Wheres the Zip? (was it ever there?)
 

Sooo, I get to drive lots of different cars on a regular basis buying cars at various auto auctions. I bought my 07 HHR 1LT 2.4L 5spd sight unseen and had never driven a manual HHR with 2.4. I test drove a 2LT with the auto and was not impressed powerwise when compared to my Grand Prix GT but that was to be expected. I was looking for gas mileage, utility, and reliability.

Anyhow, I drove a Pontiac G3 (cobalt) with 2.2L and 5spd at the auction the other day and it was fast. It wound up and pulled hard. Then I drove a saturn Ion with same motor and 5spd, same thing. I get in my HHR, and torque is flat, it winds up very fast but does not pull any harder at any RPM. No point winding it pas 3k RPM because it gets noisy but not any faster.

Is this normal? Its got 37k miles on it, no check engine lights, idles nice and steady, consistently returns 28-30mpg (even mostly in town). I just wish it would wind up in 1, 2, and 3 a little bit instead of just getting noisy. Its a beautiful car, but all show and no go. Keep in mind that other than upgraded 17" factory wheels and Progress sway bar, steering wheel radio controls (which must make it faster right?), it is completely stock.

Is this normal behavior? Would the TriFecta Tune make it zippier? I just feel bummed that I've got this hot looking car, drinking premium fuel with a manual, and a Neon or cobalt will smoke me.

1st gear - 15mph @ 3k rpm
2nd gear - 30mph @ 3k rpm
3rd gear - 40mph @3k rpm


https://www.chevyhhr.net/gallery/fil...-15-56_453.jpg

You sure it's a 2.4? I was under the impression that it only came in the 2LT. Coulda been an option, I suppose.
Mine won't win any races, but it does what I need it to do. I've only once thought I could use a bit more oomph, but that was only because some jerk in a Challenger decided to speed up while I was passing him.

Yours must be broke, mine zips fine up to 6500 rpm..

I have an 2006 2lt I made CAI total of 2, mine is not slow hauls ass when I punch it, gas mileage is terrible as Im always punching it and dont need anymore HP.:propeller:

if my cam phaser solenoids were bad, I'd get a CEL right? Do my RPMs match the speed of other 2.4's with 5spd? It is for sure the 2.4L, I checked the VIN before I bought it and its got the big tail pipe that only the 2.4L got. My brother in law has a HHR 2.2 with 5spd and it will walk all over mine, and does it smoother and quieter. go figure. After 3k RPM, its out of gogo and you must shift.

My 2.2 only starts to get fun at 3000rpm. Sounds like you should get it checked out by someone who knows these engines, it could be caused by many things. Im thinking if it was the clutch the problem would be felt when starting off.
If want to try checking yourself, maybe check the air filter and maf sensor (plugged in front of air box) for dirt/contamination/poor seal.
After that, maybe get the rail fuel pressure checked.
These are just suggestions, im not a mechanic, but maybe someone else here can offer more help.
The 2.4 was an extra cost option on the 1lt, the fe3 suspension was only on the 2lt.
But I thought the rear door painted stone guards were only on 2006s, did they also come on early 07s?

My 07 has them painted the same color as his. I think my car is early 07 but I have to double check that.


OP I too think something must be wrong with your car. In no situation should you be limited to 3k. That is probably one of the x-over points for the variable valve timing and if it is getting noisy at that RPM then I would look into timing issues. Have it scanned and watched while driven to, and above if possible, 3k.

Re-Flash needed?

^^^ This ^^^

my 2.4l is pretty zippy with lots miles and samples inside