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Chevrolet · Known Issues

2009 Chevrolet HHR Problems: 14 Known Issues

2009 model year · 1,755+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,755+ owner reports, the 2009 Chevrolet HHR has 14 documented known issues, with 9 rated critical. The most serious are Defective Ignition Switch Causing Engine Shutoff and Airbag Failure ($0-$0 repair), Electric Power Steering Sudden Loss of Assist ($400-$800 repair), Ecotec Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch ($800-$2,000 repair), Fuel Line Corrosion and Leak Near Rear Wheel ($200-$500 repair), Defective Ignition Switch Can Shut Off Engine While Driving (Major Recall) ($0-$0 repair), Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering (EPS) Assist ($0-$900 repair), 2009 HHR Shift Cable Clip May Not Engage — No-Restart and Rollaway (Recall 09V073000), Ecotec Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure ($700-$1,500 repair) and Transmission Shift Cable / Rollaway Recall and Harsh Shifting (4T65E) ($0-$1,200 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Defective Ignition Switch Causing Engine Shutoff and Airbag Failure with 575 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $20 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • HHR Safety/Recalls2
  • HHR Engine2
  • HHR Transmission2
  • HHR Fuel System2
  • HHR Suspension1
  • HHR Steering1
  • HHR Body/Panels1
  • HHR Electrical1
  • HHR Interior1
  • HHR HVAC1
  • Recalls7
  • FAQ
Get Started
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In This Article

  • Safety/Recalls2
  • Engine2
  • Transmission2
  • Fuel System2
  • Suspension1
  • Steering1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Electrical1
  • Interior1
  • HVAC1
  • Recalls7
  • FAQ

All 14 Known Issues

NHTSA Recalls7 recalls

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.

Campaign #14V17100010/04/2014

AIR BAGS

This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on February 10, 2014 that they are recalling 619,122 model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 vehicles. On February 25, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 748,024 model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn Ion vehicles and 2007 Saturn Sky vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine. On March 27, 2014, GM notified the agency that the defective ignition switches may have been used as service replacement parts on other vehicles, and as a result GM will be recalling certain model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR vehicles. The part numbers for the service parts are 10392423 (a/k/a ACDelco D1461F), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This expansion represents an additional 823,788 vehicles.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chevrolet HHR problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,755+ owner reports, the 2009 Chevrolet HHR has 14 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: Defective Ignition Switch Causing Engine Shutoff and Airbag Failure, Electric Power Steering Sudden Loss of Assist, Ecotec Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch. Of these, 9 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chevrolet HHR reliable?

The 2009 Chevrolet HHR has 14 known issues documented across 1,755+ owner reports. 9 issues are rated critical: Defective Ignition Switch Causing Engine Shutoff and Airbag Failure and Electric Power Steering Sudden Loss of Assist and Ecotec Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch and Fuel Line Corrosion and Leak Near Rear Wheel and Defective Ignition Switch Can Shut Off Engine While Driving (Major Recall) and Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering (EPS) Assist and 2009 HHR Shift Cable Clip May Not Engage — No-Restart and Rollaway (Recall 09V073000) and Ecotec Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure and Transmission Shift Cable / Rollaway Recall and Harsh Shifting (4T65E). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.

How much does it cost to fix common Chevrolet HHR problems?

Repair costs for known Chevrolet HHR issues range from $0 to $2,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, Defective Ignition Switch Causing Engine Shutoff and Airbag Failure, typically costs $0-$0 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Defective Ignition Switch Causing Engine Shutoff and Airbag Failure?

