Because it was not warmed up enough. I would have to agree with 843, see if they can flush and refill it and see if that helps. If that doesn't help then I would pursue other avenues.

 

The bit I did not mention, is that the car went back to the dealer to get the problem with the ignition key and the park select sorted out. I know they installed something new there in there and for free. It was working fine til they *%$#%^$ with it. Anyone have any ideas here?

Thanks.

 

When it's shifting hard, is the T/C light on?

 

My transmission is also included tight in cold weather. This occurs after -20 degrees C.
My HHR has passed 60,000 miles = 96000 km.
Experience tells me that the transmission fluid had died a natural death. Needs replacement.
I've already bought the transmission Fluid, the new filter and gasket. Besides, I bought a new transmission pan - my old pan completely crumpled on Russian roads.

 

That was what I was wondering - and if the CEL is getting lit up at all (even intermittantly)? If so, it may point to the Camshaft Postition Actuator Solenoids acting up.

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/show...light=solenoid

 

Last year during my 1st winter, I mentioned to the dealer that it doesn't seem to want to shift into high gear for several miles down the highway. He told me until it completely warms up, it will hesitate to shift into high gear.

 

I have no traction control.

I know some auto trannys are designed to stay in low gear for longer to get the engine to warm faster so cabin heat can be got quicker. This isn't the problem with my HHR. Shifts are just jerky and unpleasant. I'm going to take it back to the dealer and get them to look at it. Trouble is, they take 2 friggin days to change a light bulb !!!!

 

lead tech from dealer today sat in on a quick test drive to note the hard shifts. He said there sure is an issue. The car will go back into the dealer on Thursday and they will look at it. I have to say that the dealer help is pretty good. Every used car comes with a 3000 mile engine and transmission warranty, 7 day hand the keys back no questions asked guarantee, 30 day exchange for another vehicle option and 12000 mile/12 months bulbs, wipers and brakes guarantee. They call it nice care.

They also said that they would take the car back if it's a got a serious problem.

 

Glad to hear they are standing behind it, not something that happens often enough anymore. Keep us posted on what they find and what they end up doing.

 

Refreshing to hear about a good dealership..