My 2008 HHR seems to need its front axles replaced, and since my husband usually only works on older street rods & muscle cars (1930 - 1970). He asked he to check and see if I could find any information on my forums. Any guidance would be appreciated. He has all the necessary shop tools and equipment, including a nice lift. Thanks.

 

They are very similar, and pretty easy to replace. Lots of YouTube videos for it.
I use a 30mm deep socket to remove the axle nut, then loosen the wheel lug nuts, jack up the HHR , place a jack stand under it. I don’t have a lift, so he can lift the HHR after he cracks the axle nut loose.
take off the wheel, remove the pinch pin at the steering knuckle, drop the lca down swing the strut far enough out to get the axe out of the wheel bearing hub, then pop the inner end from the transmission with a pinch bar . Then change the axle seal and reassemble.

 

You should post what trim level your HHR is(LS, 1LT, 2LT, SS). Also whether it is an automatic or manual transmission.

 

Yes the SS has 36 mm axle nuts and larger diameter splines, and so requires a specific SS automatic or manual cv drive shafts different part numbers