I’ve dealt with manually locking and unlocking doors since I bought my 08 LS HHR this summer. The only door that locks using the button on the driver side door is the trunk. I recently bought a new remote (which also has remote start), pretty sure I programmed it correctly, as I got a response from the car but the doors still wouldn’t lock. I’d love to get my remote to work but don’t want to risk paying hundreds of dollars to have the local dealership fix it.

 

Why a dealership, you can remove the door panels yourself and lubricate the linkage yourself

 

What is meant by " The only door that locks using the button on the driver side door is the trunk."
Explain this more please " pretty sure I programmed it correctly, as I got a response from the car but the doors still wouldn’t lock. "

 

I can only use the lock/unlock button on my driver side door to lock and unlock only the trunk. I bought a new Dorman remote and programmer. After I programmed it, I pressed the lock button, and a light on the dash came on and there was a chime noise as well. But the locks still didn’t lock. Could it be the lock actuators that have gone bad?

 

I've never tried to lock the doors inside the car to see what your describing.
My first feeling is a communication issue between the fob and car.
I really don't think all 5 actuators have gone bad.
That's 4 doors and the lift gate.

 

Is this a problem with an HHR? You keep saying "trunk".

 

Yes, I guess I should be saying liftgate instead of trunk

 

What’s the load test report on your battery, a weak battery can cause these type problems.

 

FYI.
There is a known programming fault that can occur in the 2008 model RCDLR. (remote control door lock receiver) I think if this is the issue, the car will need a software/hardware update.

Moderator Donbrew has mentioned this previously regarding the 2008 models.
Hopefully he'll respond here with that info.

 

My 2008 LS the driver's door power lock button will lock/unlock all doors except the drivers door.
From my experience there are two issues with this model.
First the mechanical door lock actuator being weak and the door lock buttons tight in the panel. I took mine off and found the actuator operated correctly on all but drivers door.
Second the electronics and the remote and the programming. I bought a remote opening fob from dealer when I had ignition recall done. It worked awhile then stopped I brought it back to dealer and they said it was wiring or the module in the headliner near rearview mirror. $$$ to go on. I use the key now.

Donbrew would be the guru who could best explain.