by VIN, Year, Make, Model by License Plate

2006 Chevrolet HHR Review: A Fun, Retro-Styled, Low-Maintenance Budget Compact

Rating: 4.02
Based on 73 Owner Reviews
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2006 Chevrolet HHR (Heritage High Roof) is a retro-styled, compact wagon designed to evoke the spirit of the 1949 Chevy Suburban. Produced from 2006 to 2011, it came in various trims, including the base LS, mid-range LT, and sporty SS. Its standout feature was its unique design and versatility, offering ample cargo space within a relatively small footprint. Pricing in 2006 ranged approximately from $16,000 to $23,000.
The Good

The 2006 Chevrolet HHR offers a blend of practicality and retro charm. Its spacious cargo area and decent fuel economy appeal to practical buyers. Emotionally, its distinctive styling and nostalgic cues stand out. While not a performance car, it provides adequate power for daily driving and is relatively comfortable for its class. It can also be an affordable used car option appealing to value conscious buyers.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2006 Chevrolet HHR include some reported issues with the electrical system, particularly the power windows and door locks. The suspension can feel a bit stiff, and the interior materials are generally considered to be budget-oriented. Some owners have also reported issues with the powertrain over time, especially with higher mileage.

2006 Chevrolet HHR: Quick Overview

Key Specifications for the 2006 Chevrolet HHR:

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.2L Ecotec Inline-4: Offered in LS and LT trims.
    • 2.4L Ecotec Inline-4: Available in LT trims and standard on the later SS model.
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.2L Ecotec: Approximately 143 horsepower.
    • 2.4L Ecotec: Approximately 172 horsepower.
  • Fuel Economy (estimated):
    • 2.2L Ecotec: Around 22 MPG city / 30 MPG highway.
    • 2.4L Ecotec: Around 21 MPG city / 29 MPG highway.
  • 0-60 Times:
    • 2.2L Ecotec: Approximately 9-10 seconds.
    • 2.4L Ecotec: Approximately 8-9 seconds.
  • Towing Capacity: Not recommended for towing.
  • Trim Level Features:
    • LS: Standard features included air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, and a basic audio system.
    • LT: Added features such as upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control, and available options like alloy wheels, sunroof, and premium audio.

2006 Chevrolet HHR Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2006
Make Chevrolet
Model HHR
Trim -
Style -
Type -
Category -
Manufacturing Details
Made In -
Manufacturing City -
Dimensions
Doors -
Curb Weight -
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating -
Overall Height -
Overall Length -
Overall Width -
Wheelbase Length -
Standard Seating -
Engine & Performance
Engine -
Engine Size -
Engine Cylinders -
Transmission -
Transmission Type -
Transmission Speeds -
Drivetrain -
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System -
Steering Type -
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) -
Invoice Price -
Delivery Charges -

Vehicle History Report

Vehicle
Specifications
Ownership
History
All History
Events
NMVTIS Title
History Check
Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2006 Chevrolet HHR Have?

The 2006 Chevrolet HHR has experienced several frequently reported problems that potential buyers should be aware of. One common issue is with the electrical system, particularly malfunctioning power windows and door locks. Some owners have also reported problems with the anti-theft system, which can prevent the car from starting. Another reported issue is the fuel gauge malfunctioning leading to inaccurate readings.

Recalls have been issued for certain HHR models, including issues related to the ignition switch (similar to other GM vehicles of the era) and potential fuel leakage problems. It's crucial to check the VIN of any used HHR for outstanding recall notices.

Long-term reliability concerns often revolve around the Ecotec engines, with some owners experiencing timing chain issues or premature wear. The automatic transmission can also be a point of concern, with reports of slipping or rough shifting at higher mileage. Rust can also become a problem, especially in areas with harsh winters and road salt. Addressing these potential issues through thorough inspection and preventative maintenance is essential for extending the lifespan of a 2006 HHR.

How long will the 2006 Chevrolet HHR last?

