I have searched and read many threads and info on the web about the different suspension set ups for the HHR. I have the 2008 HHR 1LT with FE1 suspension. I would like to increase the handling. I would like to know which parts I can use from the different suspension pkgs that were offered. The FE3 and FE5. I was thinking of using the Eibach sway bar kit and the SS strut/shocks. Is there a difference in the springs? Do I need to have the springs? Is everything bolt in and go?

Sorry if this is beating a dead horse, however I don't want to order stuff that won't work together.

 

FE1 is the softest... FE3 is sporty but still soft...FE5 is the highest level you can go with stock parts.....all parts interchange within all models except the steering knuckles (fe5 is redesigned for quicker steering) and ball joints which is larger on the fe5...otherwise all the springs struts and shocks are the same mounting. Personally I wouldn't run a shock/strut that is lesser then the type spring. The SS springs will lower you about 3/4 to 1 inch.. so Yes, the FE5 setup is the way to go with stock parts. You don't really need to mess with the front bar, but do add a rear for a noticeable change in handling..

 

X2 what he said

 

X3....

 

I appreciate all the input I get. In the process of looking into the suspension upgrades, I was looking into salvage yards trying to acquire some of the parts I wanted from the SS model. I looked for wheels and some interior stuff ( like steering wheel, auto shifter with leather boot, ETC ), but numerous times was told that no rear swaybar was installed on the SS. I even had one salvage yard in PA tell me that they just got the HHR SS in and that no rear swaybar was on it. Is it true that HHRs didn't come with a rear bar? I know from what was written, that it really isn't worth changing the front bar out. I was under the idea that the front and rear bars work together and if not complimenting each other, it will not improve the handling properly. So what size rear bar do I look for? All I have seen for sale is 29mm front and 25mm rear.

 

Correct, even the SS didnt have a rear bar from the factory, they were talking about an aftermarket rear bar. Which one depends on what you are looking for in terms of handling. What kind of driving do you want to do? Keep in mind performance usually sacrifices some comfort.
If you are lucky enough to locate an SS in a scrap yard, see about grabbing the springs, shocks and struts. Also the steering wheel is a nice upgrade if you are wanting comfortable leather and radio controls. The SS seats are also a nice upgrade.

 

I don't drive it hard, but I do like the handling to be positive and stable as can be. I don't mind the stiffer feel as long as it isn't a buckboard. This is a daily vehicle. I would love to find HHR SS stuff. The seat aren't important but the steering wheel with stereo controls would be great and the auto shifter with leather knob and boot as well. Bigger wheels are in the cards too. I find that to try and buy factory stuff, even from a salvage yard, most often costs as much as buying new from like one of the online tire/wheel companies.

 

Grab the rack and pinion box and the steer knuckles ( spindles) from the junked SS also if you find one and they are not trashed..this will quicken your steering quite a bit..will have to change ball joints too, to go along with the knuckles..so might as well grab the lower A frames..

 

I think you have the right idea from your posts here and the replies, I went 25 mm TTR rear bar, and swapped out the struts and shocks for KYB's and went with 25 mm greaseable sway bar bushings in the front, threw in a set of Canuck Motorsport springs and am quite pleased with the results, there are other spring and sway bars out there but these worked out for me, my steering wheel is leather wrapped with the radio remotes from a 2010 LT, happy hunting. check the for sale posts for some used stuff on the site

 

My 2006 2lt I had it lowered as soon as I got 2 1/2 in in the rear and 2 in. in front it was terrible on rough roads so last month bought the fe-5 struts from Rock-Auto made a great difference I should have done it years ago in the rear I have the KYB shocks.