I have an auto 1LT and I've been thinking about swapping out the automatic for a 5-speed manual transmission. I have experience swapping transmissions when I needed to replace the 5-speed in my Volkswagen GTi several years ago. Has anyone done this with their HHR? Anybody know where I could source a good condition transmission? Is it harder to do this in a newer car (codes with the manufacturer, etc)?

Thanks!

 

I would guess that you'd need to source a new ECU, obviously clutch/pedal quadrant, tranny, shifter assembly, etc. Wouldn't be an easy job, methinks.

 

If you are that much of a glutton for punishment, get a junker with the manual transmission and swap all the above parts and probably a sensor or two and their wire harnesses..... and who knows what else.

It's really not as simple as it would first seem...... I used to do this stuff back in the 70's in either direction (auto to standard~~ standard to auto) One time I did two guys cars that wanted to swap...... Don't ask me why, but they were paying. There's just so much more involved these days it's hardly worth it.

 

With as many cheap used HHRs in good condition it would be much easier and less hassle to buy a factory unit vs doing the swap.

If you did want to do it I agree get a crashed one and swap the parts over that way you will have everything.

 

Sticking with hyperv6's line of thinking, find another one with a manual that you like and trade the automatic one in. The logistics of the swap are monumental, even back in the "good old days", a swap from automatic to standard or the other way around would make even the stoutest mechanic cry.

 

I agree that it makes more sense to just to trade in the car for one with the transmission that you prefer. These cars are not as simple as those that we used do swaps on from the '60's and '70's, especially with the electronics and PLCs.

 

Gotta say I agree with the 80s fellas above me.