With proper maintenance, a 2006 Chevrolet HHR can realistically achieve 150,000 to 200,000 miles or more. Years of service depend heavily on maintenance. Models with regular oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs will last longer. Long-term durability can be affected by the aforementioned electrical gremlins, potential engine issues (like timing chain wear), and transmission problems. Rust, especially in northern climates, is a significant factor limiting lifespan. Neglecting these areas will shorten the vehicle's service life considerably.
Positive Owner Reviews
Scanner
I bought a 2006 Chevy HHR with 58,000 miles on it. I am regular with oil changes but admittedly neglect other scheduled maintenance. I would estimate over 5 years I have put $5000 in repairs into it. Overhead camshaft solenoid, blower fan for air conditioner, rotors twice, but that could be b/c it needed struts and therefore bad transfer of forces on the front end. I feel like in my mind it's "fair" on reliability but because I"m hard on my car it's not fair to penalize it so I upgrade it to good. I want to keep driving it so I am replacing struts now after a transmission fluid flush so that says something, I guess. It's poorly lit inside and the window buttons never made sense. There is a significant blind spot also but I am proud to have owned this quirky kind of car.
roseroper
This car met all my needs and then some. I was thing about getting another one . I have a 2006 now and i want a 2011.
Loving the HHR
Love the feeling I have while driving my HHR, it's smaller so parking is positive. Lots of room in vehicle and drives wonderfully. I definitely would recommend this car to anyone.
Negative Owner Reviews
pissedoffncgirl
this vehicle has and probably had many issues and I was promised it had no mechanical issues when the sales person was feeding me his line of straight BS! Dont really blame this type of vehicle but has been messed up from the day I pulled it from the car lot.518 Auto off Military Hwy.Norfolk va
L Sue
Now that I have owned this car, I can say that I would never again put money into an HHR, nor would I ever advise anyone to buy one. When someting goes wrong, you can not replace just the part that went wrong, it is always connected to something else that must also be replaced. Terrible engineering. Mechanics say very hard car to work on.
Louisiana Car Driver
The worst car i have driven in my life!! First off, every time i get an oil change the engine light will stay on for about a week and then come on and off. Water leaks into the front passenger floor board which has ruined the interior of the car and has caused the electric work in the car to go out. The A/C does not blow cold air in the summer and won't blow hot in the winter. The "seat heaters" have caused the leather on the seats to crack apart. The interior is too cramped and small for taller people, and it is almost impossible to see out of the back when driving. Overall, this is just a horrible car. I wouldn't waste my money on another one and can't wait to get rid of mine!

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2006 Chevrolet HHR offered a relatively basic level of technology for its time. Standard entertainment features included an AM/FM radio with a CD player and auxiliary input. Higher trims offered options like a premium sound system and satellite radio.

Driver-assistance features were limited. It did not have modern technologies such as blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning.

Safety features included standard front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and traction control. Side-impact airbags were available as an option.

Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) varied depending on the specific test. Some tests resulted in acceptable scores, while others showed areas of concern, particularly in side-impact protection. It's advisable to research specific crash-test results for the 2006 model year to make an informed decision about its safety performance.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black
Summit White
Berry Red Metallic
Sport Red Metallic
Liquid Silver Metallic
Navy Blue Metallic
Dark Blue Metallic
Sandstone Metallic
Silver
Interior Colors
Ebony
Gray
Neutral

2006 Chevrolet HHR Prices and Market Value

The 2006 Chevrolet HHR had a starting MSRP of around $16,000 to $23,000 depending on the trim and options. As a used vehicle, current market prices typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, contingent on condition, mileage, and location. The HHR has depreciated significantly due to its age, higher mileage on most examples, and reliability concerns. Resale value is heavily influenced by its mechanical condition and rust prevention. Well-maintained examples with lower mileage command a higher price, but overall depreciation is substantial.

