2007 Chevrolet HHR

Above average

Owners filed 726 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the steering. It has been recalled 5 times.

Not among the Chevrolet HHR years to avoid. Which Chevrolet HHR years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
74,000 milesMedian miles at failure

596 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.

Most common 2007 Chevrolet HHR problems

377 of the 726 complaints (52%) are about the steering.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Steering370
1012
Electrical System70
401
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system42
000
Air Bags · airbags26
10010
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes23
000
Power Train · transmission22
100
Structure › Body · body and frame15
204
Service Brakes · brakes12
101
Latches/Locks/Linkages · door locks and latches12
000
Engine12
303

2007 Chevrolet HHR steering problems

52% of all complaints

377 of the 726 complaints are about the steering. This is what owners describe:

  • loses steering assist or the wheel locks31% · 117
  • sets off warning lights on the dash24% · 92
  • loses power16% · 59

Share of the 377 steering complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
78,012 mi
median of 334 reports
Peak year of filing
2014
111 steering complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
10 · 1 · 2
in these complaints
Recalls on the steering
None
“My power steering keeps going out. It randomly makes it hard to turn which could cause a crash. It's common in other hhr models, mine has not been inspected personally yet. It has a chime and then the console says "power steering". There were no signs before it started. It goes away when you restart the car but will come back randomly. I was advised by an auto repair place to replace the battery, but it didn't help.”
Owner complaint, filed Aug 6, 2025
“The power steering intermittently (but quite regularly) goes out. The "power steering" warning also comes up on the display panel on the dash. If vehicle is restarted, the power steering seems to resolve itself again but only temporarily. This problem is becoming much more frequent.”
Owner complaint, filed May 6, 2022

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2007: 8 complaints, 0 about the steering'072008: 35 complaints, 3 about the steering2009: 23 complaints, 3 about the steering'092010: 47 complaints, 16 about the steering2011: 53 complaints, 33 about the steering'112012: 59 complaints, 40 about the steering2013: 72 complaints, 57 about the steering'132014: 198 complaints, 111 about the steering2015: 64 complaints, 30 about the steering'152016: 40 complaints, 25 about the steering2017: 38 complaints, 26 about the steering'172018: 26 complaints, 9 about the steering2019: 13 complaints, 10 about the steering'192020: 17 complaints, 3 about the steering2021: 12 complaints, 4 about the steering'212022: 6 complaints, 3 about the steering2023: 4 complaints, 0 about the steering'232024: 4 complaints, 0 about the steering2025: 6 complaints, 4 about the steering'252026: 1 complaints, 0 about the steeringRecall 08V046000 (airbags)Recall 08V444000 (door locks and latches)Recall 14V047000 (airbags)Recall 14V171000 (electrical system)
All complaintsAbout the steeringRecall (red: the steering)

Complaints about the 2007 HHR peaked in 2014, with 198 filed that year. No recall on file covers the steering, the subject of 52% of the complaints. In 2026 owners filed 1 so far.

5 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Electrical System › Ignition › Switch14E021000
Filed Apr 30, 201414,529 vehiclesUCI-FRAM Group

Defect. UCI-FRAM Group is recalling certain LS1328 ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1328, Duralast LS1328, Airtex 1S6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and LS1497 Ignition Switches sold as Wells LS1497, Duralast LS1497, Airtex 1S10961, and Carquest 53-27967, for use on various General Motors model and model year vehicles during repair and replacement of the original ignition switch. The weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the affected ignition switches to move out of the run position, turning off the engine and disabling the air bags.

Risk. If the ignition switch moves from the run position to accessory, the car would stall and the air bags will not deploy in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of personal injury to the occupants.

Remedy. UCI-FRAM Group has notified its purchasers to quarantine and return all inventory. Any switches already installed in vehicles will be replaced by GM dealers as part of NHTSA recall 14V-047, free of charge. UCI-Fram's purchasers should contact UCI-FRAM Group at 1-800-890-2075. GM vehicle owners requiring additional information on that recall campaign should contact GM at 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (Saturn).

Electrical System › Ignition14V171000
Filed Apr 10, 20142,191,014 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet HHR, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn Sky vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "Off" position.

Risk. If the key can be removed from the ignition when the ignition is not in the "off" position, the vehicle could roll away: (a) for an automatic transmission, if the transmission is not in the "Park" position; or (b) for a manual transmission, if the parking brake is not engaged and the transmission is not in the "Reverse" position. This potential for rollaway increases the risk for a crash and occupant or pedestrian injuries.

