Why do people ask a question then argue about the answer. Go ahead do it and keep records and post up a how to.
I don't know how a VIN could match since the engine type is part of it.

 

I didn't look real hard. JEGS has 2.2 for $2455 and 2.4 for $3785. The difference being VVT.
We have a member in LasVegas that rebuilds. At one time he had 2.4 available. you might try him. Fully Machined Zero Mile 2.2 Ecotec Engine - Chevy HHR Network

 

What’s wrong with that motor? Is that one also a 2008?

 

With all of the electronic aggregation I would just build an engine starting at the stock size. These engine's are all pretty similar so what you can do to one you can do to them all.

 

update-2.4 motor she wanted to change out had only blown out a spark plug. she thought the the noise was intense enough to warrant a new motor. Fixed old motor with a helicoil and new spark plug so no motor swap necessary. Old motor only has 121K and purrs like a kitten.

 

But, why did it blow a plug? Never heard of that in a modern motor.

 

This movie had an abrupt and unsatisfying ending. Two stars.

 

Pass the popcorn! Thanks for sharing!

 

I had a Geo Prism that threw a spark plug.
Turned out when the dealer installed it they had cross threaded it and just muscled it in the rest of the way.
New helicoil and new plug (provided by the dealer) fixed the issue.

 

That’s why I always hand thread in the spark plugs with a piece of fuel hose to start, then still by hand until finger tight with my 5/8 spark plug socket and 6” 3/8 drive extension, then tighten to 15 ft/lbs.