The 2011 Chevrolet HHR (Heritage High Roof) is a retro-styled, compact, multi-purpose vehicle. Produced from 2006 to 2011, it offered a distinctive blend of wagon practicality and classic design cues, reminiscent of the 1949 Chevy Suburban. Key trims included the LS, 1LT, 2LT, and the sporty SS. Its popularity stemmed from its unique styling, cargo capacity, and relatively affordable pricing, ranging approximately from $18,000 to $25,000 when new.
The Good
The 2011 Chevy HHR offers a unique retro design that appeals emotionally. Practically, it provides a spacious cargo area and decent fuel efficiency for its class. The available turbocharged engine offered spirited performance. While not known for exceptional reliability, it presents good value as a used car. Comfortable seating and available features contribute to an enjoyable driving experience.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2011 Chevy HHR include potential issues with the electrical system, particularly the power windows and door locks. Some owners have reported problems with the air conditioning system and the automatic transmission. Rust can be a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Regular maintenance is crucial to mitigate these risks.
2011 Chevrolet HHR: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.2L Ecotec Inline-4: (LS, 1LT)
- 2.4L Ecotec Inline-4: (2LT)
- 2.0L Turbocharged Ecotec Inline-4: (SS)
- Horsepower:
- 2.2L: 155 hp
- 2.4L: 172 hp
- 2.0L Turbo: 260 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- 2.2L: 22 mpg city / 32 mpg highway
- 2.4L: 22 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- 2.0L Turbo: 19 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- 2.2L: 9.0 seconds
- 2.4L: 8.5 seconds
- 2.0L Turbo: 6.3 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or officially rated for towing.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LS: Air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, CD player, cloth upholstery.
- 1LT: Adds upgraded cloth upholstery, cruise control, remote vehicle starter system (on automatic models), and premium sound system.
- 2LT: Adds alloy wheels, fog lamps, sport-tuned suspension, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and Bluetooth connectivity.
- SS: Unique styling, sport seats, upgraded brakes, lowered suspension, boost gauge, and performance-oriented features.
2011 Chevrolet HHR Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2011 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | HHR |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Wagon |
| Category | Minivan |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | RAMOS ARIZPE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | LE8 |
| Engine Size | 2.2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2011 Chevrolet HHR Have?
Frequently reported problems for the 2011 Chevrolet HHR include issues with the electrical system, such as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, and the anti-theft system. Some owners have reported problems with the air conditioning compressor failing prematurely. The automatic transmission can also experience issues, including slipping or harsh shifting.
Recalls have been issued for various HHR model years, including potential ignition switch defects (affecting multiple GM vehicles), which could lead to the engine stalling and loss of power steering. Check the NHTSA website for specific recall information related to the VIN.
Long-term reliability concerns include potential rust, especially in areas that use road salt. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, may wear out over time, leading to a less comfortable ride. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to address these issues early and prevent more significant problems. Specific years haven't shown significantly worse trends than others within the HHR's production run, making careful pre-purchase inspection of any used HHR paramount.
Recalls have been issued for various HHR model years, including potential ignition switch defects (affecting multiple GM vehicles), which could lead to the engine stalling and loss of power steering. Check the NHTSA website for specific recall information related to the VIN.
Long-term reliability concerns include potential rust, especially in areas that use road salt. Suspension components, such as struts and bushings, may wear out over time, leading to a less comfortable ride. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to address these issues early and prevent more significant problems. Specific years haven't shown significantly worse trends than others within the HHR's production run, making careful pre-purchase inspection of any used HHR paramount.
How long will the 2011 Chevrolet HHR last?
With good maintenance, a 2011 Chevrolet HHR can realistically reach 150,000 to 200,000 miles or provide 10-15 years of service. However, this is highly dependent on previous owner maintenance habits. Key to longevity is addressing common weaknesses such as rust prevention, timely replacement of suspension components (struts, bushings), and regular servicing of the automatic transmission. Electrical gremlins, though not always catastrophic, can become more prevalent over time. Proper fluid changes and proactive repairs significantly extend the HHR's lifespan.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2011 Chevrolet HHR offered basic tech and safety features for its time. Standard features included a CD player with an auxiliary input, power windows, and power door locks. Higher trims offered features like a premium sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, and remote start.
