strange sound from gear shifter
 

Has anyone experienced a clunking sound coming from the auto gear shift whenever the break pedal is pushed or released? It sounds as if it is the locking mechanism that requires the break to be engaged before it will go into park. I hear the sound even when the car is in drive.

Yes, I have heard that. Sometimes it is very noticeable, but most days I don't notice it at all.

Do your auto locks and remote start work?

Yes. All other functions seem OK

Noise you are hearing is the gear shift actuator. In otherwords, its the switching mechanism that releases the gearshifter when you apply the brake to shift out of park. The noise it makes should not be loud enough to get your attention, if any sound at all.

I hear that noise, and I have since I first bought my HHR. Actually, a while back I was hearing that noise every time I would apply the brakes, and then I realized that my remote start and automatic door locks (when shifting from park) were not working. The dealer replaced my hood latch, and everything is fine now. Although the noise is still there (it is supposed to be), it is in fact the actuator according to the dealer and my dad (who is a parts manager at a GM dealer). It seems the hood latch is different on a vehicle with remote start vs. one without, and somehow mine was faulty and the vehicle thought the hood was open even when it was closed.;)

Actually, I checked today and my remote start does not work. What is the connection?

Yep, here's a neat little thing I discovered by accident.

Start your HHR with the remote start (do not put the key in the ignition), open the drivers door and pop the hood. It shuts the motor off.

Great info, guys! Who'd have thought there was any connection between the hood latch and the remote start. I'll be sure to listen for the noise. That's why I love this site!