Hi guys, i just acquired a 06 HHR 2LT 2 weeks ago and like the car a lot, had to take the car to dealership to fix the remote start and since they were keeping my car for the day i had another HHR (2.2l) to drive back home. For some reason the loaner seems to rev faster and runs better. Is it normal that the 2.4l runs like a dog before the 3.5k rpms? i have noticed that if i don't push the gas like 1/2 the way down the car would upshift quick and stay at 4th gear. even at 30 or 35 mph. The car runs good but that's the only concern i have. Does the 2.2 has a diferent ECU program that makes the car run higher on rpms to compensate the 20 hp less than the 2.4?

Thanks

 

Not sure on the programming But my experiences are exactly opposite of you. The 2.2 seemed shallow when I drove one. I put the 91 octane in the 2lt Jsut this past weekend and man does it S&G.

IN fact, It was the engine that made the difference for me. After driving an 08 2lt I had to get one. THe 2.2 seemed to have less gut. I'm glad I did.

 

thanks for your response, well that's interesting for some reason i think the 2.4 has less low end power than the 2.2. Runs good after 3.5k rpms or WOT

 

Glad to hear you're having fun with the HHR!!

 

The 2.4 engine must be brought up to operating temperature before the VVT is allowed to kick in at 3000. Also, you're probably experiencing the throttle delay on the 2.4 that keeps emissions in check.

 

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If memory serves me, the computer is "Block learn" in that it learns the driving style of the driver and constant conditions. As such if you bought the car used then the driving pattern that has been learned is that of the previous driver. To reset the computer to the base setting I think you need to disconect the battery for a minute or so and reconnect it. After that the system will learn your driving style and adjust to provide your opimum settings.

Maybe one of the true tech guys can confirm this.

 

Check the brake booster vacuum hose is securely connected to the intake manifold (on driver side end of manifold). Check the Vapor Canister line is securely attched to the intake manifold (on topside of manifold to left of throttle body, plastic tube that goes around to driver side of head and connects to a solenoid, other section of the canister line connects to other end of this solenoid and then routes to firewall and then underneath the car-- runs next to the fuel line.) These are the most common to check for vacuum leaks, although leaks are rare. You could also slide underneath from the rear bumper and make sure the vac lines are secure on the actual Vapor canister itself. Road debris or something could potentially knock them c0ckeyed, since the canister accessories aren't really shielded from road debris hazards. Vapor canister is mounted aft of the gas tank and near the cross beam for the rear wheels.

 

My five speed 2.4 can sometimes be frustrating to drive.From a stop it seems weak until it hits @2500 r.p.m.-kinda like its too lean.And with the a/c on it's worse.Too low of a launch r.p.m. and it bogs,too high and I chirp the tires.There's a fine point at which to launch the car and I haven't yet found it.

 

thanks i'll try this and see if it helps.