My 2006 HHR LT has just over 55K miles and I think it's about time to R&R the struts and shocks.
While online shopping for struts, I find that there are "Sport suspension struts" and "Soft ride struts" available for my ride. How do I determine which applies to my car? I don't know if my HHR has the "Sport" or "Soft" struts originally installed. Is there a way to determine which ones I have? As I'm an old duffer I think I would prefer the soft ride.

 

First, what "LT" to your have?

LT1 and LS have the same shock.

LT2 has a gas shock.

Being GM OEM, none of them are worth a crap.

Choices: Stick with GM OEM or others.

 

2LT has "Sport Suspension" also called FE3. (the FE3 would be on the sticker in the glovebox. FE1 is the "soft") The 2LT is the only version that has this suspension and all 2LT models came with it.... It was part of that "package" or trim level. If you have a 1LT and want to "upgrade" you can, the parts would interchange. KYB shocks and struts are FE3 and a good brand without going overboard on cost.

 

I went with the KYB for the rear and next month the KYB struts, my 2006 2lt

 

I went with the KYB shocks and struts, no complaints on either ride or handling, even with only 55K on yours.....you'll be surprised at the difference new hardware will make.

 

According to that, any shock fits. No help there.

Soft = LS and 1LT (FE1)
Sport = 2LT (FE3)

The SS uses FE5. That is what what I upgraded the shocks and struts to on my 2LT.

KYB and Monroe make shocks and struts equal to the FE3 suspension.

 

I bought mine off ebay. $204 and I have no complaints with the ride.

 

Thanks for the tip on the sticker in the glovebox.
The sticker says I have the 2LT.
I'm an older guy and don't really require or desire a "Sport" suspension. If I go over to the "soft" struts will I need to replace the coil springs? Are all of the strut components interchangeable between "soft" and "Sport"?
An on line parts supplier, www.rockauto.com has a complete Monroe strut assy with new coils, mounting bracket and shock boot for $126.00 each side.
I like the aggressive stance of my HHR, will that change if I go to the "Soft" suspension?
Thanks to all who respond I really appreciate your input.

 

The springs are the same between the FE1 and FE3, just the shocks and struts are different so it's a simple swap. Stance will stay the same.

 

You can choose which level of comfort vs performance suits your driving style as they are interchangeable.
From the sound of it the FE3 that came on the car would be good for you, were you happy with them? I believe those that got the KYB said they were equivalent.
I have driven the FE3 briefly, but didnt notice much difference compared to my FE1.
Personally I will be going with the FE5 SS ones soon.