Remedy. General Motors will notify owners, and for vehicles that were built with the defective ignition cylinder and have not previously had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will replace the ignition cylinder and cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. For vehicles that were built with the redesigned ignition cylinder or had the ignition cylinder replaced with the redesigned part, dealers will cut and, if necessary, re-learn two ignition/door keys for each vehicle. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Chevrolet owners may contact General Motors at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac owners at 1-800-762-2737, and Saturn owners at 1-800-553-6000. General Motors' number for this recall is 14113 for the ignition lock cylinder and key replacement, and 14133 for only key replacements. Note: Until a vehicle has been remedied, owners and operators are advised that when exiting, to be sure that the vehicle is in "Park," or in the case of a manual transmission, that the vehicle is in the "Reverse" position and the parking brake is engaged.

Air Bags14V047000
Filed Feb 10, 20142,190,934 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC

Defect. This defect can affect the safe operation of the airbag system. Until this recall is performed, customers should remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the ignition key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. General Motors LLC (GM) notified the agency on February 10, 2014 that they are recalling 619,122 model year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 vehicles. On February 25, 2014, GM increased the recall to include an additional 748,024 model year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn Ion vehicles and 2007 Saturn Sky vehicles. In these models, the weight on the key ring and/or road conditions or some other jarring event may cause the ignition switch to move out of the run position, turning off the engine. On March 27, 2014, GM notified the agency that the defective ignition switches may have been used as service replacement parts on other vehicles, and as a result GM will be recalling certain model year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR vehicles. The part numbers for the service parts are 10392423 (a/k/a ACDelco D1461F), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This expansion represents an additional 823,788 vehicles.

Risk. If the key is not in the run position, the air bags may not deploy if the vehicle is involved in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition switch, free of charge. An interim notification was issued to owners of 2007 and earlier models on March 10, 2014, informing them of the safety defect. Owners of 2008 and later vehicles will be mailed an interim letter on April 21, 2014. All affected owners will receive another letter once parts are available. The recall began on April 18, 2014. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac at 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn at 1-800-553-6000. GM's number for the initial recall is 13454 and 14063 for the expansion. GM’s recall number for the vehicles that may have received the replacement parts is 14092. Note: Until the recall repairs have been performed, it is very important that customers remove all items from their key rings, leaving only the vehicle key. The key fob (if applicable), should also be removed from the key ring. Always wear your seatbelt.

Latches/Locks/Linkages › Doors › Latch08V444000
Filed Sep 3, 2008296,422 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. GM IS RECALLING 296,422 MY 2006-2008 CHEVROLET HHR VEHICLES FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, 'OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT." THE DOOR ON THE STORAGE BIN IN THE TOP CENTER OF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILED TO REMAIN CLOSED AS REQUIRED.

Risk. THIS STANDARD SPECIFIES PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS TO PROVIDE HEAD IMPACT PROTECTION FOR OCCUPANTS.

Remedy. A REDESIGNED LATCH WILL BE MADE AVAILABLE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON DECEMBER 23, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM>HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM</A> .

Air Bags08V046000
Filed Jan 30, 2008181,516 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. GM IS RECALLING 181,516 MY 2006-2008 CHEVROLET HHR VEHICLES NOT EQUIPPED WITH OPTIONAL ROOF RAIL AIR BAGS FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 201, 'OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN INTERIOR IMPACT.' IN TESTS, ONE OF THE UPPER INTERIOR OCCUPANT PROTECTION TEST POINTS EXCEEDED THE STANDARD'S REQUIREMENT.

Risk. THIS STANDARD SPECIFIES PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS TO PROVIDE HEAD IMPACT PROTECTION FOR OCCUPANTS.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN ENERGY-ABSORBING PLASTIC PIECE TO THE HEADLINER TRIM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 2, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT <A HREF=HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM>HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM</A> .

All 5 campaigns on file, newest first.

Technical service bulletins

842 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2007 HHR. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

equipment 326electrical system 157engine 91transmission 44equipment adaptive/mobility 39wheels 30visibility 23fuel system 23
General CommunicationService campaignAug 26, 2024electrical system

Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to …

PIT5236GService campaignMar 31, 2016electrical system

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have a Diagnostic Trouble Code B101D stored in Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. Technician will check Global Warranty Management system for customer satisfaction program 15086 status. If the status of the customer satisfaction program …

15-00-89-004FService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsAug 7, 2023steering

This service bulletin provides technicians with updated information to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak, and what is considered fluid seepage.

120232002BService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 5, 2020steering

This technical bulletin provides a procedure to eliminate a power steering noise due to extremely low temperatures.

PI0671AService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMar 17, 2017steering

This preliminary information bulletin provides information for diagnosing a power steering fluid leak at the fluid reservoir.

