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2021 - Will 2022 Cargo Side Wall Protectors fit - J501SSJ340 - SOLVED!

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15K views 22 replies 10 participants last post by  RichardR  
#1 ·
Hey all,

I noticed on the Subaru website that 2022 Foresters have the Cargo Side Wall protectors as an accessory. This item is similar to what the Outback offers. I contacted SOA and they cannot confirm if they will fit my '21 Sport and indicated they will put in a request to investigate if they will fit. I personally haven't heard, nor read any information on internal changes between the '21 and '22's so I am thinking about ordering a pair to try. Has anyone heard of any internal changes - specifically around the cargo areas and wheel wells?

I have no idea when they will be available but will let you know if they fit or not.
 
#3 ·
I have a 2021 and the wheel wells seem to look the same as in that video?

I'm definitely curious to find out if they would fit!
Thanks for the video. The cargo section in the video looks identical to mine so I placed an order for them. For $63/pair it's not a huge investment to take a chance on. Don't know when they'll be available but I will post photos when I install them (or not).
 
#8 ·
Awesome - thanks.

I know we aren't talking a boat load of cash here but still, I would like to ante up & kick in if they don't fit be ause he's doing us all a solid by ordering and sharing the results.👍🏻

Here's to hoping for an undelayed ship and a fit (fingers crossed).
 
#10 ·
Hey All,

With bated breath, I received the Cargo Side Wall Protectors today and..... THEY FIT!

Got an alert this morning that my parts were ready for pick up. I thought that was fast because I placed the order this past Monday (10/6). The Parts Manager said I was the first customer to order this part (not sure if being the first at the dealer or nationwide). We were both surprised they were in stock. They are made in Canada.

Below are photos of the installation.

1. The kit (part no. J501SSJ340 ) comes with 2 protectors, a template and alcohol swabs.

There are no instructions however there is a label on the plastic bag indicating where to download the installation instructions. Here is the pdf. for your convenience.

J501SSJ340 - Forester Sidewall Protector.pdf

The following photos show the installation steps:

1. Remove the cargo tray, then either use the Template included with the kit or use the template that comes with the instructions. As shown below, cut out the template then tape and align the template in between the seams of the rear strut cover.

2. Using the included alcohol swabs, clean the general area were the velcro will be placed. - Just get some extra alcohol and paper towels and do the whole area :).

3. Remove the backing from the Velcro tabs and then carefully install the protectors above the template as shown below. Once you install the protector, press down on the Velcro tabs to secure it onto the wheel wells. If it makes it easier, put some blue tape on the opposite side of the velcro tabs so you know where the velcro is.

4. Once installed, and the velcro adhesive tabs are secured, carefully remove the protector and then apply more pressure to the velcro tabs to secure them. If you happened to be slightly off on the initial placement, don't worry because the velcro tabs are large enough to re-align and secure the protectors.

5. That's it! You're done. Put the Cargo Tray back in and this is how it looks all installed.

Conclusion:
They fit on my '21 Sport, no doubt about it and I feel really feel confident they would also fit the '19 and '20 since they share the same interior.

Where to Buy:
I purchased mine through my local dealer and paid $63.71 (not including tax). I also got a message from Steve at www.SubaruOnlineParts.com and he sent me a price quote of $53.06 plus shipping however you might want to contact Benny for a VIP discount code if applicable. Steve also mentioned they were working on adding the part number to their website. I just checked and it wasn't there yet so I would email them directly if you want to save some money.

If you have any questions or want to see more photos, let me know.
 

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#13 ·
Got an alert this morning that my parts were ready for pick up. I thought that was fast because I placed the order this past Monday (10/6).
(Update) I ordered a set from a local Subaru dealer late Friday afternoon (4pm) and I was notified this morning that they are in and ready for pickup - it looks like these are readily available and ship without delay.
 
#14 ·
So I thought I would send an update on my cargo sidewall protectors.

Thus far, I'm very happy with them because I have a lot of camping and fishing gear and no longer have to worry about scratches and dirt/mud as I had done with previous vehicles.

That said, there is a minor inconvenience to using them. Because the sidewall protector bottom fits almost flush with the matching cargo mat, you can no longer lift the cargo lid to quickly fetch something underneath. If you try, you'll only get about 2" before they both make contact.

Furthermore, if you remove the cargo mat, and lift the cargo lid it will still make contact with the Sidewall protectors as shown below.

The only way for full access to the spare tire or under storage tray is either; A) Remove both sidewall protectors (only if you want to lift the cargo lid) or; B) Entirely remove (slide out) both cargo mat and lid.

This is inherent in the design and IMO not a flaw nor is it a 2022 model year change. I would also add that the design is not solely related to the Forester as the Outback and its sidewall protectors are identical in design and function.
 
#15 · (Edited)
I contacted SubaruOnlineParts by email and was told "It may be another 2 - 3 months before we can get any information as the car was just released this month."

It is $67 at my nearby dealer with free pickup. I think I'll pay the extra $15 and make the purchase.

ETA: Ordered online through the dealer today. Part on order. Will update after receipt.
 
#18 ·
One additional point to consider: It is not possible to raise the rear cargo mat and underlying board more than an inch with the sidewall protectors installed. You either need to slow it out or remove the sidewall protectors to access the cargo area and spare tire.
It is a minor inconvenience and the protection is still worth it.
 
#20 ·
you guys/gals may or may not have a youtube or social media following...but you're ALL influencers. I had no choice but to green light my order for these. :geek:

Also, this is top of my list for Father's Day. My dad has a 2020 forester and does a lot of handyman work here and there. These seem like a great idea.
 
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