The 2009 HHR is a compact retro wagon built on GM's Delta platform, shared with the Cobalt. Generally reliable for short-haul duty, but suffers from several GM cost-cutting decisions that manifest as persistent electrical gremlins and drivetrain mount failures in higher-mileage examples.
Ignition Switch / Power Steering Loss (Recall-Related)
Common · high severity
Symptoms: Power steering suddenly cuts out while driving, Engine stalls unexpectedly, key can rotate out of RUN position, Inability to remove key from ignition, Multiple warning lights illuminating simultaneously
Fix: Replace ignition lock cylinder and switch assembly under recall (14V-153, 14V-047). If out of recall window or secondary failures occurred, dealership programming required. 1.5-2.0 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $0 (recall) or $350-600 if not covered
Transmission Mount Collapse
Common · medium severity
Typical onset: 70,000-110,000 mi
Symptoms: Heavy clunk when shifting from Park to Drive or Reverse, Vibration at idle that disappears when shifted to Neutral, Visible engine/trans movement when revving in Park, Axle-like clicking on acceleration (mount allows excessive drivetrain movement)
Fix: Replace upper transmission mount (notorious failure point on this platform). Lower engine torque mounts often need replacement simultaneously. 2.0-2.5 hours labor for mount replacement.
Estimated cost: $250-450
2.4L Engine Timing Chain Stretch and Guide Failure
Occasional · high severity
Typical onset: 100,000-150,000 mi
Symptoms: Cold-start rattle for first 3-5 seconds that worsens over time, Check Engine Light with P0016 or P0017 (cam/crank correlation), Rough idle and hesitation on acceleration, Catastrophic failure: sudden loss of power, severe engine damage
Fix: Timing chain, guides, tensioner, and variable valve timing actuators all require replacement. Front engine disassembly necessary. 8-12 hours labor depending on collateral damage inspection.
Estimated cost: $1,200-2,400
HVAC Blower Motor Resistor / Control Module Failure
Common · low severity
Typical onset: 60,000-120,000 mi
Symptoms: Blower only works on highest speed setting, Intermittent blower operation, works after key cycle, Complete blower failure, Burning smell from HVAC vents (resistor overheating)
Fix: Replace blower motor resistor (behind glove box) or blower motor control module depending on automatic vs manual HVAC. Check blower motor itself for bearing wear causing high amp draw. 0.8-1.2 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $150-350
Fuel Pump / Fuel Level Sending Unit Failure
Occasional · high severity
Typical onset: 90,000-140,000 mi
Symptoms: Erratic or stuck fuel gauge reading, Engine cranks but won't start, or stalls randomly while driving, Whining noise from rear of vehicle (fuel pump struggling), Hard start after sitting overnight, runs fine once started
Fix: Fuel pump module assembly replacement requires dropping fuel tank. Sending unit often integrated, so full module replacement standard practice. 2.5-3.5 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $500-850
Wheel Bearing Failure (Front)
Common · medium severity
Typical onset: 80,000-130,000 mi
Symptoms: Humming or growling noise that increases with speed, Noise changes pitch in turns (louder when turning opposite the failed side), ABS or Traction Control light intermittently, Vibration felt through steering wheel at highway speeds
Fix: Replace hub bearing assembly (non-serviceable sealed unit). Common on this platform due to bearing seal design allowing water intrusion. 1.5-2.0 hours per side.
Estimated cost: $250-450 per wheel
Harmonic Balancer Deterioration (2.2L and 2.4L)
Occasional · high severity
Typical onset: 100,000-150,000 mi
Symptoms: Visible wobble of crankshaft pulley at idle, Severe vibration at specific RPM ranges, Serpentine belt repeatedly throwing or shredding, Squealing or chirping from front of engine
Fix: Rubber isolator layer separates, causing pulley to wobble. Replace harmonic balancer; must use proper puller and installer to avoid crankshaft damage. Inspect crankshaft nose for scoring. 2.0-2.5 hours labor.
Estimated cost: $350-600
Owner tips
Change transmission fluid at 60,000 mi intervals — these 4-speeds don't tolerate neglect and the cooler lines are prone to leaks
Inspect and replace motor mounts proactively around 80,000 mi to prevent axle and exhaust damage from excessive drivetrain movement
Use only Dexos-certified oil on 2.4L engines; wrong oil accelerates timing chain wear
Check for outstanding recalls (ignition switch particularly critical) — some remain unfixed on used inventory
Acceptable used buy under 100,000 miles if ignition recall completed and maintenance records show religious oil changes, but budget $800-1,500 for deferred motor mounts and HVAC fixes; avoid high-mileage 2.4L engines without timing chain service history.
AI-assisted summary drawn from NHTSA recall data, our labor-times database, and platform knowledge. Not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on a specific vehicle.
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UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.
Consequence: If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.
Remedy: UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION · 14V171000
2014-04-10
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.
Consequence: If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.