Driver-assistance features were limited. ABS and traction control were standard, but more advanced features like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not available.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for both rows. Stability control was also standard.
Crash-test ratings varied depending on the source. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the HHR an overall safety rating of four out of five stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the HHR mixed ratings, with good scores in some categories and marginal scores in others. Optional features included sunroof, leather seats and upgraded sound system.
Driver-assistance features were limited. ABS and traction control were standard, but more advanced features like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warning were not available.
Safety features included front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for both rows. Stability control was also standard.
Crash-test ratings varied depending on the source. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the HHR an overall safety rating of four out of five stars. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the HHR mixed ratings, with good scores in some categories and marginal scores in others. Optional features included sunroof, leather seats and upgraded sound system.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Summit White
Black
Crystal Red Tintcoat
Cyber Gray Metallic
Silver Ice Metallic
Aqua Blue Metallic
Teal Metallic
Interior Colors
Ebony
Light Grey
2011 Chevrolet HHR Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2011 Chevrolet HHR ranged from around $18,000 for the base LS trim to over $25,000 for a fully equipped SS model. As of today, used market prices typically range from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on condition, mileage, and trim level. The HHR has depreciated significantly due to its age and average reliability. Resale value is affected by factors such as overall condition, mileage, accident history, and geographic location. Models with lower mileage and a clean vehicle history command higher prices.
2011 Chevrolet HHR Cost of Ownership
The 2011 Chevrolet HHR is generally considered relatively economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate. Fuel costs depend on driving habits and the engine, but the 2.2L offers decent fuel economy. Maintenance costs can be average, but unexpected repairs can arise due to the vehicle's age. Long-term ownership costs depend heavily on how well the vehicle was maintained and how proactively repairs are addressed. Budgeting for potential repairs is essential to avoid costly surprises.
2011 Chevrolet HHR Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
- - city / - - hwy
Highway Mileage
30 miles/gallon
2011 Chevrolet HHR Safety Rating
NHTSA
2011 Chevrolet HHR Recalls & Defects
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.
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. GmÂ’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: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. GmÂ’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.
2011 Chevrolet HHR Insurance
Insurance for a 2011 Chevrolet HHR is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Wagon with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2011 Chevrolet HHR Compare to Other Wagon?
The 2011 Chevrolet HHR competed with vehicles like the Kia Soul, Scion xB, and Chrysler PT Cruiser. In terms of styling, the HHR and PT Cruiser offered a retro aesthetic, while the Soul and xB had a more modern, boxy design. The HHR's performance was adequate with the base engines, but the SS offered a significant boost. Reliability was generally considered average, with the Soul and xB having better reputations. The HHR offered a reasonable amount of cargo space, but the Soul and xB were slightly more versatile in their configurations.
In terms of price, the HHR was generally competitive, especially on the used market. However, the Soul and xB offered better value due to their stronger reliability and more modern features. If reliability is a major concern, the Kia Soul or Scion xB would be better alternatives. If the retro styling is the primary appeal, the PT Cruiser offers a similar aesthetic, but with similar reliability concerns. The Nissan Cube is another alternative with unique styling and better reliability than the HHR. Therefore, while the HHR has its charm, better, more reliable alternatives exist.
In terms of price, the HHR was generally competitive, especially on the used market. However, the Soul and xB offered better value due to their stronger reliability and more modern features. If reliability is a major concern, the Kia Soul or Scion xB would be better alternatives. If the retro styling is the primary appeal, the PT Cruiser offers a similar aesthetic, but with similar reliability concerns. The Nissan Cube is another alternative with unique styling and better reliability than the HHR. Therefore, while the HHR has its charm, better, more reliable alternatives exist.
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Chevrolet HHR a Good Wagon?
The 2011 Chevrolet HHR is ideal for buyers seeking a unique, retro-styled vehicle with decent cargo space on a budget. It can be worth buying as a used car, but only after a thorough inspection and with a realistic expectation of potential maintenance needs. Opting for a well-maintained 2LT or SS model can offer more features and performance, but increase potential repair costs. It's not recommended for buyers prioritizing reliability above all else. If the unique styling is the key selling point, then it might be worth considering, but compare it against other available models.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.