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FE1 vs FE3

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Old Feb 21, 2019 | 06:29 PM
  #1  
FYWW's Avatar
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Joined: 02-21-2019
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From: Austin
FE1 vs FE3

Hey all,

Newb here. Couple of questions whose answers I'm sure are buried in other threads:

1. I've read that to find out if you have FE1 or FE3 suspension, I would need to look at the label in my glove box for the corresponding code. I found two codes in mine: FE3 and FE9 (don't know what FE9 is for or even what the "FE" means at all). So I'm guessing I have an FE3? Please let me know if I'm reading that wrong.

2. I'm in need of new lower control arms - made the mistake of buying a Detroit Axle pair on Amazon and within 30 days of install the ball joint on the passenger side blew out. Wheel knocks very easily by hand. Shopping around for new ones and I'm finding some sets specifying the "FE1 Soft Ride Suspension." Question is, will FE1 parts work on an FE3 vehicle? I know it's probably a dumb question but that's why I'm here, to learn from all of you well-informed individuals. I'm having trouble finding control arms that are specifically for FE3 suspensions and I do not know what the difference between the FE's would be. Any and all advice is welcome!

For reference, my car is an '07 2LT, which at the time was the "top of the line" model with leather and chrome 17's. Stylin'.
Old Feb 21, 2019 | 06:47 PM
  #2  
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Welcome to the site, the FE1 is the base suspension, the FE3 is more firm for touring.
There is a parts number list here

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/comm...-thread-48833/

I have simply replaced the ball joint and rear bushings to rebuild mine.
Moog arms are preferred.
Please only get the aluminium arms, the cheaper stamped steel and riveted arms are for the G5 and Cobalt
Old Feb 21, 2019 | 06:50 PM
  #3  
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Dude, Christmas came early. That parts list is great! THANK YOU!!! And thank for the tip on aluminum arms. Learning more every day!
Old Feb 21, 2019 | 08:20 PM
  #4  
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And, yes and we get a discount from our friends at RockAuto

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/supp...-2019-a-61329/
Old Feb 21, 2019 | 10:25 PM
  #5  
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Lower control arms would be the same for FE1 and FE3... Some parts houses may list things incorrectly.
Old Feb 22, 2019 | 07:56 AM
  #6  
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RPO Codes for HHR: https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/gene...options-12674/

FE9 is just a certification for federal emissions.

I have found that the RPO codes are more accurate than the build sheet. Sometimes the build sheet lists a package but doesn't say what's all included. For example my Sierra did not come with remote start. However some GM trucks were delivered with all the components except the correct key fob for remote start. It's an RPO code (can't recall which one off hand). My truck has the code but it is not noted on the build sheet.
Old Feb 22, 2019 | 09:36 AM
  #7  
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Originally Posted by Greybeard999
Lower control arms would be the same for FE1 and FE3... Some parts houses may list things incorrectly.
I agree with this. Part has no bearing on the suspension package . Yes buy aluminium ones.
Old Feb 22, 2019 | 02:42 PM
  #8  
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From: Austin
Awesome, thanks for all the help guys! Ordering a Moog right side LCA from RockAuto to replace the blown one. The guy at the alignment shop wouldn't even attempt a front end alignment with the blown ball joint, so gonna get this fixed asap.
Old Feb 22, 2019 | 05:04 PM
  #9  
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Fix all the busted , bent , worn out parts , then get an alignment.
inner and outer tie rods are a source of sloppy steering.
Old Feb 23, 2023 | 05:19 PM
  #10  
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Joined: 01-17-2022
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From: Minnesnowta
Originally Posted by Oldblue
And, yes and we get a discount from our friends at RockAuto

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/supp...-2019-a-61329/
Is there a new discount code?



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