Replacing Liftgate Struts on a Subaru Outback
We recently bought a 2015 Subaru Outback with 125,000 miles. The car is in great shape, but one issue stood out: the liftgate would open, sag, beep, and then rely on the electric motor to keep it in place. The culprit? Worn-out liftgate struts.
Why Liftgate Struts Matter
Struts are common in two main places: the liftgate or trunk, and the hood. They help you lift heavy panels and hold them securely in place.
Over time, struts lose pressure and fail slowly — often over years. Eventually, you’ll notice sagging doors, hoods that won’t stay open, or tailgates that become a safety hazard.
On my 2001 and 2015 Subaru Outbacks, each has a pair of struts for the liftgate. Replacing them is quick, inexpensive (about $20), and restores the convenience and safety of a working liftgate.
We’ll focus on the 2001 Outback, because it’s slightly more difficult. Since its liftgate relies entirely on the struts (no electric assist), replacing them was even more important for safety.
Tools and Parts Needed
- New liftgate struts
- 10 mm socket and ratchet
- Small flathead screwdriver
- A broom handle or similar support to hold the liftgate
Step-by-Step Replacement
- Open the liftgate and prop it securely with a broom handle or support.
- On one side, use a screwdriver to pop the clip off the top of the old strut.
- Remove the two 10 mm bolts holding the bottom of the strut.
- Use the old strut as leverage to gently pry the top off the ball mount.
- Bolt the new strut’s bottom in place.
- Guide the top onto the ball mount until it snaps securely.
- Repeat the process on the other side.
The whole job takes less than 30 minutes.
Doing the Same on a 2015 Subaru
My newer Outback also needed liftgate struts. The motor-driven rod had been supporting the full weight for too long. I picked up a new set and had the job done in a few minutes. The process was the same as my 2001, just using different size sockets and wrenches.
Final Thoughts
If your Subaru (or any car) is 8–12 years old, chances are the liftgate or hood struts are getting weak. For about $20 and half an hour, you can fix this yourself and avoid the risk of a liftgate or hood crashing down unexpectedly. It’s one of those inexpensive things that lifts your vehicle.
Heads up: a few links here may be affiliate links. Using them supports Fix Up Fleet without costing you extra — and lets me buy the next batch of parts for new projects.
I’m a lifelong DIYer keeping a fleet of cars and trucks on the road — from Subarus to a ’69 MGB GT to a dump truck. Fix Up Fleet is about budget-minded fixes, practical advice, and having fun with every rig in the garage. Buy it, fix it, drive it, repeat.
