I wanted to ask if there might be an online source for replacement adhesive clear debris strips? I would like to remove and replace the ones on the car, because two of them are black, and are cracking and just ugly overall. I haven't been able to locate them for HHR.
I wanted to know if anyone has already replaced theirs, and if there is a reliable and effective way to remove them without ruining the paint surface. I had clear strips on my other cars that never seemed to crack, and this just seems to detract from the appearance being black.
(Here's a picture of one which is under the existing clear one on the driver's side. The one on the passenger's side is Black on the upper and lower). The clear ones aren't cracking, but the black ones are, plus they don't clean up anymore.

 

Those are not factory, or OE.

 

there are transparent vinyl films
The so-called "vinyl armor."
This is a thick layer of transparent vinyl, some varieties even have the property of self-healing damage. There is a product line - Designed specifically for auto tuning. https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/post-fac...otection-film/
There are product lines for other purposes. There is colored vinyl and even structural (leather, carbon, chrome, scratched aluminum, etc.) - there are ample opportunities for creativity.
You can easily find it on Aliexpress with free shipping. Consult with US sellers of materials for advertising - perhaps they will offer you vinyl directly from their counter.
In general, the task is simple. It will take 1 hour of time and twenty bucks.
Disadvantages: You only need a couple of decimeters, but vinyl is sold for at least 1 linear meter, often you will be offered a whole roll without the ability to cut it. A meter of vinyl is an acceptable price, but a roll of film is already serious money. You can find on sale ready-made vinyl linings. But the price of a pair will be like the price of a pair of meters from a roll and still have to work with scissors ...

Here is a small roll for a car https://aliexpress.ru/item/400004051...archweb201603_

 

Geg, wow! Thank you so much! Both sides have the black rough vinyl on the rocker, but the rear fenders have that clear 8” wide strip that goes up to the top of the wheel. The clear ones look like they’re in great shape, so I’m sure I just want to replace the black ones with clear instead.

Now, I’m curious if there’s a good reference to use to know how to remove it without ruining the paint, and if there’s some sort of solution to use as a non-stripping remover? I know Goof-Off removes the clear topcoat, so I didn’t want to use anything like that.

 

Just try heating them with a hairdryer to get started. Direct a stream of hot air at him and gently pull the corner. See what happens.
If this is standard advertising vinyl, it will be removed without damaging the paint. But the picture does not make out what is really there.
Here's a video.
Guys use an industrial hairdryer and a plastic plate.
But, I think, in your case, you only need a bank card and a regular bath hair dryer.


After removing the vinyl, some glue may remain. If you can’t roll it into balls just with your finger, use something like a "whitespirit". Sometimes even a napkin moistened with WD-40 helps.

 

If you are really luck your local junkyard might have a 2007 with hard plastic guards. https://www.gmpartsdirect.com/auto-p...rear-door-scat
The part on the rocker is after market.
Sounds like the clear part is also Mickey Moused.
Early 2006 MY did not come with them, after many complaints they added the plastic to cars without running boards.
Get ready for sticker shock!
https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fro...r+fan+resistor

You could use some of the 3M film the window tint shops use for hood protectors.

 

I like your idea of the 3M film. I agree about the Sticker Shock! For now, I'm just hoping I can remove them.

 

Some library reading for you

https://www.google.ca/search?q=hhr+d...&client=safari

 

The clear 3M film works great!
If you're patient and can slowly cut your shape... great protection.

I came across it 12 yrs ago when getting a clear bra for my Jeep.
He gave me multiple huge scraps that I used for rockers, internal door sills, etc.
Use it on my bicycles too.. small 2" wide strip keeps the chips off downtubes, chain stays or forks.

It holds up great, takes years to yellow tint, and easy to remove with a little heat.
Personally the Door Sills are great... keeps that area from being scuffed by shoes & dirt.

It comes in multiple widths: 4, 6, 12, etc.
Easy to cut a section, and begin trimming by trial and error before removing the backing.
You might also want to get a small water spray bottle and squeegee... makes applying much easier.

 

I would not be afraid to visit my local tint/wrap guy and look in his trash bin.