Just replace the one in trouble this time. To avoid getting the wrong parts ask for "VVT valve". They are on top of the motor, many people replace the sensors which are on the sides of the head.

Here is a link to the "how-to": https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-...13-14-a-28779/

But first, check your wiring, has the oil been changed regularly,

 

Changed the oil last year. Can't remember if late summer or early fall. Oil life shows 80 something %. I change it once a year regardless of what the oil life % shows as thats what I'm used to doing and this is my 1st vehicle that shows oil life %. I got a new exhaust one ordered from Advance Auto. Cost me $48. The pair I changed last summer cost me around $40 for the pair from Wal Mart online but I figure pay for the best one I can get this time. Just gotta wait up to a week for it to come in. For some reason these parts aren't availible in store at any auto parts stores near me. And yes Im using the recommended oil.

 

yeah Ive noticed auto parts stores and rock auto list them as VVT which made it harder to find. luckily part # got around that. yeah i know they are on the top, changed them myself last time. took longer to get the air cleaner off then to change them. the air cleaner setup is definitely a design flaw in my opinion. I always do repairs myself if its something Im capable of. I have a haynes repair manual for the vehicle.

 

$40 for both sounds like sensors not valves.

These are sensors:


These are valves:

 

no it was the valves. hes the link to where they are still available on their website. think i just got a faulty part. i just noticed the seller has 0 reviews. https://www.walmart.com/ip/12655420-12655421-Intake-Exhaust-Camshaft-Position-Actuator-Control-Valve-Solenoid/704897367?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=6788&a did=22222222227067142345&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=& wl1=g&wl2=c&wl3=170907034766&wl4=pla-275263456987&wl5=9016245&wl6=&wl7=&wl8=&wl9=pla&wl 10=114435244&wl11=online&wl12=704897367&wl13=&veh= sem

 

If it was me, I'd get the genuine GM AC Delco ones rather than try and save a couple of $'s. GM has released an improved part for both of the solenoids - aftermarket suppliers may or may not have kept up to date on those changes.

GM part numbers
Intake 12628347 = 12646783 = 12655420 (latest version as of 2014)
Exhaust 12628348 = 12646784 = 12655421 " "

Design flaw for air cleaner? In what way - for something that has to come off once a year or less? It's a 5 minute or less job.

 

Yeah, that is way cheap!!!! One commentator on the walmart ad says they aren't oem - looks like you take your chances. Considering one of them failed already from Walmart........................... I would not touch them again.

 

For so much to undo to take the cleaner off. im used to having a latch you unsnap, pull filter out put new one in resnap. im a big guy and have big hands that have trouble getting in tight spaces like hhrs have under the hood and in other places. changed the headlight bulbs a couple months ago and barely got my hand to them. this is the one i just ordered from advance auto. https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p/...ontent=general

 

The problem most people have is they try to disconnect the tube from the box instead of the fender. After that it just takes a really good straight up pull, it takes a lot of effort, but it is only metal pins in rubber grommets.

 

im sure the 2nd go around will be easier as Im used to it now. lol. with the mileage on my hhr being at just over 80600 im sure the the spark plugs are factory. not sure of the air filter. i bought it used almost 3 years ago with around 56k miles on it. I'll change the plugs and filter when winters over to be safe. id do all while changing the solenoid but unfortunately im on disability so funds are limited and the solenoid broke me till next month.