:( Hey what's up everyone newbie here. I was wondering if anyone was experiencing a problem I am having. I have close to 9000 miles on Angel (my HHR...yeah fruity I know but there is a reason for the name) and I do not have the running boards, however on both of my rear doors and the plastic body cladding at the bottom where they bulge out and blend into the rear wheel flare, they are getting severly chipped up far beyond what I think normal wear should be and collect all kinds of road debris. I have a 2.2 silver 1LT. The plastic pad GM put there in what it looks like an attempt to minimize the impact of road debris to the area is sustaining heavy damage too. I installed the factory mud flaps but the problem continues to progressively get worse. I drive on the turnpike at between 70 and 85 mph 5 days a week and worry that this will be extremely bad long term problem. Simply having it repainted will not fix the problem and I was thinking about going to the dealer to see if there is something that can be done (which I doubt) but wanted to see if this is a problem just with my car or is anyone else having it. Any suggestions on a fix short of buying the factory running boards would be appreciated. Thanks!

I have running boards and splash guards and not one chip. ;)

I have running boards and splash guards and not one chip. ;)



same here....

No running boards and I have lots of little pits on the plastic like a windshield would get over time. Definitley a problem, unfortunately I have no suggestions. :roll:

Thats a bummer!Maybe that invisible paint protection would work to prevent it before it happens but I don't know about after.How much would it cost to have my entire rod covered with it?

I have only running boards, and don't have any chips.

Does anybody have only splash gaurds and have this problem?

It seems running boards definately fixes it. I have an HHR on order without running boards and was going to put splash guards on once I got it, but now I am wondering if that is enough protection.

Does anybody have only splash gaurds and have this problem?

It seems running boards definately fixes it. I have an HHR on order without running boards and was going to put splash guards on once I got it, but now I am wondering if that is enough protection.
Mine is on order, also. I called my dealer and told him I wanted to add runningboards and he told me that they would sell them to me, through the parts department, at cost. He is supposed to have the price tomorrow.

i dont have this problem, however my hood is bubbling. I took it into the dealer and im getting a new paint job on the hood. The were shocked when they saw the bubbling. gotta love a warrenty. No guestioned asked, and they are going to take care of it. That is what im talking about.

Thanks for your inputs. I designed flap extensions that seemed to deflect road debris from the area but the material was not flexible enough.They would scrape over speed bumps or when the suspension would compress too low form highway driving. The extensions which hung down 1.5" below the factory flaps need to be made out of a softer but firm material (such as rubber sheeting). I am gonna try this and see how things work out after a couple weeks. I will also post pics so that everyone can see what it looks like. The only other option is to buy the running boards, which look good but I prefer the look without them. Either way I am going to the dealer to (complain to them I Guess) and see what they say. Which I figure will be along the lines of tough and get bent lol. Which is why I will find out how to get a complaint out to the General and see what will be said from the company about what I feel is a bit of a design problem. Never know!

Well living in NY dealing with Rocksalt, road dirt, pot holes is problems for any car

I just received my first paint chip on the same position of my car. It's small, but not something I could just buff out. Anyone know where I could possibly find some touch up paint that I could blend into the area?

watch the rock fly up and ding the paint on front of my car, sucks.... also looking for info on the touch up paint.

I found a cool website that has a full list of colors for touch up paints as well as other products. If anyone is interested see: www.expresspaint.com

I bought a tube of matching touch up paint for my red HHR at the dealer when I picked it up. I would expect that they would have all HHR colors available. It was about $6 for the tube.

Has anyone gone back to the dealership? I'm wondering if Chevy will back the paintjobs. I haven't washed mine since the "Blizzard of '06", but I know that all the roads I have traveled on are covered in sand and salt.

Has anyone gone back to the dealership? I'm wondering if Chevy will back the paintjobs. I haven't washed mine since the "Blizzard of '06", but I know that all the roads I have traveled on are covered in sand and salt.


I would think you would probably have to refer to your warranty on your car. If the warranty covers it, you're set. :thumb:

Seeing that today was a beautiful day (50's, not the 20's), I washed my car. The plastic parts that are on the rear fenders just behind the doors are actually sandblasted! This is causing this area on both sides to appear pink. I can't imagine I will have much paint left if the road crews keep sanding around here. I really wish I had running boards now. They would prevent this for sure.

GM should really do something about this. I know that the splash guards will help the problem, and running boards will fix it, but you should not have to purchase an option to keep th paint on the car. That seems like a design flaw to me. I guess we just complain to the dealers??? Don't see that getting us anywhere though. Any other suggestions?

I agree. Actually, the manufacturer should make splash guards as a standard option if not going to have the running boards.

So did this happen in the 40's and 50's when these big fenders were the norm?

watch the rock fly up and ding the paint on front of my car, sucks.... also looking for info on the touch up paint.
CHEVY SENT ME FREE TOUCH UP PAINT 2 WEEKS AFTER IS GOT MY HHR, YOU MIGHT ASK YOUR SALESMAN FOR SOME.

Touch-up paint isn't going to fix this. Complete repainting will. As for those earlier Suburbans, etc, most all of them had running boards as part of the body.

I'm just going to invest in some splash guards if I can find some that will fit my wagon.

I'm just going to invest in some splash guards if I can find some that will fit my wagon.

Chevy makes two different styles that fit. They make molded ones like I have that match the lines of the HHR and have the letters HHR molded into the rear set or they make flat ones that fit and have a bowtie on them.

Everyone, the mud flaps alone will not prevent the damage to the areas. I have an appointment next week at which time I am going to see where I can go about this design flaw. However, if everyone that has this problem could start complaining to the dealer maybe word will get back to GM. In a way they already have acknowledged there is a problem off the record because they added the plastic pads to the doors in an obvious effort to reduce the damage. That is the only reason I can see why they would put them there. The damage this is causing really sucks and is extremly annoying especially while navigating the storm we just experienced here in the NJ/PA/NY area. I could hear the salt and pebbles literally bouncing off the side of the impact area. As much as I hate to, looks like the Running Boards are the only option as of now :roll: Now if I can work in a repaint of the area before hand...

Everyone, the mud flaps alone will not prevent the damage to the areas. I have an appointment next week at which time I am going to see where I can go about this design flaw. However, if everyone that has this problem could start complaining to the dealer maybe word will get back to GM. In a way they already have acknowledged there is a problem off the record because they added the plastic pads to the doors in an obvious effort to reduce the damage. That is the only reason I can see why they would put them there. The damage this is causing really sucks and is extremly annoying especially while navigating the storm we just experienced here in the NJ/PA/NY area. I could hear the salt and pebbles literally bouncing off the side of the impact area. As much as I hate to, looks like the Running Boards are the only option as of now :roll: Now if I can work in a repaint of the area before hand...

Man the roads did suck with rock salt. I'm going to get an undercarriage wash this weekend. I could relate to you pal. I drive every day from SI to Bridgewater NJ

I complained to Chevrolet via email and even suggested a New England version with running boards and flaps standard. They actually called me! They took all my info and I have to make an appointment with the dealer for paint. Nope, no freebie running boards. :roll:

Hey Firewatcher, where did you go to email Chevy about the paint chip prob. I would like to do the same. Did you go to Chevy.com or the like?

I am subscribed to a GM website for owners.....


https://www.mygmlink.com/main/US/en/gm/home

They have lots of features that everyone should check. They also have a "contact us" link which is how I made my complaint.

I am getting chips on fenders and windshield. I have flaps up front and running boards. They are keeping chips off bottom.

My rear quarter panel is beginning to show signs of stone damage. I contacted GM via their web page and also my dealer by phone. Neither admits any awareness of the problem and have promised to contact me (eventually!) regarding the situation.

I just put mud flaps ($10/pr.) on my HHR because of the increase in abuse that the rear doors are experiencing. My car came without running boards and when I asked for a price I got a quote of around $1000 cdn. dealer installed. The parts manager said that the price will likely coming down in the future. It seems to me to be a fairly universal problem with cars that have to drive in the real world of northern winters. I have yet to see the price come down to where the consumer can solve the wear and tear problem with a running board fix. My question to other members is this ...What did you pay for your factory running boards?...Were they dealer installed?....

Dealer installed running boards are a $445 option in the U.S.

I am subscribed to a GM website for owners.....


https://www.mygmlink.com/main/US/en/gm/home

They have lots of features that everyone should check. They also have a "contact us" link which is how I made my complaint.
Thanks for the info Firewatcher!! :bow: I just subscribed too! :beer:

Dealer installed running boards are a $445 option in the U.S.
Yep... and I love 'um too!! :D (I have the running boards & HHR "logo" style mud flaps)

I just put mud flaps ($10/pr.) on my HHR because of the increase in abuse that the rear doors are experiencing. My car came without running boards and when I asked for a price I got a quote of around $1000 cdn. dealer installed. The parts manager said that the price will likely coming down in the future. It seems to me to be a fairly universal problem with cars that have to drive in the real world of northern winters. I have yet to see the price come down to where the consumer can solve the wear and tear problem with a running board fix. My question to other members is this ...What did you pay for your factory running boards?...Were they dealer installed?....




WHOOOOOAAAAA! That is double what I paid for my running boards and having them installed by the dealer. Mine did not come with them but after seeing them with the boards I had to have them, I paid $508.00 total! The $445 is if you purchase them when you order the HHR, I also bought the hard plastic (rear) mud flaps with HHR and paid $40 for those.

WHOOOOOAAAAA! That is double what I paid for my running boards and having them installed by the dealer. Mine did not come with them but after seeing them with the boards I had to have them, I paid $508.00 total! The $445 is if you purchase them when you order the HHR, I also bought the hard plastic (rear) mud flaps with HHR and paid $40 for those.
The $1000 price tag that he mentioned is in Canadian $$$. :D (still would depend on the CDN to US currency conversion??) :confused:

The $1000 price tag that he mentioned is in Canadian $$$. :D (still would depend on the CDN to US currency conversion??) :confused:


I think that still brings it in around $800-850 American. Sounds steep to me for fixing a design flaw in the vehicle. :(

Sounds steep to me for fixing a design flaw in the vehicle. :(

I don't think it is a "design flaw" - the HHR was obviously "designed" to have the running boards. It appears more of a "marketing flaw" on GM's part. They should have offered the running boards as standard equipment, allowing owners a "delete option" on them if so desired. That would shift the blame to the owners' who didn't want their added protection.

The running boards were one thing that attracted me to the HHR. I think they complete the vintage image it portrays. Others may not feel the same - but if it comes down to ruining your paint, I would either harass GM until I got free running boards, or look into buying another vehicle.

Just my $0.02

I had the running boards put on afterwards -- they were like $525.00 for the parts, plus labor and taxes, came to around $700. total (felt like I was taken for a ride on this, but the HHR looks MUCH better with them, in my opinion) -- wish I had just ordered one with them... as SoCal said, they are $445 as an "original" dealer installed option...

If my car had been sitting on the lot with the running boards on I wouldn't have asked to have them removed, that is for sure...now I am about to attend a Costomer Appreciation Evening (aka Barbeque), and I will make a point of cornering the Customer Relations Manager on this issue...

