GREAT CAR!! Bought 1st wk of Jan, 2009, just went over 225,000 miles - TROUBLE FREE. YES, I've had to replace some stuff (brakes, shocks & sruts, plugs [@ 223,000 miles]) As far as Firestone?!?!?! I "only got 96,000 miles off the originals - 120,000 (and counting) on the replacements. Being an AMSOIL dlr helps - oil changes every 24,000. I work as a courier, delivering medications - avg 4 - 600 miles PER DAY. ONLY problem I have NOT solved, is a vacuum leak in the purge system - anybody tell me WHERE the purge valve/cannister is hidden???

 

Welcome... You didn't mention which motor you had, so here's the 2.4L

Look at #6 (EVAP) canister purge solenoid valve

 

Great picture - thanks, will save that for my HHR files.

 

You have a pic like that for the SS?

 

I don't, sorry...

 

Hey Sleeper - Thanks, a TON, for the diagram. I have the 2.2 engine, but this gives me a great start. Even this old, blind deaf guy might be able to find it NOW!!! (;O))

 

The purge solenoid is on the engine, but the vent solenoid for the canister is under the car, in front of the rear axle. This is where it usually leaks. I replaced my vent solenoid last year after the plastic case cracked, causing a leak that kept setting a code. It comes out without tools and is reasonably priced at the dealer. Don't remember exactly how much but maybe around $20.

Steve

 

THANKS - will have it "up in the air" this wknd.

 

Thats great to hear. I only got about 52K out of my firestones.