How do you get the trouble codes?
 

Hi all, I just registered and bought a (like new) 2011 HHR-LT a month or so ago. I'm coming from a 2004 PT Cruiser and really like the HHR much better. :thumb:

This morning coming in to work, the check engine light came on and I thought maybe it was the gas cap loose or some bad gas. I just put $15 in it last night before filling with E85 this morning at a different station, and the light remains on.

Is there a way to get the trouble codes to read out, without having an ODB scanner? On the PT, I had to flip the key 3 times in 5 seconds and it would readout on the instrument cluster, but of course the dealership and manufacturer won;t tell you that, I had to learn it from the forums. So, I was hoping that maybe the HHR would do the same thing?

Thanks!!
Scott

:welcome8: to the forum Scott, and congrats on your new ride!

Unfortunately the HHR cannot self-read its codes like your old PT, but head to any of your local auto parts stores like Advance, Autozone, Napa, etc. They'll pull the codes for you at no charge and give you a printout of what the scan tool found.

Re-check your gas cap as it sounds like it may be loose, HHR's like anything built in the last couple of years, are pretty touchy if the cap is not tightly fastened...it sets a leak code in the EVAP system...and "Bang" instant CEL.

A loose cap code will self clear after driving for a couple of days, but its a good idea to get the codes pulled in case its another problem, being that you have a 2011 it should still have the balance of the factory warranty too.

Welcome to the site.
Also, on this site, is a list of all the codes and what they are.

ie: https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/problems-service-repairs-42/list-diagnostic-trouble-codes-2008-2010-hhr-14259/

And welcome.