Ok, so before I make a commitment to my next mod I was looking for some feedback on this subject....

1) What are the cons, if any on lowering the HHR with eibach lowering springs?

2) Has anyone had issues with lowering?

3) What is the actual drop using eibach's? I've seem the specs listed different with different websites...

I'm sitting on 20"s with 225/35/20 tires...

 

Cons- stiffer ride, bottoming on rough surfaces/speed bumps/driveways, plowing snow in winter, scraping bumpers on parking boulders, possible wheel interference
There are two sets made by eibach, pro-kit lowers 1-1.5 inches, sportlines lower 2-2.5 inches. I think they might make a lower set, but suited for track only.

 

None Pretty much what prod said. Although the advantage to lowering is better aerodynamics and possibly better gas mileage. The biggest problem I have found to lowering is once you buy them you are stuck with them. There really isn't a trial period. Some want just a little drop and others want it to sit on the ground. Some springs work better then others at certian things depending on how they were coiled and heat treated.

 

You might want to try just leveling the car. Goldlines or stock Colbalt SS rear springs bring the back down level. Looks good, no real drawbacks, quick install w/ no special tools needed.

 

(With help, ok A LOT of help from the gentlemen who posted above)
Also have a Progressive sway bar--I love how he rides now--smoother and don't feel like I'm tipping when making turns.
Goldlines are from HHRBoutique. Oh yes--Blackie has leveled out just a bit more from this pic. I'm 5'1" and can reach more across the top to clean (but still need a step stool).

 

^^What he said, Not to mention possiblity of more Rock Chips on the front Bumper,Hood etc. Although they look good lowered these are Most of the Risks.

On the Upside, Your Fuel Economy might rise a lil.

 

I also installed goldline rear leveling springs and I'm very happy. My HHR is a daily driver, so I didn't think lowering was an option for my situation. The rear leveling springs gives it a lowered look but retains the stock height up front. Installation was a breeze. I've had no problems bottoming out, and the handling has increased quite a bit. Slightly stiffer ride, but nothing too drastic. Just another option to think about.

 

Is the ride stiffer?

 

Anyone have a part# for the cobalt ss rear springs? Also How much drop with these?

Thanks for all the input so far. Still mulling everything over. I always hesitate and take my time with major mods...

 

Norsican, so you're the one who stole the IBM I wanted!
Always my first choice color...

OK, I don't think so. Don put them on 4th of July and in the month I've had them, it just feels smoother and more even. The drive isn't stiff at all. I don't go speed racing in this thing--it is my daily driver. I have a 2LT if that helps.

The sway bar made the biggest difference (had that put on in May) in making it feel more grounded. I agree with what Don says, I think it makes it look better and have no problems going over dips and such.

Much more subtle of a look and feel. Don't know how others may feel it.

@ngelita