I had the running boards put on afterwards -- they were like $525.00 for the parts, plus labor and taxes, came to around $700. total (felt like I was taken for a ride on this, but the HHR looks MUCH better with them, in my opinion) -- wish I had just ordered one with them... as SoCal said, they are $445 as an "original" dealer installed option...
I was in the same boat as you. I couldn't wait to get my hhr and the one I bought had everything I wanted, but the running boards. They quoted me around 700 too. I'm going to do it sooner or later, I just wish I could do it for the 450.

The funny thing is, the car doesn't come with the running boards from the factory. Even if you order it with them, the dealer installs them once the vehicle is delivered. Why does it cost extra to add them afterward? And can they be purchased and self installed? I mean, how hard can it be...

Question: most HHR's with running boards had them factory installed?
...and has anyone tried to install them at home (ie: in the driveway)?
...it seems to me that the dealer is going to charge a couple of hours labor and shop time.

Question: most HHR's with running boards had them factory installed?

No HHR has them factory installed. Every single HHR has them dealership installed. If you get them as an option like I did they ship from the factory along with your HHR and they put them on when your HHR arrives at it's final destination.

I tried to watch the guy install mine -- didn't look real easy, but I'm probably not the best person on this board to go by.... it did take him over an hour to do the install...

Mine is on order, also. I called my dealer and told him I wanted to add runningboards and he told me that they would sell them to me, through the parts department, at cost. He is supposed to have the price tomorrow.
SHOULD BE $445.00 PLUS INSTALL. IF YOUR HANDY YOU CAN INSTALL THEM .

I plan on ordering an HHR soon and have been on the fence with the running boards. This made my decision much eaiser - going with the boards, especially since I will be moving to MI. thanks all.

If you look at the pics from SoCal's lake pipe exhaust installation, they used the mounts for the running boards to install the exhaust too. I would imagine a spot or two toward the middle to support the running boards with brackets with screws or rivets on the fenders to do the ends. Easier with a lift, but not impossible for the driveway/garage.

Update on the paint - I spoke with a real person at the Chevrolet division. They have issued a genuine complaint number and have documented everything. I now have an appointment with my dealer to check my rear fenders. They are also looking at another developing problem......the driver's side lift on the rear hatch "pops" every time I open the door. I can't see where it would stick on the rod so I assume it's internal. Updates to follow.

I phoned my dealer this week and was told that they were unaware of this problem. I emailed GM and they said they didn't have any information at this time. I then emailed my dealer and cited two Internet forums that discussed the problem. My dealer has not responded as of today. I just got off the phone with the GM Customer Service help line. When I outlined the problem and told them that I would like something done before the damage became serious they set up an appointment for me to meet with a dealer rep on Monday to discuss what could be done to resolve the issue. This may not lead to a resolution but at least I wasn't told that there was no problem. I will post the results of the meeting Monday PM.

Went to my dealer today. The hatch lift, of course, was covered by warranty and is on order. The service manager and my service writer are negotiating with GM to resolve the paint problem on the rear quarters. Worse case scenario will be a re-paint job. I have made it a priority to emphasize the need for a New England or a Northern State package where the running boards (sorry, molded assist steps) are stock. That would prevent the road sand and salt from blasting the paint. It actually worked to my advantage this morning. We had black ice on the roads so driving the side streets was like riding on dirt roads, and once I got off the highway at the dealer, my HHR looked like a salt lick. I think the Captain knows what I'm talking about with the winter roadways.

I think in Florida, to get similar damage you would have to drive through acres of cabbage palms or wipe the car down after washing with a baby gator. :p:

(St. Lucie County, here I come!)

The rock salt blends in great with my silver hhr

The rock salt blends in great with my silver hhr

Kinda adds a nice "fade" effect! :D

It sure does. I cant wait untill I get my car washed plus i'm finally going to put on my SoCal Banner #2. I will post pictures I promise. Plus tomm I have a car meet. So it has to look pimped

3M has a clear film that can be installed any were on the car. call a detailing shop.

I went to my dealer after a meeting was scheduled by GM customer satisfaction. When I got there I was told that it would cost me $160+ for mud flaps and $600+ for running boards! I asked why I traveled 80 miles round trip just to get a price quote that could have been made over the phone and the dealer service rep said she didn't know why GM scheduled an appointment for me since GM didn't have a service bulletin out on the problem. She did contact GM and eventually took photos of my HHR and will set up a meeting with with the district service rep to see if anything can be done to remedy the problem. If this keeps up too long I will wait until the new models are introduced in the fall and trade my HHR in for a PT Cruiser. I like the retro look of the HHR better but at least the PT doesn't beat itself to death with road crud.

If this keeps up too long I will wait until the new models are introduced in the fall and trade my HHR in for a PT Cruiser. I like the retro look of the HHR better but at least the PT doesn't beat itself to death with road crud.

You do realize that's blasphemy right? :confused: :D

"3M has a clear film that can be installed any were on the car. call a detailing shop."

Why should I pay to have that done when Chevy has a problem that they need to acknowledge and correct?

"3M has a clear film that can be installed any were on the car. call a detailing shop."

Why should I pay to have that done when Chevy has a problem that they need to acknowledge and correct?

Total 100% agreement. It's not your fault that Chevys design is causing rock chips.

I was at the dealer this morning to replace a rear door strut and have my remote start fixed. I asked about the paint problem on the rear quarters and rockers. They still have not heard back from Chevy as to what correction to take. I urge anyone who has a similar problem to email or call Chevrolet, log a complaint and have them issue a ticket number. Then get down to your dealer and have them look at it and have them lodge a similar comlaint with Chevy. Hopefully they will see the problem and at least issue a bulletin.


I really wish I had waited for running boards. :red:

This is a MAJOR GM ISSUE... I have a black HHR with 10k on it and it looks BRUTAL... and this is not a New England or any specific area problem... I live in Vancouver, BC where we have had NO SNOW this year and there is no sand/salt on the roads... and i have this problem in a HUGE way... my dealer told me to bugger off and that it wasnt his problem but lots of people are starting to complain and GM set me up with another dealer so I will see what happens...

HHR's do NOT come with a disclaimer that they shouldn't be driven outside of a garage... no one buying a new car expects it to look like it's 10 years old after only 4-5 months of regular driving. This is ridiculous and totally unacceptable - we are not buying Hyundai Excels here.

GM better do something about this because it would be a huge blow for them if it got out into the media that they are knowingly selling defective vehicles and not backing them up (just my opinion).

-Dareck

I wrote GM and received this comment back, now I await a furhter development in the situation. I Don't think it will end here, this is obviously a very sensitive isssue, for HHR owners.

"Mr. Godfrey:

Thank you for your email.

We are sorry to hear that you are not satisfied with certain features of your
vehicle. It is certainly our desire to meet your personal expectations in every
regard. Unfortunately, this is not always possible.

Many decisions are involved in the design of any General Motors product. Each
product classification is designed to satisfy different market segments and
needs. Therefore, the value of certain features may be perceived differently by
various buyers.

Let us assure you that General Motors is genuinely interested in your comments
as we are constantly striving to anticipate and respond to the needs of our
customers.

There are, however, many factors which must be taken into consideration in the
design and manufacturing process which places an ever-increasing demand on ourdesign and engineering staff to offer equipment compatible with our customers'needs.

We have forwarded your email to the engineering department for future
consideration.

Lesley Trafton
Internet Correspondent
www.gmcanada.com"

I am sure that the engineers have a solution, but it is the bean counters that run the corporation, and it is the customer that pays the bills and puts up with there mistakes. After all how long have they been building cars? When do you think they will get it right?

You didn't send them all of the information from all of the other posts, did you? You Canadians are the only ones getting anything out of this so far. Push the issue and give them specific information on how it was handled.

That email is just scripted. If you notice, they NEVER refer back to the specific problem. That's just a general email they issue as an automated response, in hopes that we'll go run and hide and leave them alone.

Yep. nothing is going to be done from that email's perspective.

GM better do something about this because it would be a huge blow for them if it got out into the media that they are knowingly selling defective vehicles and not backing them up (just my opinion).

-Dareck
There's an idea... leak the problem out to the media! :beer:

However, I wonder if that might cause a reverse effect? (ie: Ralph Nader & the Corvair) :confused:

I sure hope something happens with this. I don't have running boards or mud flaps. I havent noticed any chipping at all, but that doesn't mean I won't.

I sure hope something happens with this. I don't have running boards or mud flaps. I havent noticed any chipping at all, but that doesn't mean I won't.

Only makes I have is due to other people

It's not about 'leaking it'... it's about enough people complaining to them without GM doing anything about it...then it becomes an issue... aka Consumer Reports if they keep getting the same problem. They could issue one of those avoid this product things... isn't Suzuki or Nissan suing them over one of those?

I have been in contact with the GM help line several times and they are not offering any assistance at all. My local service rep says they would be glad to do whatever it takes to remedy the problem if they get authorization from GM. The GM help line told me that the district service rep has the final say as to any repairs at this point. My local rep has send photos of my HHR and my complaint to the district office and I am waiting to meet with the rep in person. Meanwhile, my HHR is just getting worse! I wouldn't recommend that anyone purchase an HHR that doesn't have running boards to protect the sides of the vehicle.

GM made a decision to make a lot of profit from the running board option. Look at the actual differences and the price....

I was pondering the option a few months ago, but looking at the car and remembering a past car with a protruding rear fender and chipping problems, then seeing someone's pic with a mud splattered side w/o running boards, the choice was clear.

Personally, I feel for you that are having problems. GM's poor choice should come back to haunt them. Keep after them and your dealers. Hopefully, you will get a rightful resolution. Good luck!

I only have running boards too, and not one chip.

were did you get that chevy decal?

When you talk to the Chevy rep, be reasonable. You might be able to get him/her to give you the running boards at cost, or split the cost. Hold the JD Power questionaire over them, saying that you received it, but have not filled it out pending the resolution of this matter.

I'm curious, have any SoCal HHR's had this problem? I'm thinking I need running boards....

The sand blasting issue made it to edmunds.com

No paint chips on the sides of the car. But I found one on the drive side on top of the rear window. I'm not sure how that happend

Newbie to the site. Picked up LS Dec 23 2005. Love this car. It so much fun to drive. My LS has 3500KM (2200 miles) 95% of the mileage on this car is highway miles.
Was reading this forum and decided to look and see if I had paint damage.
Sure thing I have no running boards, plastic guides on both doors sand blasted.

I had dealer installed paint protection. I know this product wouldn't stop stone
chips.

Went back to dealer. Pointed out problem and showed him the forum on line.
He has taken it to his GM District Manager. I said this was great but what
can we do now. He said I would have to wait until GM offered a fix.
I said this was stupid to wait for them to decided what to do while the car
is being damaged and know of a solution.

I asked if dealer would subsidize the cost of running boards. Said he couldn't do that I would have to wait. He direct me to sales to see if they would offer anything. Haven't heard back from them.A response that I expected from this dealer. Long story in of it self.

