2009 Chevrolet HHR

2009 Chevrolet HHR

The 2009 Chevrolet HHR is a compact station wagon that offers a comfortable and spacious interior. It’s available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 2.2-liter Ecotec engine with 149 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission. A 2.4-liter Ecotec engine with 172 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque is also available, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic transmission.

Owners appreciate the HHR’s versatility, practicality, and retro-inspired styling. However, it has also been plagued by a number of issues.

Engine

2.2-liter Ecotec Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, and reduced engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.4-liter Ecotec Engine

• Piston Ring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust, and reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace piston rings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Leaking Transmission Fluid Seal:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leak, difficulty shifting gears, and grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace transmission fluid seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping gears, and transmission overheating
  • Solution: Replace solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 09V162000

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, unstable handling, and excessive tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, flickering lights, and battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Terminal Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dim lights, and electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Clean battery terminals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation:
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture inside headlight lenses
  • Solution: Replace headlight lenses or use silica gel packets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Belt Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belt warning light stays on even when seat belt is fastened
  • Solution: Replace seat belt sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 10V043000
• Climate Control Actuator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control temperature, airflow, or blower speed
  • Solution: Replace climate control actuator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Chevrolet HHR is a practical and versatile vehicle, but it has been plagued by a number of issues. Engine problems, such as intake manifold gasket failure and piston ring failure, can be expensive to repair. Transmission issues, including leaking fluid seals and solenoid failure, can also lead to costly repairs. Suspension components, such as strut mounts, are prone to failure, resulting in unstable handling and excessive tire wear. The vehicle has also experienced problems with condensation in the headlights, electrical system malfunctions, and interior components such as seat belt sensors and climate control actuators. While some of these issues are minor, others can be costly and affect the vehicle’s safety and performance.