PIC3278GService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsFeb 20, 2017steering

This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician the steps needed to diagnose and repair the vehicles that may have unwanted or phantom phone calls. Technician will need to determine what type of call the customer is having that is unwanted. The vehicle may receive an incoming call just like any other phone. Typically the …

G-208939Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJan 22, 2015steering

14119 - SPECIAL COVERAGE (MESSAGE ONLY - CUSTOMER LETTER MAILING NOTIFICATION). SOME 2006-2009 MODEL YEAR CHEVROLET HHR (NON-TURBO) AND 2003 MODEL YEAR SATURN ION VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRIC POWER STEERING MAY EXPERIENCE A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST THAT COULD OCCUR AT ANY TIME WHILE DRIVING. IF THE POWER STEERING ASSIST IS LOST, A MESSAGE IS …

14119Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 9, 2014steering

14119 - SPECIAL COVERAGE. SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRIC POWER STEERING MAY EXPERIENCE A SUDDEN LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST THAT COULD OCCUR AT ANY TIME WHILE DRIVING. IF THE POWER STEERING ASSIST IS LOST, A MESSAGE IS DISPLAYED ON THE DRIVER INFORMATION CENTER AND A CHIME SOUNDS TO INFORM THE DRIVER. STEERING CONTROL CAN BE MAINTAINED, AS THE …

Showing the newest 6 of 14 bulletins about the steering, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 15, 2026IN

The fuel line rusted causing it to leak. We discovered it when we had some exhaust work done on the car. No one other then myself and the people that have done the exhaust work. There was no warning of the issue.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 5, 2025NY

Car has developed a fuel leak once again in the rear of the vehicle. this is the second time a fuel leak has been noted. the first time the mechanic replaced a portion of the line that had corroded and was leaking fuel near the driver rear tire. now the leak is in another section of the original pipe near the fuel tank. this is poor quality and engineering.

Steering
Filed Nov 20, 2025WA

Power steering went out while I was driving and it put me in danger and other drivers because it was hard to control the vehicle, the steering wheel was really tough to turn. The vehicle wasn't inspected by a professional because the problem just occurred.

Steering
Filed Sep 19, 2025OH

Power steering lights up and I am unable to turn the steering wheel. When I shut the motor down and start back up, the steering starts working again. This has been doing this for about 4 years now. I took it to White Allen Chevrolet when it first started happening and they told me that they drove it around and that it did not happen while they test drove the car. It happens intermittingly. I never know when it is going to happen. When it first started, it only happened about once every six months or so. Now it is happening every time I am in the car. Sometimes when I pull out onto a street and into traffic the power steering light comes on and I have to find a spot to get off the street so that I can turn the motor off and restart the engine. Today 09/18/2025, it cut off 3 times. I am checking to see if there is a recall on this model for the power steering. I have found out that it does not use power steering fluid but that it has a motor under the steering wheel that controls the power steering.

Steering
Filed Aug 6, 2025IL

My power steering keeps going out. It randomly makes it hard to turn which could cause a crash. It's common in other hhr models, mine has not been inspected personally yet. It has a chime and then the console says "power steering". There were no signs before it started. It goes away when you restart the car but will come back randomly. I was advised by an auto repair place to replace the battery, but it didn't help.

Steering
Filed Aug 5, 2025SC

Power steering motor went out. Went to the dealer to get special coverage 14119 ( I was aware of the issue ). Dealership refused to do work for free as stated in service bulletin. Called GM Corporate and they also said work would would not be done for free. 14119 specifically stated that power steering motor would be changed and I quote " at no cost to the customer " unquote. They want $175 just to look at my vehicle. When does the " at no cost to the customer " come in, apparently we seem to have forgotten that. I would like some legal clarification to this from the nhtsa.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 7, 2025IN

The fuel line on the left back side of the car (back drivers side) was leaking fuel when it was in parking or sitting and idling. Noted fuel smell when car started up and was idling, car was taken to independent mechanic, fuel line was broke in 2 places. It was broke close by the wheel are and the other spot was back by the exhaust

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 7, 2024KY

The fuel line is leaking due to it being metal and rusted.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 25, 2024TN

Fuel line leaking next to exhaust. This is very dangerous and could kill someone. Bad design on Chevy's part.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 11, 2024NY

Fuel leak coming from the Left (Drivers Side) of the vehicle in the area of the rear wheel. There was a strong odor of fuel, Fuel was observed dripping to the ground under the vehicle in front of the Left rear wheel. This condition was observed only when the vehicle was running and in park. The condition does not seem to happen when the vehicle is off and not running. No repair has been made yet , vehicle can be inspected in its current condition. This is a severe safety concern of ignition/explosion due to a fuel leak; risk of property damage or even death. This problem has not been addressed yet to a dealer or local mechanic as of yet . Failed component has not yet been inspected by GM, Police or insurance. No warning lamps or messages were illuminated on dashboard, prior to failure, vehicle did have some difficulty starting, possibly due to this problem, but it did start.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 29, 2024OH

Fuel line leak. My fuel line has cracked in multiple places and needs to be replaced entirely. The leak was consistent, with a constant stream leaking out when in operation and for several minutes after stopping the engine. The odor of gasoline was strong from inside of the vehicle when in operation and large puddles of gas were visible on the ground afterwards when I first noticed the issue. My repair quote is about $500 to get the line replaced entirely.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 13, 2023NE

