hey mike those things look hot i didnt think when i saw them on your site that i would like them but they look slammin on the hhr just gives it that look its sweet .....also im thinking of moving out to cali this fall and was wondering if you can give me some insight on where to live and cost of living thanks for any help...and hhr is looking so hot i wish i lived in an area so i can work on my car all the time toooooo cold here.

 

Hi CJ, thanks for the compliments! Email me through our website and I'll be happy to to answer any questions I can for you.

 

Very interesting. I agree with everyone else that it would look better if the pipes were actually functional. It just kind of throws the look off when you have a couple of novelty items sticking out on the side, and you have the actual exhaust sticking out the back. It just seems like unnecessary accessories. It's very interesting though. If there was only a way to run the exhaust to the novelty pipes to make them functional and close off the rear bumper gap that would normal feed the existing exhaust, which I'm sure a little customizing the thought is realistic. Although could be some extensive re-modification of the exhaust system underneath to make it fit.

 

It's called an exhaust cut off, they are not very expensive, and fairly easy to install.

 

I see the point you are making, but here are two things you might want to know:

1) Lake Pipes have been around since the '60s on "Low Rider" type cruising vehicles. Lake Pipes have plates on the side that are bolted shut - so no exhaust can come out. The idea was to unbolt them when racing for more power and loud noise. Obviously, unbolting the plates for normal street driving is illegal and out of the question. That is why the styling is acceptable. All vehicles with Lake Pipes had to have other exhaust tips exiting in the rear for normal driving (as the HHR does), as they do not contain any type of muffling system.

2) In order to make Lake Pipes functional, you would need to install outlets on each side of your main exhaust pipe before the catalytic convertor. This voids any manufacturer's warranty. Only "cat-back" systems can be added legally, and without voiding warranties.

If you scrutinize any customized vehicle you will find many items that are cosmetic in nature: chrome license plates, windshield graphics, 3rd brake light overlays, billet grilles, and even custom wheels don't provide more functionality than their stock counterparts - but many enthusiasts enjoy adding these items to improve their ride's appearance.

We have has several calls regarding the Lake Pipes and it seems many people are interested in adding them to their HHR's. Sometimes looks are important to people. The Lake Pipes also have the added benefit of making your car look lower - and this also appeals to many owners.

Of course, the bottom line is: buy what works for you!

 

"This voids any manufacturer's warranty. Only "cat-back" systems can be added legally, and without voiding warranties."

Mike great info.

I was told by my dealer that lowering the car would void the warranty as well. Is this a State by State thing or do you know of a loop hole????

I really want to lower my HHR .....but LOVE the fact it has a 7 year warranty

Anyone have any info?

 

How about the chrome dumps out the front wheel well. Just a real stubby lake pipe. Has anybody seen them?? WAAAY COOOL

 

According to the Magnuson Moss warranty act, it is a Federal Law .... See below

MAGNUSON MOSS WARRANTY ACT

US Code - Title 15, Chapter 50, Sections 2301-2312

Legally, a vehicle manufacturer cannot void the warranty on a vehicle due to an aftermarket part unless they can prove that the aftermarket part caused or contributed to the failure in the vehicle (per the Magnuson Moss Warranty Act (15 U.S.C. 2302(C)) . For best results, consider working with performance-oriented dealerships with a proven history of working with customers. If your vehicle manufacturer fails to honor emission/warranty claims, contact EPA at (202) 260-2080 or www.epa.gov. If federal warranty protection is denied, contact the FTC at (202) 326-3128 or www.ftc.gov. For additional information, check out the following links:

* Consumer Bill of Rights
* What You Can Do If Your Warranty Is Denied
* Federal Warranty Laws
* Vehicle Manufacturer Warranty Contact Phone Numbers

More info can be found at SEMA and Magnuson Products

Hope that helps...Becky

 

I knew that but definitely good info. Thanks for the post Becky!

 

Well, being the old fart that I am I really like the looks of lake pipes on the HHR. There's no doubt that my HHR will be sporting a pair of triple outlet lakes (non-functional) shortly after it arrives, it's all about what's appealing to the eye.