Parts for your 2022 Subaru Impreza-Gas struts

Gas Struts on the 2022 Subaru Impreza: What You Need to Know

The 2022 Subaru Impreza is a popular compact car that's known for reliability, practical design, and an engaging driving experience. When it comes to the use of gas struts, particularly on the Impreza, there are some key details worth understanding for owners and enthusiasts alike.

Gas struts, also known as gas springs or lift supports, are components commonly found on many vehicles for assisting the lifting and holding open of heavy panels like tailgates, bonnets, or hatchbacks. These little helpers use pressurised gas inside a sealed cylinder to provide a smooth and controlled motion when opening and closing. On many hatchbacks and SUVs, gas struts are essential for easy and safe operation.

For the 2022 Subaru Impreza, gas struts are indeed fitted on the rear hatch. Like many modern hatchbacks, the tailgate is supported by gas struts that help lift the rear hatch easily and keep it open securely without needing to hold it manually. These struts bring convenience by reducing the effort required to open the boot space, as well as safety, preventing the hatch from slamming shut unexpectedly.

Regarding the bonnet (or hood), the 2022 Subaru Impreza does not typically use gas struts to support it. Instead, it uses a traditional metal prop rod that you manually position to hold the bonnet open. This is fairly common in many smaller cars, as a gas strut under the bonnet adds additional expense and complexity which might not be necessary given the lighter bonnet weight and design.

Since the Impreza uses gas struts on the rear hatch, owners should be familiar with their function and maintenance to avoid inconvenience or potential damage. Gas struts are generally reliable but they can wear out or lose pressure over time, especially in a vehicle exposed to Australian conditions such as heat, dust, and humidity.

Here are some useful points about the purpose and maintenance of gas struts on the 2022 Subaru Impreza:

• Purpose of Gas Struts
  • Help lift the tailgate smoothly and with minimal effort
  • Hold the hatch securely open at any angle, preventing it from falling
  • Enhance safety by controlling the movement of the hatch panel
  • Provide a quieter and more refined opening and closing experience
• Signs Gas Struts May Need Replacement
  • The tailgate won't stay open or slowly closes on its own
  • Difficulty lifting the hatch, requiring more effort than usual
  • Leaks found on the struts, such as visible oil or moisture
  • Unusual noises during operation, like creaking or popping sounds
• Gas Strut Maintenance Tips
  • Regularly clean the strut rods to remove dirt or debris that can damage seals
  • Avoid applying lubricants or oils that can attract grime and harm the seals
  • Inspect the struts at least once a year, especially before long trips or seasonal use changes
  • Replace worn gas struts promptly to maintain safety and convenience
• Replacement Advice for the 2022 Subaru Impreza
  • Use genuine or high-quality aftermarket gas struts designed specifically for the Impreza
  • Follow Subaru's service guidelines or consult authorised dealerships for fitting
  • Consider doing the replacement in pairs rather than single sides to ensure balanced support
  • Replacement is relatively straightforward and can be done with basic tools, but care should be taken not to damage mounting points

In Australia, with its varying climate conditions from hotter summers to cooler winters, ensuring that the Impreza's gas struts remain in good condition contributes to smooth and safe vehicle use. Neglecting gas strut maintenance can lead to the tailgate slamming shut unexpectedly, posing a risk of injury or damage to the vehicle.

Whilst the gas struts take on the heavy lifting for the rear hatch, the manual bonnet prop rod system is reliable and low maintenance. This setup avoids any additional components that could fail, keeping under-bonnet repairs simpler and more affordable. So, if you ever pop the bonnet to check the oil or perform routine maintenance, you can do so knowing the prop rod will reliably keep it open without fuss.

All up, the 2022 Subaru Impreza uses gas struts where they make the most sense - on the rear hatch to improve everyday usability - and sticks with simpler solutions like the prop rod for the bonnet. By understanding how these gas struts work, what to watch for, and how to maintain or replace them, Impreza owners can keep that hatch operating smoothly for years to come.