Body clips holding fuel line causing rusting at these points. Leaking fuel from body clip in front of driver’s side rear tire. Based on caked on debris (mud like consistency), it has been happening for a while but wasn’t leaking to driveway due to disuse of the vehicle. This has commonly happened on 2008-2010 HHRs and Cobalts too.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Aug 18, 2023MN

The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated while her aunt was driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormal gasoline odor inside the vehicle. After a visual inspection, it was discovered that there was fuel leaking from the rear of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer or an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not repaired. After investigating the failure, the contact related the failure to a past NHTSA investigation but was unable to provide specific information. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a case was filed. The failure mileage was unknown.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 6, 2023KY

I HAVE A FUEL LINE LEAK NEAR THE LEFT REAR TIRE WHICH HAS BEEN HAPPENING WITH OTHER VEHICLES SUCH AS THE COBALT AND OTHER HHR'S. I TOOK IT TO A DEALER AND THEY SAID IT IS GOING TO COST ME $1500 TO REPLACE ALL THE FUEL LINES BECAUSE THEY WERE RUSTED REALLY BAD. THIS SHOULDN'T BE HAPPENING PLUS IT'S NOT VERY SAFE. THIS SHOULD BE A RECALL ITEM. MY VEHICLE ONLY HAS ~156000 MILES ON IT. THANKS

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 2, 2023KY

Leaking fuel near the left rear tire I have read online that other individuals are having the same issue. Please advise Thanks

Steering
Filed Dec 7, 2022144,000 milesCO

The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated while exiting the driveway of a restaurant, the steering wheel failed to respond as needed. The contact turned off the vehicle. The contact stated that while attempting to restart the vehicle, the vehicle failed to restart. There were unknown warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the alternator and battery needed to be replaced. The vehicle was then towed to a second independent mechanic who informed the contact that the key was stuck in the ignition switch and the electrical system was burned. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 144,000.

Electrical System
Filed Nov 23, 202215,000 milesGA

The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated while driving at various speeds between 30-65 MPH, the steering wheel became extremely difficult to steer and the vehicle lost electrical power. The contact stated that she would veer to the side of the road or park the vehicle whenever the failure occurred. There was no warning light illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that upon attempting to restart the vehicle and inserting the key in the ignition switch, the vehicle failed to start. The contact stated that she continually turned the key in the ignition switch until the vehicle restarted. The contact stated that the failure had been reoccurring increasingly and the vehicle failed to restart after several attempts. The dealer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The contact stated that the vehicle was previously repaired under an NHTSA Campaign Number: 14V171000 (Electrical System) however, the failure persisted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 15,000.

Electrical System
Filed Jun 23, 2022NV

While driving, more specific while turning the powersteering goes out at any given time. It has also done this while switching lanes on the freeway.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jun 12, 2022MO

Notice a gas smell coming from the car when I would get out of the car after driving it . but could not find the source of the smell at first . Then one day I was parked on a black Asphalt payment and seen a wet spot on the payment I then looked under and seen a small wet spot on the protector where the gas line run through on the left side near the lower rear door wear it opens up I then made a call to my GM car dealer ship to see if it is under warranty or a recall but they said no recall for the Fuel lines that when i looked up if other people are having the same problem . And found over 614,000 having the same problem . Note I am waiting on the parts from my dealer so they can fix it which is over $900.00 I am paying for it .

Steering
Filed May 23, 2022KS

The power steering keeps going out. This caused my 15 year old daughter to nearly run into a concrete barrier wall on her way to school. It sent her into a panic and scared the life out of her.

Steering
Filed May 6, 2022OH

The power steering intermittently (but quite regularly) goes out. The "power steering" warning also comes up on the display panel on the dash. If vehicle is restarted, the power steering seems to resolve itself again but only temporarily. This problem is becoming much more frequent. This is a safety issue because without the power steering in working order, the steering wheel becomes difficult to turn and this happens not only on the road but also on the highway as well when the vehicle is going 70 miles per hour. We have not had the vehicle serviced or looked at for this issue. It has been ongoing for several months but seems to be getting worse/more frequent.

