RE: Check engine light and traction control light/noticeable thump as it shifts into gear - it's very likely not related to needing a transmission flush. Pretty much every time the check engine light comes on, the T/C light will come on, and very often the transmission will shift hard.

To start to determine the problem, you need to get the CEL codes downloaded - get the code (ie: p0302) not a verbal description, and post it here for suggestions and assistance on troubleshooting the problem. Most Auto parts stores will download the codes for free for you.

 

I'll check the code first thing in the morning. Between her work, doctors, taxes etc the thing hardly has the tires sitting still. I was thinking a tranny flush since it either should have had one by now or would be due soon. Our Sunfire had one by now according to mileage. Most of the driving she does is hills and highway.

 

Could also be problems from loose ground wires, loose connection to the TCM, low battery voltage, just saying

 

'08 LS both stabilizer bar links failed by 40K miles or so. Replaced with Moog. Unlike OEM, they have grease fittings on both ends, so alert your grease monkey. There seem to be at least three different length out there, and I've been advised measure, not just trust the look-up number.

 

The part number is in this list

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/comm...-part-i-48833/

 

How many times have I typed "NOT 12 inch". How many threads would display if I typed " which sway bar link" or "what length sway bar link" into the search box? 500 posts.

 

I plan to measure to make sure when replacing those parts. It only makes sense with the different lengths.

I got the old girl looked at and she has a broken rear spring and the timing is worn to max. It can't adjust itself anymore. Since I don't have what I need the grease monkey gets the job. I figure they can replace anything timing related in there given the miles and saving time for a go back in later down the road. They also checked all the mounts, bushings, and suspension and said it looks good but pointed out it is a problem area on the Cobalt and HHR as well as a few others. I told him I plan to upgrade the parts as soon as possible after getting the engine squared away. For now she sits in the garage waiting for her appointment on the same day that the wife goes in for her surgery. Looks like both the girls will be getting rehabbed.

 

Wish you the best, on both!!!!!!

 

Well, who would have guessed a broken rear spring caused a traction control light? Not me. They replaced both so as not to be lopsided and it save me the trouble of doing it down the road. They also worked over the timing parts and fixed the check engine issues. I only had one thing remaining when I picked it up. The 'thong' song of the strut bearing. The service guy I use said I have great hearing as he couldn't hear it initially until I took him around the parking lot he caught it once. He agrees about the bearing and suggested what I was already thinking about with the quick struts. Apparently, they also only check the struts and shocks for oil leaks to determine if they need to be replaced. I'll be ordering up a load of parts in a month or two depending on the income taxes to address that situation. He did say that I could try spraying the bearing with WD-40 and give that a try if it really bugged me until I could get it switched out. LoL

 

WD 40 doesn't get into the bearing area, you'll see why when you take it apart