What is the common problem with the Chevy HHR?
The most common problem reported for the Chevy HHR is automatic transmission trouble, including hard shifts and, in some cases, failure, especially on higher-mileage examples.
Beyond transmission issues, owners also report oil leaks, cooling-system wear, and various electrical faults across 2006–2011 HHRs with 2.2-liter and 2.4-liter engines. This article surveys these recurring problems, explains why they occur, and offers practical guidance for diagnosing or mitigating them.
Most frequently reported mechanical and transmission problems
Below is a concise inventory of the issues most often cited by owners and service data for the HHR family.
- Automatic transmission troubles: harsh or slipping shifts, delayed engagement, or failure in cars with higher mileage.
- Oil leaks: common sources include valve-cover gaskets and, in some engines, the rear main seal or oil pan gaskets.
- Intake manifold gasket leaks (notably on older 2.2L engines): symptoms include rough idle or misfires and a check-engine light.
- Cooling system wear: water-pump leaks, failing thermostat, or radiator fan issues can cause overheating.
- Electrical and sensor faults: MAF/MAP sensor failures, crank/cam position sensor faults, and aging window regulators or door lock actuators.
Addressing these issues promptly and following recommended maintenance schedules can reduce the risk of sudden failures and extend the life of an HHR.
Other common issues and maintenance considerations
In addition to the main mechanical problems, aging HHRs frequently exhibit a variety of wear-related concerns. The following list highlights areas to watch during ownership or inspection.
- Suspension and steering wear: front struts, control arms, and tie-rod ends can wear, causing clunking noises or imprecise steering.
- A/C and climate-control faults: compressor clutch failure, refrigerant leaks, or fan issues can reduce cooling effectiveness.
- Brake system wear: squealing brakes or uneven wear may indicate worn pads, rotors, or calipers requiring service.
- Electrical gremlins and interior reliability: intermittent instrument cluster activity or power-accessory failures as components age.
Regular maintenance and timely replacement of worn parts can help keep an HHR performing more reliably in the long term.
Tips for evaluating a used Chevy HHR
When shopping for a used HHR, be systematic about checking for these issues and verify maintenance records before purchase.
- Request a complete service history, especially any transmission service records or leak repairs.
- Test-drive to assess shifting performance, engagement, and any noises or vibrations from the drivetrain.
- Inspect under the engine bay for oil leaks and check coolant condition; look for signs of overheating such as white exhaust or a sweet smell.
- Have a mechanic scan for codes and inspect cooling system components, electrical components, and suspension parts.
Doing due diligence can help you avoid models with costly, recurring problems and identify cars that have been properly maintained.
Summary
The Chevy HHR's most commonly reported issue is transmission-related problems in automatic versions, especially with higher mileage. While other issues like oil leaks, cooling-system wear, and electrical faults recur, a careful inspection, timely maintenance, and informed buying decisions can mitigate these risks and extend the vehicle's useful life.
