Avoid: No year grades F. Weakest: 2006
Best: 2011
6 model years of NHTSA owner complaints and recalls · How we grade
Across 6 model years, the Chevrolet HHR has 3,777 owner-filed NHTSA complaints and 28 recalls on record. The most-reported areas are steering and electrical system. 2006 drew the most complaints (1,006), 2011 the fewest (406).
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls filed for Chevrolet HHR vehicles (US, public record). Typical used asking price $4,650–$8,165.
Complaint volume by model year. Raw NHTSA totals, not adjusted for sales volume or time on the road, so older and higher-selling years accumulate more. Every year links to its full breakdown.
Highest: 2006 (1,006 complaints). Lowest: 2011 (406).
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on maintenance history and powertrain configuration.
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.
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).
Often related to battery, starter, or grounding issues. Symptoms include rapid clicking, slow cranking, or complete electrical failure despite dash lights.
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.
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.
Owner insights cover all generations of the HHR. Individual model years are broken down above.
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