Every HHR from 2006 to 2011 was affected by GM's ignition switch recall. A heavy keyring or rough road conditions can shift the ignition from "Run" to "Accessory," shutting off the engine and disabling the airbags, power steering, and power brakes while driving. The GM victim com… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 1,755+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

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ALL YEARS201120102009200820072006
Community reported
575 owners

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, every HHR from 2006 to 2011 was affected by GM's ignition switch recall. A heavy keyring or rough road conditions can shift the ignition from "Run" to "Accessory," shutting off the engine and disabling the airbags, power steering, and power brakes while driving. The GM victim compensation fund paid out for 77 deaths and 141 injuries related to this defect across all affected GM vehicles. The defect is identical to the Cobalt ignition switch issue.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine shuts off unexpectedly while driving
  • Loss of power steering and power brakes simultaneously
  • Airbag warning light illuminated
  • Key turns to accessory position without driver input
  • Vehicle stalls on rough roads or when key bumped

How to Fix

Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for recall eligibility. The recall remedy is ignition switch replacement, free of charge at any GM dealer. Until repaired, remove everything from your keychain except the ignition key. If the engine shuts off while driving, shift to Neutral and steer to safety.

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Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Based on 575 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence575 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the HHR was part of GM's massive ignition switch recall. The switch is not robust enough, so a heavy key chain or a bump from the driver's knee can jostle the key out of the 'run' position, shutting off the engine and cutting power to steering, brakes and airbags. With the engine off, airbags will not deploy in a crash. This defect was tied to dozens of deaths and led to recall campaigns 14V047 (2006-2007) and the broader 14V171/14V355 ignition-key-removal action covering 2006-2011.

Common Symptoms

  • Engine suddenly shuts off while driving
  • Loss of power steering and power brakes when engine cuts out
  • Dashboard warning lights flash before stall
  • Airbags fail to deploy in a crash
  • Key can be removed when not in Park

How to Fix

Have the recall performed free of charge at any Chevrolet dealer; the dealer replaces the ignition switch (and on the key-removal recall, replaces the ignition cylinder and re-cuts/reprograms keys). Until repaired, owners were advised to drive with only the key (no fobs or heavy chains) on the ring. Verify completion by VIN on the NHTSA recall lookup.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
350 owners

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the 2.2L and 2.4L Ecotec engines in the HHR suffer from timing chain tensioner failure and chain stretch, particularly on early production years. The timing chain tensioner does not receive sufficient oil at idle due to a design fault in early engines, causing accelerated wear. The 2.4L Ecotec is especially prone to this issue and also suffers from oil consumption problems. GM released revised tensioners and oil nozzles but many HHRs were never updated. Symptoms typically appear between 80,000-120,000 miles.

This issue also affects: Buick Cascada, Buick Enclave, Buick Encore

Common Symptoms

  • Rattling noise on cold start that may diminish when warm
  • Check engine light with P0017 camshaft position code
  • Engine running rough or misfiring
  • Reduced engine power under acceleration
  • Timing chain noise that progressively worsens

How to Fix

Replace timing chain, tensioner (use revised GM part), guides, and sprockets as a complete kit. Do the water pump at the same time since it shares access. For the 2.4L, also address any oil consumption by checking the piston rings. Total repair cost is $800-$2,000 depending on engine and additional work needed.

Typical repair cost:$800 - $2,000

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Based on 350 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence350 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the 2.2L (L61/LE5) and 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinders are prone to timing chain wear caused by failing plastic guides and weak tensioners, often aggravated by extended oil-change intervals or low oil. Because the engine is an interference design, a stretched chain that jumps time can let pistons strike valves and destroy the engine. The telltale sign is a rattling or scraping noise from the passenger side of the engine, especially on cold start, frequently accompanied by code P0008/P0017 for cam-to-crank correlation.

This issue also affects: Buick Cascada, Buick Enclave, Buick Encore

Common Symptoms

  • Rattling or scraping noise from passenger side of engine on cold start
  • Check engine light with cam/crank correlation codes
  • Rough running or misfire
  • Engine may not start if chain has jumped time
  • Reduced power

How to Fix

Replace the complete timing kit (chain, guides, tensioner and sprockets), not just one part, using quality kits (Cloyes, Melling, INA). Address any oil-consumption issue and use full synthetic oil with shorter change intervals to prevent recurrence.

