Subaru Liftgate Support Buyer's Guide
Subaru liftgate supports usually last for years. However, if they do wear out, you may wonder whether OEM parts are better to buy than aftermarket ones. Or perhaps you are unsure if you can replace them yourself to save money on labor.
This buyer's guide will cover these topics and more to help you make an informed decision when replacing your Subaru liftgate supports. We'll cover:
- Power vs. Manual Subaru Liftgates: Which Is More Reliable?
- Common Subaru Liftgate Problems
- Are OEM Subaru Liftgate Supports Better Than Aftermarket?
- How To Replace Subaru Liftgate Supports
Power vs. Manual Subaru Liftgates: Which Is More Reliable?
Many modern Subarus come with the option of manual or powered liftgates. Manual liftgates are of a simpler design, but powered liftgates are certainly more convenient to use. While Subaru’s powered liftgates should work faultlessly for years, there is more to go wrong here than with a manual hatch lift. The major differences to consider are:
Powered Liftgates
- Offer more convenience
- More complex design
- Can be more expensive to fix
Manual Liftgates
- Simpler design
- Potentially cheaper to repair
- Fewer parts to go wrong
Check out this post for a more in-depth comparison between the two types.
Common Subaru Liftgate Problems
A malfunctioning liftgate support can be frustrating. Whether the liftgate keeps sagging down, refuses to open, or won’t respond to your key fob, you'll want to get it fixed. Most commonly, Subaru owners may experience:
- Worn-out lift supports
- Issues with key fob activation
- Liftgate is not responding or closing correctly
For more information on common Subaru liftgate issues and what to do about them, read our comprehensive article here.
Are OEM Subaru Liftgate Supports Better Than Aftermarket?
Image Credit: MrSubaru1387
You may consider using aftermarket liftgate supports because they seem similar to OEM parts and are sometimes cheaper. But most don’t work like the original part, and the generic design can damage the mountings. Majoe difference between the two are:
OEM Liftgate Supports
- Come with a manufacturer guarantee
- Are available at wholesale prices from Subaru Parts Plus
- Will fit and work exactly like the original part
Aftermarket Liftgate Supports
- Are built down to a price and rarely come with a decent guarantee
- These are often generic items that might not fit right
- Won’t be made from the same quality materials as OEM parts
To find out more about the benefits of OEM supports, read our blog here.
How To Replace Subaru Liftgate Supports
Replacing your own liftgate supports is a relatively simple job. Especially if you use our step-by-step tutorial, which you can find here.
Most Subaru liftgates have a similar design, and you need very few tools to complete the job. Even if it’s your first time tackling this sort of work, you can replace both liftgate supports in under an hour.
Choose Subaru Parts Plus For All Your OEM Liftgate Parts
Image Credit: SubaruAmbassadorRobert
Whether you have a manual or powered liftgate, Subaru Parts Plus has the right OEM replacement part for you. From hatch lift supports to lock actuators and even liftgate bumper pieces, we stock it all.
Subaru Parts Plus has been supplying quality OEM Subaru parts since 2005. Every part we sell is genuine and comes with Subaru’s manufacturer warranty. And we sell them at wholesale prices.
Our staff are as passionate about Subarus as you are. And are available to help you online or over the phone at 1-888-294-4979. If you are having liftgate issues, get in touch today, and let us find you the perfect OEM replacement part.