Chevrolet · Known Issues

2010 Chevrolet HHR Problems: 12 Issues Every Owner Should Know

2010 model year · 1,755+ owner reports · Updated June 2026

According to Au7o's analysis of 1,755+ owner reports, the 2010 Chevrolet HHR has 12 documented known issues, with 7 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), Ecotec Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure ($700-$1,500 repair) and Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering (EPS) Assist ($0-$900 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 $20 to $2,000. DIY maintenance guides at .

All 12 Known Issues

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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.

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
UpgradeDorman clock spring — restores airbag and horn function (Dorman Clock Spring)
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TipCheck NHTSA.gov for active recalls — repairs are performed free at authorized dealers

Typical repair cost:$0 - $0

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Community Reported

High Confidence575 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 ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed 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: Acura MDX, Audi A4, Audi A5

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
UpgradeHigh-quality synthetic oil helps reduce consumption and protect worn engines (Mobil 1 Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil)
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UpgradePremium oil filter ensures proper filtration with high-mileage engines (Wix Oil Filter)
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Typical repair cost:$800 - $2,000

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High Confidence350 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: Acura MDX, Audi A4, Audi A5

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

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed 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: Ford Mustang, Ford Ranger, Dodge Journey

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
UpgradeChevron Techron fuel system cleaner — cleans injectors, intake valves, combustion chambers (Chevron Techron Fuel System Cleaner)
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UpgradeWix fuel filter — routine replacement for fuel system health (Wix Fuel Filter)
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Typical repair cost:$200 - $500

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Medium Confidence150 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 Colorado, GMC Sierra 3500HD, GMC Sierra 1500

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

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed 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: Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Uplander, Chevrolet Cobalt

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
UpgradeComplete strut and shock absorber set for full suspension refresh (KYB Excel-G Strut/Shock Set)
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UpgradeFour-wheel alignment kit with cam bolts for proper tire wear correction (Moog Alignment Cam Bolt Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$400 - $800

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High Confidence400 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: Chevrolet Malibu, Chevrolet Uplander, Chevrolet Cobalt

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

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed Jun 2026

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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.

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
UpgradeTrim removal tool set for body panel work without damage (MICTUNING Trim Removal Tool Set)
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UpgradeBondo body filler for dent and panel repair (Bondo Body Filler Kit)
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Typical repair cost:$20 - $200

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High Confidence280 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

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High ConfidenceVerified0 reportsLast reported by owners Invalid DateReviewed 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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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

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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 2010-2010 Chevrolet HHR has 12 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, 7 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the Chevrolet HHR reliable?

The 2010-2010 Chevrolet HHR has 12 known issues documented across 1,755+ owner reports. 7 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 Ecotec Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure and Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering (EPS) Assist. 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.

All 12 Known Issues

2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Defective Ignition Switch Causing Engine Shutoff and Airbag Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Defective Ignition Switch Can Shut Off Engine While Driving (Major Recall)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Ecotec Timing Chain Tensioner Failure and Chain Stretch#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Ecotec Timing Chain Stretch / Tensioner Failure#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Fuel Line Corrosion and Leak Near Rear Wheel#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Inaccurate / Fluctuating Fuel Gauge (Fuel Level Sensor)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Electric Power Steering Sudden Loss of Assist#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering (EPS) Assist#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Interior and Exterior Door Handle Breakage Trapping Occupants#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

What Owners Are Using

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Passlock Anti-Theft System No-Start (Security Light)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Blower Motor Resistor Failure / Cowl Water Leak (HVAC Only Works on High)#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR: Interior Door Handles Break Off#

Common Symptoms

How to Fix

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Other Chevrolet Models

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common Chevrolet HHR problems?

Is the Chevrolet HHR reliable?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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