Next stop GM Direct. Last stop local :thumb: media? http://www.chevyhhr.net/images/sigs/blue.jpg (http://chevyhhr.net)

Week # 3. Nothing from GM or the dealer yet. They must have all of their engineers working on this problem. ;)

I emailed GM and my response was take it the dealer for them to make the decession.

It sounds like they are circling the wagons.

The dealer does not want to do anything because they did nothing wrong. And this is not cheap because the real fix is the running boards and paint work to repair the damage

Chevy is stating that the running boards are to prevent this from happening. See the following description from the GM goodwrench site.

"Designed and engineered to provide a sturdy step into or out of your vehicle. Made from corrosion resistance materials and a traction gripping step surface. Prevents tire splash and road debris to protect your vehicles exterior."

So they will say that the dealer did not order the cars correctly, or inform the customer about the dangers of buying a car without the boards.

BTW, I used to be a factory rep for a european car manufacture. Been there, done that......

I emailed GM and my response was take it the dealer for them to make the decession.

I started with the GM help line. They referred me to my local dealer service rep. My local service rep told me it was the district service manager's call as to what, if anything, could be done at this time. I bet the district rep will advise me to contact the GM help line. :roll:

I wrote gmcanada and got a quick reply that some of you may have read after I posted it....#64 (http://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/showpost.php?p=16634&postcount=64) ...

I wasn't satisfied because I felt that the problem of "paint chips" had just been passed off to another dept. so I wrote to them again and this time I had a pleasent surprise....

Leslie:"The Internet Correspondent" had actually taken some action by contacting my Sales Manager here in Naniamo and the Parts Manager at the dealership and made sure that a price for running board kit completely installed could be fixed so that I could have them installed at the soonest possible time.

The price is $750 cdn. installed.

Now Leslie called me at home and told me all this. She asked me to check my E-Mail for a letter from the parts manager. She wanted to be sure that I would take advantage of the offer. Later the next day I walked into the Sales Managers office, mentioned my name and was give "Completely Satisfactory Service" by the manager himself.

The parts are on there way and I am booked in for next week.:D

:thumb: to affirmative action...

I mean I made a point of mentioning this thread, this forum, and this site, and sure some people want things for free and GM to take the blame etc. but like the Sales Manager mentioned to me the fact was these boards were not available out here back in August when my car was ordered...and that might be a stretch but the trueth is I could not even order them through the dealership in October.
:beer: anyways we won't be having anymore problems with grit and paint and I just like to say thanks to Leslie.

So, you're saying that their solution was for you to pay $750 to prevent your HHR from being damaged due to an error in the design of the vehicle? If that works for you, that's fine, but to me, "Completely Satisfactory Service" means that GM takes responsibility for the problem and does not try to pass it on to the consumer. I was offered running boards by my local dealer for $685 and refused to pay to repair GMs mistake.

How does this problem differ from a paint job that 'bubbles' or a hatch lock that doesn't function properly? The vehicle is equipped with fenders, which to me indicate that road debris shouldn't cause excessive damage to the vehicle. The installation of plastic rear quarter stone guards indicates that GM is aware of the issue as those stone guards are NOT installed on vehicles with running boards. IT APPEARS THAT GM WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AT AN EARLY STAGE OF MANUFACTURING AND CHOSE NOT TO WARN BUYERS THAT HHRs WITHOUT RUNNING BOARDS FACED AN INCREASED RISK OF DAMAGE UNDER NORMAL DRIVING CONDITIONS! As someone on the other forum said, the HHR did not come with a warning that taking it out of your garage would result in non-warranteed damage to the body panels so the customer should not be expected to bear the cost of resolving the problem.

Everytime a customer agrees to pay full retail, plus installation, for running boards it hurts those of us who feel that GM has a responsibility to repair the problem. I don't give a $#!t how wide the service rep's smile is when he is just trying to pick my pocket!

Its 600 US at my dealer just for the running boards.

It's true you can't please everyone, but the buyer must except their share of the responsiblity for buying a first year production anything. It has been shown time and again that many items are producted and marketed before they are completely sorted out. If you want to be the first one on the block to have the last and greatest you might receive the benefit of a factory recall and then again you might not.

There are a lot of quirky things on the HHR, from where the cup holders are to how thick "A" pillars are to where the power window buttons are placed, and if you notice most of these items receive some attention in threads generated on this site.

Like I said before, I wanted running boards from the beginning, and I didn't expect GM to buy them for me, so I don't feel that my pocket is being picked.

:hhr:

My Troll detector is blasting!!!!!!

:eek: :eek: :barf:

Tom - you're new sig is crackin' me up! http://www.hhrclub.org/gforum/images/rofl.gif

I just bought some running boards and installed them myself. Price was 445.00 through a bodyshop, I would assume that a dealer who wanted to keep your satisfaction would at least sell them to you at the price they sell them to the trade.

The boards are simple to install. You need a T30 torx, a deep 13mm socket and ratchet, and several different wrenches, plus a couple of hours to invest.

The only difficult part was removing the old trim. Once I realized that there was no way to remove it without breaking clips, the other side ripped right off.

How is the old chip guard attached to the door? Is it just stuck on or are there holes?

I don't know about the "old" chip guards...but the new ones are put on with tape. :D

Dealers heat 'em up with a heat gun to remove them.

Hope it helps,

(I could have said "use the search!") :thumb:

Finally heard from my dealer regarding the damage done to the rear quarters of my LT. GM is still refusing to do anything about the problem but my dealer has offered to paint the rear quarters and install running boards for $300. Considering that GM is not reimbursing dealers for installing the boards or repainting the quarters I consider this a very fair proposition. Additionally, the dealer has agreed to refund my $300 if GM decides on installing boards at no cost in the future. I am not impressed that GM is still refusing to acknowledge the problem but I credit my dealer for stepping up and subsidizing the cost of painting the quarters and installing running boards on my vehicle.

Wow thats a good deal. 300 bucks for paint and boards with installation. Thats a good deal

Wow thats a good deal. 300 bucks for paint and boards with installation. Thats a good deal

Plus, I get a loaner until my HHR is ready. I can't complain (too much) about the deal. :)

Thats great..kudos for that dealer. Although I havent had the paint chip problem (yet?) It sounds like its definately a possibility in the future and I would love to have running boards ..I hope GM offers them in the future either free or at the very least extremely discounted..just dont want to pay $400 bucks for them right now. thanks for the info

I spoke with Chevrolet Customer Assistance again today. They are still working with my dealership on this problem. The rep looked on their system and they have virtually no complaints logged on this particular problem. I suggest that everyone call the Chevrolet Customer Assistance line and make formal complaint and have them issue a ticket number. Call 1-800-222-1020 and work your way through the directory. They really are nice to speak with. Don't let this slide. This is a design flaw that needs correction.

Dealer called today. Paint and running board installation are scheduled for the 28 and 29 of this month.

Well........I just got off the phone wth Chevrolet Customer Service. They understand there is a design flaw, however, the most they can offer me is an oil change/lube for the inconvenience. They are looking into making the running boards standard equipment in the next model year. That doesn't help me or anyone else. My a** is still sore from that one. In fact, I think I better go to the hospital and have the knife removed from my back. I can tell you one thing......I was treated better by Ford when I had problems. Guess I will be looking elswhere for my next vehicle. :mad:


PS - I did speak with the service manager at the dealership. After the snow season ends he plans on painting the quarters at his expense, although he figures if enough people complain :poke: , Chevy will have to do something about the current problems.

Any response from the Captain on this??

It seems that your chances of getting satisfaction regarding the paint chipping is to work through your local dealerships. GM was courteous but the customer service rep acted like my call regarding the problem was the first one they had received -- every time I called! I think the company line is to try to make the customer believe they are the only one with the problem so that they will go away and GM will not have to do any thing about it.

I got off my butt tonite (wait a minute, I have to sit to type) and fired off a letter to the Chevrolet Division. I also sent a copy to the president of the dealership.

I'm not looking for a free ride, but I think that Chevy should at least pay to re-paint the quarters (which they said the wouldn't). If I stuck with my S-10, I wouldn't need running boards!

At least the dealer is trying to help out. We'll see how everything works out after the snow stops flying for the season and the roads are swept up.

To be continued..................................

I cannot let this die out, I ordered some runningboards due to my dealer doing the duh, we havent heard about that before. They refused to give any assistance and the saleman is a friend of a guy at work who told me to go to him. I do have one of them surveys waiting to go. And are they gonna get it. I had a pic after my first deer hit and what the door looked like after the repair.

And I am only pushing 5500 miles. Pretty good for 5 months. Its that travel thing.

http://i46.photobucket.com/albums/f137/TomsHHR/TomsHHRRocker.jpg :eek:

Tom, it's not good forum for me to copy a post from another forum, but significant progress has been made regarding GM's awareness of the problem.

Read HERE (http://www.hhrclub.org/gforum.cgi?do=post_view_flat;post=17023;page=5;sb= post_latest_reply;so=ASC;mh=25;). (The response I'm speaking of is in bold on page 5 of the thread.)

It appears GM is admitting blame for a poor design (at least to Canadian consumers), and footing the entire bill for repainting the rear quarters AND providing new running boards free of charge.

Any HHR owners concerned about this issure should start hammering their dealers and the GM Hotline (or GM via email), right now. Print out that thread and take it to your dealer. The more the merrier as numbers will only strengthen the momentum now...

Best of luck with it! :thumb:

I have been watching 2 other spots, 1 is that one you linked. I have visited the dealer 2 times and have emailed GM 3 or 4 times and phoned them with no answers from any of them. I will try another dealer when I get my HHR back on tuesday from this body shop visit. If some get refunds I will be in line with my receipt. As they say "Trust Me". This particular dealership did not like me taking the their badge off my HHR. I simply told them You don't discount me for advertising so I don't. I will visit another Dealer and see if things turn around. For now my HHR has seen enough of body work for a while and I cross my fingers.

I haven't heard anything about "refunds" - just that GM is supplying free running boards to dealers who are receiving complaints, and paying for the rear quarter repaints.

Since running boards are an option - if anything, those of us who paid extra for them should be getting reimbursed if GM decides leaving them off the car was a design flaw.

Smells like "Class Action Lawsuit" to me! Ouch! :red:

from what I have read and have gotten from dealer is: running bds. My dealer only charged me $250.00 out the door for parts and labor. that was in 12/05. now is advising new buyers to upgrade to running bds or atleast mud flaps upon purchase.

Like I said before I don't really drive that much and I haven't had any chipping problems so should I start complaining now and tell them what others are saying...At the rate I am going I will have less than 10,000 miles on my HHR after the first year.If I wait to long do you think I'll get screwed on this deal?I didn't get the running boards cause I was afraid it would make it to hard for me to transfer into the car.I hope my needs aren't going to affect the longevity of my paint...

Mike, thanks for the heads-up. I registered, copied, printed. I will be bringing this as additional ammunition to my dealer on Monday. After my conversations of the past month, I still feel the dealer is working hard to get Chevy to resolve this issue, and is having just about as much luck as I am. More to follow...

