Hello and I have a 2007 HHR Black 5spd... Its an 1LT and doesn't have the running boards... The paint in front of the rear wheels looks awful I've heard this happens to a lot of other HHRs that doesn't have the running boards... Is there anything that anyone suggest to fix this problem? Is GM responsible for fixing this? I'm in dire need of help...

 

The only credible solution is to install running boards. I doubt whether GM will do anything to fix this problem. Why they didn't put running boards on all HHRs is a rhetorical question at this point. I have running boards on my HHR - I happen to think that they enhance the appearance - opinions differ on this topic as you would expect.

 

There is a TSB for this "sandblasting". It's a one time repaint of the affected area, but the kicker is you have to come up with the dough (about $400 to $500) to get the running boards and then the dealer will install them at no cost to you.

 

I'm going to run down to the dealership today and see what they have to say about it (probably nothing) but you never know until you ask

 

Let us know...I have the same issue with a used one I just bought 3 weeks ago and wondered what to do....saw someone on her put black guards on that part. Mine looks like white paint got on it with tiny rough spots all over...I have orange.

 

I just ordered some hhr mud guards for front and rear oem. We'll see hoe they are when they show up next week.

 

I went all out with mine out of fear of paint damage down there and stuck the boards and the mud flaps on, both! So far, a little over a year later, no damage along the sides of the car, and the painted surfaces down there hardly ever even show any dirt/mud/water spots. I wish I could say the same about the nose of the car...grr...that flat, stubby hood sure catches oncoming rocks quite well...arrrghh...

 

Well... I went down to the Chevy dealership here in Fairbanks, Alaska and they told me that they would repaint the effected parts but I''d have to buy the running boards before they would... I asked for a discount and they said they wouldn''t offer me any discount... I''m in no hurry to get it fixed its about to snow here in a few weeks, so ill just wait until this summer and hopefully ill be back in Tennessee... Then ill get everything...