Steering
Filed Dec 12, 2021FL

While driving the vehicle approximately 45mph, the power steering light came on the dash. While driving straight was not an issue, attempting to pull off the road was difficult. I checked owners manual which told me to take it to a dealer. This in itself was bothersome. I opened the hood and called my mechanic, who told me to check fuses. I replaced the fuse and the vehicle was fine for about 4 weeks, but once again driving 30-35 mph, the light came on the dashboard. I have saved both replaced fuses, I’m wondering after reading other reports whether the fuses are even blown? Either way, this is not a safe situation to be driving any speed without power steering. Mine is a 2007 Chevrolet HHR with approximately 163 k miles

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 5, 2021CT

FUEL LINE ROTTED THRU SPRAYING ON EXHAUST LEFT REAR

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 24, 2021CA

When I went to push on the brake, the brake pedal went to the floor... I had No Brakes? This could have been a terrible accident had I been going faster.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 7, 2021VA

My 2007 HHR (I also hve a 2008 with the same issue as this) was being configured with replacement front seats and after completion the mechanic/installer informed me that there was a strong gas leak on the driver's side. Upon looking at the car a very noticeable puddle of gas was on the ground. I had the car moved to my home and it is currently unable to use due to the gas leak. This is ridiculous. Everything I have read points to Chevy cheaping out and not using non-corroding metal lines or nylon and the proximity of the heat shield which traps the moisture and corrodes the fuel lines. This REALLY needs to be recalled at Chevy's expense as it is a manufacturer's error. I have no idea if a prior situation had been addressed by the previous owner (commercial computer repair shop).

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Aug 11, 2021WV

The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated that there was an abnormal fuel odor coming from the vehicle while parked in the garage. Upon inspection, the contact stated that the fuel line on the passenger’s side was leaking. The contact called the dealer and the manufacturer and was informed that the vehicle was not under recall. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was unknown.

Steering
Filed Jul 27, 2021103,000 milesNJ

The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated while reversing out of the driveway, the power steering warning light illuminated, and the vehicle lost power steering functionality. The contact restarted the vehicle however, the power steering functionality did not return. They pulled the vehicle back into the driveway using manual steering and excessive force. The contact reached out to the local dealer to schedule an inspection however, the inspection was not performed due to a scheduling issue. The vehicle was not yet diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 103,000.

Steering
Filed Jun 30, 2021MN

The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the steering wheel was firm and difficult to turn. The power steering warning light was illuminated and flashing. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the system was reset. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 24, 2021NY

Fuel line corrosion. fuel is leaking from fuel lines under the car in the rear. it appears all HHR are experiencing similar issues why is the 2007 model year excluded from the recall if built the same as other model years. the first occurrence was February 2019 a portion of the line was replaced and now again.

Steering
Filed May 2, 2021100,000 milesIN

THE POWER STEERING KEEPS GOING OUT

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Apr 5, 2021KS

THERE IS A RECALL FOR 2008-2009 HHRS FOR FUEL LINE CORROSION. I AM HAVING GAS PUDDLES AND DRIPS FROM LEAKING FUEL LINES NEAR THE LEFT REAR WHEEL WELL, NEAR THE EXHAUST PIPE AND MUFFLER. WHICH IS THE EXACT SAME ISSUE AS DESCRIBED IN THE 2008-2009 HHR RECALL. I HAVE TRIED SPEAKING WITH GMS CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE. ALL THEY DID WAS TELL ME OVER AND OVER AGAIN THAT MY HHR ISN'T INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. &#128580; I KNOW THIS...THAT'S THE PROBLEM. THE DEALERSHIP REFERRED ME TO CHEVY'S CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE...CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE KEPT PUSHING BACK THAT I NEEDED TO TALK TO THE DEALERSHIP'S CEM. NO ONE WANTS TO HELP WITH THIS SITUATION...JUST PUSHING ME TO TALK TO SOMEONE ELSE. SO THAT IS WHY I CAME HERE SO THAT SOMEONE WILL LISTEN TO THIS SAFETY CONCERN THAT THEY KNOW THEY HAVE BASED UPON FUEL LINE RECALLS FOR CERTAIN MODELS. I BELIEVE THEY NEED TO BROADEN THEIR RECALL TO INCLUDE OTHER HHRS.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Apr 5, 2021KS

I HAD AN AUTO ACCIDENT ON FEBRUARY 7, 2021. I LOST CONTROL ON AN ICY HIGHWAY AND FLIPPED MY CAR IN A DITCH FACING THE OPPOSITE DIRECTION. I HIT THE DRIVER'S SIDE IN THE DITCH HARD ENOUGH IT BOUNCED BACK ON ALL FOUR TIRES. MY JAW HIT THE STEERING WHEEL, MY LEFT SHOULDER WENT THROUGH THE DRIVERS WINDOW AND OF COURSE I NOW HAVE ONGOING BACK ISSUES AT THIS TIME. MY CONCERN IS THE AIRBAG NEVER DEPLOYED. I FIND THIS CONCERNING AS THE IMPACT WAS GREAT AND I HOT THE STEERING WHEEL WITH MY FACE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Feb 19, 2021138,000 milesWI

I NOTICE THAT THE TANK HAS BEEN LEAKING FUEL. THIS OCCURS WHEN I FILL UP THE TANK AND/OR THE FUEL SWISHES OR MOVES AROUND. THIS HAPPENS ON THE REAR LEFT TIRE. IT SEEMS TO GET ON THE EXHAUST OR HEAT UP AND SMELL EXCESSIVE FUEL. I NOTICED THIS WHEN I WOULD PARK FOR AT LEAST 20 MINS ON A FULL TANK. I AM A FUEL TANK ENGINEER AND SEE THIS AS A POOR DESIGN POSSIBLY

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Dec 23, 2020118,560 milesIL

FUEL LEAK IN FUEL SUPPLY LINES NEAR REAR DRIVERS SIDE TIRE.

