jnwrx1

So 2006 HHR automatic transmission making noise and codes coming up indicating torque converter stuck on or open, or something similar.

It makes a low whining / groaning when in gear at idle, which has more recently been sending like it's spooling down when stopping at a light.

When accelerating hard or going closer to freeway speeds will make a much higher pitched whine that is more often starting to sound like something spinning hyper-fast.

I took it to one place who didn't even open to do a service, just read the codes and basically offered to sell me a new transmission. Another person actually managed to hear the sound and said it sounds like the filter is clogging and the pump is screaming trying to get oil.

Also, now it has started marking a new noise as soon as I turn the engine off that sounds like a groaning from something spinning down in or near the engine, so now it's got problems in two places.

Bought it from the original owner a few months ago: 156.000 Kms on it, now. After only driving it for a few months and having potentially major repairs coming I am not very happy or excited about this car at all.

firemangeorge

So. You bought a 15 year old used car with close to 100k miles and you're not happy because it may need some repairs ? Uhh. It's a 15 year old used car.

You could try changing the filter and trans fluid yourself. Not much more than the cost of an oil change. If that doesn't work (or you can't do it yourself) then find a good transmission shop.
If you're asking the forum members to do a diagnostic on your issue, then you'll need to post up those trouble code numbers. Not descriptions but post up the actual codes.

( My guess is if it has triggered some actual transmission codes, then you've got more serious issues and a simple fluid/filter change probably won't help.)

Oldblue

https://www.chevyhhr.net/forums/main...ge-easy-42736/

This might help, it might not, but your description tells me your transmission is low in fluid.
At your mileage, a fresh filter and fluid might be the answer.

donbrew

If anyone was smart enough to actually know what the code is they could probably fix it. "codes coming up indicating torque converter stuck on or open, or something similar." is simply not enough to go on; there is a number that means something.

Oldblue

I don’t even want to guess the codes, some have simply changed the solenoids inside the transmission, some take it to a transmission specialist shop. Some just sell the HHR .
that code is very important.

It might be as simple as wiring harness
https://www.obd-codes.com/p0742

jnwrx1

As a matter of fact, yes. I think I'm allowed to be unhappy. Especially since my first post is just met with sarcasm. What a community.

With all the hype i was given by the people who convinced me to get the car and who keep conveniently meeting other HHR owners who brag about never having to do more than change fluids on there's I feel a bit let down.

I wasn't trying to get a diagnosis, more just wondering who might have a frame a reference or even had an identical situation i could get some insight from.

I Have taken it to a transmission specialist, now. Good thing their welcome is at least warmer than this forum.

RJ_RS_SS_350

I didn't see any sarcasm, I saw a valid point. The mistake he made was that it is not a 15 year old used car. The 2022 model year has begun, you have a 16 year old used car. It either wasn't maintained well by the previous owner, and/or it had an issue(maybe a transmission fluid leak) that he failed to mention. Used cars are a gamble, you never know what you'll get.

If your friends are only changing fluids, they're going to be in for a shock. All the wear items need replacement periodically. Suspension, steering, hoses, belt, etc. Doesn't matter if you spend $1,000 or $300,000, there is still maintenance.

We do try to help, but you came in with such vague information. We might have been able to help you save some money. Glad it's getting some help.

donbrew

And if anyone cared enough they would find out what the code "means". By anyone I mean the "mechanic" involved. Since you didn't deign to give us the code we couldn't possibly figure out if anyone had a similar experience.

I did have a similar experience; my HHR broke once. Nobody ever told me why, just a bad day, I guess.

I thought Canadians had a reputation for being polite. I suppose you are part of the invasion force.

Oldblue

Ok, we Canadians are polite, not an invasion force. No need for political satire here. Let keep to helping folks, ask questions and not speculate what has been done or not done during the HHR’s life.