Chevrolet
HHR
Owner report available
Chrysler
PT Cruiser
Owner report available
Chevrolet HHR vs Chrysler PT Cruiser
The short answer
Based on available data, the Chevrolet HHR comes out ahead of the Chrysler PT Cruiser on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
HHR
Overall
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.
Best version to buy
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.
Known issues
- Electric 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. Frequency: recurrent.
- Instrument 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). Frequency: recurrent.
- No-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. Frequency: recurrent.
PT Cruiser
Overall
Extremely polarized sentiment, split between nostalgic appreciation for its unique design and practicality, and widespread, severe criticism of its reliability, driving dynamics, and build quality. The vehicle is frequently described as a "future classic" for its daring, retro-styled appearance that generated significant hype and dealer markups at launch. Owners praise its spacious and comfortable interior, upright seating position, and unique character that stands out from conventional vehicles.
Best version to buy
Manual Transmission GT Turbo Model: Specifically the 2005 or older GT trim with the turbocharged 2.4L engine and manual transmission is cited as the most desirable and "fun" version, offering significantly more power and engagement. The naturally aspirated automatic models are overwhelmingly panned as underpowered and unreliable.
Known issues
- Severe and chronic electrical system failures: wiring harnesses melting (notably near the EGR valve), myriad unexplained electrical gremlins, dash lights dimming when braking, complete failures causing the vehicle to die while driving.
- Automatic transmission failures: rough shifting, slipping, going into "limp mode," complete failure requiring rebuild or replacement; exacerbated by use of incorrect fluid. Frequency: very frequent.
- Engine performance and reliability problems: underpowered naturally aspirated 2.4L engine, poor fuel economy (low 20s MPG), head gasket issues, oil pressure sensor failures, stalling, and hesitation. Frequency: very frequent.
The verdict
The Chevrolet HHR is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chrysler PT Cruiser, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chrysler PT Cruiser is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet HHR or the Chrysler PT Cruiser?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet HHR and the Chrysler PT Cruiser. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet HHR or the Chrysler PT Cruiser?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Chevrolet HHR is classed as a Station wagon, the Chrysler PT Cruiser as a Hatchback, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet HHR or the Chrysler PT Cruiser?
The EPA rates the 2011 Chevrolet HHR at 24–26 mpg combined and the 2010 Chrysler PT Cruiser at 21 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet HHR or the Chrysler PT Cruiser?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chrysler PT Cruiser than the Chevrolet HHR. See the known issues comparison above.