Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC)
Power
Combined, EPA 2011
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on maintenance history and powertrain configuration.
7 problems reported (5 recurrent, 2 isolated) · medium confidence
Problems owners report
- RecurrentElectric Power Steering (EPS) failure
Sudden loss of power steering assist, dashboard warning message, intermittent operation. A recall is referenced for 2009-2010 non-turbo models among other GM vehicles.
- RecurrentInstrument cluster failures
Gauges for speed, fuel level, and engine temperature stuck at zero while odometer and other displays function. Issue is intermittent and affects multiple model years (2006, 2011).
- RecurrentNo-crank/no-start conditions
Often related to battery, starter, or grounding issues. Symptoms include rapid clicking, slow cranking, or complete electrical failure despite dash lights.
+ 4 more issuesShow fewer
- RecurrentEngine performance and roughness
Rough idle, misfires, exhaust smell, lack of power especially on inclines. Linked to various causes including ignition control module failure (noted on early 2.2L Ecotec), vacuum leaks, fuel system issues (e.g., leaking fuel lines), and severe neglect leading to timing chain slap and internal sludge.
- RecurrentBrake system anomalies
Spongy pedal, pedal sinking to floor with no braking, violent shaking during light application, persistent grinding and overheating after pad/rotor replacement. Issues persist despite replacing master cylinder, ABS module, and bleeding.
- IsolatedFuel leaks
Strong gasoline smell, visible puddles, attributed to rotting fuel lines, a common issue shared with platform mates like the Chevrolet Cobalt and Saturn Ion.
- IsolatedAudio system malfunctions
Aftermarket radio and associated chimes (e.g., key-in-ignition warning) cutting out randomly, potentially related to fuse or wiring.
The version owners recommend
Manual transmission models are explicitly recommended over automatic transmissions due to perceived greater reliability. One owner states the manual is "more reliable" and that the automatic "has issues," specifically citing a problematic internal fluid transfer pipe. The turbocharged SS performance variant is mentioned in passing but without comparative ownership feedback.
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Overall sentiment
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on maintenance history and powertrain configuration. The vehicle is generally regarded as a practical, high-roof wagon with decent reliability when properly maintained, particularly with the naturally aspirated 2.2L or 2.4L Ecotec engines. Several owners report vehicles reaching high mileage (e.g., 270,000 miles) and describe them as durable, "decent runners" that "just keep going and going" with regular care. The manual transmission is specifically noted as more reliable than the automatic. However, a significant portion of community feedback centers on recurrent electrical and mechanical issues that emerge with age and mileage, including problematic power steering, instrument cluster failures, and various engine-related faults. The consensus suggests it is a budget-friendly, utilitarian vehicle that requires attentive ownership and can become problematic if neglected.
Positioning vs competitors
Insufficient owner data available.
Recommended configurations
Manual transmission is recommended. Avoid automatic transmissions due to known reliability concerns. Regular, diligent maintenance (oil changes every 3,000 miles or less) is strongly emphasized as critical for longevity, especially for engines with Variable Valve Timing (VVT). Use of conventional oil is suggested for high-mileage or neglected engines before considering synthetic.
General recommendations
Suitable for budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical, high-roof wagon with simple mechanicals. Essential for prospective buyers to verify meticulous maintenance history, specifically frequent oil changes, as the Ecotec engines are sensitive to neglect and can develop severe internal sludge. A pre-purchase inspection should focus on the electrical system, power steering, and instrument cluster functionality. Not recommended for buyers unwilling to perform or fund basic preventative maintenance. For existing owners, address any power steering or electrical issues immediately and adhere to a strict oil change schedule.
Remarks
The HHR shares its GM Delta platform and many components (engines, electrical issues, fuel lines) with the Chevrolet Cobalt, Pontiac G5, and Saturn Ion. This commonality is noted by owners and informs the understanding of widespread issues. The 2.2L and 2.4L Ecotec engines are repeatedly described as fundamentally reliable but intolerant of poor maintenance; severe oil sludge from infrequent changes is cited as a primary cause of major engine failure. The electric power steering recall (NHTSA 14V153000) for certain 2009-2010 models is referenced, indicating a known manufacturer defect. Analysis is based on approximately 30 substantive owner discussions, primarily focused on troubleshooting specific problems, which skews the data toward reported faults rather than overall satisfaction.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearNo year grades F. Best year: 2011Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score.
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 406 | 3 | fuel/propulsion system |
| 2010 | 515 | 4 | steering |
| 2009 | 508 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2008 | 616 | 5 | steering |
| 2007 | 726 | 5 | steering |
| 2006 | 1,006 | 6 | steering |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices28 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2011 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 14V171000
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.
2011 · air bagscampaign 14V047000
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.
2011 · electrical system:ignition:switchcampaign 14E021000
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.
2010 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 14V171000
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.
2010 · steering:electric power assist systemcampaign 14V153000
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.
2010 · air bagscampaign 14V047000
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.
2010 · electrical system:ignition:switchcampaign 14E021000
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.
2009 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 14V171000
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.
2009 · steering:electric power assist systemcampaign 14V153000
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.
2009 · air bagscampaign 14V047000
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.
2009 · electrical system:ignition:switchcampaign 14E021000
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.
2009 · power train:automatic transmission:lever and linkage:column shiftcampaign 09V073000
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".
2008 · electrical system:ignitioncampaign 14V171000
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.
2008 · air bagscampaign 14V047000
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.
2008 · electrical system:ignition:switchcampaign 14E021000
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.
13 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
SS 2.0 Turbo
2.0L 4-cylinder · 260 hp · FWD · automatic
Built 2007–2010