Steering
Filed Nov 30, 2020130,000 milesAZ

2007 CHEV HHR..LOST POWER STEERING. THANK GOODNESS ONLY 1 MILE FROM HOME. FORTUNATE NOT TO BE ON HIGHWAY. WHY NO RECALL FROM GM..IS SAME AUTO ON RECALL FOR IGNITION SWITCH..FIXED ON RECALL IN 2014

Steering
Filed Oct 29, 202090,000 milesMT

ADD RANDOM SPEEDS 30-80 MPH THE ELECTRIC POWER STEERING PUMP WITH SHUT OFF, RESULTING IN NO POWER STEERING WITH NO WARNING OTHER THAN THE LITTLE CHIME BEEP AFTER IT SHUTS OFF. THE PUMP WAS REPLACED AT MY EXPENSE AND I WANT REIMBURSED BY DEALERSHIP. AT TIMES I WAS DOING OVER 70 MILES AN HOUR GOING AROUND CURVES AND TURNS AND IT WOULD SHUT OFF.

Power Train
Filed Oct 21, 2020108,000 milesAR

OUT OF NO WHERE, SPEED ODOMETER WENT TO FLASHING AND CAR WOULD NOT SPEED UP EVEN WHEN PUSHING THE GAS... HAD IT CHECKED AND WAS TOLD TO CHECK TO SEE IF THERE WAS A RECALL BECAUSE MECHANIC COULD NOT FIND ANYTHING WRONG WITH IT. IT STOPPED WORKING WHILE ON THE HIGHWAY, HAD TO TOW IT HOME BECAUSE WAS TOO SCARED TO TRY TO MAKE IT HOME. WHEN PUSHING THE GAS, YOU CAN FEEL IT LOSING POWER.

Wheels
Filed Oct 16, 2020153,000 milesVA

THE POWER STEERING LIGHT CAME ON AND THE CAR BECAME VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER AS I WAS DRIVING OUT OF A BUSINESS PARKING LOT. I PULLED TO THE SIDE AND TURNED OFF THE CAR. I RESTARTED THE CAR AND IT THE POWER STEERING LIGHT STAYED OFF AND THE POWER STEERING WORKED AGAIN. I CAUTIOUSLY DROVE HOME. THE CAR IS A 2007 CHEVROLET HHR WITH 153,000 MILES ON THE ODOMETER AND WE'VE OWNED THE VEHICLE SINCE IT WAS NEW.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 6, 2020130,000 milesIN

FUEL LEAKED FROM THE REAR OF THE HHR AND POOLING ON THE FLOOR NEAR THE LEFT REAR WHEEL. THE HHR HAD BEEN PARKED IN A CLOSED GARAGE OVERNIGHT AND THE FUEL PUDDLE WAS FOUND IN THE MORNING. WHEN TAKEN TO A DEALERSHIP FOR REPAIR, THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN STATED THE FUEL LINE HAD RUSTED THROUGH. THE FUEL LINE HAS BEEN REPLACED.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 31, 2020179,000 milesMI

FUEL LINE CORROSION AND LEAK NEAR DRIVER SIDE REAR TIRE. STARTED OUT AS FUEL VAPOR SMELL WHEN WALKING NEAR CAR. LATER DEVELOPED INTO FUEL LEAK UNDER CAR. VERY CONCERNING TO ME BECAUSE LEAK IS NEAR EXHAUST SYSTEM. EVENTUALLY HAD TO HAVE CAR TOWED (FOR SAFETY) TO REPAIR GARAGE WHERE I HAD TO PAY OVER $600 FOR ALL NEW FUEL LINES. DUE TO GM STRIKE IN 2019 AND RESULTING PARTS SHORTAGES, MY CAR WAS OUT OF SERVICE FOR 4 MONTHS. INTERNET SEARCH SHOWS THAT MANUFACTURER HAD ISOLATED THE FUEL LINES FROM THE EXHAUST COMPONENTS BY USING HIGH TEMPERATURE 'SLEEVE'; THIS SLEEVE APPARENTLY TRAPS WATER THAT CORRODES THE METAL FUEL LINES.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 21, 2020170,000 milesCO

UNSURE OF DATE WHEN OFFICIALLY HAPPENED OR NOTICED BUT, AFTER FILLING GAS TANK UP, THERE IS A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE THAT PERSISTS AND PERMEATES INTO THE CAR. ODOR IS MOST NOTICEABLE WHEN DO NOT DRIVE THE CAR FREQUENTLY, ODOR GOES AWAY WHEN TANK AT 3/4 OR LESS. NO VISIBLE FUEL LEAKING, AND MECHANIC DID NOT NOTE LEAK FROM FUEL TANK.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 9, 2020160,000 milesWI

