Positioning:
The Chevrolet HHR was positioned as a retro-styled compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) or crossover, offering a unique blend of style and utility.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Scion xB, and Mini Cooper, all offering distinctive styling and practical interiors.
Design:
Distinctive retro-inspired styling, reminiscent of classic American vehicles, with a spacious and flexible interior.
Utility:
Versatile cargo capacity with fold-flat rear seats, making it suitable for hauling goods or luggage.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, rebuilding, diagnosis, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, emission control systems.
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, fuel injection, air intake, throttle body, engine control module (ECM) diagnostics.
Transmission:
Automatic and Manual transmission service, overhaul, diagnosis, and repair. Clutch system (manual).
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive system, axles, CV joints, drive shafts, differential.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, struts, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering gear, tie rods, diagnosis and repair.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc/drum), hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake, component replacement and bleeding.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting system, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, doors, hood, tailgate, interior trim, seats, upholstery, glass replacement.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement.
Restraints:
Airbag system diagnosis and service, seat belt mechanisms.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
OBD-II diagnostic procedures and interpretation of trouble codes.
Maintenance:
Routine scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and complete rebuilding.
Specifications And Torques:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, clearances, and critical measurements.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
Engine Code And Type:
2.2L Ecotec L61 I4 (Inline 4-cylinder)
Horsepower:
144 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque:
139 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Bore X Stroke:
86 mm x 94.6 mm
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves
Engine Displacement:
2198 cc (2.2 Liters)
Engine Code And Type:
2.4L Ecotec LE5 I4 (Inline 4-cylinder) - Offered on some trims, not standard on all 2006 models but covered by 'All Models' in manual description.
Optional Engine Performance
Horsepower:
171 hp @ 6200 rpm (for 2.4L)
Torque:
163 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm (for 2.4L)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
5 Stars (for 2006 models)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (for 2006 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Seat:
5 Stars (for 2006 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Seat:
4 Stars (for 2006 models)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for 2006 models)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Airbags:
Standard front and side-impact airbags for front occupants.
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, or as indicated by the Oil Life Monitoring System (OLMS).
Engine Coolant Flush:
Recommended at 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, then every 50,000 miles (80,000 km) or 5 years thereafter.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Platinum-tipped spark plugs typically require replacement around 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
Engine Oil Type And Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (API Certified, GM dexos1™ approved recommended).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.9 US quarts (4.6 liters) with filter change for 2.2L Ecotec.
Transmission Fluid Type Automatic:
Dexron VI Automatic Transmission Fluid.
Transmission Fluid Capacity Automatic:
Approx. 6.4 US quarts (6.1 liters) for a drain and fill.
Engine Coolant Type:
GM U.S. Specification 6455 Approved, Pre-diluted, Orange-colored Dex-Cool Long-Life Coolant (50/50 mix).
Common Issues Summary:
Common concerns reported include catalytic converter failure, ignition coil issues, power steering pump leaks, and sometimes transmission solenoid problems. The retro styling can also lead to windshield wiper motor issues due to water ingress.
Heritage:
Chevrolet, a division of General Motors, has a long history of producing accessible and popular vehicles for the American market.
Introduction Year:
The Chevrolet HHR was introduced for the 2006 model year.
Design Inspiration:
Designed by Bryan Nesbitt, it drew heavily from the styling of the 1930s Chevrolet Suburban and the Chrysler PT Cruiser's success.
Assembly Location:
Ramos Arizpe, Coahuila, Mexico.
Production Span:
2006-2011 model years.
Initial Reception Awards:
While not a recipient of major automotive awards in its debut year, the HHR was praised for its distinctive styling and practical utility by a segment of the market.
Consumer Reports Ratings:
Ratings varied over the years; early models generally received average to below-average scores for reliability and performance compared to some competitors.
Emissions Certification:
Certified to meet U.S. Federal EPA and California Air Resources Board (CARB) emission standards for its model year.