Chevrolet HHR shimmy issue possibly related to half shaft replacement on Chevrolet HHR

Some Chevrolet HHR owners report experiencing a shimmy issue, particularly at around 60 mph, which may be related to half shaft replacement. This problem could stem from inadequate lubrication of the steering intermediate shaft, and it's crucial to understand that simply replacing the steering gear or steering column assembly will not resolve the issue; instead, the intermediate shaft should be replaced. In some GM vehicles, including the HHR, the underlying problem often lies with the intermediate shafts, which function as "U-joint" linkages on either end of the steering column where it passes through the firewall. Additionally, for vehicles built up to a certain VIN, owners may need to replace the front stabilizer shaft insulators (bushings) and clamps to effectively address the issue. If noise is specifically coming from the front stabilizer shaft insulators, it is advisable to replace both. Following these maintenance recommendations can help alleviate the shimmy issue in a Chevrolet HHR and enhance the driving experience.