In time, the hatchback lift struts of many vehicles, including the Subaru Forester, stop holding the hatch up. While a broomstick will hold the hatch up, it is unsafe as well as annoying to have to prop the hatch open. When your hatchback will not stay open anymore, it is time to replace the lift struts. This project should take less than an hour.
Order the replacement lift struts from the Subaru dealership or auto parts store. The dealership usually has the part in stock. Know the year, make and model of your Forester, and have it available when you place the order; depending on the year, the hatchback may require a different type of lift strut.
Open and push the hatchback as far up as it will go. Have an assistant hold the hatchback up for you.
Remove the two bolts holding the lift strut to the hatch, using a socket or screwdriver. Then remove the bottom bolt attaching the strut to the body.
Attach the new strut in the same order. Using the bolt, attach the bottom to the Forester body. Then line up the holes on the strut to the holes on the hatch. Using the socket, re-attach the two top bolts. Repeat the process on the other side.
