Owners filed 726 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the steering. It has been recalled 5 times.
When it fails
07400074,000 milesMedian miles at failure
596 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 60,000–75,000 miles.
What fails
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Steering
370
10
1
2
Electrical System
70
4
0
1
Fuel/Propulsion System
42
0
0
0
Air Bags
26
10
0
10
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
23
0
0
0
Power Train
22
1
0
0
Structure › Body
15
2
0
4
Service Brakes
12
1
0
1
Latches/Locks/Linkages
12
0
0
0
Engine
12
3
0
3
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).
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. GMs 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.
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> .
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.
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.