I think there may be a recall on your 2009 shifter:

http://www.lemonauto.com/complaints/...vrolet_hhr.htm

 

That recall has nothing to do with stuck keys.

 

Oh I know, but Sno White mentioned their 2009 was hopefully out from under this continuing problem. If I was Sno White, I'd try to convince them to replace the whole shifter before the key does get stuck because of the shifter. Hell, while they're in there. I guess my shifter did last 4 years and 69,000 miles. But it seems this shifter pin breakage is happening whenever it wants to fail.

You know I didn't mention what a catch 22 I was in because that key got stuck. The battery ran down before I figured out how to manually disengage the lock cylinder in the column. (When its stuck, its in the on position.) I couldn't get into the trunk to get the jumper cables, LOL. (Electrical actuator. Is there a way open the back hatch without power?) I have a dog barrier in the back. (I do canine rescue.) I never thought about that. So, jumper cables, their going under the seat or something.

 

Agreed, cable linkage type stuff in that recall.

If I understand this stuck key issue: The key is stuck in the ignition because the micro-switch is not activated to let the ignition cylinder lock know the vehicle is in Park and it is thus safe to remove the key.

If I recall my history correctly this requirement (I presume a FMVSS requirement) came about because some passengers got mad at their drivers and removed the ignition key while a vehicle was in motion causing the steering wheel to lock in one position and thus causing crashes. Since, manufactures have designed the shift level to be returned to Park before the ignition key can be removed.

Now, if the OP had the opposite problem in that the key was removable without the vehicle in Park I’d bet GM would be more willing to listen. As this would be a real safety concern and thus the concern of NHTSA.

 

I'm not that worried.

Here are a couple of links to answer your question on the rear hatch:
https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-tutorial-library-21/how-manual-liftgate-release-8540/
and
https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/how-tutorial-library-21/how-liftgate-emergency-switch-22192/

 

I had that problem, and the local dealer covered it for free.
Said it was a common, covered problem!
They turned it around in 30 minutes

 

Was your car still in warranty? My dealer won't budge as of yet, I did not make it there today. I'll give it a go with a more convincing argument armed with all this information tomorrow morning. I'm sure I'll be back here to report.

Sno White: I couldn't get in the back at all because I have those bars installed to keep a dog in the back. To remove them I have to open the hatch. A total catch 22, lol. [Oh, I didn't read through the whole post. I like your solution, but do you keep a spare battery in the glove box too? Lol. No, it is a very good solution. :) ]

Also, when that pin falls out the shift lever is free to move without pressing the shift button on the front of the shift lever, so it could accidentally be moved to another gear while driving, even reverse!! I guess that is not enough of a safety issue for GM to worry about.

 

Maybe you should try going to a different dealer and see if they'll help you.

 

My thoughts are if my battery is dead I have bigger problems than just opening the rear hatch - my vehicle won't start, thus I am not going anywhere. I know how to and can jump the vehicle from the engine compartment, if there is anything wrong with the rear hatch I can remotely open it as well.

Considering you do something with electronics I thought you might like the aux battery.

Good point on the safety issue.

Good Luck

 

There are connections under underhood to power the car.