Hi,
new member. i have used a few how toos so far with great success-thank you all members. I have run into an issue however. i own a 2006 2LT with the 2.4L with a 5 speed manual trans.

Issues: when driving my trans seems to take a while catching up with my engine output. Example: tach reads 3000rpm Motor output appears normal. But when I step on the gas, it almost feels like the motor is producing output and the transmission is lagging.

About three weeks ago while on the highway. i down shifted and 'accelerated' but the transmission delayed and then caught up. then the check engine light came on and stayed on until I shut the car off. the light has not been on again. best example i can give you- It feels like the out days when a clutch started to go, but I had the clutch and cable looked at, both are ok according to the dealer.

also, can anyone recommend a code reading device so i can start to trouble shoot when I get issues. This has been the only problem my HHR has had. 61,800 miles and she has been good.

thanks everyone!

 

What you are saying it would be the clutch is slipping. That is the only thing that would give you that delay feeling.

 

it could be. But the issue is when I am in gear and moving, it feels like the tranny does not rev as quick as the motor. So my question is, is there a second control sensor/module that governs idle/speed control? If my clutch was worn, why would I get a check engine light on the console in 4th gear? maybe coincidence?

 

Probably because the motor is operating faster then the speedo in the selected gear...welcome to the new world computer cars....

 

Sure sounds like a slipping clutch. Run the car at about 20 MPH in fourth gear and floor it. If the engine revs up, watch the tach, and the car doesn't accelerate in sync, your clutch is history.

 

Clutch slip. Check your local parts dealers usually they will read the code for free. Once you get the code post it up here.