There's a guy from Buffalo on another forum who got FREE paint on his damaged areas along with FREE running boards. Like it or not, they have set a precident by doing something like this, especially on this side of the Canadian border. They have to know what's going on and have to step up to the plate or they'll lose future business because of it.

i too am having the same problems , i got a huge scape on the right second passanger door about half way up ($450 worth of damage )only owened the car 30min.i called the 800 # all they did was take a report , so i called the CEO Rick Wagoner jr. at 313-667-3505 of course he was not there they refered it to Jeramey Beath a exeutive customer service person , (313-667-7153)and he claimed that my case was NOT a running board issue and there is no help from GM, they wanted $513 for r/b and i told him they are $445 on a sticker ,but he claims that was the price when buig the car . i told him that running boards were NOT even offered .anyways the dealer claims they will take $200 off the repair price. after taking a good look at the rear panels i do see the pitting of the paint , i'll have the dealer fix the scape and then i will show them the difference of each side then i'll go after them for the pitting paint because of the no running board issue . i think everyone should call and keep bringing the r/b issue to their attention , :mad:

I got to turn around with my dealer, they stepped up to the plate today. So I have an update on my issue. I sent another email through the chevrolet web site and got a call from my dealer. Took my HHR there after work. Mine will be the second one with the issue here in northern Wisconsin and MN for this dealer. He is talking to the district rep tomarrow. He is pretty sure I will get the doors repaired and runningboards for free. He will let me know Thursday. They are ordering runningboards for the 2 other HHRs on their lot. Maybe the other HHR belonging to one of the sales managers wifes helped?
So everyone the service manager told me there is going to be a notice coming out very soon from GM and what the repair direction and how it will be handled.

This dealer is in Cloquet MN. I will give a go to this dealer after the work is done.

Everyone with the issue, keep pluging the repairs are in the works. :beer:

STG... For you down in Florida and not driving that much you should look at the invisable vinyl kits for that location, I seen the kits for around $37.00. There was a post on one of the hhr boards on the web site. I will look and find it again.

I received a call from the Service Manager today. I will be going in tomorrow to have everything reviewed. I'll keep my fingers and my legs crossed.

Good luck

It appears they are slowly coming around on this issue. WA.'s dealers have been a bit more helpful From the people I've talked to up here.

Update

The service manager was as always, a great guy. Took my HHR to their body shop and evaluated. It will be up for discussion this afternoon at a management meeting. He hopes to get Chevy on board as he has checked this site and others and knows how big the problem is getting. They have advised their salespeople to push a little harder on the running boards to prevent further problems. It's not the total solution, but the dealer is trying to be proactive. And it continues.......

(Tom - I had to keep shrinking my photo to get it to upload. How did you get yours in the frame and keep the size?)

Mine came back from the dealer today with the new runningboards. They did a good job and assured me that if GM eventually agrees to reimburse customers for them that I will get my money back. I wound up paying $318 (inc. tx) for the boards and paint. They left the vinyl stone gards on, which is fine with me. I paid less than the $445 they would have cost as an option when I bought it so I can't complain about the compromise by the local dealer.

Keep pluging GeeMac, I am rubbing my GeeMac gets a refund bottle..

Firewatcher. I compress mine down with my photo editing program to the web page size, then load them to photobucket.com

I didn't hesitate to have the R/B installed when they came in last week because I was taking my car through the Rocky Mountains and the roads can be really bad.
They and the mudflap combination worked great and I am satisfied.:beer:

Now I had to have the door protectors repainted at the dealership, not for free but still they tried to make a deal.

It is encouraging to here from so many owners getting their R/B's installed for free.

I will be contacting GM right away to force the issue and expect a reimbursement, of some if not all of the expenses.

Tom, it's not good forum for me to copy a post from another forum, but significant progress has been made regarding GM's awareness of the problem.

Read HERE (http://www.hhrclub.org/gforum.cgi?do=post_view_flat;post=17023;page=5;sb= post_latest_reply;so=ASC;mh=25;). (The response I'm speaking of is in bold on page 5 of the thread.)

It appears GM is admitting blame for a poor design (at least to Canadian consumers), and footing the entire bill for repainting the rear quarters AND providing new running boards free of charge.

Any HHR owners concerned about this issure should start hammering their dealers and the GM Hotline (or GM via email), right now. Print out that thread and take it to your dealer. The more the merrier as numbers will only strengthen the momentum now...

Best of luck with it! :thumb:


Well Mike, there are times when even I say "you told me so." Yep I am getting the Boards (adding flaps on my nickel) so all will be good with me. Now all of you that have not contacted your dealer or checked your rear fenders, Get out and look before yours gets bad and "get er dooed".. slang for get er dun....
Good luck.

"Gee" did you get your "Bucks" as in The Deer Slayer"

Tom

Glad it worked out Tom.

I told you Doe. :D

(doe...a deer, a female deer...) :banana: :banana: :banana:

I have the same issue in the south. I had my blue 1LT for 1 month when we got a 2 day ice storm in Dallas. They sanded all the roads for the ice. I only drove on the sanded roads for 2 days. Once everything dried out and I washed my car, I found out I'd been sand-blasted. Rear fenders and rocker panels had a frosted look. I only had 1500 miles on my HHR then. My local dealer did not hesitate to say it was a problem. They immediately offered to repaint it for me. They did some investigation with GM and no official word from GM on it. My dealer installed the molded splash guards, repainted the rear fenders and rockers, and provided me a loaner from Enterprise at GM's expense. I suggested that they leave the plastic guards off of the rear fenders and cover them with the clear vinyl paint protection similar to the clear bras. I have been told by several sources that the vinyl would be more impact resistant than the paint or those plastic protectors that GM installed initially. They said they didn’t think it would be necessary after having the mud flaps installed, but said they would do it if I saw the need after trying the mud flaps. As I expected, the mud flaps did help deflect debris from the rear fenders. However, after extensive testing, (washing my car and intentionally running through puddles at a high rate of speed) I found that there was still going to be a problem with debris hitting the fenders and chipping the paint. The spray pattern only covered about 1/3 of the way up the fenders now, but was still there. So, I contacted my service manager again. He gladly added the clear vinyl to the rear fenders and rockers. Their vinyl cutting software did not have a template for the rear fenders of the HHR yet, so they did a custom job. They covered the entire fender from the point it flares out all the way to the wheel well. They covered a much larger area than the pre-cut sets you can get at www.invisiblemask.com and others. Can’t even tell it is there. Looks great. I just hope it holds up next winter when I run through sanded roads again. If not, I will be going back to them again…

I am very happy with my dealer's response. I have to say, I have had great dealer support. I hate to hear that many of you do not have the same luck. To my knowledge, they didn’t go through the district GM rep at all. They just did it and charged it to GM as a warranty issue. I hope GM will eventually step up to the plate across the board for us though.

I am very happy with my dealer's response. I have to say, I have had great dealer support. I hate to hear that many of you do not have the same luck. To my knowledge, they didn’t go through the district GM rep at all. They just did it and charged it to GM as a warranty issue. I hope GM will eventually step up to the plate across the board for us though.

My dealer really sucks! It took over 2 months to get my floor mats in :wtf: . And when they did arrive, they did not inform me of it. Also they tried to withhold the cargo mat. :cussing:

Hey, Tex, aren't you affraid the vinyl will yellow after some time? That stuff's been around for years and it eventually looks like ....

Hey, Tex, aren't you affraid the vinyl will yellow after some time? That stuff's been around for years and it eventually looks like ....

The high quality stuff doesn't get cloudy or turn yellow. It's only the cheap stuff like people buy on Ebay that has that problem. It's one of those things where you get what you pay for. ;)

talked to someone at GM ( not the 800 # ) and they claim they are NOT aware of the pitting or sandblasting or whaterver its called on the rear fender guard area of the HHR's without runningboards or any other model
so too the people who got their runningboards and repaint free or at a low cost and was told GM foot the bill , well someone is lying either GM or the dealer. i think both know but are not going to admit it just like any other issue with a car or truck , " we don't know ".
GM claimed that even repainting was not a warranty issue !!!!!
Has any executive even botherd to see if there is any complaints at all about the HHR , i don't think so. all i was looking for was a little help from the manufacture for repair of the paint spotting or pitting and runningboards , but noooo they can't be bothered. if they can't back up what they make i guess it is not worth buying ,gee it makes me wonder why GM is not doing so good .
anyone that has got their repair and r/b free or at a low cost , tell us all who the dealer is and were so we can tell GM so we can figure out who is lying!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :confused:

If you look back through the post pages you will see the dealers who have done them. My dealer will be posted after my installation and repair is complete. The dealer is located in Cloquet MN. And yes GM Does know about the issue, ask to talk to the district rep, they can verify it.

thanx

I have running boards and mud flaps, no chips 2lt with crome kit and leather.

you are one of the lucky ones that don't have to fight GM or dealer to make sure you paint does not get blasted every time you drive it

My new HHR just came in and I was standing in the wash bay looking at it. The wash person asked if it was mine, and when I said yes she looked at me. And said you don't have the running boards are you awere of the damge to the back end if you don't put them on. I said I was and about all the chatter ont the fourms. Just then some another shop person walked by and said nice car I'd put the boards on it or your paint will look like crap after a short time.
This was a shock to me I was told that they were not having problems with this issue and only have fixed two becaus of no boards. I was staning there becaue I was waiting for them to wash it and then instal the boards. AT MY EXPENCE. I went and talked to the buisness manager and said for not having a problem all the shop seems to know about it! He said not to worry when and if GM offers new borars to some one that can give use the Reps name they would refund my cost for the boards. :thumb:

don't know too much about it right now but i hear a rumor from a freind who has a body shop that there is a possible law suit or investigation to Subpoena bodyshop records of the repainting of HHR's in the area in question with those without runningboards that were damaged with pitting and looking like sandpaper , also complaints from customers to Chevy & GM ,if i hear more i'll let everyone know. REPEAT only a rumor!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

a investigation would be great , my dealer and GM praticly told me TOO BAD normal wear & tear,i told them a desighen flaw they said it would not be on the market with a flaw .$520 or no boards what nightmare i got a car that gets abnormal paint scuffing, what do you all think?

talked to someone at GM ( not the 800 # ) and they claim they are NOT aware of the pitting or sandblasting or whaterver its called on the rear fender guard area of the HHR's without runningboards or any other model
so too the people who got their runningboards and repaint free or at a low cost and was told GM foot the bill , well someone is lying either GM or the dealer. i think both know but are not going to admit it just like any other issue with a car or truck , " we don't know ".
GM claimed that even repainting was not a warranty issue !!!!!
Has any executive even botherd to see if there is any complaints at all about the HHR , i don't think so. all i was looking for was a little help from the manufacture for repair of the paint spotting or pitting and runningboards , but noooo they can't be bothered. if they can't back up what they make i guess it is not worth buying ,gee it makes me wonder why GM is not doing so good .
anyone that has got their repair and r/b free or at a low cost , tell us all who the dealer is and were so we can tell GM so we can figure out who is lying!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :confused:
my 1lt had no running bds, of mud flaps. same chip problem but dealer said running bds would be 750.00 parts/labor, and my cost was only 250.00. They did this as long as I would not mention their name and price in the same sentence. My dealer is located between Olympia and Tacoma Washington......

my 1lt had no running bds, of mud flaps. same chip problem but dealer said running bds would be 750.00 parts/labor, and my cost was only 250.00. They did this as long as I would not mention their name and price in the same sentence. My dealer is located between Olympia and Tacoma Washington......

