Chevrolet HHR problems
508 owners have filed defect reports on this one. That's not a small number. No active recalls — patterns come from the complaint record.
Solid reliability overall. Common issues are concentrated in a few systems.
The data says walk unless this exact vehicle has documented proof the electrical system was repaired or replaced.
- 5 fire-related complaints and 1 crash-related complaint on the electrical system
- Reliability score 7.0/10 — around the segment average
Our read of the federal NHTSA complaint and recall record for this exact year and model — not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection. How we score.
Top trouble spots 8 categories with 3+ complaints
What owners are saying recent NHTSA-filed complaints · verbatim
While turning I've had the electric steering go out my vehicle. During one occasion I was avoiding someone that had pulled out in front of me. I've taken the vehicle to the dealer and they say everything is normal but yet the vehicles electric steering comes and goes while…
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet hhr. While reversing at a low speed, the power steering warning indicator illuminated and the steering wheel became difficult to maneuver. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of…
For approximately 6 months when I start my 2009 Chevy hhr panel, the air bag warning light comes on. It does not go out while driving. The warning light does not always come on as it is an intermittent issue. It only comes on at starting never while driving. I am very concern…
Chevy hhr all models, all years: when exiting my vehicle the drivers door handle snapped. It is made of plastic!! After research I discovered this is an extremely common problem with all models and all years of the Chevy hhr since all interior handles are made from plastic.…
Estimate your repair exposure
Drag to your current mileage. Numbers are derived from this vehicle's complaint history.
Common questions
Is the 2009 Chevrolet HHR reliable?
Mostly yes. With a reliability score of 7.0 out of 10 based on 508 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2009 Chevrolet HHR is generally a sound vehicle. The areas to watch are listed in the top problem section above — most are budget items, not deal-breakers.
Should you avoid the 2009 Chevrolet HHR?
On the NHTSA data, the 2009 Chevrolet HHR is one to avoid unless a specific vehicle proves otherwise. The data says walk unless this exact vehicle has documented proof the electrical system was repaired or replaced. The record behind that call: 5 fire-related complaints and 1 crash-related complaint on the electrical system; Reliability score 7.0/10 — around the segment average. This is our read of the federal complaint and recall data — not a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection.
What's the most common problem on the 2009 Chevrolet HHR?
Based on NHTSA records, the most-reported issue is steering, with 127 complaints filed. Typical failure occurs around 71,531 miles. Average repair cost runs about $700 at an independent shop.
What's the most expensive thing that goes wrong?
The steering is one of the costlier repair items. Average repair cost runs about $700 at an independent shop. Typical failure occurs around 71,531 miles. Catching early warning signs can sometimes extend life by 20–30,000 miles.
How do I check if my Chevrolet HHR has open recalls?
Paste your VIN into the decoder at the top of this page. We pull live from NHTSA, so you'll see exactly which campaigns apply to your vehicle and whether the dealer has logged the fix. Recall repairs are always free regardless of mileage or warranty status.
Is an extended warranty worth it on a 2009 Chevrolet HHR?
Math is straightforward: a quality service contract runs $1,800–3,500 over 3 years. With 508 complaints on file and the costliest repair averaging $700, one major failure more than pays for it. The catch is reading the contract — many providers exclude wear items and require pre-authorization, so cheaper plans are not always better value.