What transmission fluid does a 2008 HHR take?
The automatic transmission in a 2008 Chevrolet HHR typically requires Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid. If your HHR has a manual transmission, use a GL-4 gear oil such as 75W-90. Always confirm with the owner’s manual or a GM service bulletin for your exact configuration.
Understanding the transmission options in the 2008 HHR
The 2008 HHR was offered with either an automatic transmission or a manual transmission, depending on the engine choice. The automatic units in these cars are part of the GM 4T family, and the manual versions use conventional gear oil rather than ATF. Knowing which transmission your vehicle has is essential before selecting a fluid.
Fluid recommendations
Automatic transmission fluid
Before listing the recommended fluids, it’s important to note that the automatic transmissions used in the HHR are GM designs updated to Dexron VI. The following guidance covers fluid choice and routine maintenance.
- Use Dexron VI automatic transmission fluid as the preferred specification for the 2008 HHR automatic transmission (4T45-E/4T65-E family).
- Dexron III can be used if Dexron VI is not available, but it is not ideal for long-term use and should be replaced with Dexron VI during the next service.
- Consult the owner’s manual for exact fill capacities and service intervals; typical drain-and-fill tasks involve several quarts, with full-service amounts depending on whether the pan is drained or a full flush is performed.
- Avoid mixing fluids that do not meet Dexron VI specifications and avoid using fluids that are not approved by GM.
Before you buy or perform a change, consider these key points about ATF for the 2008 HHR’s automatic transmission:
In short, Dexron VI is the recommended automatic transmission fluid for the 2008 HHR, ensuring proper clutch and seal compatibility and maintaining shifting performance over time.
Manual transmission fluid
For the manual version, the fluid requirement is different from the automatic. The manual gearbox uses a conventional gear oil rather than ATF.
- Use a GL-4 category gear oil, typically 75W-90 (synthetic or conventional, depending on climate and preference).
- Avoid GL-5 oils, as they can adversely affect synchronizers in many GM manual transmissions.
- If you have access to GM-recommended manual transmission fluid, you can use that specification, but ensure it meets GL-4 requirements and your vehicle’s service bulletin.
Before listing the manual fluid options, keep in mind that the manual transmission requires a different lubricant than the automatic:
In summary, the manual transmission in the 2008 HHR calls for a GL-4 75W-90 gear oil, not ATF, to protect the synchronizers and gears during operation.
Summary
For a 2008 Chevy HHR with an automatic transmission, Dexron VI is the recommended ATF. If your model has a manual transmission, use GL-4 75W-90 gear oil. Always verify the exact specification in your owner’s manual or a GM service bulletin, as configurations can vary by engine and build date.
What transmission is in a 2008 Chevy HHR?
A Getrag five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic with remote vehicle starter system is optional.
How much transmission fluid does a 2008 Chevy HHR take?
For Automatic Transmission: 4T45-E....AF6
| Capacity: | 4 speed 4T45-E Total Fill 12.9 quarts. |
|---|---|
| Capacity: | 7 quarts Initial Fill. |
What transmission fluid does an HHR take?
Pentosin – FFL4 Full Synthetic Double Clutch Transmission Fluid: 1 Liter (Part No. 1080107)
What happens if you use ATF instead of CVT fluid?
Putting automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in a continuously variable transmission (CVT) can cause serious damage, including slipping, excessive wear, poor performance, and eventual failure. This is because CVT fluid has specific friction-modifying properties crucial for the belt and pulleys to grip properly, while ATF has different characteristics and can cause the belt to slip. If you mistakenly use ATF, you should immediately have the transmission professionally flushed and refilled with the correct CVT fluid to prevent long-term damage.
This video explains what happens when you put ATF in a CVT transmission: 40sCounty Office LawYouTube · Oct 26, 2024
Why this is a problem
- Wrong friction: CVT fluid is engineered with specific friction modifiers to ensure the belt grips the pulleys. ATF contains different additives that reduce friction, causing the belt to slip.
- Slipping and wear: This slipping leads to inefficient power transfer, poor performance, and significant wear on the transmission's internal components.
- Incorrect viscosity: CVT fluid is formulated to maintain a consistent viscosity across a wider temperature range than ATF, which is essential for the continuous operation of the transmission.
- Damage progression: You may not notice the damage immediately, but the transmission will degrade over time, potentially leading to a complete failure.
What to do if this happens
- Stop driving immediately: Do not continue to drive the vehicle, as this will worsen the damage.
- Get a professional flush: A complete transmission flush is necessary to remove all traces of the incorrect fluid.
- Refill with the correct fluid: After the flush, refill the transmission with the exact CVT fluid specified by the manufacturer.
- Consider a professional check: A qualified mechanic should inspect the transmission to assess for any existing damage.
This video explains what to do if you put ATF in a CVT transmission: 51sKDF channelYouTube · Sep 7, 2022