FUEL LINES RUST THROUGH UNDERNEATH HEAT PROTECTION WRAP. THE WRAP HOLDS IN WATER CAUSING ACCELERATED RUSTING OF LINES OVER TIME. THIS WILL CAUSE FUEL TO DRIP ON GROUND IN FRONT OF REAR DRIVER SIDE TIRE.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 8, 2020260,000 milesIN

FUEL SUPPLY AND RETURN LINES ARE RUSTING THROUGH. LEAK STARTED JUST UNDER THE DRIVERS SIDE REAR DOOR. UPON INSPECTION BOTH LINES NEED REPLACED COMPLETELY. I TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC AND HAD A PATCH PIECE PUT IN ON THE AFFECTED LINE, BUT WAS TOLD THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THESE CARS CAUSED BY BAD DESIGN AND POOR CHOICE OF MATERIALS. THE PROBLEM WAS FIRST NOTICED WHEN CAR WAS STATIONARY AND TOOK LONGER THAN NORMAL TO START. I NOTICED THE SMELL OF GAS AND THERE WAS A VISIBLE SPOT OF GAS ON THE GROUND UNDER THE CAR.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 7, 2020130,000 milesIL

METAL FUEL LINES IN REAR LEFT OF VEHICLE LEAKED PROFUSELY DUE TO RUSTING OUT. CAR STALLED AND HAD TO TOW HOME. HAD TO REPLACE LINE WITH RUBBER FUEL HOSE. NOTICED STRONG SMELL OF GAS BUT I ASSUMED IT WAS BECAUSE I WAS NEAR A GAS STATION. IT HAPPENED NEAR PERSHING AND ROCKWELL IN CHICAGO AND I HAD JUST LEAFT MY HOUSE WHICH WAS 2 BLOCKS AWAY.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 7, 2020143,532 milesOH

FUELLINE RUSTED OUT IN FRONT OF DRIVERS REAR WHEEL. FUEL LEAK.

Steering
Filed Apr 15, 2020142,000 milesIA

MY POWER STEERING KEEPS GOING IN AND OUT AND FLASHES A WARNING LIGHT THAT SAYS POWER STEERING THEN THE POWER STEERING TURNS OFF AND IT'S HARD TO STEER IT HAPPENS JUST GOING AROUND THE CORNER AS SOON AS I START TURNING MY STEERING WHEEL IT GOES OFF IF I TURN MY CAR OFF AND TURN IT BACK ON IT COMES RIGHT BACK OFF AND I CAN DRIVE BUT THEN IT WILL COME BACK ON A LITTLE BIT LATER WHILE I'M TURNING OR WHEN I JUST START THE CAR OR IF I TRY TO BACK UP RANDOMLY IT WILL JUST COME ON UNTIL I TURN THE CAR OFF AND THEN IT WILL GO BACK TO REGULAR BUT WILL ALWAYS GO BACK TO POWER STEERING. *TR

Electrical System
Filed Mar 8, 2020AK

PLEASE CONSIDER THIS COMMUNICATION AS A FORMAL COMPLAINT AGAINST GENERAL MOTORS. MY NAME IS [XXX]. I OWN A CHEVROLET HHR. I WANT TO RELAY TO YOU MY CURRENT FRUSTRATIONS WITH GENERAL MOTORS. I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO GET MY HHR FIXED SINCE LAST DECEMBER. APPARENTLY, GENERAL MOTORS HAS NOT BEEN PAYING IT'S DEALERS ADEQUATELY TO MAKE THESE REPAIRS. I DID NOT UNDERSTAND THAT THIS DEFECT WITHIN MY HHR COULD RESULT IN MY POSSIBLE DEATH. I LIVE IN KETCHIKAN, ALASKA. VEHICLES HAVE TO BE TRANSPORTED BY BARGE OR BY FERRY TO THE ONLY GM DEALERSHIP WHICH IS MENDENHALL AUTO CENTER LOCATED IN JUNEAU, ALASKA AND THERE WOULD BE NO REASON WHATSOEVER WHY ANYONE IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD SHIP THEIR CAR TO JUNEAU FOR A SIMPLE $100 REPAIR AND LOSE THE UTILITY OF THEIR CAR. MY CAR IS A 2007 HHR. THE VIN NUMBER OF THE CAR IS [XXX]. THE RECALL CALLS FOR AN IGNITION SWITCH REPLACEMENT - NUMBER N140063 AND REPLACE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER AND IGNITION KEY NUMBER N140113. PARTIES: [XXX], OWNER OF THE AUTO WORKS, KETCHIKAN, ALASKA, PHONE NUMBER AREA CODE [XXX]. [XXX], SERVICE MANAGER, MENDENHALL AUTO CENTER, JUNEAU, ALASKA, PHONE NUMBER AREA CODE [XXX]. CAR OWNER: [XXX] PHONE NUMBER AREA CODE [XXX]. ACTION REQUESTED TO BE INITIATED BY THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY SAFETY ADMINISTRATION IS THE FOLLOWING: CALL THE PARTIES REFERENCED IN THIS LETTER TO VALIDATE INFORMATION I HAVE GIVEN YOU. NEXT, USE YOUR ENFORCEMENT TOOLS TO CONVINCE GENERAL MOTORS THAT IT IS IN THEIR BEST INTEREST TO GET MY CAR REPAIRED AS SOON AS POSSI

