Hi,
I don't post very often as this is just a company car for me but I figure you guys would know whats what.
I have a 2007 LS with the 2.2. The starter just went and we are told because the engine leaked oil out the rear main and a few other places. It does leak like it was built that way :p

Anyways, with 158k on the clock the bigshots say just replace the motor.

I am located in Southeast Michigan and was wondering if anyone had any recommendations on a place that could do this with a warrantied motor and everything, I drop it off and they let me drive it away when they are done.


Car needs rear main, oil pan gasket, front hubs, rotors, pads, and shoes.

 

With all the computer controls and such, I would say your best bet is to find a documented low-mile used 2.2. Got to be some out there. find one that's under 50k and you should be all right.

 

If you have been living with the oil leak why not just replace the starter motor and go on driving it. You said its " just a company car "

 

Of the two opinions put forth by Krash and oneton, I'd lean more towards oneton's take and do the starter while keeping an eye on the oil leaks. It could run that way for another 150,000 miles and never give you trouble, you just have to check your oil frequently so you don't run low and cook the motor.

 

Why not just Fix what needs Fixing and replace the Starter?

I'd rebuild the motor before replacing it, if it Needed rebuilding.

I had a shop replace a motor with a Jasper full warranty rebuilt motor and the car was Never the same again.

Sure you get the same Type motor, then the Shop has to MAKE it work. Same motor different years and even different cars, HHR, Cobalt have subtle differences and thats were "Make it Work" comes in. And the wiring harnesses get Spliced, different sensors and connectors and your in for a life of in and out of the shop fixing things over and over again.

90% of what you listed can easily be fixed in an afternoon in your driveway. While your at it replace the front struts with Quick Struts (Less than an hour to swap them out) and replace the rear shocks. (Less than 30 minutes) and your HHR will be good to go Another 150,000 miles.

These motors can last well over 300,000 miles with proper care and general maintenance.

 

I was assuming the engine was done.........

 

Tell the bigshots you need a new company car. Like a 2011 HHR.

 

"Company Car" means somebody else is paying! There are still places to get a NEW CRATED 2.2L EcoTec engine. Any good shop will be glad to find one for you. Otherwise, any junkyard will get one and install it in 2-3 days and guarantee it for 30 days.