silicone on the ball joints is fine. If you see oil seepage from the strut body or rod, that’s a failure sign, not a lube point.