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 26, 2020168,000 milesPA

I HAVE A 2007 CHEVY HHR WITH 175,000 MILES ON IT. LAST SUMMER I NOTICED A GAS SMELL WHEN I WOULD SHUT THE CAR OFF. I THOUGHT I OVER FILLED THE TANK AND THE EXCESS WENT INTO THE CHARCOAL CANISTER. RECENTLY EARLY JAN. 2020 THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. SO, I DID ON LINE RESEARCH AND PEOPLE SAYING THE GAS CAP WAS BAD. I TOOK IT OFF AND IT LOOKED FINE. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS STILL ON. SO, I CALLED THE DEALER TO MAKE AN APPT. THEY DID A COMPUTER SCAN AND CODE P0442 CAME UP ( SMALL EVAP. LEAK) AND THEY SAID MY FUEL LINES HAD A LOT OF RUST AND COULD BE LEAKING BEHIND THE WRAP THAT SEPARATES THE EXHAUST FROM THE FUEL LINE. I'VE SEEN ON LINE THERE ARE MANY PEOPLE HAVING TROUBLE NOT ONLY WITH THE HHR BUT ALSO BUT OTHER CHEVY VEHICLES. IS THERE ANY WAY CUSTOMERS CAN GET REIMBURSED TO GET THIS ISSUE RESOLVED. TOOK THE CAR IN 01/23/2020

Electronic Stability Control (esc)Crash
Filed Jan 17, 2020189,000 milesKY

THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT MAKING IT UNABLE TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE MY 18 YEAR OLD SON WAS DRIVING AND COULD NOT STEER OR CONTROL THE VEHICLE CAUSING HIM TO WRECK AND DENTED THE CAR UP AND BUSTED THE OIL PAN LOCKING THE MOTOR UP JUST BY LUCK HE WAS NOT INJURED WE HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED HOME AND IT HAS SAT HERE CAUSE I CAN'T AFFORD A NEW MOTOR I AM VERY UPSET WITH THIS WHOLE ORDEAL I'VE BEEN OUT A LOT OF MONEY AND HAVE NO VEHICLE NOW PLUS MY SON WAS VERY TRAUMATIZED OVER THE WHOLE MATTER I TRULY LOVED THIS CAR NOW IT'S JUST WASTING AWAY AND I'M OUT A LOT OF MONEYNOT TO MENTION HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE WINDOWS ROLLING UP AND DOWN AND THE STEREO JUST QUIT WORKING AND THE BATTERIES I PUT IN IT KEPT GOING DEAD I'M TRULY UPSET OVER THIS

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jan 11, 2020OK

MY DAUGHTER IN LAW WAS INVOLVED IN A ROLL OVER ACCIDENT TODAY AND NOT ONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, RESULTING IN A CONCUSSION TO THE LEFT SIDE OF HEAD WHEN IT HIT THE DRIVERS SIDE WINDOW AND BUSTED IT!

Complaints 1-50 of 726, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2006
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
2011203330Above average
2010516410Above average
2009508570Above average
2008616564Fatalities reported
2007 — this page726540Above average
20061,006684Fatalities reported

Compare every HHR year →

2007 Chevrolet HHR: questions buyers ask

Is the 2007 Chevrolet HHR a good car?

It is not among the HHR years to avoid. Owners filed 726 complaints, against about 566 for a typical HHR year. The most common complaint is about the steering (52%).

What is the most common problem with the 2007 Chevrolet HHR?

The steering: 377 of the 726 complaints (52%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses steering assist or the wheel locks (31%), sets off warning lights on the dash (24%) and loses power (16%). The typical report comes at 78,012 miles.

How many recalls does the 2007 Chevrolet HHR have?

5 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Apr 30, 2014. The largest, 14V171000, covered 2,191,014 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2007 Chevrolet HHR problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 74,000 miles. For the steering the midpoint is 78,012 miles.

Are there service bulletins for the 2007 Chevrolet HHR?

The manufacturer filed 842 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the electrical system (157), the engine (91) and the transmission (44). They include a service campaign, General Communication, filed Aug 26, 2024. A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

Complaint volume is well above typical for a single model year.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 30, 2014. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.