Chevrolet HHR Problems: 5 Issues Every Owner Should Know
2006-2011 model years · Based on 1,755+ owner reports · Last updated March 2026
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,755+ owner reports, the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR has 5 documented known issues, with 4 rated critical by the Au7o research team. 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) and Fuel Line Corrosion and Leak Near Rear Wheel ($200-$500 repair). The most commonly reported issue is Defective Ignition Switch Causing Engine Shutoff and Airbag Failure with 575 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $0 to $2,000. Full technical analysis and DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
All 5 Known Issues
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.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 575+ owners who fixed this issue
- NoteALL 2006-2011 HHR models are affected by the ignition switch recall. This defect is linked to deaths and serious injuries. If the recall has not been performed on your vehicle, get it done immediately for free at any GM dealer. Use only the bare ignition key until repaired
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.
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.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 400+ owners who fixed this issue
- NoteThe 2006-2008 HHR models are the most affected by power steering failures. If you experience even one instance of intermittent power steering loss, get it diagnosed immediately. Complete failure at speed has caused multiple crashes. Check for recall coverage on your specific VIN
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.
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.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 350+ owners who fixed this issue
- TipUse the GM revised timing chain tensioner (updated part number) when replacing. The original design had insufficient oil feed at idle causing premature failure. Always replace the complete kit - chain, tensioner, guides, and sprockets. Half-measures will result in repeat failure
- TipThe 2.4L Ecotec is worse than the 2.2L for timing chain issues and also burns oil. If you are spending $1,000+ on timing chain repair, consider the overall condition of the vehicle. A high-mileage HHR with a 2.4L may not be worth the investment
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.
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.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 150+ owners who fixed this issue
- NoteA leaking fuel line is an immediate fire hazard. If you smell gasoline or see fuel dripping, stop driving the vehicle until the line is repaired. This is especially common on HHRs in rust-belt states. Annual undercarriage inspection is essential for vehicles in areas with road salt
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.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 280+ owners who fixed this issue
- NoteBroken interior door handles can trap you inside the vehicle. Keep a window breaker tool accessible in the car. Replace handles proactively if they feel loose or show any cracking. Aftermarket metal handles are available and much more durable than the OEM plastic ones
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Chevrolet HHR problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 1,755+ owner reports, the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR has 5 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, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the Chevrolet HHR reliable?
The 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR has 5 known issues documented across 1,755+ owner reports. 4 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. 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 year Chevrolet HHR is the most reliable?
Reliability varies across model years of the Chevrolet HHR. Based on owner reports, issues are most commonly reported in earlier model years. Au7o recommends checking the specific known issues for your target year before purchasing, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. Our known issues database covers the 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR with 5 documented issues from 1,755+ owner reports.
Get DIY Repair Guides for Your Chevrolet HHR
AI-powered step-by-step repair and maintenance guides tailored to your exact vehicle. Enter your year, make, and model to get started.
Get Started Free