I don't think this went there by accident and I don't know what the previous owner had in mind. I am hesitant removing this I thought maybe it's there to help keep the cover clean, like acting as an absorbent or something...

 

Looks like rodent nesting.

 

Who knows... and I was surprised to see there are no solenoids on the left side of the valve cover. Are they hidden somewhere else?

 

No VVT in the 2007, 2.2 , that’s why no solenoids.

Yes, that’s rodent nesting material, wear a mask while you clean the out, if you have a shop vac use that, then be sure to empty the vac, the rodent poop carries deceases , nasty stuff!
I spritz vinegar in there a few times to deter them from staying there, at the valve cover hotel!

 

This engine is giving me an amazing 31.36 mpg combined and is a lot less expensive to repair. I am impressed and I don't feel I have any lack of power compared to the 2.4L. Sweet ride so far. Although I already have a fast ticking noise under the hood I hope it's not the timing chain that already has to be replaced after just 90 000 kilo. It sounds a lot like here in this video no idea if it is normal wear or a serious problem developing:

2:08

Also do I have to remove the valve cover to see which kind of timing set is needed? Or is it an information I can get directly here or on internet ? With the VIN number perhaps?

 

The engine ticking could be the timing chain tensioner, the front guide broken or a stretched chain. It could be the serpentine belt and tensioner also.

here’s information about timing chain kits

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-...in-kits-60394/

I recommend the 9-4201 S timing chain kit and 9-4202 S balance shaft chain kit.

there is a kit that includes a water pump, which would be a good idea to change as you don’t know how old the coolant is and if you’re going to change the pump, then order a new AC Delco 131-158 thermostat. I put 486,000 klms on my 2007 2.2 , so they do last and a little preventative maintenance goes a very long way!

replace the front guide upper bolt

RockAuto has everything you need and don’t forget the discount code!