Typical repair cost:$700 - $1,500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2009 Chevrolet HHR, general Motors recalled 2009 Chevrolet HHR models under NHTSA campaign 09V073000 because the transmission shift cable adjustment clip may not be fully engaged. With the clip unseated, what the shift lever indicates and what gear the transmission has actually selected can differ. The two consequences NHTSA describes for an HHR owner are being unable to restart the vehicle, and the vehicle rolling away after the driver has already gotten out — with no warning beforehand. The recall cites noncompliance with FMVSS 102 and FMVSS 114. The 276,729-vehicle figure is the total for the entire campaign, which spans several 2009 GM models, not the HHR alone.

Common Symptoms

  • Gear indicated by the shift lever does not match the transmission's actual gear
  • Vehicle will not restart
  • Unattended vehicle rolls away after being parked and exited

How to Fix

This is a free dealer repair. A Chevrolet dealer inspects the shift cable adjustment clip and confirms it is fully engaged; if it cannot be engaged, the shift cable itself is replaced at no charge to you. Owner notification began on or before March 24, 2009, and recall repairs do not expire. Call Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, or run your HHR's VIN through nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work is still outstanding.

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Aug 2026

On the 2009 Chevrolet HHR, gM recalled 276,729 model-year 2009 vehicles, including the HHR, because the transmission shift cable adjustment clip may not be fully engaged (recall 09V073). When it isn't, the gear indicated by the shifter can differ from the transmission's actual gear, letting a driver select 'Park' and remove the key while the car is not truly in Park, allowing a rollaway. Separately, the 4T65E automatic is reported to develop delayed/harsh shifts (a 'thump' or 'bang') from soft aluminum valve-body shift valves galling and sticking in their bores, sometimes storing P1811.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Cavalier, Chevrolet Impala, Pontiac Aztek

Common Symptoms

  • Vehicle can roll away after shifting to Park and removing key
  • Gear indicator does not match actual gear
  • Delayed engagement followed by a hard thump/bang shift
  • Intermittent harsh shifting
  • Stored code P1811 without check-engine light

How to Fix

Have the 09V073 recall performed free at a dealer (inspect and, if needed, replace the shift cable so the clip fully engages). For harsh/delayed shifting, service the valve body or rebuild the transmission; updated valve-body components address the sticking shift valves.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $1,200

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
Low ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
150 owners

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the HHR has a documented issue with fuel line corrosion, particularly in rust belt states. The fuel line corrodes just forward of the driver-side rear wheel, developing leaks that create a fire hazard. Road salt and debris accelerate the corrosion. The issue is most commonly seen on vehicles in the northeastern and midwestern United States where road salt is used heavily in winter.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Corvette, Buick Encore GX, Chevrolet Malibu

Common Symptoms

  • Gasoline smell near the vehicle
  • Visible fuel drip under vehicle near rear driver-side wheel
  • Fuel economy decreasing noticeably
  • Rust or corrosion visible on fuel lines during inspection
  • Check engine light with evaporative system codes

How to Fix

Inspect fuel lines annually, especially near the driver-side rear wheel. If corrosion is found, replace the affected fuel line section with stainless steel or nylon-coated replacement lines. Do not use tape or sealant on fuel lines - full section replacement is required. Cost is $200-$500 at an independent shop.

Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

Research This Issue

Based on 150 owner reports

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Community Reported
Medium Confidence150 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, hHR owners frequently report the fuel gauge reading incorrectly or bouncing around unpredictably while driving, sometimes stuck on empty or full. The cause is the fuel level sensor inside the tank: the contact fingers that slide across the resistor card wear out or get fouled by fuel deposits, sending an erratic signal to the gauge. Bad readings can also coincide with ABS/traction warnings due to shared wiring or BCM issues.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Camaro, Chevrolet Colorado

Common Symptoms

  • Fuel needle jumps around while driving
  • Gauge stuck on empty or full
  • Gauge reads inaccurately compared to actual fuel level
  • Occasional ABS/traction light with the gauge fault

How to Fix

Inspect the tank-top connector and harness for corrosion/loose wires first; if those are good, replace the fuel level sensor (commonly part of the fuel pump/sending-unit assembly). This restores accurate gauge readings.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $400

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
400 owners

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the HHR uses an electric power steering system that is prone to sudden failure, particularly on 2006-2008 models. The power steering can quit mid-drive with no warning, making the vehicle extremely difficult to steer. The 2007 model alone logged 550+ NHTSA complaints and was involved in 17 crashes related to this and other issues. The EPS module failure is the most dangerous of the HHR's common problems.

This issue also affects: Cadillac XT6, Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Common Symptoms

  • Complete loss of power steering assist while driving
  • Power steering warning light illuminated
  • Steering becomes extremely heavy suddenly
  • Intermittent power steering assist
  • Groaning or whining noise from steering column

How to Fix

Replace the electric power steering motor/module. Check for recall eligibility as some model years are covered. If power steering fails while driving, reduce speed immediately and use both hands to steer. The vehicle is still steerable but requires significant effort. Replacement costs $400-$800 including labor.

Typical repair cost:$400 - $800

Research This Issue

Based on 400 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence400 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the HHR's electric power steering motor can fail intermittently or completely, causing the steering to suddenly become very heavy while driving. Owners report the EPS shutting off under any condition, after which the wheel is extremely hard to turn until the engine is shut off and restarted to reset the system. GM recall 14V153 covered the 2009-2010 non-turbo cars and replaced the EPS motor, and a GM bulletin extended free EPS motor replacement (lifetime) to many 2006-2009 non-turbo HHRs; turbo models were excluded despite similar complaints.

This issue also affects: Cadillac XT6, Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Common Symptoms

  • Steering suddenly becomes very hard to turn
  • Power steering warning light illuminates
  • Loss of assist most noticeable at low speeds and parking
  • Assist returns only after engine restart
  • Clunking or notchy feel in the column

How to Fix

Check eligibility for recall 14V153 and the lifetime EPS-motor warranty bulletin at a GM dealer for free replacement; otherwise replace the failed EPS motor/steering column motor assembly. NHTSA logged 100+ HHR steering complaints, the most common HHR complaint category.

Typical repair cost:$0 - $900

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Community reported
280 owners

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the Chevrolet HHR is notorious for door handles that snap off, both interior and exterior. Interior door handle breakage is particularly dangerous as it can trap occupants inside the vehicle. The handles are made of brittle plastic that becomes fragile with age and temperature cycling. In cold weather, the handles are especially prone to snapping. This issue affects all HHR model years but is most commonly reported on 2006-2008 models.

Common Symptoms

  • Door handle snaps when pulled
  • Handle feels loose or wobbly before breaking
  • Interior door handle cracks in cold weather
  • Unable to open door from inside the vehicle
  • Handle plastic visibly cracked or discolored

How to Fix

Replace broken door handles with aftermarket metal replacement handles when available, or use updated GM part numbers. Interior handle replacement is relatively simple DIY ($20-$50 per handle). Keep a window breaker tool in the vehicle as a safety precaution in case both interior handles and window controls fail simultaneously.

Typical repair cost:$20 - $200

Research This Issue

Based on 280 owner reports

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Community Reported
High Confidence280 owner reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the HHR uses GM's Passlock theft-deterrent system, and a failing Passlock sensor in the ignition lock cylinder commonly triggers a false theft condition. The 'Service Theft Deterrent System' message appears, the security light flashes, and the engine cranks but will not start (or will not crank), often intermittently. A weak battery or a worn lock cylinder/sensor are the usual culprits.