Remedy: General Motors will notify owners, and for vehicles that were built with the defective ignition cylinder and have not
previously had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will replace the ignition cylinder and cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. For vehicles that were built with the redesigned ignition cylinder or had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Chevrolet owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac owners at 1-800-762-2737, and Saturn owners at 1-800-553-6000. General Motors' number for this recall is 14113 for the ignition lock cylinder and key replacement, and 14133 for only key replacements. Note: Until a vehicle has been remedied, owners and operators are advised that when exiting, to be sure that the vehicle is in "Park," or in the case of a manual transmission, that the vehicle is in the "Reverse" position and the parking brake is engaged.
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM · 14V153000
2014-03-31 · EA11014
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2004-2006 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 2004-2006 Malibu Maxx, 2009-2010 HHR (non-turbo), 2010 Cobalt, 2008-2009 Saturn Aura and 2004-2007 Ion, and 2005-2009 Pontiac G6. In the affected vehicles, there may be a sudden loss of electric power steering (EPS) assist that could occur at any time while driving.
Consequence: If power steering assist is lost, greater driver effort would be required to steer the vehicle at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will perform one of four bulletins. Parts are not currently available. GM expects to send an interim notification around May 28, 2014. When parts are available, owners will be mailed a second letter to come in to have the applicable bulletin applied. Bulletin 14115 covers model year 2004-2007 Saturn Ion, 2009-2010 Chevrolet HHR and 2010 Chevrolet Cobalts. Dealers will replace the EPS motor. Bulletin 14116 covers model year 2004-2006 Chevrolet Malibu and Malibu Maxx, 2005-2006 Pontiac G6 and 2008-2009 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from March 1, 2008, through June 27, 2008. Dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly. Bulletin 14117 covers model year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from February 1, 2008, through February 28, 2008. Dealers will replace the torque sensor assembly and EPS motor controller unit. Bulletin 14118 covers model year 2008 Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura built from October 1, 2007, through January 31, 2008. Dealers will replace the EPS motor controller unit. The recall began on July 17, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, Saturn at 1-800-553-6000, and Pontiac at 1-800-620-7668. GM's number for this recall is N140115. Note: GM bulletin number 14119 will be implemented for model year 2006-2008 and early production of 2009 Chevrolet HHR (non-turbo) and model year 2003 Saturn ION to provide EPS Motor replacement for the life of the vehicle.
AIR BAGS · 14V047000
2014-02-10
This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring.
General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on February 10, 2014 that they are recalling 619,122 model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 vehicles. On February 25, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 748,024 model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn Ion vehicles and 2007 Saturn Sky vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine.
On March 27, 2014, GM notified the agency that the defective ignition switches may have been used as service replacement parts on other vehicles, and as a result GM will be recalling certain model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR vehicles. The part numbers for the service parts are 10392423 (a/k/a ACDelco D1461F), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This expansion represents an additional 823,788 vehicles.
Consequence: If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. An interim notification was issued to owners of 2007 and earlier models on March 10, 2014, informing them of the safety defect. Owners of 2008 and later vehicles will be mailed an interim letter on April 21, 2014. All affected owners will receive another letter once parts are available. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for the initial recall is 13454 and 14063 for the expansion. GMs recall number for the vehicles that may have received the replacement parts is 14092. Note: Until the recall repairs have been performed, it is very important that customers remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the vehicle key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Always wear your seatbelt.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:LEVER AND LINKAGE:COLUMN SHIFT · 09V073000
2009-03-06
GENERAL MOTORS IS RECALLING 276,729 MY 2009 BUICK ENCLAVE, CHEVROLET COBALT, HHR, MALIBU, TRAVERSE, GMC ACADIA, PONTIAC G5, G6 AND SATURN AURA AND OUTLOOK PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLES SAFETY STANDARD 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT POSITION SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT", AND FMVSS 114, "THEFT PROTECTION AND ROLLAWAY PREVENTION". ON SOME OF THESE VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT CLIP MAY NOT BE FULLY ENGAGED. IF THE CLIP IS NOT FULLY ENGAGED, THE SHIFT LEVER AND THE ACTUAL POSITION OF THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT MATCH. WITH THIS CONDITION, THE DRIVE COULD MOVE THE SHIFTER TO "PARK" AND REMOVE THE IGNITION KEY, BUT THE TRANSMISSION GEAR MAY NOT BE IN "PARK".
Consequence: THE DRIVER MAY NOT BE ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE COULD ROLL AWAY AFTER THE DRIVER HAS EXITED THE VEHICLE, RESULTING IN A POSSIBLE CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND ENSURE THAT THE SHIFT CABLE ADJUSTMENT CLIP IS FULLY ENGAGED. IN THE EVENT THAT THE CLIP DOES NOT ENGAGE, THE SHIFT CABLE WILL BE REPLACED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE MARCH 24, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668 AND SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876 OR AT WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM.
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