2006 Chevrolet HHR Cost of Ownership

The 2006 Chevrolet HHR generally presents moderate ownership costs. Insurance is relatively affordable. Fuel costs are reasonable, given its fuel economy. Maintenance can be budget-friendly if you perform basic tasks. However, potential repairs, especially related to electrical issues and powertrain components, can increase expenses. Long-term ownership costs can escalate if major repairs become necessary. It is moderately economical if well maintained but can become costly if neglected.

2006 Chevrolet HHR Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type -
Fuel Capacity -
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2006 Chevrolet HHR Safety Rating

NHTSA
Overall Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Side Overall Star Rating Not Tested
Overall Rollover Star Rating Not Tested
Combined Front Seat Rating Not Tested
Combined Rear Seat Rating Not Tested
Overall Frontal Star Rating Not Tested
Frontal Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Side Barrier Star Ratings Not Tested
Rollover Resistance Star Rating Not Tested

2006 Chevrolet HHR Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags:frontal
Recall date 2006-10-31
Recall no. 06v417000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Vehicles Originally Built With Cloth Seats That Were Equipped With AN Automatic AIR BAG Passenger Sensing System and Later Reupholstered With Aftermarket Leather Seat Cover Kits ARE Involved. Testing HAS Indicated That THE Aftermarket Leather Seat Covers CAN Cause THE Passenger Sensing System TO Malfunction.
Consequence IF THE Passenger Sensing System Malfunctions, THE Front AIR BAG ON THE Passenger Side MAY BE Disabled When IT Should BE Enabled, or Enabled When IT Should BE Disabled. IN Either Case, IN THE Event OF A Crash That Requires AIR BAG Deployment, A Front Passenger's Level OF Injury MAY BE Increased.
Remedy Because A Replacement Leather Seat Cover That IS Compatible With THE Passenger Sensing System IS NOT Available, General Motors (Gm) Will Repurchase These Vehicles IN Accordance With THE Terms Stated IN Gm's Letter TO Owners. THE Recall Began ON November 6, 2006. Owners Should Contact GM AT 1-877-477-1022 TO Begin THE Process OF Repurchasing Their Vehicle.
Notes GM Recall NO. 06102.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date 2008-01-30
Recall no. 08v046000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 181,516 MY 2006-2008 Chevrolet HHR Vehicles NOT Equipped With Optional Roof Rail AIR Bags FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 201, 'occupant Protection IN Interior Impact.' IN Tests, ONE OF THE Upper Interior Occupant Protection Test Points Exceeded THE Standard's Requirement.
Consequence This Standard Specifies Performance Requirements TO Provide Head Impact Protection FOR Occupants.
Remedy Dealers Will Install AN Energy-Absorbing Plastic Piece TO THE Headliner Trim. THE Recall Began ON April 2, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438 or Through Their Website AT <A Href=http://Www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Notes GM Recall NO. 08016.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date 2008-09-03
Recall no. 08v444000
Source NHTSA
Summary GM IS Recalling 296,422 MY 2006-2008 Chevrolet HHR Vehicles FOR Failing TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 201, 'occupant Protection IN Interior Impact." THE Door ON THE Storage BIN IN THE Top Center OF THE Instrument Panel Failed TO Remain Closed AS Required.
Consequence This Standard Specifies Performance Requirements TO Provide Head Impact Protection FOR Occupants.
Remedy A Redesigned Latch Will BE Made Available. THE Recall Began ON December 23, 2008. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438, or Through Their Website AT <A Href=http://Www.gmownercenter.com>http://www.gmownercenter.com</a> .
Notes GM Recall NO. 08157.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date 2014-02-10
