The 2008 Helm Factory Service Manuals are finally available. The 2009 manuals are not yet available.

Has anyone already received one ? I want to get one, but I want to be sure that the 2008 HHR SS is fully covered in the manual, particularly the 2.0 L turbomotor, and all aspects of the turbo itself.

 

I wondered how it was presented as some of the new cars they can have more than one book or just be on CD.

My SSEI Bonnie had CD and 3 books.

Might check Helms web site. I have not looked yet.

 

I emailed them and asked specifically about the '2.0l turbo engine' and they replied that all models are covered.

FWIT

 

I just ordered the 2008 set and it is supposed to show up today! I have an 2008 SS and also hope that is well covered in the manuals. These should come in handy since my sister has a 2008 LS and we both plan on keeping these for a long time.

One thing I really want to find out is information on the onstar system and the phone. I've heard that if you can get the ESN # off the box that you can have it put on another carrier instead of Verizon. Eventually it would be cool to see if some of the 2009 parts can be used since that is supposed to allow a regular Bluetooth connection to an existing phone.

 

What do these manuals cost and what's the cheapest way to obtain them?

 

The factory service manuals are not cheap. They run $135.00 for the set plus shipping (and taxes depending on your location). These are supposed to be the hard copy set of books and are available directly from HELM, Inc. The link directly too them is:

http://www.helminc.com/helm/product2...JN81MSME8TBFC0

I don't know of any deals on them at the moment. In a few years you might be able to get used ones on ebay, etc for less but since these are so new there are few options.

From past experience the original factory manuals are by far the best ones and most useful. They typically have all the diagnostic data and wiring diagrams that will help for any mods down the road.

 

Ok, the set of service manuals was waiting for me when I got home. My wife left them on the porch since the box was pretty heavy. Upon opening the box I was shocked. This isn't just some wimpy little manual. There were three large tomes in there! The sheer volume of information in these things are amazing and I feel that I got my money's worth even though they are expensive.

There does appear to be excellent coverage on the SS and there is a whole section dedicated to the 2.0L engine and Turbo. Wiring diagrams, theory, troubleshooting galore. Upon briefly reading through it the first thing that struck me was just how many sensors are on the vehicle. It also explains that when some major portions are replaced that the computer has to re-learn some of the previous settings. This set is going to be extremely useful to keep my SS in top shape and perhaps a little tweaking once the warranty expires.

 

Thanks! just ordered mine by regular delivery ($20?!!). I was on their e-mail list to be notified, so obviously their system is not working too well!