LCA’s are replaced in pairs , they provide new ball joints and rear bushings, you can replace just the bushings or for the FE1 or FE3 suspension the ball joints. If you’re replacing the LCA’s get the aluminum ones like Moog or AC Delco, do not use any brand of stamped steel arms. All models and years of the HHR came with aluminum arms, the stamped steel arms are from the cobalt cars, different dimensions, different camber and caster .

the SS arms have a larger diameter ball joint stub and do not fit the FE1 or FE3 steering knuckles

The rear bushings are known weak point






You can install Moog problem solvers like in the first photo or solid bushings like in the second photo

 

The control arm rear bushing is a known failure point. You can buy it separately and press in a new one into the existing control arm.

Ball joints last pretty long and can also be replaced on the control arm.

Or you can buy a new control arm which has a new ball joint and front and rear bushings already on it.

For the SS models only, the ball joint is not available separately, thus you need to replace the whole control arm if you need a new ball joint. Bushings can still be replaced individually.

Steve

 

Looks like Oldblue beat me by a couple of minutes with the answer.

Steve

 

That’s ok, still good information and thank you for confirming that.

 

got it....thanks guys