Recall no. 14v047000
Source NHTSA
Summary This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON February 10, 2014 That They ARE Recalling 619,122 Model Year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 Vehicles. ON February 25, 2014, GM Increased THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 748,024 Model Year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice Vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn ION Vehicles and 2007 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine. ON March 27, 2014, GM Notified THE Agency That THE Defective Ignition Switches MAY Have Been Used AS Service Replacement Parts ON Other Vehicles, and AS A Result GM Will BE Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR Vehicles. THE Part Numbers FOR THE Service Parts ARE 10392423 (a/K/a Acdelco D1461f), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This Expansion Represents AN Additional 823,788 Vehicles.
Consequence IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Switch, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Notification WAS Issued TO Owners OF 2007 and Earlier Models ON March 10, 2014, Informing Them OF THE Safety Defect. Owners OF 2008 and Later Vehicles Will BE Mailed AN Interim Letter ON April 21, 2014. All Affected Owners Will Receive Another Letter Once Parts ARE Available. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR THE Initial Recall IS 13454 and 14063 FOR THE Expansion. Gm?s Recall Number FOR THE Vehicles That MAY Have Received THE Replacement Parts IS 14092. Note: Until THE Recall Repairs Have Been Performed, IT IS Very Important That Customers Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Vehicle Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. Always Wear Your Seatbelt.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
AIR Bags
Recall date 2014-02-10
Recall no. 14v047000
Source NHTSA
Summary This Defect CAN Affect THE Safe Operation OF THE Airbag System. Until This Recall IS Performed, Customers Should Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Ignition Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. General Motors LLC (Gm) Notified THE Agency ON February 10, 2014 That They ARE Recalling 619,122 Model Year 2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt, and 2007 Pontiac G5 Vehicles. ON February 25, 2014, GM Increased THE Recall TO Include AN Additional 748,024 Model Year 2006-2007 Chevrolet HHR and Pontiac Solstice Vehicles and 2003-2007 Saturn ION Vehicles and 2007 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN These Models, THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Ignition Switch TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine. ON March 27, 2014, GM Notified THE Agency That THE Defective Ignition Switches MAY Have Been Used AS Service Replacement Parts ON Other Vehicles, and AS A Result GM Will BE Recalling Certain Model Year 2008-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, Saturn Sky, and Pontiac G5 and Solstice, and 2008-2011 Chevrolet HHR Vehicles. THE Part Numbers FOR THE Service Parts ARE 10392423 (a/K/a Acdelco D1461f), 10392737, 15857948, 15854953, 15896640, and 25846762. This Expansion Represents AN Additional 823,788 Vehicles.
Consequence IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE RUN Position, THE AIR Bags MAY NOT Deploy IF THE Vehicle IS Involved IN A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Injury.