This issue also affects: Chevrolet Impala, GMC Yukon XL, Pontiac Grand Am

Common Symptoms

  • Security/anti-theft light flashing
  • 'Service Theft Deterrent System' message
  • Engine cranks but won't start
  • Intermittent no-start that clears after a wait
  • Gauges acting erratically during the fault

How to Fix

Try the 10-minute (or 30-minute, 3-cycle) Passlock relearn: turn key to ON without starting until the security light stops flashing, then start. If it recurs, replace the Passlock sensor or ignition lock cylinder and perform the relearn; verify battery health first.

Typical repair cost:$150 - $400

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, the HHR's interior door handles are cheap chrome-plated plastic that crack and snap off during normal use, leaving the door unable to be opened from inside. CarComplaints logged 23 reports for the 2006 model alone, at an average of ~94,600 miles. GM never recalled the handles; dealers historically quoted replacing the entire inner door panel (often $300-$500), though the handle alone can be replaced far more cheaply with aftermarket parts.

Common Symptoms

  • Inside door handle cracks or snaps off
  • Door cannot be opened from the interior
  • Handle feels loose or flimsy before failing
  • Must exit through another door or window

How to Fix

Replace the failed inner door handle with an aftermarket metal-reinforced or OEM handle rather than the whole door panel. DIY replacement typically runs well under $100 in parts; budget more if a shop installs it.

Typical repair cost:$50 - $500

Research This Issue

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026

On the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, a very common HHR HVAC fault: the blower fan stops working on low and medium speeds and only runs on High (which bypasses the resistor). The root cause is a failed blower motor resistor, frequently accelerated by a design flaw where the butyl sealant patch under the passenger-side cowl dries out and lets rainwater leak onto the blower motor and resistor. The wiring connector can melt as well, causing repeat failures.

Common Symptoms

  • Fan only blows on the highest speed setting
  • No air on low/medium fan speeds
  • Blower stops working entirely
  • Burning smell or melted blower connector
  • Water/dampness in passenger footwell

How to Fix

Replace the blower motor resistor (accessible in the passenger footwell) and inspect/replace the connector if it shows heat damage. Reseal the cowl butyl patch to stop water intrusion onto the HVAC components and prevent recurrence.

Typical repair cost:$50 - $250

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Community Reported
High ConfidenceVerifiedReviewed Jun 2026
Campaign #14V04700010/02/2014

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH

UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.

Campaign #14E02100030/04/2014

STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.

Campaign #14V15300031/03/2014

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT

GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING 276,729 MY 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE, CHEVROLET COBALT, HHR, MALIBU, TRAVERSE, GMC ACADIA, PONTIAC G5, G6 AND SATURN AURA AND OUTLOOK PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLES SAFETY STANDARD 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT POSITION SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT", AND FMVSS 114, "THEFT PROTECTION AND ROLLAWAY PREVENTION". ON SOME OF THESE VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT CLIP MAY NOT BE FULLY ENGAGED. IF THE CLIP IS NOT FULLY ENGAGED, THE SHIFT LEVER AND THE ACTUAL POSITION OF THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT MATCH. WITH THIS CONDITION, THE DRIVE COULD MOVE THE SHIFTER TO "PARK" AND REMOVE THE IGNITION KEY, BUT THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT BE IN "PARK".

Campaign #09V07300006/03/2009

+ 2 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.

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What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Electric Power Steering Sudden Loss of Assist?

The HHR uses an electric power steering system that is prone to sudden failure, particularly on 2006-2008 models. The power steering can quit mid-drive with no warning, making the vehicle extremely difficult to steer. The 2007 model alone logged 550+ NHTSA complaints and was invo… Repairs typically run $400-$800. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Ecotec Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch?

The 2.2L and 2.4L Ecotec engines in the HHR suffer from timing chain tensioner failure and chain stretch, particularly on early production years. The timing chain tensioner does not receive sufficient oil at idle due to a design fault in early engines, causing accelerated wear. T… Repairs typically run $800-$2,000. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Fuel Line Corrosion and Leak Near Rear Wheel?

