How reliable is the Chevy HHR?
In brief, the Chevy HHR tends to be an average-to-below-average reliability pick for its era and class. A well-maintained example can perform reliably, but many owners report issues as mileage climbs. Overall reliability hinges heavily on maintenance history and climate, given the SUV’s age and design quirks.
Reliability data and what it means
Automotive reliability scores for the HHR come from a mix of consumer surveys, repair histories, and recall data. Because the model was produced from 2006 through 2011, the most robust reliability signals come from older data and owner reports rather than fresh testing. Expect variability by year, trim, and how diligently the vehicle has been cared for.
- Reliability varies by model year and usage; some years show generally average performance, while others show more frequent repair needs as the miles accumulate.
- Drivetrain and electrical system durability are the most commonly cited trouble spots in aging HHRs, though failures are not universal.
- Parts availability is relatively good due to shared GM components, which can help keep maintenance costs in check compared with some niche or obsolete models.
Taken together, these data suggest that a properly maintained HHR can be reasonably dependable for the price, but buyers should be mindful of age-related wear and plan for potential repairs as mileage grows.
Common problems reported by owners
Across model years, certain issues recur in owner forums and repair logs. These patterns aren’t universal, but they help potential buyers gauge what to inspect and budget for.
- Transmission and shifting issues in some automatic variants as mileage increases.
- Engine oil leaks and valve-cover or gasket seepage in older engines.
- Electrical gremlins, including issues with windows, door locks, gauges, and other accessories.
- Brake wear and rusted components on higher-mileage or climate-exposed vehicles.
- Interior wear and, in harsher climates, rust or corrosion in vulnerable spots around the body or undercarriage.
Bottom line: these problems reflect typical aging patterns in a 15-year-old compact wagon. They’re not guaranteed, but they’re common enough that a thorough pre-purchase inspection and diligent ongoing maintenance matter a lot for reliability.
Buying tips to maximize reliability
When shopping for a used HHR, pragmatic checks can reduce the risk of unexpected repairs and help you land a solid daily driver.
- Obtain a complete service history, especially records of oil changes, timing chain/t tensioner service (if applicable), and cooling system maintenance.
- Test drive to assess transmission behavior: smooth upshifts/downshifts, no slipping or harsh jolts.
- Inspect for oil leaks around the engine and valve covers; verify coolant condition and look for signs of overheating history.
- Check electrical components (windows, locks, lights, climate control) and scan for stored fault codes with an OBD reader.
- Inspect the underbody for rust or damage, particularly in areas with heavy road salt exposure.
- Confirm recall status and ensure any open campaigns have been completed by a dealer.
Relying on a trusted mechanic for a pre-purchase inspection is especially valuable for the HHR, given its age and the range of potential trouble spots.
Reliability versus its peers
Within the late-model compact wagon/crossover niche, the HHR sits in the middle of the pack for reliability. It isn’t typically highlighted as a standout for durability or a budget-busting liability, but it isn’t regarded as exceptionally robust either. Compared with similarly aged GM crossovers, it often shares the same reliability profile: reasonable maintenance costs if kept up, with age-related wear catching up at higher mileage.
Maintenance considerations
Long-term reliability depends largely on maintenance discipline. Routine service, timely part replacements, and addressing fault codes promptly can markedly influence how reliable the HHR remains as it ages.
Summary
The Chevy HHR can be a practical, budget-friendly option in the used-car market, delivering average reliability when well cared for. If you’re considering one, seek a well-documented maintenance history, prefer lower-mileage examples when possible, and plan for ordinary aging repairs. Regular maintenance and careful pre-purchase inspection are the best predictors of a trouble-free ownership experience with this model.
Bottom line takeaways
- Reliability is mixed and highly mileage-dependent.
- Common issues include transmission behavior, oil leaks, electrical faults, and brake wear.
- A thorough inspection and complete service history are essential for a dependable used HHR.
- With diligent upkeep, an HHR can serve as a sensible, affordable used-car option for its era.
How many miles does a Chevy HHR last?
iSeeCars analyzed over 300 million vehicles to find out, and to determine how long each model can last. The Chevrolet HHR has an average lifespan of 128,427 miles or about 8.4 years. The HHR's predicted lifespan is derived from over 300 million data points iSeeCars analyzed to determine this model's average lifespan.
How much does it cost to replace an HHR engine?
Advance Auto Parts carries 5 Remanufactured Engines from top brands with prices ranging from $2,684.99 to $3,614.99.
Is the Chevy HHR a dependable vehicle?
The Chevy HHR is a dependable SUV. RepairPal scored it a 4.0 out of 5.0 in terms of reliability, ranking it 13th out of 36 compact cars. Many Chevrolet HHR owners bring in their SUVs for unscheduled repairs 0.3 times a year, which is less often than the usual 0.4.
Why did Chevy stop making the HHR?
The Chevy HHR was discontinued in 2011 primarily because it was built on the aging Cobalt platform, which was being retired in favor of the new Cruze. Other contributing factors included shifting consumer demand away from niche retro styling and toward more conventional crossovers, and GM's decision to focus on newer models with better fuel efficiency and technology. The economic downturn during the 2008-2009 period also impacted sales, particularly for less mainstream products like the HHR SS panel van.
You can watch this video to learn about the Chevy HHR's features and design: 56sLatest Car Update YouTube · Apr 6, 2025
- Platform retirement: The HHR was based on the Cobalt's platform, which GM decided to phase out in favor of the new Cruze compact car.
- Shifting consumer demand: The market preference in the late 2000s and early 2010s was moving towards more traditional crossover SUVs rather than retro-styled vehicles.
- Strategic focus: Chevrolet was realigning its model lineup to focus on newer models with improved technology and better fuel efficiency.
- Economic impact: The Great Recession and GM's subsequent government bailout led the company to discontinue less mainstream products, including the niche HHR SS panel van, which was only produced for the 2009 model year.
