OKIE SS

Looking for updated info on good front strut assembly and rear shocks for 2008 HHR SS currently with FE5. Car has about 86000 miles now and I'm beginning to notice a lot more bumps and road noise on uneven roadways.

Looking for something more in the comfort and ride arena than sporty driving. Car is stock with no mods.

Monroe and KYB seem to be the major choices in older posts. I'm currently thinking of Monroe struts assemblies 172179R/L and KYB 349043 rear shocks - or if anyone has part numbers that differ. Monroe, KYB, CarID, Rockauto sites are a joke when trying to look up models - none have the HHR SS that I could find.

Suggestions - part numbers please.

Oldblue

The FE5 suspension in your SS, aren't really compatible with the FE 1 of the LS ir 1LT or FE 3 suspension option on the 2LT.
Yes you can install KYB's struts and shocks they will bolt right in.
However the Monroe or Gabriel quick struts will lift the front end roughly 2 1/4 inches causing handling and braking problems

See #4 under suspension the part numbers for FE5 struts
https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/comm...-part-i-48833/

OKIE SS

Thanks for the lead. It appears GM Parts Direct lists the struts in pieces (springs, insulators, bumpers, mounts, bearings, etal and not as an assembly. That and the springs for FE5 w/auto trans are not available; manual trans yes, auto trans no.

I found KYB struts (only) at ZZP and Summit - same prices, same part numbers but ZZP site doesn't show the HHR SS specifically, If I were to reuse the other pieces of the assembly (springs, bearings, etc.) would these work with the FE5?

RJ_RS_SS_350

The part numbers in the link Oldblue provided are for the 'strut kit' or 'strut asm'

STRUT KIT. Front and Rear Suspension. STRUT ASM/FRONT; SUSPENSION/FRONT made by GM. #19179738

STRUT KIT. Front and Rear Suspension. STRUT ASM/FRONT; SUSPENSION/FRONT made by GM. #20794824

You can google the part numbers and find them from other sellers, even GM Parts Direct.

OKIE SS

Gotcha, thank you! Found front strut kits and rear shocks through GMpartscenter.net - $100 less than the wholsesalegmpartsonline.com - $367.52 vs $492.43 shipped.

I really appreciate your help!

Oldblue

Just make sure they are for FE 5, not fits FE1, FE3 and FE5 !
The KYB struts and shocks would work for your SS giving a but softer ride, it's the springs you need to be careful of or you'll sit higher in the front!

donbrew

Don't skimp, replace the mounts. They are worn out, even if they don't fall apart and land on a pile of sand.

If you are confident with you abilities you can "borrow" a spring compressor tool from Zone/Advance/Oreilly. Or buy a set for under $20.

However; Danger! Danger! Will Robinson. The springs can kill.

OKIE SS

Showing my ignorance here but what the difference between FE 5 and FE5? The sticker in my glove compartment shows FE5 (no spaces).

firemangeorge

No difference. FE5 is the SS only suspension. Oldblue just did a typo when he put a space in there.
What he's trying to say is. Don't believe a seller that claims their struts will replace the FE1, FE3 AND FE5. That's simply not true since the FE5 struts are different than the others.
(technically, the struts all bolt up with the same bolt pattern but the FE5's are stiffer for the performance suspension set up of the SS )

RJ_RS_SS_350

What he said!!