What are they going to do if you tell after the fact? Uninstall? Right....

What are they going to do if you tell after the fact? Uninstall? Right....
They said if new customers brought it to thier attention they would work with the customer, but prefer'd we not advertise the details. Basically, they wanted to take it as a case by case issue. From what I hear, (rumor control), there have been several more running bds added.....

I spoke with the Service Manager at the dealership today regarding repairing my newly dented door, and taking care of the quarter panel paint problem. Basically, Chevy doesn't give a s**t. They refuse to recognize the problem, and will not pay for anything. The dealership says that there is NO bulletin on this problem, therefore, it doesn't exist at Chevrolet. The dealer did offer to re-paint the quarters and then apply a clear coating to protect them. I guess that's what I'll have to do unless someone else has a better idea, or better yet, someone out this way has had better luck with Chevy.

If this is how Chevy is going to be, it may be my last.

Found this site in regards to various manufacturers paint problems. Evidently according to Vibe owners, the paint sux on their vehicles, anyway this was interesting reading...
http://www.goodspeedmotoring.com/?page=modern_paint

Thanks Pacer! Tha article explains the many paint problems cropping up with the HHR. :thumb:

Nice find Pacer :thumb: something everyone may want to check out.

Update: I got no help from Dealer who I pruchased from. Decided to go to another dealer in town and see if they would help. They said they would repair the paint and give me a discount on the running board 10%. I thought this was a help as Taxes in Ontario are 15%. I thought about this and thought I should go back to GM direct and see what they would do for me. They came back with an offer to pay for the paint and installation of boards and one running board.

I guess I could have held out for more but I think all things considered this is a good deal. Let me know what you guys think. Cost of one running board is approx 300 cdn.

If you bought your HHR in Canada call the 1:800 number before you pay for repairs and running boards.

I called the dealer who offered help and he said he had been contacted by GM and made aware of what was to be done.

Kudo's to the dealer who offered help.

Took My HHR in fro the paint repair and runningboards today, I am having the mud flaps installed on my nickel.. Get it back Friday..

Tomarrow.... Hello Columbus Ohio..

Took My HHR in fro the paint repair and runningboards today, I am having the mud flaps installed on my nickel.. Get it back Friday..

Tomarrow.... Hello Columbus Ohio..

Wow Tom, it seems like your HHR is in the shop more than you drive it. :smile: At least it keeps the milage down. :lol:

I just got my HHR and it also has the "sandblasting". I am on my way to the dealer also to see what can be done about it. You would think they could come up with a better way then to have us keep coming back to repaint it or buy running boards.... I will also let every one know what the dealer has to say.......

I just got my HHR and it also has the "sandblasting". I am on my way to the dealer also to see what can be done about it. You would think they could come up with a better way then to have us keep coming back to repaint it or buy running boards.... I will also let every one know what the dealer has to say.......

Just bought it? Get the running boards - it's the only proven way to correct the problem. Tell your dealer that you feel Chevrolet should design their vehicle to prevent unnecessary road debris from damaging the paint. Almost none of their other vehicles have this problem. The consumer should not be made to pay for the designer's incompentencies. Tell them you want the area repainted AND a set of running boards installed....or the car goes back to them.

just got back from talking with the area rep, I gave her and and the owner of the Chevy dealership an education on HHRs...so much so when they put the order in for my running boards he also order them for all the HHRs on his lot that didn't have them! and told the saleman that from now on all HHR to be order must have running boards....he took pix of my damage to show any potental buyer just what will happen if they don't want running boards....anyway she, the area rep, approved to paint the area and install the running boards, and I'm sure Capt. Howdy will be gald to know that I will be paying for the boards at the cost of $450....no labor charges....I did get to chat with the body shop manager and we both agreed that painting the damaged "shields" would be not worth the effort, I told him to remove them (HHRs with running boards from the factory do not come with the "shields") and just clean up the small area at the bottom of the doors where the crease is....

How can we all get together on this and call Chevrolet on the carpet?

I have no problems paying for the boards, at 1st they quoted me that $525 price and I told them I could buy them for $450 on line....I didn't factor in shipping but that might have been free :thumb: all I wanted was for GM to fix the damage and put boards on at no cost to me...if I knew I would see that type of damage 4 months ago when I bought the HHR, I would have bought the boards so I have no issues paying for them now....

Good job man. That's making it happen! :thumb: If more people will just stand up to the dealers, things will change in this area. I bought running boards originally, so we have no problems - but I feel for those who skipped boards because they didn't want that look. They should not have to suffer from damage because of a poor design.

Personally, I love the running board look and feel it compliments the HHR's retro style - but I also understand that not every owner feels the same way.

Glad you got it handled! :twothumbs

Wow Tom, it seems like your HHR is in the shop more than you drive it. :smile: At least it keeps the milage down. :lol:

Shh Capt your letting my secret out!!!!

It keeps the airport parking costs down also... Home tomarrow.. Drove a silver LS here.. ehhhh 2.2 .. my opinon.. get the 2.4....

Hey all I just saw the dealer about my problem we are sitting down with paint manager and see what options we can come up with. I told him i would rather have the running boards and he said if thats the only solution to FIX that problem they would EAT thats right i said EAT the cost of them to make me happy and they are gonna get on GM about it....... all i can say is SWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEET

Dark Dreamz, My dealer is fixing 2 HHRs and getting runningboards for the other HHR's in his lot. Their new motto.. "A HHR sold without runningboards is a HHR not sold here!!"

:bow::one::twothumbs:hhr::twothumbs:one::bow:

Yeah my dealer was also saying that he said it looked like CRAP and stands out on mine with the color being black lol. Hey do me a fav can u send me your dealers phone number so mine can call him and talk to him about it. I think any thing we can do to help this problem the new HHR owners will love us for it. And thats funny since i havent owned mine for a week yet lol.

One of the 2 in for repair is the sales managers wife's HHR.

well that has to be done dont ya know it lol gotta make his/hers look good lol

little up date on my paint problem. Well dealer of corse said they would do all they can but they called me up said GM says all they are willing to do at this time is paint it ONE time. WTF is that it isnt a fix thats a ok here ya go on your way. Well the email from GM to the dealer even says that the running boards are the way to solve this problem. WELL then retro fit all of the ones with out it. They have me now dealing with GM direct to see what they will do for me. I told them I will only be happy with getting running board which I WILL NOT pay for. So we will see where we go from here. GM will be getting back to me. Keep you all updated......

If at first you don't succeed, drive'em crazy until you do succeed! I am sending a letter to Consumer Reports letting them know about the paint problems, and GM's stance. I don't expect they'll get me running boards, but I just want them to force GM into acknowledgement of the problem so they can fix it on future models.

If i dont get what I want which I am sure its not gonna be running board. I will tell them I will call who I have to to make a stink. Heck I will even call the news stations and show them all these post if i have to with of corse blackining out any of our names. Hope no one minds if they do let me know please. I dont want any one upset with me. Just wanna get this problem fixed. I cast the last chevy dealer 2 grand on a paint job on my colorado. No problems for me to cause a stink with GM lol and I LOVE Chevy. Just dont like this problem all of us are having.

Not that i will call news and stuff but it will make them think alittle lol

Not that i will call news and stuff but it will make them think alittle lol
GO for it , Chevy & GM need a wake up call , we all spent over 20k for this car and should NOT be going thru this hassle to get something done , we all have a lot more to deal with like high energy prices .
I have looked at about 20+ reviews and test drives by magazines and other media and they ALL had running boards on them so they would NOT know or be able to report a paint "chipping" problem

I just wanted to let you all know. Yesterday while cleaning my HHR I found a chip in the paint right were the take off the rock guards. I have the running boards and the chip was not there 2 days ago. keep on fighting the good fight but maybe the only way to keep your baby for having any paint chips is to wrap it in bubble wrap befor you head out. :lol:

Ok one more up date on my problem. I just got the call back from GM cust. Service. They said the dealer is going to do a parts and labor split. That means I am only paying for the labor which is better then paying for the running boards. So I guess I am happy with that. Going into the shop on tuesday may 2nd. At least they are kinda meeting us some way. If you had to pay for your running boards i would see what you can do. GOOD LUCK

GM has got to step up to the plate on this issue. While I realize that some opted for the boards when they ordered their cars..it's definitely an issue that needs to be resolved. In my humble opinion, running boards should be standard and if you don't want them, sign a release stating you understand the damage that can occur.

GM has come out with its offical notice on the runningboard issue. Their position is they will do the repair one time and runningboards will be paid for by the owner. This is from my service manager, Today, April 28th. Any issues prior to the release will be handled on a case by case.

We just need to keep prospective owners informed to get the runningboards when they purchase their HHR. I think hard barganing should get you the 445.00 option at no extra cost. Good Luck!!

Heading to pick my HHR up this afternoon with it's new runningboards.. WhooooOO HoooOOOO.. The Deer Slayer rides again.

:hhr: :steering: :hhr:

The dealer you bought the car from has the closest match for the paint .Buy it from them and you won't be sorry

GM has come out with its offical notice on the runningboard issue. Their position is they will do the repair one time and runningboards will be paid for by the owner. This is from my service manager, Today, April 28th. Any issues prior to the release will be handled on a case by case.

We just need to keep prospective owners informed to get the runningboards when they purchase their HHR. I think hard barganing should get you the 445.00 option at no extra cost. Good Luck!!

Heading to pick my HHR up this afternoon with it's new runningboards.. WhooooOO HoooOOOO.. The Deer Slayer rides again.

:hhr: :steering: :hhr: any link to this offical news ?

I read through this whole thread. I am to understand then that the mud flaps do nothing to help the situation? That seems odd. They should help a little. Can anyone elaborate on how much the flaps help on a scale of 1 - 10?

To "measure" the effectiveness of the mudflaps, take a long string, tuck it under the front tire (where the damaging crap comes from), pull it back to the rear fender at the door, raise it until it touches the bottom of the mudflap. The mudflap provides absolutely no protection below this line.

Yes, but I saw on the HHR acessory site where there were 2 different kinds of flaps, one was called "sculptured". I havn't gone to order mine yet, so which flap is bigger, or are they the same?

:confused:

Mike, the difference is twofold.......the "molded" are a harder plastic that is vehicle specific, the "contour" are a softer material that are Genuine GM, but softer. And less expensive. I ordered a set of the contour to have installed this week while mine is in the body shop having the rear doors repaired. I found them online at http://www.chevroletpartspeople.com/. They had the best price that included shipping. I should receive them tomorrow and I'll drop them at the shop. It's in for the week having "that" problem fixed as well as my front passenger door that someone hit. If you include shipping, they also have the best price for running boards, or "molded assist steps". The best price without shipping is at http://www.jjchevroletaccessories.com/ under Chevrolet accessories.

