The default air cleaner service interval is replace at 50,000 miles (unless operated in dirty dusty conditions, then inspect with every oil change. They also say inspect at first oil change, for what reason I have no idea.) The turbo calls for inspection at every oil change, but that one’s easier to get to, with screws on the top of the box.

Maybe GM just got tired of customers being scammed into buying a new air filter at every oil change. Or maybe they’re just trying to make the dealers rich.

PSA, always remove the woollyworm from the air box before yanking it off.

From the 2010 owners manual: (Deliberately vague?)

 

The first time I went to a major national tire store I watched the mechanic for 10 minutes try to "inspect" the air filter. I got into the shop and stopped him before he broke anything. The same guy asked me if I liked my PTCruiser.

 

15 to 20 year old HHRs are a mystery to most ASE badged mechanics. I’m still surprised how many people don’t know the 4 bolts in the fuse box or that the battery is in the back and jump the wrong connector!

 

This is the wooly worm I used.It's actually pretty good quality.Much better than I expected.

 

I used 3” dryer vents tube from Home Depot. Cheap lasts a long time it can handle the heat from the exhaust manifold