Our little bugger turned 50k over the past weekend. That got me to thinking about what kind of ride this has been. We bought it with 7800 on it, so for all practical purposes, it was new when we got it. When we buy a car, we buy with the idea that we'll be driving it a long time, 4+ years. So we try to buy vehicles that we think we won't get sick of after a couple of years. In the case of the HHR, we plan to keep it to 200k, so its going to be a fixture in our lives for a long time.

Under warranty, the left visor was replaced (the mirror would randomly fall out), the right sway link end was replaced, and the front brakes were redone per the TSB about vibration when braking.

Since the warranty ran out, I replaced the shifter due to the pin inside moving and disabling the key switch. I also replaced the front pads and rotors due to the vibration issue returning. That was over a year ago, and yes, it did come back in Oct. But the interesting thing about it is that its now been slowly improving. It still vibrates when braking, but at low speeds I can barely feel it now, and hard braking at freeway speeds feel normal. I'm planning on replacing the pads, but not the rotors. I want to see where this goes.

Over the summer I replaced the tires with Kelly Navigator Touring Gold. It was a great choice. Much improved ride over the stock Firestones, excellent in snow, very good in rain, and decent handling.

We've had it 2 1/2 years, and we still love the car. I drive it to work most days of the week because its (obviously) a lot cheaper on gas than the Trailblazer. Its comfortable, rides OK for a small car, is practical in so many ways I can't begin to sing its praises, and has "love it or hate it" looks.

So would I buy one again? In heartbeat. Sadly, by the time I'm ready to replace it, there won't too many around that would be worthwhile. On the other hand, I'm driving a relatively unique car.

 

 

 

Not sure why you guys are giving the thumbs up.

I wouldn't call the number of problems listed, as good, for a car with 50,000 miles. Under warranty or not.

I understand it is an 06 but that's really not a good excuse either.

 

My 08 2LT that I just traded in had 48K on it and was never ever in the shop.

 

Thumbs up because he loves his HHR despite the repairs he's had to deal with......

 

Also because all but the brakes are very minor issues. Even the brakes aren't that big of a thing.

 

Even a Rolls Royce will break down every so often, so just because your vehicle has some faults from time to time.....it doesn't mean you can't love it.

 

I'm getting ready to hit 59K on mine. Still motoring happily...

 

nice...mine just turned 61k...at 58k i replaced my crappy michellins for some Fierce Instincts...made by Goodyear and Dunlop