Hi, I just purchased a 2006 HHR. It has 160,000 miles and in good condition. The previous owner only had one key and did not have a remote. When I attempt to lock the doors with the button on the driver's door, all doors except the drivers door lock, the driver's door immediately returns to open. I then get in the passenger side and push the lock down. When I then use the key to open the door the alarm immediately goes off, and I have to stick the key in the ignition to silence the alarm. They key is not a smart key, that is what I was told. Can I purchase a remote that is programable to the vehicle, I have read both that it is not possible and that it is possible. If I can purchase a remote, can I program it or will I have to have someone program it? Will a remote solve my problem of the alarm sounding when I open the car. Also is the drivers door the only door to use the key, I did not see a keyhold on the passenger door or the hatch door. TIA

 

Dorman sells a fob and program kit. EBay has many sellers of OEM fobs and the Dorman program kit will program one of those too.

Welcome to the site!

 

What will help with te alarm is using the key to lock the door.
I purchased my 'smart key' at ACE Hardware. They also set up the key to my 2006.

 

Read the Owner Manual (link in my sig). If you lock the doors with the driver plunger, the driver door is supposed to lock AFTER it is closed. The alarm is supposed to act that way. Some of the lock behavior can be controlled with the DIC. 2006 is a little different from other years.
It is a semi-smart key, it has a chip for the ignition. Matching a new key is outlined in the Owner Manual, no computer or expert needed.

(I tried to spell behavior the Canadian way and spellcheck complained)

 

we spell behaviour with a u like we spell neighbour or colour. More British then Canadian

 

This kit

https://www.dormanproducts.com/p-427-13737.aspx