Link to the paint chip thread has been added in my post above.

I went to one of the local chevy dealers websites and got a part number and description for orange running boards, since I'm not sure what color you are looking at. Here's the number and description I found

Assist Steps, Molded - 17800496

 

emansour........ post #23 paint chipping for one.......

 

I have had my HHR since January 4, 2006 mfg August 25, 2005 and has 14300 miles on it now. Only problem i had was that for some reason when I turned hard and had gas pedal pressed it would reduce the engine power. Mine was the first to have this problem so dealer and gm had to rewire things that was in feb march and took day and half to fix since then only problem is the long cranking and not starting with remote which i think is the bad shipment of fuel pumps.

 

We've had our 1LT with auto. trans. 2 months and put 2500 miles on it and its flawless. I can't believe Chevy has done such a good job on this vehicle and I've worked in the automotive business over 40 years. The fit and finish is excellant, the ride is smooth and quiet, and fuel mileage is 33mpg @60mph and 30+mpg @70mph.
Some people complain about the location of the window switches or the lock knobs on the front doors but we dont open the windows except to pay for parking and ferry fares. If its hot we use the AC, if its cold we use the heater. Much more comfortable and quieter that way.
We don't have the running boards but I did install the Chevy contoured splash guards (mud flaps) and so far I dont have any nicks or dings. I inspect it every time I wash it. IF it becomes a problem I will add running boards, but I prefer the look without them.

You could do a lot worse than a HHR.
Good Luck Dave

 

It depends on what color you are ordering.

Molded Assist Steps - Amethyst
17800497

Molded Assist Steps - Black
12499501

Molded Assist Steps - Blue
12499504

Molded Assist Steps - Cashmere
12499242

Molded Assist Steps - Dark Silver
17800494

Molded Assist Steps - Light Silver
12499503

Molded Assist Steps - Orange
17800496

Molded Assist Steps - Red
12499502

Molded Assist Steps - Red (74U)
19158085

Molded Assist Steps - White
17800495

 

Use the running boards as a discount item. Make your deal and then tell them you want the boards included..

I got my HHR in Oct 05, have 16662 miles on it get 28 in town and up to 32 on the interstate. Pull my ATV on a trailer once in a while. And have not had a problem other than hitting 2 deer and knocking one off its feet, went through the running board issue and am back to glad I bought mine and will do it again with another HHR.

Even though most of us here have more miles than courthouse Deb.

 

I got mine in at the end of July born date is beginning of July. No problems at all. I truly believe that GM has addressed the issues and tightened down on the quality control at the plant. This is not uncommon on a brand new model. Get the HHR..you'll love it!

 

To repeat what has been said here...............we are but a fraction of the ownership. All in all, I think the HHR is a great car. Some minor problems with the first year out, but every other manufacturer runs into that. If you are looking for good ride, cargo space, and economy, this is it all in one package for a great price. I am sure the 2007's have addressed most of the small problems that occurred in the first year. Just be sure that you get running boards because they serve a purpose other than looking good. I think the only owner here who has really had a problem is Tom up there in Wisconsin. I think somebody keeps sneaking deer musk onto his HHR because our little woodland friends sure seem attracted to it.

Have no fear, the HHR is here to stay. Buy one for your wife.....we want to hear you fight over whose turn it is to drive!

 

I have had mine now for about 10 months with over 9000 on it and only two problems, radio blew up and a leak on the passengers side, both fixed by the dealer with no hassel. The only regret I have is I do not make enough money to buy another one, what the heck would like to have one of each color made. Either way I think you will love it if you do decide to get the HHR. Good luck either way..

 

Had my HHR for 6 month's with no problems.
Look up your 2005 truck and you will see it has problems too. And if you didn't have problems with yours you probably know someone who did.
For the price and economy and utility the HHR is a good buy.