The HHR has a documented issue with fuel line corrosion, particularly in rust belt states. The fuel line corrodes just forward of the driver-side rear wheel, developing leaks that create a fire hazard. Road salt and debris accelerate the corrosion. The issue is most commonly seen… Repairs typically run $200-$500. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Defective Ignition Switch Can Shut Off Engine While Driving (Major Recall)?

The HHR was part of GM's massive ignition switch recall. The switch is not robust enough, so a heavy key chain or a bump from the driver's knee can jostle the key out of the 'run' position, shutting off the engine and cutting power to steering, brakes and airbags. With the engine… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering (EPS) Assist?

The HHR's electric power steering motor can fail intermittently or completely, causing the steering to suddenly become very heavy while driving. Owners report the EPS shutting off under any condition, after which the wheel is extremely hard to turn until the engine is shut off an… Repairs typically run $0-$900. Severity: high.

What is the 2009 Chevrolet HHR 2009 HHR Shift Cable Clip May Not Engage — No-Restart and Rollaway (Recall 09V073000)?

General Motors recalled 2009 Chevrolet HHR models under NHTSA campaign 09V073000 because the transmission shift cable adjustment clip may not be fully engaged. With the clip unseated, what the shift lever indicates and what gear the transmission has actually selected can differ. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Ecotec Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure?

The 2.2L (L61/LE5) and 2.4L Ecotec four-cylinders are prone to timing chain wear caused by failing plastic guides and weak tensioners, often aggravated by extended oil-change intervals or low oil. Because the engine is an interference design, a stretched chain that jumps time can… Repairs typically run $700-$1,500. Severity: high.

What is the 2009 Chevrolet HHR Transmission Shift Cable / Rollaway Recall and Harsh Shifting (4T65E)?

GM recalled 276,729 model-year 2009 vehicles, including the HHR, because the transmission shift cable adjustment clip may not be fully engaged (recall 09V073). When it isn't, the gear indicated by the shifter can differ from the transmission's actual gear, letting a driver select… Repairs typically run $0-$1,200. Severity: high.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Interior and Exterior Door Handle Breakage Trapping Occupants?

The Chevrolet HHR is notorious for door handles that snap off, both interior and exterior. Interior door handle breakage is particularly dangerous as it can trap occupants inside the vehicle. The handles are made of brittle plastic that becomes fragile with age and temperature cy… Repairs typically run $20-$200. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Passlock Anti-Theft System No-Start (Security Light)?

The HHR uses GM's Passlock theft-deterrent system, and a failing Passlock sensor in the ignition lock cylinder commonly triggers a false theft condition. The 'Service Theft Deterrent System' message appears, the security light flashes, and the engine cranks but will not start (or… Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: medium.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Inaccurate / Fluctuating Fuel Gauge (Fuel Level Sensor)?

HHR owners frequently report the fuel gauge reading incorrectly or bouncing around unpredictably while driving, sometimes stuck on empty or full. The cause is the fuel level sensor inside the tank: the contact fingers that slide across the resistor card wear out or get fouled by… Repairs typically run $150-$400. Severity: low.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Interior Door Handles Break Off?

The HHR's interior door handles are cheap chrome-plated plastic that crack and snap off during normal use, leaving the door unable to be opened from inside. CarComplaints logged 23 reports for the 2006 model alone, at an average of ~94,600 miles. GM never recalled the handles; de… Repairs typically run $50-$500. Severity: low.

What is the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR Blower Motor Resistor Failure / Cowl Water Leak (HVAC Only Works on High)?

A very common HHR HVAC fault: the blower fan stops working on low and medium speeds and only runs on High (which bypasses the resistor). The root cause is a failed blower motor resistor, frequently accelerated by a design flaw where the butyl sealant patch under the passenger-sid… Repairs typically run $50-$250. Severity: low.