So no diff in size I take it. You can't tell from the GM web page. So are the mud flaps worth getting without the running boards or not?

Well, if I weren't on a pension and could make my salary again, I would be having running boards installed tomorrow. I just don't think flaps are the full answer but hopefully will help. Now, if I had the dough, I would be driving a 2LT with everything but leather ( I HATE leather seats!)

OK my HHR is now in the shop for the boards :) its gonna cost me for the install but not the boards. I will be with out my dreamz for 2 entire days :( lol.. I am glad that at least my dealer and service people were looking to help me out since i cost the last place i got my chevy colorado $2000.00 on a repair paint job for my front fender and door. I told them i dont care that GM's stand on the issue was one time paint repair. If i had to i would keep coming back to have it repainted and if it wasnt repainted i would go to att. general. and file complaint after complaint. After all i own my own business and i bend over backwards for my customers so why shouldnt GM and they make a HELL of alot more money then me lol. Sorry went on a rant about this damn paint problem but its is excactly that a PROBLEM. FIX IT NOW GM agin sorry for the rant

any link to this offical news ?

The service manager told me it is a TSB on the GM site if anyone can go there and cut n paste it .. we would be greatly thankful. Look for last monday or tuesday.

Well, I stopped by the body shop today to drop off mudflaps I bought online (much cheaper, real GM) and to give my baby a hug. She's been "in the hospital" for 3 days. I don't know whether to laugh or cry. Once they got my passenger door apart, they realized it had more damage than it showed, so they decided to replace it. Good and bad news I guess. All new parts/less filler, can't find a door! Chevy can't give a ship date of either a whole door shell or a skin! They tried numerous dealers through their network. Can't come up with either. So now the wait is on. Which ever becomes available first, shell or skin, will be going on my baby. Maybe I can get them to pinstripe it while they have it. Damn I miss it! I'm driving my daughter's 1998 Chevy S-10 with 105,000 hard miles, and lots of dents. (I don't think I could ever make it worse) :(

Well, I stopped by the body shop today to drop off mudflaps I bought online (much cheaper, real GM) and to give my baby a hug. She's been "in the hospital" for 3 days. I don't know whether to laugh or cry. Once they got my passenger door apart, they realized it had more damage than it showed, so they decided to replace it. Good and bad news I guess. All new parts/less filler, can't find a door! Chevy can't give a ship date of either a whole door shell or a skin! They tried numerous dealers through their network. Can't come up with either. So now the wait is on. Which ever becomes available first, shell or skin, will be going on my baby. Maybe I can get them to pinstripe it while they have it. Damn I miss it! I'm driving my daughter's 1998 Chevy S-10 with 105,000 hard miles, and lots of dents. (I don't think I could ever make it worse) :(


I know EXACTLY how you feel. I was just there not too long ago. My heart goes out to you, buddy. I certainly feel your pain.

I got my Dramz back 2day :) The boards look sweet on it :) I have to give thanks to all of you for this post cause if it wasnt for this I probably would be just dealing with the problem and repainting it. Again thanks to all... I cant wait to order my lowering springs and rims :)

Got a call from the dealer yesterday. My door shell is still on order. So, I can't drive my HHR! :( In my case, GM has decided to pony up for the paint job on the quarters....ONE TIME! The dealer is willing to work with me on a deal for running boards, which GM states will prevent further problems.

The really ought to consider making them standard equipment. After all, I don't think they will pay for everyone to move to warmer areas with no snow.

06 LT2 black : Just finished readind all the posts about the paint, where I live the dealer had no problem with fixing it .And did it in 3 days no cost to me also gave me the running boards at dealer cost . Me and my 11 year old son installed them in my driveway in about 2.5 hours. I live in northern Ontario Canada my ride looks fine.

06 LT2 black : Just finished readind all the posts about the paint, where I live the dealer had no problem with fixing it .And did it in 3 days no cost to me also gave me the running boards at dealer cost . Me and my 11 year old son installed them in my driveway in about 2.5 hours. I live in northern Ontario Canada my ride looks fine.

Welcome to the site ozeeone. Glad to here that your dealership was willing to work with you.:thumb:

Oh boy......it gets better. Spoke with the body shop today. Now remember, I dropped my baby off on May 1 for the rear quarter repairs as well as my front passenger door. Today is May 10. Now......drum roll please........GM notified the dealer that my replacement door shell will be released for delivery on May 19. :nuts: Isn't that great! The poor guys in the body shop have pulled everything apart in anticipation of a quick repair, now I won't have my ride until who knows when. Very frustrating. :cry: And to top it all off, I don't have rental on my insurance, and my daughter comes home from school on Friday. Looks like I'll be hitchhiking!

My dealer basically told me that it would get painted once for free and thats it. I phoned GM of Canada and told them the story. They just got back to me to day and said that the paint is free. I have to dish out 200 bucks for the running boards and the loaner car is free. I feel good that they are doing this for me. Most Canadian HHR owners aren't so lucky from what I heard.
I just hope that they give me a HHR for the loaner.:smile:

My dealer basically told me that it would get painted once for free and thats it. I phoned GM of Canada and told them the story. They just got back to me to day and said that the paint is free. I have to dish out 200 bucks for the running boards and the loaner car is free. I feel good that they are doing this for me. Most Canadian HHR owners aren't so lucky from what I heard.
I just hope that they give me a HHR for the loaner.:smile:

Two hundred isn't bad. While a few owners have gotten the boards for free it seems most are being charged the original option price. I got mine installed for $318 and am satisfied that I got the best deal I could.

:confused: Did you folks read the service bulletin about the chips? Glad I got mine with the running boards. Read the info, gota feeling GM screwed up.
http://www.alldata.com/tsb/General-M...51-002/21.html

(it may be necessary to perform the following repair in order to meet customer expectations and gain their product satisfaction), goes on to say one time fix....What I see is the folks that bought their HHR without the running boards are gonna have to live with it, unless you shell out more money....The big companies don't make enough now HUH?
I think this is wrong. If they have a problem and are trying to keep customers happy, maybe they need to make a good product, or make a fix for it. They know they have a problem from how I read it.
Hate to tell people not to buy this vehicle, but maybe they need to be warned, you're gonna loose paint on your rocker panels and fenders, going to look bad after a few months of driving....sorta like the rusty trucks and cars of the 70's. Just think the Big Companies keep getting richer at the poor mans expense. I like my HHR and have the running boards, and am glad.

I guess I'm one of the lucky ones. I did not get the RB's on mine. I prefer the look of the bodylines without them. I have had mine just over three months, have 20K miles on it and have no paint chip problems (knocks on wood) On top of everything else, I live in the country and frequently drive down white rock roads and even the "city" roads in my small town have quite a bit of loose gravel and rocks on them. I just take it slow and easy when I get close to home. The rest of my driving is all highway.

CBL

6000 miles and no chips yet, but I am working a deal with my dealership on running boards. we will see where that goes, I didn't pay much attebtion to the board issue when I bought mine, I got in a hurry...but I don't care, I love it and in the rea world you do have to deal with issues...

Update on paint chip problem.
Dropped the HHR off yesterday at the Dealer to install the running boards and paint.
GM Canada is paying for the paint job as out lined in the TSB. This was decided before the TSB was released. GM is paying for installation of Running boards and one running board.
Kudos’s to City Chev of Hamilton. They weren't the selling dealer but they sure went to bat for me. I'll post pictures in gallery later on in the week.
Hopefully it will finally be warm enough to put my CHEVYHHR.NET sticker on.
It has been sitting in the envelope for a couple of months
.:thumb:

Well.....it's been 20 days that my HHR has been in the shop. They called late this afternoon and told me the door was in! Now it's all a matter of paint and reassembly. I hope to have it back by the end of the week. Stay tuned

The body shop called this afternoon. I can pick it up tomorrow morning. All painted including the rocker repair from GM. They installed mud flaps for me and are buffing it all out as well as detailing it (freebie). I got it mid-December and the paint had swirl scratches from washing it. (It was VERY nasty and cold when it came in). As far as the boards......I just can't afford them, even with a dealer discount. They are not a huge dealership and can only afford to go so low. Me....I'm on a pension and just can't afford certain things. I do have other obligations that have to come first. So hopefully, one of these days GM will admit they messed up and offer some type of "molded assist step corrective installation" program. Until then, I guess I'll have to park it when the roads are crummy in the winter. I think the great thing is that I hooked the guys at the dealership to this website. They can't believe the problems! They really had no idea.

Remember....if you are in the market for a Chevy in the Metro-West Massachusetts area, Herb Connolly Chevrolet in Framingham. They are the best! Ask me how I know (and I don't work there!) :thumb:

The body shop called this afternoon. I can pick it up tomorrow morning. All painted including the rocker repair from GM. They installed mud flaps for me and are buffing it all out as well as detailing it (freebie). I got it mid-December and the paint had swirl scratches from washing it. (It was VERY nasty and cold when it came in). As far as the boards......I just can't afford them, even with a dealer discount. They are not a huge dealership and can only afford to go so low. Me....I'm on a pension and just can't afford certain things. I do have other obligations that have to come first. So hopefully, one of these days GM will admit they messed up and offer some type of "molded assist step corrective installation" program. Until then, I guess I'll have to park it when the roads are crummy in the winter. I think the great thing is that I hooked the guys at the dealership to this website. They can't believe the problems! They really had no idea.

Remember....if you are in the market for a Chevy in the Metro-West Massachusetts area, Herb Connolly Chevrolet in Framingham. They are the best! Ask me how I know (and I don't work there!) :thumb:

If you can;t afford the boards yet. Might I suggest that you put real low mud flaps on. GM will only paint the rear fenders once for free. The long flaps will help lots. I have them on mine till my boards get in. Glad to see that you have your baby back at home.:smile:

Well, I had sent a letter to the owner of the dealership a couple of weeks ago. Not to b**** about them, but how they go out of their way to take care of their customers while GM ignores everyone. (Read the business section of the paper today?) And I mentioned the paint problem that GM should be correcting with running boards, not just paint. Well.....today I received a call from the Service Manager at the dealership. What would make me happy? I said that having GM stepping up to the plate on this issue would satisfy me. Well, we know that they aren't in a hurry to do that. So in lieu of that the dealer has offerd me a spectacular deal (I am keeping the price secret) on running boards! Well within my range, including installation and a cup of coffee. Try and beat that. I must say that when I purchased my first Chevy from them in 2001, I went in knowing I could get a better deal pricewise down the street. I also knew that at this dealership, not only was a buying a new vehicle, but everyone was great and the service is the best in the area! And I still feel that way today. :bow: :smile: I only wish that GM would treat customers the same way.

Running boards are in. Getting them installed on Monday! Pics afterwards

good new Firerwatcher....

Got'em! Yep....genuine GM running boards, installed today! While GM won't have anything to do with running board installs for the paint problem, my dealer, Herb Connolly Chevrolet in Framingham, MA has once again stepped up to the plate. They gave me an awsome deal! I can't say enough about the great service they have provided over the years.

http://chevyhhr.net/gallery/browseimages.php?c=3&userid=340

Lookin good Firewatcher. I know some people don't like the look...but I sure do. I had mine added after purchase and I think it gives the HHR a whole new attitude. :D

congrats bud! It just adds more style to your HHR!

