In my 2007 HHR LT the power steering will cut-out for about half a second and the also radio goes black. Sometimes the clock radio and the settings will reset when this happens. This only happens at startup, shut down and when I'm maneuvering in or out of a parking spot. Never happens when I'm on the road or highway.

I was wondering if this was the power steering showing signs that it was going out, but with the radio going nuts it made me think it could be a ground issue. Any ideas?

 

Yes a ground issue and possible loose fuse block under the hood, please remember to disconnect the negative cable at the battery to avoid power surges.
And of course I'd suggest having the codes pulled prior to disconnecting if the CEL is lit!

 

I checked both fuse compartments and YES one maybe two were sticking out a bit. I made sure all of them were snug and ever since things have seemed back to normal. Well, the radio still resets on its own when it feels the need ...which is pretty normal for my car.

 

If there are no cel codes or the cel light on, disconnect the negative cable at the battery in the spare tire well in the back, for 30 minutes to reset the BCM , it should fix your radio.