So I've utilized this site constantly to stay up to date on all the issues the HHR has and as of today, I am still experiencing the front end "clunk".........

06 / 2.4 - Auto / 2LT

Well, I'm turning to everyone for another possible solution. At this time I have replaced the below components.

New complete MOOG control arms
New, MOOG greasable sway bar end links
New complete Strut assemblies

I've checked the sway bar bushings and they appear crack free with no metal to metal contact...

The local mechanic told me this evening that I may need to install a "flat washer" at the top of the struts where they meet the strut tower of the body????? He stated this will take up any spacing between the top of the strut and the body?????

Any help is always appreciated!!!!!

 

I have a 2006 LS and have noise when I go over bumps or joints in the road, I've had the front end looked at and they say everything is ok but something has to be up? So I'm interested in hearing feedback on this topic.

 

Have someone check out GM .. TSB 12-03-08-001

Front end thump or clunk.
2006-2011

SF

 

My guess would be sway bar bushings. They don't have to be cracked or metal to metal. They get loose around the sway bar and make a clunking noise over small bumps.

 

My opinoin i wouldnt waste anymore money is a common complaint and problem.

My opinoin just deal with the noise i have the same problem my reaponse is its a design engineering issue the way the small narrow front end is set up to give you that design and thats the reason they dont make hhr and old colbalt anymore.


QUOTE=CARRS 06 HHR;694778]So I've utilized this site constantly to stay up to date on all the issues the HHR has and as of today, I am still experiencing the front end "clunk".........right
Dont spend anymore money
06 / 2.4 - Auto / 2LT

Well, I'm turning to everyone for another possible solution. At this time I have replaced the below components.

New complete MOOG control arms
New, MOOG greasable sway bar end links
New complete Strut assemblies

I've checked the sway bar bushings and they appear crack free with no metal to metal contact...

The local mechanic told me this evening that I may need to install a "flat washer" at the top of the struts where they meet the strut tower of the body????? He stated this will take up any spacing between the top of the strut and the body?????

Any help is always appreciated!!!!![/QUOTE]

 

I've only had my 2011 for a little over a year but mine has that clunking rattle noise when you hit a bump too. I've had other people tell me that seems to be a common thing with HHR's not sure if it is or not.
Mine has been driving a little bumpy and had a pull to the left in the wheel so I took it to have it checked and see it is needed to be aligned or balanced again. Turns out it was the left front lower ball joint was bad and had to be replaced, which they said was very unusual since it isn't very old and has low miles. It was covered under warranty so I had to let the dealer fix it, but even though the pull in the wheel is better I'm not sure it's right still because it is bumpy and not as smooth riding as when I first got it...clunk is still there too..lol. Guess it will go back to the shop to see what is wrong?

 

The 06's were known for bad intermediate steering shafts that weren't properly lubed at the factory..so if everything else looks good, have that checked out..later years it was corrected.

 

Lucky you being under warranty. Mine is a 2008. Look at car complaints .com. Noises, squeaks, clanking noises are common. My hhr. Too lately seems to be a little more bouncier so i ordered some high end shocks to help. These noises everyone is hearing also keep un mind you have a subframe little and body that is twisting over bumps and will rattle and queak will its the narrow front end. Don't waste your money. I've. Heard all the complaints online and all the parts replaced and cost. And they still have these problems. Its in the subframe parts and body. Nothing you can do about that.

 

This. If you have replaced everything else and you still have the noise, replace them. They are not expensive. This was the last piece I replaced in my front end and the noise went away.

 

Another vote for the sway bar bushings. Energy Suspensions Greaseable Sway Bar Bushings did wonders for my '08 HHR. I had the FE3 suspension which took Part Number: 9.5161. Cost - $16.

After that then I would check the steering shaft.