How often do you replace the shocks on your HHR and what shocks do you use to give it the best ride? Thanks. Chuck

 

I replace them when they start to leak, I only install KYB shocks and struts
https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...k+/+strut,7556

 

In the wayback, when they were cheap 50,000 miles was recommended.

 

On my SS I replaced the rears at 100,000 with Bilsteins and the fronts are still original. I have new ones, but they still seem fine. On my Camaro I replaced them at 3000 miles and when the QA1s leaked just over a year later I replaced them again. At least on the SS, the originals seem to last quite well.

 

I don't even remember how many years ago it was (a very long time ago) – I replaced the front shocks.
I bought a Kayaba from RockAuto.
And I experienced cultural shock when I learned I bought it with a lifetime warranty. This doesn't happen in my country, and I couldn't believe my eyes.
I spent three days corresponding with RockAuto, and I received confirmation that any reason for failure is not grounds for refusing a free replacement with new shock absorbers. There is no statute of limitations.
An attraction of unprecedented generosity. But! This Kayaba is simply indestructible.
Basically, if this practice is still in place in the US, I highly recommend taking advantage of it. It doesn't matter what kind of shock absorber it is, as long as it comes with the blessed lifetime warranty.

 

Don't replace dampeners until they're worn out or leaking, and a tiny amount of seepage is not a leak.

Two of my LS's needed shocks and struts by 50-60K miles. The SS dampeners seem to last much longer. The 2LT has Sachs in the rear similar to the SS that seem hold up well, too. I haven't been able to figure out is the 2LT struts are the same as the base model or something better.

I agree with Oldblue on KYB's, high quality, great value, but don't expect a cushy ride. They are quite firm, but youll get sports car handling.

 

The KYB website states 50,000 mile life, but they offer a lifetime warranty on their shocks!

 

Modern shocks are gas charged with a small amount of oil on one side. Leakage is an indicator of LONG GONE. Better to do the bounce test, if it bounces more than 3 times after you put all your weight on a corner they are bad.

https://monroe.com.au/trade-corner/t...ent-cartridges

 

Good advice.

Sometimes dampeners fail without ever leaking; they're just worn out. An unscrupulous trick is to squirt oil on the shock and show a gullible owner proof that new shocks are needed.

Personally, I wouldn't tolerate even one bounce. New performance shocks will return gradually as they approach the original position with zero bounce.

The Monroe document implies that monotube shocks are inferior. This is not the case. High performance shocks tend to be monotube. They might be a bit harsher due to more friction, but they perform better under sever duty. The Sach OEM SS shocks are monotube. Pretty sure the 2LT FE3 shocks are too.

PSA - Don't bounce too hard on the ends of the rear bumper cover. The plastic brackets are easily broken. (Ask me how I know.) Just open the hatch and sit hard on the cargo floor.

 

I'm almost at 150,000 miles so I think it's probably due. I would like a much smoother ride as oppose to a "sports car handling". Thanks to everyone for your response. Chuck