Does anybody here know the exact difference between the steel and aluminum lower control arms? Could you use the steel in place of the aluminum to save cost? Obviously they bolt up in the same place, but are there other issues I am not aware of?

 

Go with the aluminum control arms meant for the HHR, major suspension components aren't really an area for experimentation or substitution just to save a few bucks.

 

The ones I've seen the steel cost more. I suggest replacing both while you are at it, it only takes another 15 minutes, and the handling difference between one and two is amazing. RockAuto.com is my new favorite first choice parts search. Don't be too impressed by "brand names", factories do runs and sell them to suppliers who sell them to......

My logic thinks that welded steel would be "softer" than solid cast alloy. Just my thought.

 

Yeah the aluminum is definitely better and worth the cost.

 

My fiancee and I actually just had to purchase the front control arms and from what we were able to find out the aluminum are for the HHR SS, and obviously cost more than the steel. Not sure if there are any fit issues if you're trying to use them on regular HHR though.

 

I'm pretty sure all HHR's have the aluminum control arms... I know my 2LT does.

 

Then the parts guy must have been mistaken. There may not be any difference other than material, price, and possibly durability.