my car has something similar - could they be involved with centering the hatch as it closes?

just a spring loaded bumper.

Keeps the hatch closing from being a big slam.

Also provides the initial "pop" open when the handle is pulled.

also prevents the hatch from rattling when driving down rough roads.

 

Not much it doesn't.

4 hours ago, jonathan909 said:

Not much it doesn't.

then the latch needs adjusting. the hatch itself should not rattle when driving down the road

now the interior panels can often rattle some, but that is a different kettle of fish

 

Edited July 18, 20196 yr by heartless

Actually, my '95 has always been quiet, as has the '98.  It's the '99 that has the persistent rattle.  I'll get to that latch, but it's a little low on the priority list.  But the point is that those little spring-loaded bumpers don't take up enough slack to kill the rattle.

Our 99 Forester has these too.

that heavy tailgate needs help to centre itself and also to stop when closing. The tailgate itself adds structural stiffness to the unibody when shut. These bumpers would appear to help hold it tight.

I have noticed this when opening and closing the tailgate on very uneven ground, it is stiffer in opening and will not close so easily!