JavaMann

That's what I remember reading too. The 1LT and 2LT have a 25mm dia. bar, while the SS has (for whatever reason) a smaller one, perhaps 21mm?

Greybeard999

21mm or 23mm ? ......... Seems odd but it could be a different material too, I don't know.

JavaMann

Here's a thread that talks a bit about it: https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/brakes-%7C-suspension-%7C-shocks-%7C-struts-24/part-energy-suspension-sway-bar-bushings-34326/

Seems the LS and 1LT and 2LT have the 25mm, while the SS has a 23mm, at least that's the thought given on that thread.

JavaMann

At any rate... easy way to check if you're wondering is to grab open end metric wrenches, 23mm, and 25mm, and just reach down behind the motor on passenger side and 'measure' with them.

Snoopy

I agree with Solman and graybeard.....

There is SOME difference between the FE1 and FE3 handling, but I wouldn't think it matters much between everyday use.

At the NEED of replacing struts and shocks, I would upgrade to the KYB's OR BETTER....

but i wouldn't let the difference of the suspension prevent the purchase of an otherwise acceptable vehicle.

sleeper

just mo, but perhaps because the SS has the tightest springs, struts, & shocks, it may not need the bigger sway bar that ours have....

JoeR

The SS went to a smaller front bar and larger rear to "shift" the balance, IOW, less understeer.

sleeper

Thanks Joe-

That clears that up..

donbrew

Oddly, it seems that ALL of the replacement/repair parts are for FE3 (excepting FE5)! So, is there really a difference? Seems to me that most of the FE1/FE3 differences are really the Cobalt models not the HHR.

Understeer on an HHR!!!??? You mean like turning a corner at 5 MPH and the rear wheel hits the curb? or, trying to parallel park an HHR!?

JoeR

donbrew, seriously... If you're having handling issues at 5 MPH or while parallel parking, your next mod needs to be some cool curb feelers!