Chevy HHR Years To Avoid (Best and Worst)

Chevy HHR Years To Avoid – The Chevy HHR was once a popular and well-loved compact crossover vehicle, but over the years, its reputation has shifted. While some model years have been praised for their reliability and performance, others have earned a spot on the “avoid” list.

In this post, we will discuss the best and worst years of the Chevy HHR, exploring the reasons behind their rankings and what you should consider when looking to purchase one.

The Chevy HHR, short for Heritage High Roof, is a unique and retro-styled compact crossover that made its debut at the 2005 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Designed by Bryan Nesbitt, the HHR features a distinctive high roof, five doors, and a five-passenger capacity. It quickly gained popularity for its nostalgic appearance reminiscent of cars from the 1940s.

Chevrolet, the American automaker, has a long history of producing various models, and the Chevy HHR is one of their notable creations. However, when it comes to determining the best year for the Chevy HHR, it’s important to take a closer look at the vehicle’s performance and reliability.

Let’s delve into the specifics to uncover the best and worst years of the Chevy HHR.

Chevy HHR Years To Avoid

The Chevy HHR had some model years that were plagued with issues, making them ones to avoid if you’re in the market for this vehicle.

2006 Chevy HHR

In the 2006 HHR, owners reported problems such as broken door handles and malfunctioning power steering.

The average cost to fix these issues ranged from $200 to $400, and the average mileage at which these problems occurred was between 82,000 and 94,000 miles.

2007 Chevy HHR

The 2007 HHR also had its fair share of problems, including clunking noises when going over bumps, rusted fuel lines, and shakes when braking due to warped rotors. These issues had average costs to fix ranging from $200 to $900, and the average mileage at which they occurred was between 39,000 and 130,000 miles.

2008 Chevy HHR

In the 2008 HHR, power steering shutdowns and transmission problems were common. Fixing these issues could cost owners an average of $500 to $3,000, and they occurred at average mileages of 88,000 and 47,000 miles, respectively.

2009 Chevy HHR

The 2009 HHR had issues with the airbag light being on, loss of power steering, and a key getting stuck in the ignition. However, the average costs to fix these problems were not available.

2010 Chevy HHR

The 2010 HHR experienced power steering failures, bad rotors, and keys getting locked in the ignition. The average costs to fix these issues ranged from $200 to $300, and the average mileage at which they occurred was between 37,000 and 68,000 miles.

These problems and the associated costs and mileage highlight the years to avoid when considering a Chevy HHR.

Chevy HHR Best Years

Comes to determining the best years for the Chevy HHR, there are a few standout models.

The top choice is the 2007 Chevy HHR, which has received high praise from owners. Additionally, the 2008-2011 Chevy HHR models have proven to be reliable with minimal issues reported.

However, if you’re in the market for a Chevy HHR, it’s crucial to steer clear of the 2006 models.

These have garnered numerous complaints from owners, ranging from broken door handles to power steering malfunctions. With a reliability rating of 3 out of 5 stars, it’s important to approach each individual vehicle on a case-by-case basis.

The 2011 Chevy HHR is worth considering due to the potential updates and upgrades found in the final year of production, although issues like the steering column problem may still persist.

Chevy HHR Problems

Chevy HHR owners have reported a range of problems with their vehicles. These include issues such as a loose or worn gas cap, which can cause the check engine light to illuminate.

Other common problems reported by Chevy HHR owners include rattling noises, clunking when driving over speed bumps, power steering failures, transmission slips, burnt transmission fluid, and faulty clutches and torque converters.

Some owners have also experienced issues with their gas caps, causing them to become worn out.

There have been reports of the car lurching forward, excessive vibrating, rapid RPM drops, and coolant and water leaks.

Not all owners may experience these issues, it is important to be aware of them and address them promptly to ensure the safe and smooth operation of your Chevy HHR.

If you are not confident in diagnosing and repairing these issues yourself, it is recommended to take your vehicle to a trusted repair shop.

Why Was The Chevy HHR Discontinued?

The Chevy HHR was discontinued after the 2011 model year due to low sales and various repairs that owners had to make. The car had a unique appearance inspired by 1940s cars and a powerful engine, it appealed to a small demographic.

Owners reported issues such as lurching, power steering failures, and leaks, which discouraged potential buyers.

The HHR also had relatively low gas mileage compared to other vehicles of its time. However, those who owned the HHR appreciated its large cargo space and Bluetooth connectivity, which was rare during that period.

To ensure the longevity of the HHR, proper maintenance is essential, including regular oil changes and prompt repairs. The best years for the HHR are generally considered to be 2007, along with 2008-2011.

How many miles can a Chevy HHR last?

If you take good care of your 2008 Chevrolet HHR, you can expect it to last for about 150,000 miles. While this may be less than some other compact SUVs, such as the Honda CR-V, it’s still a respectable lifespan for a well-maintained vehicle.

Keep in mind that regular maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks, and prompt repairs, will help prolong the life of your Chevy HHR.

By staying on top of these tasks, you can ensure that your HHR remains a reliable and efficient companion on the road for years to come.

Is the Chevrolet HHR a good car?

The Chevrolet HHR has a long-term quality rating of 39 out of 43. This means it falls slightly below the average when compared to other makes and models. However, it’s important to note that this rating is not specific to cars in the same body style, class, or size.

While the Chevrolet HHR may not be the top performer in its category, it still offers reliability.

With a 4 out of 5-star reliability rating from Repair Pal, the HHR is considered to be a relatively dependable vehicle. Additionally, the cost of repairs and maintenance for the HHR is lower than average, coming in at around $542 per year.

The HHR is a reliable choice that can serve you well with proper care and maintenance.

Are Chevrolet HHR Reliable?

Chevy HHRs are known for their reliability. In fact, this line of Chevy vehicles has received a 4 out of 5-star reliability rating from Repair Pal, which is above average.

This is great news for potential HHR owners who want a dependable car. While it’s true that Chevy HHRs may need repairs and maintenance from time to time, the cost is relatively low, averaging around $542 per year.

This is especially good news compared to other similar cars.

Conclusion

The Chevy HHR is a solid choice. With a 4 out of 5-star reliability rating from Repair Pal, it has proven to be relatively dependable. While it may require occasional repairs and maintenance, the cost is lower than average, averaging around $542 per year.

The HHR also needs repairs less frequently and experiences fewer serious issues compared to other vehicles. This demonstrates its overall reliability.

So, if you’re considering a Chevy HHR, you can feel confident in its ability to serve you well, especially if you prioritize regular maintenance and address any issues promptly.

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