I purchased a 2009 HHR LS 2.2L Ecotec this month. I know I need to replace the struts and shocks. I want to replace the sway bar links at the same time as I've read that these can be damaged when changing the struts. I've looked in the glove box already but the build numbers says nothing about whether it is FE1 or FE3. I'm trying to determine the correct length of link I need.
The original paperwork on the HHR says it is LS. It says it came with 16" tires which should be FE1. The paperwork says it has the touring suspension, which if I've read replies on others questions should be FE3. Now Im not sure which i"m supposed to use. It does say it has the LS package. Its weird because the paperwork also said it only had remote entry. I had to have buy remotes and have them programmed. When we hit the remote start button the car started. Nothing in the paperwork said anything about remote start. Now i'm wondering how much is correct on the original paperwork. HOW can I find out what length I need.
Thanks for any help.

 

9.86 inch usually called 10 inch. The 12 inch is WRONG. Does not matter FE1/FE3/FE5.
Did you try the search? I know this was answered in detail this week and a hundred other times. It can save you a lot of time.
Look at the bottom of this page "Related Topics" it tries to be helpful, sometimes is.

Also, check our "commonly used parts" https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/comm...rt-numbers-68/
And the how to library https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-...al-library-21/
At the top of the page under "Tools" there is a VIN decoder. The RPO codes on the sticker on the glovebox door tell what was installed at the factory, the codes can be found here https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-...al-library-21/

All HHRs came from the factory with remote entry, most came with remote start, notably some rental companies ordered them without and 2010-2011 was optional.
The fob should have come with the car, it is your right to demand it from the seller as it is"factory installed equipment". That being said; most auctions toss the fobs into the trash..

 

Hi, thanks for the information. I was able to find where it states it is and FE1. I did not purchase this vehicle from a dealer. The person I bought it from also did not receive the fobs from the used car dealer he bought it from. I am the 3rd owner. However, I was able to get 2 fobs from a locksmith company and they programed them for me. Cost was only $94 for both so I'm happy about that. Much cheaper than what Chevy dealership quoted me.
I will be ordering the 10" sway bar links along with the new strut and shock assemblies.
Thanks also for the information on related questions.

 

Look on the rear hatch. Should have an emblem that will be either LS or LT.
LS models only had the FE1 suspension.

If the build sheet is in the glove box it will have a list of all the RPO codes. There will be a FE1,or FE3 listed.

 

Not that it matters but look again.

Every HHR says 1LS, 1LT, 2LT, or 1SS.

Every HHR says FE1, FE3, or FE5.

If yours is a 2.2, bet it says 1LS or 1LT, and FE1.

If I'm wrong, I'd love to see a pic of your sticker because it will be interesting.

The only difference between FE1 & FE3 is the shocks (quite sure) struts (not so sure) and maybe springs (not a clue.) But they'll all interchange. Aftermarket replacements for any of those parts won't be identical in properties anyway.

Whatever you do, don't get one of those cheap rebuild "kits."

My opinion is, with certain excaptions, only replace what's bad. A still-good oem part may outlast an aftermarket replacement.

I think KYB dampeners are the best bang for the buck. I used them on Oldblue's recommendation, and couldn't be happier. The ride is quite firm, maybe like FE3.

 

Not that it matters but look again.

Every HHR says 1LS, 1LT, 2LT, or 1SS.

Every HHR says FE1, FE3, or FE5.

If yours is a 2.2, bet it says 1LS or 1LT, and FE1.

If I'm wrong, I'd love to see a pic of your sticker because it will be interesting.

The only difference between FE1 & FE3 is the shocks (quite sure) struts (not so sure) and maybe springs (not a clue.) But they'll all interchange. Aftermarket replacements for any of those parts won't be identical in properties anyway.

Whatever you do, don't get one of those cheap rebuild "kits."

My opinion is, with certain excaptions, only replace what's bad. A still-good oem part may outlast an aftermarket replacement.

I think KYB dampeners are the best bang for the buck. I used them on Oldblue's recommendation, and couldn't be happier. The ride is quite firm, maybe like FE3.

Not every HHR has FE1 or FE3 or FE5

LS and 1LT models had the 2.2 with FE1 soft suspension
2LT had 2.2 with FE1 soft suspension or optional 2.4 with FE3 touring suspension
SS 2.0 turbo models only had the FE5 sport suspension

the FE1 or FE3 suspension is now irrelevant as the aftermarket pretty much only offers struts and shocks and springs equivalent to FE3
FE5 parts for the SS are pretty much obsolete now and most parts palaces list incorrect parts that claim to fit but sadly don’t, I find it disappointing that in the brakes area it is listed for drum brakes or stamped steel LCA’s, I’ve even seen 4 bolt hubs , sad . Caveat emptor.

KYB is the preferred brand, no problems with them and the last a very long time .
I do agree to keep OEM parts as long as possible, replace both front struts or rear shocks in pairs, throughly inspect ball joints, LCA rear bushings , rear springs and hub bearings , before you order parts, might as well get dirty once.

 

FE1 is basically defunct, FE3 parts are fully interchangeable and easier to find and better. GM doesn't publish what the exact difference between "comfort ride" FE1 and "sport ride" FE3 is; my guess is the springs are slightly different. Springs and shocks do wear out and need to be replaced periodically. Most pep[le don't notice.
The sticker in the glovebox does have either FE1 or FE3 on it or you don't have an HHR sticker.

 

My glovebox sticker was removed at one time by a PO .

Perhaps our member heathen will stop by, she maybe can decipher your VIN

 

Doesn't our VIN decoder work anymore?

 

It might I’m not sure.