I need to replace the rear shocks on my SS. KYB lists the same OEM replacement for all HHRs. I don't know much about suspension..is it the different springs that make an SS ride stiffer/lower than a standard HHR, or should I be seeing a specific SS rear shock as well?

 

I'm pretty sure it's the springs that make the difference in ride quality/height, but might want to check some of the other threads to make sure I'm not mistaken. I went with the KYB's on mine..very easy swap.

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/show...ck+replacement

 

The springs and shocks must work together. I would stay with OEM, they are the best out there.

http://www.crateenginedepot.com/stor...P2427C514.aspx

 

I don't think "the best out there" should be sacked at 18,000 miles.

 

Are they leaking...what makes you think they're bad?

 

BOOM! CRASH! BANG! I'm wondering if Chevy didn't account for the extra weight of a station wagon over a rear-end designed for the Cobalt. A lot of people are losing rear shocks quickly on HHRs.

 

The KYB shock is the same as the FE3 suspension (Sport Suspension on the 2LT) which is a nice rate shock, but not the SS shock. The SS shock may be the same rate but shorter but I'm only guessing at that. As far as replacement I think the KYB would be a good shock for the SS if there's nothing else available other than OEM...... It will at least have a quality advantage and be pretty firm. My 2LT with Ground Force rear springs and a Progress swaybar handles like a slotcar with the stock FE3 shocks.

 

If the shocks are defective have them replaced under warranty. Nothing to worry about. The part number is different between the cobalt and hhr rear shocks now that I look into this more. The weight difference is less than 300 pounds.

You can't really say 'a lot' of people have had this problem based on forum statistics...

 

"A lot" is obviously subjective. I heard about it enough times that when the shocks crapped out at 18k, I wasn't surprised. The dealer's gonna take a look next week. Bob at Novato Chevrolet is the service manager. A great guy. Please spend money there if you're ever in the area.

 

Another difference is the SS are pressurized while the "L" cars are not....need to research the valving to se if the KYBs are compatible, but as sais they are equivilant to the LT shocks....side note: all HHR shocks are physically interchangable...