Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Chevrolet HHR
Chevrolet HHR Models:
Chevrolet HHR Problems
Check Engine Light Due to Gas Cap Issue
A Loose or worn gas cap may cause Check Engine Light to illuminate.
Chevrolet HHR Recalls (Recent)
The Dash Storage Bin Door May Open Unexpectedly
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The door on the dash storage bin may not stay closed in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury. Dealers will install a redesigned latch to correct this issue. This recall will begin on December 23, 2008. The General Motors recall number is 08157.
Learn more »Shifter Position As Indicated on the Shifter May Not Match the Actual Shifter Position
RepairPal Expert Overview:
The shifter cable adjustment may become dislodged. This may cause the vehicle to show that it is in "Park," when it could actually be in another gear. If this happens, the vehicle may move and not be secure. Dealers will inspect the shift cable adjustment clip to make sure it is fully engaged, and will replace any shift cables that cannot be secured. The General Motors recall number is 09041. The recall began on March 24, 2009.
Learn more »Chevrolet HHR Questions and Answers
where is the transmission control module located and does it control the shift interlock causing key to not turn all way off and shifter to be stuck in park? the cable to shifter pin seems intact a...
where is the spark plugs located
how to flush the cooling system
where is the oil filter located and what kind of wrench is used to removed
while driving outwest temperature go up to 210, didn't overflow.
Chevrolet HHR Stories
The HHR has that retro-cool look that attracted me to it, the engine has good pep for sure, and it's reasonably comfortable. That said, the car has many drawbacks:
All the windows are too small; visibility is awful (I'm a 6'1" guy), so you feel like you're in a cave. Door and windshield pillars too thick, making vision even worse. The door pockets are a joke, they're too small, shallow and the half-moon shape provides storage for maybe a couple packs of gum, and there's plenty of interior door area to have made them bigger. The dash bin, while a good idea, is also too small and shallow as is the glove box. The floor-flush storage bins behind the rear seats are a good idea but in a forgotten location. The radio controls/settings are a bizarre & constant annoyance. The rear window wiper switch is located in an oddball place. The ceiling dome light is near the back of the car (REAL stupid) you can't reach it from drivers seat. While up front you only have map lights or general house lights. The windows/door lock switches are bass ackwards. The interior plastic is Wal-Mart cheap. The fold-flat rear seats are a good feature, giving a flat floor area; but the non-carpeted and hard plastic surface allows stuff to slide around like an ice rink. I bought it used in 2009 w/38k mi. and it already had problems with the heater/AC motor buzzing; sway bar links rattling, creaking suspension, check engine light issues and a hyperactive tranny (downshifting too easily). Fortunately all fixed under warranty. Does not compare well to my previous car, an '06 Vibe. Even though the HHR roof is higher & more horiz. than the Vibe/Matrix, I could stand up under the Vibes hatch when open; not with the HHR. Overall, I wany my Vibe back!!!
Since I bought my '06 HHR LT I have nothing but high marks for this model. 58k and still running strong with a 5 speed manual shift, (yes I said manual), I have all the power and control I need. I do my own oil and air filters servicing so not much in the way of mechanic fees...and with a manual tranny I still have some pretty good pad left on the front disks and rear shoes.... must admit though I take exermely good care, almost boarding on pampering, (hand wash and waxing), of the vehicle so it still looks brand new..clean body and with the exception of a wind shield replacement (damn rocks) and normal tire wear replacement I have had no major expences.
I guess it all in the care and upkeep...... an A++
HHR are nothing but a money eater car. You can never get a staight answer when you ask a question. they not sell manuels for it unless u want to pay $195.00 that is just ridicouls. The dealers just want to charge an arm and a leg for working on it. I recommmend that you do not buy unless you look into how much parts are going to cost you. They should not be making computer cars. Especial when they dont want to help diagnose the car.
I bought my 2007 HHR in April with 50,000 miles on it. I had to repalce the rotors on it because they were warped. I have to replace the gear shift because the pin has come out, from what I have read, so my key won't come out. Then yesterday the check engine light came on and the transmission control module needs to be replaced. Also the TCM detected an emission related fault. Also my front head light went out but to change it out you have to go through the wheel well to change it out. Before I bought this car I reviewed it extensively and all reviews were good. I guess I got a lemon.
Smooth riding car built with cheap plastic parts that break easily!! First it was the sun roof air deflector net thing that was held by plastic parts that broke and so now the window wont close all the way. Using tape around the window to prevent water and air from coming in through the roof. Then the driver side handle on the inside broke inside the door. Also a plastic hinge. I want out of this Car!! Thought it was an american made vehicle, discovered it was made in MEXICO!!! Gadgets made of cheap plastic!! Looking at Subaru now =(