Remedy GM Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Switch, Free OF Charge. AN Interim Notification WAS Issued TO Owners OF 2007 and Earlier Models ON March 10, 2014, Informing Them OF THE Safety Defect. Owners OF 2008 and Later Vehicles Will BE Mailed AN Interim Letter ON April 21, 2014. All Affected Owners Will Receive Another Letter Once Parts ARE Available. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac AT 1-800-762-2737 or Saturn AT 1-800-553-6000. Gm's Number FOR THE Initial Recall IS 13454 and 14063 FOR THE Expansion. Gm?s Recall Number FOR THE Vehicles That MAY Have Received THE Replacement Parts IS 14092. Note: Until THE Recall Repairs Have Been Performed, IT IS Very Important That Customers Remove All Items From Their KEY Rings, Leaving Only THE Vehicle Key. THE KEY FOB (IF Applicable), Should Also BE Removed From THE KEY Ring. Always Wear Your Seatbelt.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition
Recall date 2014-04-10
Recall no. 14v171000
Source NHTSA
Summary General Motors LLC (Gm) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, 2006-2011 Chevrolet Hhr, 2007-2010 Pontiac G5, 2006-2010 Pontiac Solstice, 2003-2007 Saturn Ion, and 2007-2010 Saturn SKY Vehicles. IN THE Affected Vehicles, THE KEY CAN BE Removed From THE Ignition When THE Ignition IS NOT IN THE "off" Position.
Consequence IF THE KEY CAN BE Removed From THE Ignition When THE Ignition IS NOT IN THE "off" Position, THE Vehicle Could Roll Away: (A) FOR AN Automatic Transmission, IF THE Transmission IS NOT IN THE "park" Position; or (B) FOR A Manual Transmission, IF THE Parking Brake IS NOT Engaged and THE Transmission IS NOT IN THE "reverse" Position. This Potential FOR Rollaway Increases THE Risk FOR A Crash and Occupant or Pedestrian Injuries.
Remedy General Motors Will Notify Owners, and FOR Vehicles That Were Built With THE Defective Ignition Cylinder and Have NOT Previously HAD THE Ignition Cylinder Replaced With THE Redesigned Part, Dealers Will Replace THE Ignition Cylinder and CUT And, IF Necessary, Re-Learn Two Ignition/Door Keys FOR Each Vehicle. FOR Vehicles That Were Built With THE Redesigned Ignition Cylinder or HAD THE Ignition Cylinder Replaced With THE Redesigned Part, Dealers Will CUT And, IF Necessary, Re-Learn Two Ignition/Door Keys FOR Each Vehicle. THE Recall Began ON April 18, 2014. Chevrolet Owners MAY Contact General Motors AT 1-800-222-1020, Pontiac Owners AT 1-800-762-2737, and Saturn Owners AT 1-800-553-6000. General Motors' Number FOR This Recall IS 14113 FOR THE Ignition Lock Cylinder and KEY Replacement, and 14133 FOR Only KEY Replacements. Note: Until A Vehicle HAS Been Remedied, Owners and Operators ARE Advised That When Exiting, TO BE Sure That THE Vehicle IS IN "park," or IN THE Case OF A Manual Transmission, That THE Vehicle IS IN THE "reverse" Position and THE Parking Brake IS Engaged.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Electrical System:ignition:switch
Recall date 2014-04-30
Recall no. 14e021000
Source NHTSA
Summary Uci-Fram Group IS Recalling Certain Ls1328 Ignition Switches Sold AS Wells Ls1328, Duralast Ls1328, Airtex 1s6097, and Carquest 53-27479, and Ls1497 Ignition Switches Sold AS Wells Ls1497, Duralast Ls1497, Airtex 1s10961, and Carquest 53-27967, FOR USE ON Various General Motors Model and Model Year Vehicles During Repair and Replacement OF THE Original Ignition Switch. THE Weight ON THE KEY Ring And/Or Road Conditions or Some Other Jarring Event MAY Cause THE Affected Ignition Switches TO Move OUT OF THE RUN Position, Turning OFF THE Engine and Disabling THE AIR Bags.
Consequence IF THE Ignition Switch Moves From THE RUN Position TO Accessory, THE Car Would Stall and THE AIR Bags Will NOT Deploy IN THE Event OF A Crash, Increasing THE Risk OF Personal Injury TO THE Occupants.
Remedy Uci-Fram Group HAS Notified ITS Purchasers TO Quarantine and Return All Inventory. ANY Switches Already Installed IN Vehicles Will BE Replaced BY GM Dealers AS Part OF Nhtsa Recall 14v-047, Free OF Charge. Uci-fram's Purchasers Should Contact Uci-fram Group AT 1-800-890-2075. GM Vehicle Owners Requiring Additional Information ON That Recall Campaign Should Contact GM AT 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-762-2737 (Pontiac) or 1-800-553-6000 (saturn).
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2006 Chevrolet HHR Insurance

