ErinLeigh

Hey there! I've owned my 08 HHR it's entire life. Lately, the check engine light has been turning on. I was told it was ok to drive and just change the fuel cap. I changed the fuel cap and the light was still on. I took it to a mechanic and they said they needed to change the spark plugs, transmission fluid and clean up the fuel. The car has been idling really rough lately. Especially when the A/C is running. When my car is going to first gear, it shifts really hard and it's beginning to do that going to second gear now. However, driving on the highway (65-80mph) - nothing goes wrong. It's as smooth as it's always been. My car has over 155k miles on it.
I took it in to another shop today and the guy said the motor needed to be replaced. Any ideas why I have two different opinions? Any guesses as to what's going on with my car?
Thanks for your help in advance!

RJ_RS_SS_350

Hi Erin, to the forums!!

When the check engine light goes on, the computer stores codes. Your mechanic, or possibly even your local auto parts store can read these for you, there should be no charge for this.

Post the codes here, and we'll help you figure out what is REALLY going on with your HHR. Just the codes, i.e. P0302 or whatever they are. Ignore any description, as they are often misleading.

If the spark plugs have never been changed, they are long overdue. They are usually good to around 100,000 miles. It's doubtful that the motor needs replacement.

Oldblue

Welcome to the site, X2 get the codes read, please , we'll go from there!

aradmahogany

Them telling you to change the engine or transmission is them saying "hey I dont know whats wrong with your car but you dont either so give me money." It is surely something simple, the hard shifts are due to the check engine light being on.
X3 get the codes and post them here.