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Newbie interested in buying an HHR SS automatic.

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Old 10-28-2015, 09:00 AM
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Newbie interested in buying an HHR SS automatic.

Hello everyone. I've been on the search for a quick & fun wagon to replace current 2010 Camry V6 LE.

I've looked at Jetta TDI Sportwagens which they are slow but the mpg gain had me willing to deal with it. Overall the maintenance cost made me look elsewhere.

I've looked at Dodge magnums v8s, but the mpgs pushed me away (especially the SRT8s). Wouldn't do a v6 because they are too slow and get no better mpg than the v8 RT.

Not until very recently did I know the HHR SS even existed and was shocked to learn there was an automatic option.



So my current car does 0-60 in 6 sec and a mid 14 1/4 mile. Before this I had a 2011 mustang that went 12.15@115mph, but having a chlid makes you make life changes. That same child is pushing me to get a vehicle with more cargo space.

So what do I need to know and look out for when shopping for an HHR SS? I see a few around the country with all sorts of miles ranging from $10k to $16k. Also, I'm accustomed to making modifications as well as tuning (as most mustang owners are) so brakes, exhaust, etc are not deal breakers for me.

Thank you
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Old 10-28-2015, 09:04 AM
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Welcome to the site, when you drive it you will know!!!


http://carsforsale.motortrend.com/us...vrolet/hhr/ss/


found three automatics on this site , gives you a start and you can customize the search for your zip!

Last edited by Oldblue; 10-28-2015 at 11:59 AM. Reason: added the link
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Old 10-28-2015, 11:21 AM
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Welcome to the site.

The 2010 SS's are all pretty much optioned the same. Color and trans. choice were the only options. 5 speeds could be optioned with the Brembo/LSD pkg.
Roof racks were not available but the RPD display on the dash was standard.

The 08's, 09's had more option choices.

Good Luck with the search.
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Old 10-28-2015, 01:49 PM
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Thanks. Any known issues to look out for during the test drive and walk around?

Based on the changes over the years any of them work for me.
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Old 10-28-2015, 02:43 PM
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I would just make sure all recalls have done and services were up to date. The SS's tend to be on the picky side. I always run mine with Mobile 1 Synthetic and 93 Gas. Not all owners are the same. I got mine with 50K on and I have roughly 72K on it now. Only issues I've had have been small.

Run it up and make sure its getting proper power and boost (Around 14-15 PSI) Some autos tend to run a little lower especially here in the South.

I'm down in Macon not to far from ya
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Old 10-28-2015, 08:08 PM
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The SS is known to be a little "engine noisy" at startup. The direct injection system's high fuel pressure is the reason. A cold start can be a little unnerving the 1st time you listen to one.
Also the ticking of the injectors after warm up can seem a little loud if you've never listened to one.

As sinabu stated, check the boost numbers on any test rides. Just remember that boost is limited in low gear on a stock SS.
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Old 10-29-2015, 02:39 AM
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aboard Bmr4life, all good info above, just remember that there are always good HHR's on the market. And if this one raises any red flags, walk away and continue your hunt.
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Old 10-29-2015, 09:13 AM
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Thanks, all good tips. My wife's BMW has DI so I'm aware of the loud-ish ticking.
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Old 10-29-2015, 09:21 AM
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That's why I posted! When you drive it you will know! These little Trucklets are intuitive, they will let you know if they like you or not!
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Old 10-29-2015, 01:40 PM
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Originally Posted by Bmr4life
Hello everyone. I've been on the search for a quick & fun wagon to replace current 2010 Camry V6 LE.

I've looked at Jetta TDI Sportwagens which they are slow but the mpg gain had me willing to deal with it. Overall the maintenance cost made me look elsewhere.

I've looked at Dodge magnums v8s, but the mpgs pushed me away (especially the SRT8s). Wouldn't do a v6 because they are too slow and get no better mpg than the v8 RT.

Not until very recently did I know the HHR SS even existed and was shocked to learn there was an automatic option.



So my current car does 0-60 in 6 sec and a mid 14 1/4 mile. Before this I had a 2011 mustang that went 12.15@115mph, but having a chlid makes you make life changes. That same child is pushing me to get a vehicle with more cargo space.

So what do I need to know and look out for when shopping for an HHR SS? I see a few around the country with all sorts of miles ranging from $10k to $16k. Also, I'm accustomed to making modifications as well as tuning (as most mustang owners are) so brakes, exhaust, etc are not deal breakers for me.

Thank you
Bought mine new in 2009.
Most fun daily driver I've owned.
Used HP Tuners to crank it up to 25lbs of boost. It's fast, trouble free, and has been for for 140,000+ miles.
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