I'll have my running boards on this weekend to. They are also painting the rear fenders and the hood for free. GM of Canada is picking up the hole bill and also getting a car for me till mine is all done. I told them that I want a HHR. Thats what they are giving me. I'm very happy with what they are doing for me.

Always remember.....It's not the company, it's the person who represents it. I think GM should take a few lessons on cutomer care/service from their dealers.

You got that right! ! ! !

Does anyone have a link to the TSB on this problem. My HHR is not even a week old and I have chips. :cry:

Here's the TSB........

http://www.alldata.com/tsb/General-Motors/1144738800000_1146121200000_06-08-51-002/21.html

Here's the TSB........http://www.alldata.com/tsb/General-Motors/1144738800000_1146121200000_06-08-51-002/21.html


Thanks :D

No need for thanks...........that's why we are all here. It's all about our HHR's :thumb:

Hello, I live in the mountains of WV and invested in the mud flaps from dealer and I have the same problem. I wished I would have went with the running boards now......but can't go back and change whats already happened. Thinking about takin it back to the dealer and see what can be done to try to correct the issue. Then once I get it fixed it will have either the running boards or the clear coat plastic around it to protect it from now on. I have a silver L1 model.

Hello, I live in the mountains of WV and invested in the mud flaps from dealer and I have the same problem. I wished I would have went with the running boards now......but can't go back and change whats already happened. Thinking about takin it back to the dealer and see what can be done to try to correct the issue. Then once I get it fixed it will have either the running boards or the clear coat plastic around it to protect it from now on. I have a silver L1 model.


Hey there and welcome.
I have had the same problem. I first went to the dealer and they said that I would have to pay for everything.( the running boards and paint.) I phoned GM of Canada. ( Live in Saskatoon Sask) and they are going to pay for the boards piant and a loner car for me. I would see what your dealer will do first then call GM to see what they will do.

:welcome: Welcome Wendy!

Yes, talking with your dealer might get you further than you think.
Some owners have had the area repainted for free, and received substantial discounts on running boards and installation.

Give it a shot - and best of luck! :thumb:

Wendy
First welcome to the site :thumb:
Second print out the TSB talking about the problem and take it with you. This will help your case and maybe they will help you out like Socal noted.
Hope things work out for you.

:welcome: to chevyhhr.net...the best HHR forum on the internet.

The folks above are right...print out the TSB and take it with you. They have to do a ONE time paint on the affected areas. However, it does say that the running boards are at customer cost. At the very least, they should sell you the running boards at the option price of $445. That's what my dealer did...but they also charged me for install. :( Good luck and let us know how things go. Never hurts to give GM a call either...sometimes it helps...sometimes it doesn't...depends on who you get on the other end of the line I'm sure.

Look forward to seeing you around the boards...and be sure to post pics. We are picture hungry folks around here. :nuts:

: At the very least, they should sell you the running boards at the option price of $445. That's what my dealer did...but they also charged me for install. :

I would have fought that. The option price, as a delaer installed option, has the installation built in. So they did not cost your dealer $445. So really in effect you paid twice for instalation unless the option price in the US is "built" differently than in Canada.

I would have fought that. The option price, as a delaer installed option, has the installation built in. So they did not cost your dealer $445. So really in effect you paid twice for instalation unless the option price in the US is "built" differently than in Canada.

I hear where you are coming from...I'm getting a little peeved at my dealer...seems they overcharge for everything.

Went and met with another member here, Bryce Strong who works at another Chevrolet dealer in town today. He's one of their internet sales consultants now and he's going to talk to the guy who heads their service department and tell him what's been going on. Really getting fed up with the dealer where I bought my HHR and the one he works at is actually closer to me than where I bought mine. Went there originally and they only had 3 units at the time so I kept shopping until I found what I wanted. Think a call to my salesman is in order so I can let him know what's been happening. Will wait until Bryce talks to his people before making a stink though. Only thing that does help is that I get a 10% discount from where I bought it...but that's only because they are a supporting Chevy dealer at the other forum that has the big time membership fee. Will keep you informed on what's going on with both.

Well my dealer just told me to go **** myself or pay $697.48. :cussing: Hell i can buy them off ebay for less than 500 shipped.:censored:
Wait till I take their survey. 0's across the board.:mad:

He also told me the best price for splash guards was $110 just to sell them to me. :censored:

Too bad you didn't get a deal from Batman. At least I don't think he would have told you take a hike in such a bad way as your dealer.

Well my dealer just told me to go **** myself or pay $697.48. :cussing: Hell i can buy them off ebay for less than 500 shipped.:censored:
Wait till I take their survey. 0's across the board.:mad:

He also told me the best price for splash guards was $110 just to sell them to me. :censored:

I would try a couple of other dealers to see if you can get some kind of break on the running boards. The free paint is a given, but you should not have to pay more than the option price for the running boards -- installed! The running board issue is strictly in the hands of the local dealers right now so what dealers are willing to offer varies. I would make sure everyone I know was aware of the bad treatment you got from this dealer. :frown:

I just got my HHR back from the dealership after chevy agreed to pay 50 percent of the cost of the running boards for me. They had already fixed the chipping problem once and the dealership fixed the chipping \peeling problem again. It was kind of a hassle (chevy wanting to give me two years worth of free oil changes to go away)My dealers service manager went to bat for me and got the 50/50 split I had asked for.Getting the second repaint was a small hassle but it all turned out good. Now my next goal is to get my money back for the 50/50 split once gm decides to put running boards on all of the hhr's that are having the problem. The running boards look cool but they hit my ankle when I get out. But I'll get used to it. This car still is the most fun I've had in a long time

Tim Brisson

Have running boards and splash guards and not one chip in the black paint after 3600 miles...

Customer Relationship Specialist: Cathy Scott

Dear Mr. Schrier,

Thank you for contacting the Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center. We appreciate you taking the time to write us in regards to your 2006 HHR.

I recognize that this situation has caused you a great level of frustration, and I hope that you can accept my sincerest apology on behalf of General Motors and Chevrolet.

Please understand though there is a Technical Service Bulletin about the paint concerns for the HHR, TSB's in no way offer any type of cost assistance with a repair. TSB's simply advise the dealers of what the repairs should be and if the TSB advises that running boards being placed on the vehicle would prevent the paint concerns, but does state that this would be done at customer expense, then the Customer Assistance Center would not be able to offer any assistance with adding these to the vehicle.

Chevrolet supports Buckle Up America. We encourage you, your family and your friends to always Buckle Up.

If you should need to contact us in the future, simply reply to this message or call our Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center at 1-800-222-1020. Customer Relationship Specialists are available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., Eastern Time.

For more information regarding the maintenance and care of your vehicle, please visit www.mygmlink.com. This free online service offers vehicle and ownership-related information and tools tailored to your specific Chevrolet.

Again, thank you for contacting Chevrolet.

Sincerely,

The Chevrolet Consumer Support Team


:mad: :mad: :mad: :censored: :frown: :sad:

In other words...take a hike and thank you for shopping with GM. :cussing: Silly broad didn't tell you anything the TSB didn't already say. :roll:

That's basically what I was told too. My dealer did sell the boards to me at option price and charged $100 to install. Wasn't happy with that...but was glad to have it protected.

Silly broad didn't tell you anything the TSB didn't already say. :roll:

Sure she did. ;) Buckle up! :roll: :lol:

My dealer wants to charge $700.00 to have them installed! :eek: :( :( :( :confused:

http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j125/courthousedeb/Smilies/36a3f757.gif

My dealer said 450 plus 150 for install so I said no thanx got a new gm set off ebay for 280 bucks 45 for shipping and put them on for free myself!!

Hmmm 600 or 325 let me think DOOH!!

Is it possible to petition GM to get this fixed on all HHR’s? If so how many signatures would it take?

if dealer refuses , file with BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU . you WILL get free running boards and a paint job . chevy knows and will fight you all the way . they have 40 days to fix problem. don't be discouraged by chevy. stay and fight . the chipping is unacceptable and they WILL fix it. your hhr deserves it. it is not a hard thing to do . BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU knows what they are doing . i fought for my hhr and won . chevy has to do the right thing . good luck .....

BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU WILL help. chevy knows this problem and puts up a little fight , but they will install free ones and repaint . just went through it with my black hhr. totally unaccecpable . BBB will get your stuff on for you within 40 days . costs you nothing .

Everyone, the mud flaps alone will not prevent the damage to the areas. I have an appointment next week at which time I am going to see where I can go about this design flaw. However, if everyone that has this problem could start complaining to the dealer maybe word will get back to GM. In a way they already have acknowledged there is a problem off the record because they added the plastic pads to the doors in an obvious effort to reduce the damage. That is the only reason I can see why they would put them there. The damage this is causing really sucks and is extremly annoying especially while navigating the storm we just experienced here in the NJ/PA/NY area. I could hear the salt and pebbles literally bouncing off the side of the impact area. As much as I hate to, looks like the Running Boards are the only option as of now :roll: Now if I can work in a repaint of the area before hand...
BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU will get you free running boards and a paint job . chevy will fight you but they know they have to fix it. you will have your stuff in 40 days from filing. no cost to you .try it ...i got action with BBB , so can you .chevy is being forced to do the right thing and they'd like to blow you off , but they can't blow off the BBB.

Hey, last I checked the BBB had no enforcement powers. They try, but if a business owner or manufacturer declines, the BBB just inserts a letter in the businesses file indicating unsatisfactory settlement.

Now that I think about it, the BBB's only "juice" is with the local business (dealer). So, that may do some good and your disposition was from the dealer not GM.....which I believe "nfboy" was elluding too.:thumb:

Hey, last I checked the BBB had no enforcement powers. They try, but if a business owner or manufacturer declines, the BBB just inserts a letter in the businesses file indicating unsatisfactory settlement.

Now that I think about it, the BBB's only "juice" is with the local business (dealer). So, that may do some good and your disposition was from the dealer not GM

From http://www.bbb.org/about/index.asp

"About The Better Business Bureau System
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) system in the U.S. extends across the nation; coast-to-coast, and in Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico.

Since the founding of the first BBB in 1912, the BBB system has proven that the majority of marketplace problems can be solved fairly through the use of voluntary self-regulation and consumer education.

The BBB's Core Services include:

Business Reliability Reports;
Dispute Resolution;
Truth-in-Advertising;
Consumer and Business Education; and
Charity Review. "

Snoop is right IMHO.

My dealer said 450 plus 150 for install so I said no thanx got a new gm set off ebay for 280 bucks 45 for shipping and put them on for free myself!!

Hmmm 600 or 325 let me think DOOH!!

Oldschool @ that price buy me a set :lol: But my question is this.
When you purchased them were they for your 1st HHR or your 2nd. Da!

