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2009 Chevrolet HHR

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By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2009 Chevrolet HHR is a retro-styled, compact wagon known for its distinctive appearance and surprising practicality. Engine options for the 2009 HHR included a 2.2L Inline-4 engine producing around 149 horsepower and 152 lb-ft of torque and a 2.4L Inline-4 engine producing around 172 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque. Both engines came standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, while a 4-speed automatic transmission was optional. Owners generally appreciate the HHR’s ample cargo space and fuel efficiency for its class. However, some common complaints include concerns about the reliability of certain components, particularly in the electrical and engine systems, and the overall build quality.

Engine

2.2L Inline-4 Engine

  • Catalytic Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, accompanied by codes indicating catalytic converter inefficiency (e.g., P0420). Reduced fuel economy and potentially sluggish acceleration.
    • Solution: Replacement of the catalytic converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Purge Solenoid Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminated, difficulty filling the fuel tank, rough idling.
    • Solution: Replacement of the purge solenoid.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

2.4L Inline-4 Engine

  • Timing Chain Wear/Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, particularly on startup or during acceleration. Check engine light with codes related to timing issues. Potential for significant engine damage if ignored.
    • Solution: Replacement of the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, reduced power, check engine light illuminated with codes related to VVT system (e.g., P0010, P0011).
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty VVT solenoid(s).
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delays or harshness during gear changes, especially between 1st and 2nd gear. Transmission slipping, resulting in a loss of power and increased engine RPM without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed.
    • Solution: Transmission flush and filter change. If the problem persists, a more extensive repair or a transmission rebuild/replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush/filter) - $2000+ (rebuild/replacement)
    • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual Transmission

  • No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Rear Shock Absorber Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing or swaying of the rear of the vehicle, especially on uneven surfaces. Reduced ride comfort and handling stability.
    • Solution: Replacement of the rear shock absorbers.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Front Strut Mount Noise
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front suspension when turning the steering wheel or driving over bumps.
    • Solution: Replacement of the front strut mounts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Ignition Switch Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, inability to start the vehicle, electrical accessories malfunctioning.
    • Solution: Replacement of the ignition switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: 14V047000
  • Power Window Motor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Window failing to go up or down, or moving very slowly.
    • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical issues such as lights not working, door locks malfunctioning, or issues with the radio.
    • Solution: Recalibration or replacement of the BCM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Lower Body Panels
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and lower door seams.
    • Solution: Rust repair and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Liftgate Strut Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate failing to stay open.
    • Solution: Replacement of the liftgate struts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$200
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: Headliner detaching from the roof.
    • Solution: Replacement or re-gluing of the headliner.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Sun Visor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Sun visor will not stay up or will not stay down.
    • Solution: Replacement of the sun visor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2009 Chevrolet HHR can be a practical and stylish choice, but potential buyers should be aware of some common issues. Engine problems, particularly timing chain wear in the 2.4L engine and catalytic converter problems in the 2.2L, can be costly to repair. Electrical glitches, often traced to the ignition switch or BCM, are also frequent. Suspension and exterior issues like rust contribute to the overall cost of ownership. The severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs potentially reaching several thousand dollars. Careful inspection and a pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended.

Chevrolet, HHR
Chevrolet HHR 2009
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