Just wanted to jump through the usual hoops and say hello. I'm seriously thinking about buying a manual 08-10 SS with the optional Brembo brakes and LSD. I could use something fun to drive that, better fuel economy than my truck, and a lot more storage as well. Not to mention that these cars are getting cheap.

I'm going to look around to make sure the LNF isn't a PITA to wrench on first before I buy it. A family friend owned a PT Cruiser and I reguarly got volunteered to work on it. Put a few sensors in it and man did it suck.

 

The HHR is considerably wider than the PiTa Cruiser. My wife owned one before her HHR and in my opinion the HHR is easier to work on and just a better overall design.
WELCOME to the Forum!!!

 

to the forum!

X2 to what Ben said, the HHR has more room to wrench under the hood, especially when you get the airbox off and out of the way.

 

Welcome, yea make sure it says HHR on the tail, it's ok if it say's turbocharged, on the front......

 

Anyone care to tell me about particular problem areas I should be aware of before buying an SS.

 

Get the service history if possible, regular maintenance is super important.

HHR's can be tempermental and fragile, the SS models get "beat on" so you want one with no accident history, and not a ton of previous owners.

Check out this section of the forum....

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/ss-specific-service-issues-repairs-61/

But don't freak out at the issues covered, SS's are pretty darn dependable, but they are high strung too.

They're like the amps in Spinal Tap, they go to "11".

 

^^^^thanks man.^^^ not trying to be rude but I meant "what are some things specifically about the SS" I should look for. Low owners, good service history, no accidents is a must.

 

Welcome to the site.

A low mileage one would be an advantage. The platform these cars are built on, is known for having suspension parts that seem to wear out early. Swaybar links, control arm bushings, struts. They all seem prone to a short lifespan. Just one of things that could have been designed a little better.
As far as the engine. Since it's a turbo it's got more parts and more chances of repairs. Some owners have many,many trouble free miles. Others not as lucky. There doesn't seem to be any certain problems or breakage that shows up in large numbers.
Just remember that it is considered a performance car. So, owners seem to run them a little harder than a family sedan. Run 'em hard, more stress and wear, more chances for problems.

 

Welcome!
I love mine. No problems to date. 5 years and still love it. I drive it hard. I think my TPS only know WOT and idle.

 

Welcome!