I picked my HHR up about a week ago. It has the stage 1 upgrade on it. When I first got it, the car would hit around 24psi WOT. Now it peaks at around 20psi if not 19. I am sure there are tons of boost issue posts here and I apologize for my addition.

I know the launch control is just a gimmick, but isn't it supposed to build boost before you let the clutch out? Mine does not.

Any help?

 

Welcome


Launch Control (SS Models Only)
Launch Control is a form of traction control, to control
tire spin while launching the vehicle during closed track
events and competitive driving. The feature is activated
when the vehicle is at rest while in Competitive Mode.
At rest, if the accelerator pedal is pressed to the floor
with the clutch engaged, the RPM is limited to a
predetermined level. A smooth, quick release of the
clutch while keeping the accelerator pedal on the floor will
provide controlled wheel spin for consistent acceleration.
If the vehicle is equipped with a manual transmission,
complete shifts as described in Manual Transmission
Operation on page 2-30.

hope this helps

 

Your boost will vary with conditions, alt and temps.

Some days and time it will be a little high and some a little lower. The computer adjust to the conditions and loads.

19-23 PSI in most areas is normal.

 

I thought the stage 1 upgrade makes a minimum of 22psi?

 

it should and does. I was seeing up to about 25psi until a few weeks ago. now seeing 17psi tops. took it in today they said I have a bad wastegate actuator solenoid... one is on order. but that another thread.

 

You are not going to hit top PSI every time you hit the gas. Load on the engine, speed and RPM all are factors.

PSI on turbo's are not a absloute constant. It will vary some do to many factors.

 

I think alot of people are confusing the older turbo systems that basically held boost until whatever limits were reached, especially since bost pressures were low compared to the SS...where as the SS willl and does vary/regulate the boost and output power by means of timing and boost to keep the engine in one piece and make that 100k warranty possible...

 

I think at times the best thing that GM could have done is left the boost gauge out off the car. There is no reason to have one unless you modify the engine.

Also if you do not know how the system works it only creates more issues and questions.

 

boost gauge or not my car has definitely lost some of its power in the past few weeks.

 

Check your BUTT SPLICE connections on the new sensors...I kept having that issue I read on another post others were having the issue and the solution was to solder it in. I did, and all I can say is you better hang onto the steering wheel. I had mine done haven't had anymore issues or CEL's......