Insurance for a 2006 Chevrolet HHR is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2006 Chevrolet HHR Compare to Other Vehicle?

The 2006 Chevrolet HHR competed against vehicles like the Chrysler PT Cruiser, Kia Soul (later years), and Scion xB. Compared to the PT Cruiser, the HHR generally offered slightly better fuel economy and arguably a more modern interior design. The Scion xB often had better reliability and a more spacious feel. The Kia Soul, while newer, offered similar practicality and quirky styling.

In terms of performance, the HHR was generally adequate for daily driving, but not particularly sporty, except for the SS model. Features were comparable across the class, with similar levels of standard and optional equipment. However, reliability was an area where the HHR sometimes lagged behind competitors like the Scion xB.

Alternatives to the HHR include the Scion xB for better reliability and the Mazda3 hatchback for a more engaging driving experience. The Honda Fit, although smaller, offers exceptional space efficiency and reliability. These alternatives might be better choices for those prioritizing long-term dependability over retro styling.

Ranks #1038 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0★)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0★)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0★)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0★)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0★)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (3.0★)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0★)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0★)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0★)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0★)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0★)
1038 2006 Chevrolet HHR (4.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Chevrolet HHR a Good Vehicle?

The 2006 Chevrolet HHR is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a distinctive-looking, versatile compact wagon. It's worth buying *used* if you prioritize style and cargo space over ultimate reliability. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history and evidence of rust prevention. Avoid high-mileage vehicles with known electrical or powertrain issues. The LT trim offers a better balance of features than the base LS. Consider a pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic to assess its condition. The HHR SS model can be a fun choice for those wanting a bit more power.

2006 Chevrolet HHR Owner Reviews

4.02
Consumer Rating, Based on 73 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Sailor on December 17, 2020

Reliable and economical

I would be comfortable recommending this car to a friend. It is economical to operate and comfortable to drive and ride in. I have enjoyed the time that I have owned it.

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pissedoffncgirl on September 19, 2020

worse deal I have ever had

this vehicle has and probably had many issues and I was promised it had no mechanical issues when the sales person was feeding me his line of straight BS! Dont really blame this type of vehicle but has been messed up from the day I pulled it from the car lot.518 Auto off Military Hwy.Norfolk va

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Scanner on July 13, 2020

It's been a good car.

I bought a 2006 Chevy HHR with 58,000 miles on it. I am regular with oil changes but admittedly neglect other scheduled maintenance. I would estimate over 5 years I have put $5000 in repairs into it. Overhead camshaft solenoid, blower fan for air conditioner, rotors twice, but that could be b/c it needed struts and therefore bad transfer of forces on the front end. I feel like in my mind it's "fair" on reliability but because I"m hard on my car it's not fair to penalize it so I upgrade it to good. I want to keep driving it so I am replacing struts now after a transmission fluid flush so that says something, I guess. It's poorly lit inside and the window buttons never made sense. There is a significant blind spot also but I am proud to have owned this quirky kind of car.

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Alyshasharnae on September 17, 2019

Most reliable car I've owned, I love it,

This is the most reliable car I've owned it met all my needs, and I have 459,211 miles on it on still going, my door handles broke on both passenger n driver side, I love it sooo much, my paint job heeds a little refreshing but hey I'm happy

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Bobby D cardriver on August 7, 2019

Very tough and reliable little car

It is comfortable on a trip. It holds the road very well. The 4 cyl engine is powerful. Car has 150,000 plus miles without any major breakdowns. In use daily.

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rickd2 on May 29, 2019

Great tow behind RV

I love this car/truck/van and it's easy to tow. I have over 150,000 miles and it drives like new and handles fantastic. And it can be flat towed.

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Ccruise on April 27, 2019

Reliable car

We’ve had this car from new. It has 203,000 miles on it and I like the way it drives. It’s a unique looking little car and it gets me where I want to go!

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TommyGunn on April 10, 2019

Reliable, has NEVER broken down

This car was a great commuter. Not the best to look at and dings and dents everywhere but it got me A to B everytime I got in. Never stressed over this one.

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roseroper on March 22, 2019

most reliable car i have owned.

This car met all my needs and then some. I was thing about getting another one . I have a 2006 now and i want a 2011.

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Denny on January 9, 2019

Have had multiple problems

Bought my 2007 from a friend. 53000 miles,great shape. Right away fuel pump went out,after 3 more times, finally got that fixed, rotors had to be turned,new brakes, both axles,left control arm replaced and now have humming in transmission. I have owned for 2 years, always done maintenance when needed and do not drive rough. Can not depend on this car. Will trade in as soon as paid for

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.