I just wanted to introduce myself and sorry if this is the wrong section but i couldnt find one specifically for this. My name is Lance and about a month ago i bought a brand new 08 hhr ls. It cost me 15,500 after delivery and taxes. It is Black exterior, Ebony interior with a 2.2/5-speed. Thanks

 

Welcome to the site Lance!

 

the only thing i have done to it is install a 15" rockford sub and 620-watt power acoustik amp to the factory system. Before knowing the bad about not having running boards, i bought mine without them because i personally like the look better without, what is the EASIEST thing i can do to insure i dont get the "sandblasting" on my new car. It has the little plastic strips but i think they are pretty counterfeit and dont do much. Thanks

 

to the site Lance!!! The running boards and mud flaps will help to reduce the sandblasting effect.

 

The plastic strips will prevent damage to the metal panel underneath just fine. If you want to prevent damage to the plastic strips, try the mudflaps too. There's an HHR that a local bakery company uses for catering deliveries that has no damage, but it's the same age as mine and has the mudflaps.