I have read on several forums where Equinox and Malibu owners with the 2.4 Ecotec are having problems with oil burning and engine failure. I don't recall HHR owners reporting the same. Is it because the Equinox has direct injection? The 2.4 in the HHR is essentially the same engine as the other 2.4 Ecotecs, correct?

 

Same family of engines, but I wouldn't say they're the same. A lot is different when going to DI. Not come across issues as you describe with the LE5/9.

 

To echo the post above, the LAF SIDI version of the Ecotec was not used in the HHR.

While the LAF 2.4 has developed a bad reputation for spun bearings, premature ring failure, and needing rebuilt as early as 25,000 miles.

The 2.4 variants as fitted to the HHR's are nice dependable units, excluding the odd failure, you'll find that the owners here are quite happy with them.

 

I know I am very happy with both of my 2.4L engines.....

My neighbor has a Subaru Turbo Coupe and that things sounds like a 4cyl. running on 2cyl.
What a crappie exhaust. Idles with a nasty uneven Thump.
Too boot, in cooler weather he comes out at 5:30 a.m. to start it up and lets it run for 20 minutes to warm up.
You can hear it inside your house all over the neighborhood
I am sure it's stock as he know nothing about cars.
Just wants people to think he does.
Mr. pretend Macho man.

I may buy a Cobalt SS and ask him if he would like to try me on ???
I saw a beautiful Yellow one here about a week ago for sale.

Uh ... Yellow ..... Maybe not.

P.S. When warm, both my 2.4's are smooth as glass at idle with a smooth exhaust.

SF

 

I read a lot on the Equinox forum with 2.4DI issues, which I means I ruled out the Equinox/Terrain with the 2.4 DI as a potential replacement for my HHR. I have 115,000+ miles on my 06HHR w the 2.4 engine which has been very reliable and no issues. It seem that high oil consumption is considered normal with the 2.4 DI engine. My HHR has had no oil consumption issues. I currently have ~7000 on its last oil change with 54% oil life on the DIC and no oil loss when looking at the dip stick while the oil still looks clear. I have been using synthetic oil since the car was new.

 

2.4 LE5 =Good, Rumor bad

 

The 2.4 DI engines in the equinox/terrains with the problems mentioned were only on the 2011 models. No reports of 2012-13 with any fuel probs.

 

Check the "p1174 -Fuel Trim Cylinder Balance" thread for more info, my 07 HHR 2LT 2.4L is using 1qt oil every 50-60 miles, almost got stranded in Vegas on my 35th wedding anniversary.

 

Dates.

 

oops , sry