So, little story first. I purchased this car last year with known issues. So far, I have replaced quite a few parts now. But this one has eluded me.
I have replaced the vent solenoid, replaced the gas cap, and done an under hood vacuum check. Nothing has fixed it. Now this code is staying in pending state and not permanent. (7 months now).
Now, I am not sure if this model requires a vented or vent fee gas cap.
Short from taking it in and having a smog check done, what else should I look at.
I do have a obd2 detailed scanner so I can monitor the sensors and voltage.
Also, the old instrument panel was faulty so I replaced it with a pulled part. When I took it in to the dealership to have it programed so the odometer will move, they said they are afraid to do so cause it can cause other issues and possibly prevent the car from starting again. Anyone have information about this?

 

to the forums!

The gas cap is not vented.

There have been several reports of not being able to match used instrument clusters

 

Hmm vent solenoid, did you install an AC Delco, I’ve had problems with aftermarket and offshore parts, same with the fuel cap. Generic parts just don’t cut the mustard!
you could also be having a problem from a corrosion issue on the fuel tank vent line.

 

My bet is there is a leak in the vapor pipe. If you replaced the vent solenoid the rubber gasket can be twisted.
I think the dealer is just lazy or doesn't have anybody with experience with the "old" Tech2 interface.
I doubt that you can get inspected if the mileage doesn't natch.

 

To find these small leaks we charge the system with nitrogen and spray simple green and it will find the small leak. Many times smoke is to dense to get out the small stuff or comes through so slow you can't see it.
You could have a degrading canister. They will start out as small leak.

 

As soon as these storms clear up, I'll start with what is suggested.
As for a twisted gasket, I already checked.
Is there a way to fix a cluster that the readout display is not working? I can get it registered just fine, I just can't sell it without a working odometer

 

Know anyone with a Tech II scan tool?

 

No unfortunately. I've been looking at them myself. But my current situation has me saving everything possible to buy a home in 6 months. So if I don't have to have it, I put it on the back burner.
If you know of someone that would loan one out, I could use it to program the cluster and check further sensors mine doesn't see. But that is very far fetched right now with trust being far and few between these days.

 

I don't know any good reason they won't do it. It is just a matter of matching the VINs, much like a new radio.
They probably think the HHR is the same as the full size cars where the mileage is stored in the cluster. The only way it could inhibit starting is an incompetent technician pushes the wrong button. That is what scares them.