I checked out the towing capabilities on the GM site for the HHR, and it said "cargo straps and tie downs". So, can you not tow a small trailer with these? I have Gheenoe boat that weighs about 500 pounds (boat/motor/trailer). Where can I find better info on towing? Thanks much - kby

 

You can tow up to 1,000lbs, including the trailer.

 

1000LBS with the AUTO TRANS.

0LBS with the Stick.

 

First place to look - Owner's Manual. CrazyCarKid is right about the load rating for the HHR. Tongue weight is only supposed to be 100 lbs.. Most hitches you will find for the HHR are Class 1 - which are 200 lb tongue weight and 2,000 lb load rating (which far exceeds what the vehicle is supposed to handle). Also, in the owners manual GM states “Do Not Tow with a Manual Transmission”. However with that being said, I tow a small trailer with my manual transmission HHR and on several occasions I have exceeded the 1,000 lbs limit. It is your decision about how much you are willing to tow with your HHR. The statement about not towing appears to be a disclaimer on GM’s part for the drivetrain warranty. Besides, the parts that would go bad in a manual transmission (if not driven right) are subject to normal wear anyways and not covered by the drivetrain warranty.

Best of luck on your decision,

 

Yeah, I've seen HHRs towing U-haul trailers, and they're REALLY loaded down. I think the trailer itself is close to 1,000lbs, so who knows how much weight they really tow.

 

Thanks for help. I suppose the issue with a stick and towing is the clutch? Thanks

 

The clutch plate, pressure plate, and throw out bearing can all be possible problems.
It all depends on how you drive it, how much experince you have towing, not riding the clutch when taking off, and making smooth shifts.
One other thing - if you tow a lot pay more attention to the way that your brakes feel.

 

Gotta keep the lawyers happy

 

I tow with my manual trans. but the trailers I tow are fairly light. 12 foot boat,8x10 utility trailer,and a small fiberglass cargo trailer. I have not had any problems towing at all. but it is against the owers manual recommendations.

 

Anymore seems like anything above idle is against the owners manual!