When I got back from Iraq last week my battery in my HHR was dead. I replaced the battery and everything seems to work fine minus the remote start or the lock buttons on my remotes. Did the HHR forget the remote because the battery was dead for so long? Or do I have other issues?

 

I think I've read that the '08 model years did forget when the battery died..... sounds like you need to plan a trip to the dealer.

 

X 2 I'm afraid, its forgotten the programming. Welcome back from Iraq, glad you're safe and sound.

 

Turn your key to run, without starting the engine. Press both the lock and unlock buttons at the same time and hold them for a few seconds. If the horn honks or you here a beep they resynced.

 

Sounds like a trip to the dealer. I went out to try holding down the unlock/lock buttons with the key on...... no luck.

 

This is from another thread who was also having a problem
with the keyless entry. Although all those who have said
they have a 2008 HHR need special equipment to re-activate
the key.

Insert key and turn ignition switch to "On"


Follow these steps:
-Press Vehicle information button until "PRESS [checkmark] (set/reset)TO RELEARN REMOTE KEY" displays.
-Press Set/Reset button until "REMOTE KEY LEARNING ACTIVE" displays.
-Press and hold both the Lock and Unlock buttons on the keyless remote for approximately 15 seconds. A chime will sound to indicate that the remote is programmed.
-To program additional remotes, repeat step 3. A maximum of 8 remotes can be programmed to this vehicle.
-Exit programming mode by turning key to "Off" position.
-Test Remote(s)

 

Yup, a trip to the dealer is in order. Take all the FOBs with you. The dealer will need them all to reprogram. The HHR can only have 4 FOBs, but 10 keys can be programmed. Tell the dealer you had a dead battery and to check for the requisite Service Bulletin.

If your vehicle has the TPMS, it also will not be working.

Ignore Dave’s post just above – the procedure will not work on the newer HHRs.