Z

As you can tell my Computer is now back in service.:thumb:

AH for the 2nd one didnt have the first long enough to look !!! thanx for the remind Z!!! LOL

after your dealer and area rep refuse to help ( they will read you the chevy bulletin ) , contact online or phone BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU .they will send you a BBB booklet and forms (very easy ). fill out and return ASAP . BBB will notify chevy BBB autoline . these people are not your friend. they do not want to do the right thing and fix this problem .you do not have to agree to anything chevy BBB autoline offers. they are not your friend . however BBB is your friend . they want you to have your car fixed . this is not a hard or lenghthy process . please note though , that in your final agreement with chevy through your friend BBB that you state the front doors need to be painted as well . the original chevy bulletin states only the back doors and back fenders will be painted . not good enough. they tried it on me and my dealer sent it back to the paint shop . my dealer ate the $800.00 paint job for the front doors . i guess chevy didn't think we'd notice . SHAME on chevy !!! be diligent ....don't give up !! my hhr didn't deserve to look like that and neither does anyone's . speak up ..make chevy do the right thing . good luck...

my dealer had to pay $0.00 the area rep has to find the money , NOT the dealer .got my free boards and paint through BBB . true ,no enforcement powers . however if you should have to go to court over this it will show you in good faith trying to settle problem. also goes as a mark against chevy. chevy will try to discourage you but it is NOT too hard. it certainly is worth it . my quote was $600.00 from dealer for the aftermarket boards .why should i pay for a problem they knew existed . see the ugly plastic pieces on your fenders ? that's chevy's solution to the fading and chipping . here's mine . BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU . what have you got to lose ? only those ugly plastic pieces . BBB costs you NOTHING . Hmmm..... let's see ...free running boards and paint job through BBB or $600.00 for something that should have been taken care of on the drawing board . at my dealer another blackk hhr owner ran into the same area rep i did and he also went immediately to BBB. he's riding around with boards and paint job NO CHARGE . again ,the dealer does not have anything to do with paying if you go through BBB .

Thank you all for posting your issues. We saw this as we were researching the HHR and what to buy. We made sure to get one with the running boards.
I work in Consumer Support Warranty department for a large manufacturing company. You will get further by contacting the Attorney General in your state and the state of the dealer or manufacturer. When I get a letter from the Attorney General's Office, this takes priority over other letters. The Attorney Generals office keeps track of how many complaints they get for a company and will take action when they see a pattern of the same problem that is not being resolved. Your state should also have a Department of Consumer Affairs. They will have investigators look into your situation and deal with the manufacturer directly to resolve the issue.

Hope that helps

my dealer had to pay $0.00 the area rep has to find the money , NOT the dealer .got my free boards and paint through BBB . true ,no enforcement powers . however if you should have to go to court over this it will show you in good faith trying to settle problem. also goes as a mark against chevy. chevy will try to discourage you but it is NOT too hard. it certainly is worth it . my quote was $600.00 from dealer for the aftermarket boards .why should i pay for a problem they knew existed . see the ugly plastic pieces on your fenders ? that's chevy's solution to the fading and chipping . here's mine . BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU . what have you got to lose ? only those ugly plastic pieces . BBB costs you NOTHING . Hmmm..... let's see ...free running boards and paint job through BBB or $600.00 for something that should have been taken care of on the drawing board . at my dealer another blackk hhr owner ran into the same area rep i did and he also went immediately to BBB. he's riding around with boards and paint job NO CHARGE . again ,the dealer does not have anything to do with paying if you go through BBB .

Dude has the BBB got you on commission?

dude, i'm trying to help out here ...if all of you feel better paying $600 - $800.00 for boards and paint , knock yourselves out !! if you all have gotten NOWHERE with your dealer , FILE with BBB . it is FREE....FREE..no money from you ! what are you all afraid of ????? if you all spent the time filing with the BBB that you spend on this site complaining about it ,you would ALL have your FREE running boards and paint job , and we could be talking about something else . EVERYBODY stop whining ,stop paying and get the free running boards and paint job !!!!! it is not HARD !! JUST DO IT !!!! and i am not a dude.

your salesman ,dealer , service manager have no authorization to get you free running boards .they can only act if the area rep okays it .they would have to pay out of the dealers pocket. this is not fair to the dealer .anyway, stop with the dealer. file with BBB AFTER your dealer's AREA rep refuses .YOU SHOULD HAVE TO PAY NOTHING !!!!!

My dealer wants to charge $700.00 to have them installed! :eek: :( :( :( :confused:
think what you could get with that money. do NOT give it to chevy.they will give you free ones .just go through the BBB . i didn't pay a cent ! chevy is NOT your friend .chevy is trying to bully hhr owners without boards to buy them to fix a problem that chevy themselves should be fixing for free. DON'T BE AFRAID !!!!!

If you feel so stronly against Chevy then why drive a GM vehicle? :confused: I'm not trying to start a war here but just curious. :smile: I know if I felt so strongly against a vehicle manufacturer I would sell the vehicle in question and buy one from another manufacturer. ;)

I would try a couple of other dealers to see if you can get some kind of break on the running boards. The free paint is a given, but you should not have to pay more than the option price for the running boards -- installed! The running board issue is strictly in the hands of the local dealers right now so what dealers are willing to offer varies. I would make sure everyone I know was aware of the bad treatment you got from this dealer. :frown:
stop dealing with your dealer !!!!!!! they are not in a position to give you free boards unless they want to eat the cost....and they don't want to. chevy has left their own dealers hanging . go to BBB, fill out the forms and get your boards free .one thing though , when you reach your agreement with BBB and chevy make sure you state that your FRONT doors get painted by them as well . the bulletin only states BACK doors and fenders . leave your dealers alone,it is out of their hands. do not be fooled by dealers maybe paying 50%. you will not have to pay anything if you go through BBB !!!

Hey, last I checked the BBB had no enforcement powers. They try, but if a business owner or manufacturer declines, the BBB just inserts a letter in the businesses file indicating unsatisfactory settlement.

Now that I think about it, the BBB's only "juice" is with the local business (dealer). So, that may do some good and your disposition was from the dealer not GM.....which I believe "nfboy" was elluding too.:thumb:
i got running boards and paint job for free. the disposition was from GM...NOT THE DEALER . i went through BBB.the dealer has nothing to do with BBB. the dealer never deals with the BBB .BBB deals with chevy directly.dealer only gets the okay from chevy AFTER BBB .

My dealer said 450 plus 150 for install so I said no thanx got a new gm set off ebay for 280 bucks 45 for shipping and put them on for free myself!!

Hmmm 600 or 325 let me think DOOH!!
$280 + ????? YOU GOT BEAT BY CHEVY !!!! you could have gone through BBB and got them for FREE !! hmmmm, my money or FREE ? i chose BBB and got them FREE !!!!!!!

Come on now! :censored: I think everyone gets your point by now. ;) Are you going to reply to every single post in this thread with tell the BBB. :roll: It is getting annoying now, kind of like a skipping record! ;) :diespam:

$280 + ????? YOU GOT BEAT BY CHEVY !!!! you could have gone through BBB and got them for FREE !! hmmmm, my money or FREE ? i chose BBB and got them FREE !!!!!!!

OK, We hear you.
Thanks for your input.

If you feel so stronly against Chevy then why drive a GM vehicle? :confused: I'm not trying to start a war here but just curious. :smile: I know if I felt so strongly against a vehicle manufacturer I would sell the vehicle in question and buy one from another manufacturer. ;)
i am not against chevy . i have always driven chevys . i will always drive a chevy . i do not think i deserve to be treated by chevy the way they are trying to make us pay for the boards . if chevy or the dealer had explained to me when i went to look at the hhr that i would HAVE TO BUY THE MODEL WITH RUNNING BOARDS or have a crappy looking car in just a few hundred miles ,it would be a different story. chevy knew , that's why those ugly plastic pieces are there . i did not expect this from chevy..shame on them for trying to make us pay for a design flaw that they knew about . as for my loyalty to chevy....back in the 1970's my brother worked for a dealer and for years did the undercoating on cars at the gm plant in tarrytown,ny . because at that time none of really knew what was in all those chemicals and as a result my brother died at the age of 32 . he always drove a chevy and so do i

Come on now! :censored: I think everyone gets your point by now. ;) Are you going to reply to every single post in this thread with tell the BBB. :roll: It is getting annoying now, kind of like a skipping record! ;) :diespam:
STOP ALL YOUR WHINING AND DO SOMETHING FOR YOURSELVES

STOP ALL YOUR WHINING AND DO SOMETHING FOR YOURSELVES

:confused: :roll: Here is a little news for you. I have both the running boards and the mud flaps and have noticed a few little stone chips on my rear fenders lately. You are venting your frustration at the wrong people. You stopped adding useful comments to this thread a long time ago and started venting your frustration not at Chevy but the members of this board. :roll: You are the type of person that has a bad day at work then goes home and kicks their dog right? :roll:

I'm with CH on this one. You had good luck with the BBB. You recommended it to others, and we thank you for your input. That's what this group is all about....trading info, helping other owners. Just let's not get carried away.

BTW - :welcome: to ChevyHHR.net, the best HHR group on the planet. Sit back, relax, enjoy the ride. Opinions are always welcome and valued here. Tirades really aren't. A little etiquette goes a loooooooong way! :thumb:

I'm with CH on this one. You had good luck with the BBB. You recommended it to others, and we thank you for your input. That's what this group is all about....trading info, helping other owners. Just let's not get carried away.

BTW - :welcome: to ChevyHHR.net, the best HHR group on the planet. Sit back, relax, enjoy the ride. Opinions are always welcome and valued here. Tirades really aren't. A little etiquette goes a loooooooong way! :thumb:
A LITTLE TIRADE GOT MY FREE RUNNING BOARDS

Unfortunately Ptownhhr, you have an entitlement mentallity, which in the long run raise cost for the rest of us consumers. IF you bought your veh. w/o running boards, for what ever reason, didn`t like look, didn`t like price, didn`t want to wait for delivery, what ever reason, how does that translate into Chevy lied/didn`t tell you about something. Now all of a sudden it`s a DESIGN FLAW. I get chips on my bumper, grill, Windsheild, etc., Nobody Told me that would happen, so it was a lie/design flaw that Chevy/future consumers should pick up the tab for. It`s not fair ,I`m a VICTIM...
Maybe your next RIDE should come in a BUBBLE...

Unfortunately Ptownhhr, you have an entitlement mentallity, which in the long run raise cost for the rest of us consumers. IF you bought your veh. w/o running boards, for what ever reason, didn`t like look, didn`t like price, didn`t want to wait for delivery, what ever reason, how does that translate into Chevy lied/didn`t tell you about something. Now all of a sudden it`s a DESIGN FLAW. I get chips on my bumper, grill, Windsheild, etc., Nobody Told me that would happen, so it was a lie/design flaw that Chevy/future consumers should pick up the tab for. It`s not fair ,I`m a VICTIM...
Maybe your next RIDE should come in a BUBBLE...
chevy agreed it was a design flaw in the settlement ..why am i the bad guy ?

chevy agreed it was a design flaw in the settlement ..why am i the bad guy ?

Because of your insistent whining and venting your frustration at members of the board. All of your posts on this site have been call the BBB. Don't you have anything else to say or aren't you interested in any other threads? :confused: