Some advice on areas to check when buying a used HHR
 

Brand new to this awesome site. Been reading a lot of information thanks to all who have posted. I'm looking at getting a used HHR SS. I found two and I would like any advice on special things to check when buying a used one. I have basic mechanical knowledge in it would be considered a backyard mechanic. Any advice on what to look for to know if the turbo still good or other special areas relative to an HHR. Can't wait to pick one up and post some pictures on this great site. Thanks for anyone who can take the time to comment. A newbie

Welcome. If you are thinking about SS, I would suggest checking compression, and turbo propeller play. Not that these are problematic, but make sure possible expensive items are off the list. Other than that, these cars are pretty reliable, and if you are mechanically inclined, you won't have big problems.

Thank you for your reply. How do you check Turbo propeller play?

take the air inlet tube off, and check if propeller has any in and out, or side to side movements. Little bit side to side movement is ok, as long as it doesn't touch the housing. Any in and out movement is bad

Expertise and help much appreciated!!

Is the car(s) you're looking at a low or high mileage one ? Lots of things to check out on a used SS but mileage could narrow down what to focus on.

Hello I'm looking at two different HHR SS has ones that 2008 automatic transmission hundred and fifty thousand miles the other ones in 09 manual transmission SS with 160000 miles

With that many miles, all I can suggest is to check everything. The suspension and brakes would be a main concern for worn parts.

I bought mine a couple months
 

https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.che...3fb5a170fa.jpg

https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.che...768294d4eb.jpg
Ago I never checked anything it was parked for 6 years looked at bald dry tires and replaced them then a squeaky belt faded paint and lights. changed oil and threw it in a bodyshop and bought new lights 3 tickets later still runs good just ordered intake,catback,tune from trifecta etc

These seem to be pretty decent cars and parts are cheap but like anything they are used and bound to need some work
Mines a 2009 auto and it has 112k Miles on the dash I paid 3500 for it then 600 paint 300 tires 200 tail lights 80bucks headlights 110 for a windshield really are fun to drive just stock mine also already had GM tune I was able to tell from premium fuel sticker on inside gas cap then verified with map sensors.

Its had some emblem updates since these pics,and paint correction and ceramic pro coatings but you get the idea.