Chevy HHR Key Stuck in Ignition Fix – Is this a Joke?

March 17th, 2011. By AbiK

I’ve heard one too many complaints now about the Chevy HHR ignition problem—the one where you can’t get the key out of the ignition, and in some instances the key won’t come out and the HHR is still running! In these parts, we’d call that a design defect. But seems like GM doesn’t quite feel the same way.

So while I had done some checking into this a while back when I had first posted about the Chevy HHR problem (and while we’re at it, let’s throw in the Chevy Cobalt problem, too) I had focused on official complaints being filed over at the NHTSA—not so much the solution because, heck, shouldn’t GM or Chevy be taking care of this gratis for folks who’ve been stuck in an HHR that won’t shut off? Is it just me? Or, shouldn’t there be some sort of Chevy HHR recall or at least a “come in and get your part replaced” notice?

Well, there’s been none that I’ve seen, and apparently none of you HHR owners out there have seen one either.

So I came across this guy’s video on how to fix the HHR problem. Kudos to him for taking the time to film 10 minutes of repair work, explaining everything step by step. But is this a joke?!? Don’t get me wrong—the video is great—but like I’m going to dislodge my car’s gear shift and put everything back together again. Right. And I love his comment at about minute 6:15: “pretty maddening to put in” followed by minute 6:36: “it sounds easier than it is” —I’ll bet! Bottom line, there’s a car mechanic somewhere (or HHR dealer) who’ll be making a few quid off HHR owners from this problem.

Is this how GM Customer Service works?

C’mon Chevy, step up to the plate.

Tags: Chevy Cobalt, Chevy HHR, chevy-hhr-ignition-problems-2009-steering-2, Gear Shift, GM, Ignition Problem, Key Stuck

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 17th, 2011 and is filed under Automotive, Defective Products, Emerging Issues. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

7235131 Responses2011-03-17+13%3A56%3A29AbiK to “Chevy HHR Key Stuck in Ignition Fix – Is this a Joke?”

March 24th, 2011 at 4:16 am wayne harper Says:

Ill never own a GM in my life, 2006 cadillac dts, had two diff kinds of brakes on it, not what the build sheets said, front std, rear limo.

the cars brakes overheat so bad the rotors would deform and cause the front to shake like both tire were flat. took it in a dozen times, once it was so bad both tie rods had to be replaced(at 20k miles). last time they said there is 80% pad on the brakes but if i want new ones it is $4k. called the rep, thats a joke, i told her there was a tsb since i got the car, she said she didnt know any thing "im not a tec" brake are a mint item. you need to fix it your self. so i can never get matched brakes on this car. there should be a law.

[Reply]
March 24th, 2011 at 4:17 am wayne harper Says:

my caddie is a joke as well

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April 21st, 2011 at 12:32 pm Julie Says:

I just had to have my 2009 HHR towed to the dealership because I couldn't get the key out of the ignition and it kept running. What a nightmare! Thank goodness my neighbor knew how to shut the vehicle off until the tow truck could show up. I am being charged $245.00 to have it repaired. Only 50,000 mile on it and of course…the warranty doesn't cover it. I want my JEEP back!!!!!!

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
April 21st, 2011 at 4:20 pm
Hi Julie, Sounds like a nightmare for sure–you're lucky your neighbor knew what to do! We're looking for anyone who's had one of these Chevy HHR ignition problems (or HHR gear shift problems) to send in a video of it–just capture it on your phone and send it over to us at editorial@lawyersandsettlements.com. The more the merrier–as it seems some folks (hello, Chevy) can't quite understand that this really happens without actually seeing it for themselves. Maybe by posting some videos we can get Chevy to actually step up to the plate a bit more and do something about it.

[Reply]
ollie Reply:
August 13th, 2011 at 2:34 pm
hello there ! Same problem happened yesterday, my key stuck and still in the ignition in my 2009 chevy hhr,

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Michelle Reply:
August 24th, 2011 at 2:36 am
Hi there same happened to my 2009 HHR and I paid 350.00 to have the problem fixed. Customer at the dealer at same time said she ran in to 4 other HHR owners a few weeks ago at an auto store with same problem.

[Reply]
JA Reynolds Reply:
August 26th, 2011 at 8:20 pm
Yeah–just got my 2009 HHR back from the dealer–out of warrenty-of course…. the computer crapped out and de-activated my airbags….cost me $227……The day after I got it back the computer gave me a "Monitor service tire" message- same crap, the computer is messed up…..Right this minute… like right NOW—- the damn key is stuck in the ignition and the CAR IS RUNNING!!!!! I have 3 Chevy productions…. this is it- I will NEVER buy another one!!! I was at the grocery store when this went down and I can not tell you how pissed off I am….it is in my drive way right now running out the $3.57 per gallon gas…. GM needs the pants sued off them!

[Reply]
ollie Reply:
August 13th, 2011 at 2:34 pm
hello there ! Same problem happened yesterday, my key stuck and still in the ignition in my 2009 chevy hhr,

[Reply]
Michelle Reply:
August 24th, 2011 at 2:36 am
Hi there same happened to my 2009 HHR and I paid 350.00 to have the problem fixed. Customer at the dealer at same time said she ran in to 4 other HHR owners a few weeks ago at an auto store with same problem.

[Reply]
JA Reynolds Reply:
August 26th, 2011 at 8:20 pm
Yeah–just got my 2009 HHR back from the dealer–out of warrenty-of course…. the computer crapped out and de-activated my airbags….cost me $227……The day after I got it back the computer gave me a "Monitor service tire" message- same crap, the computer is messed up…..Right this minute… like right NOW—- the damn key is stuck in the ignition and the CAR IS RUNNING!!!!! I have 3 Chevy productions…. this is it- I will NEVER buy another one!!! I was at the grocery store when this went down and I can not tell you how pissed off I am….it is in my drive way right now running out the $3.57 per gallon gas…. GM needs the pants sued off them!

[Reply]
Gloria Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 10:56 am
Hello, I had this problem happen to me last night as soon as I got home. I too have a 2009 HHR and this is really the first major problem I have come across. Car was running for about an hour before AAA showed up. The AAA guy said that this is a constant problem with HHR and Cobalts. Now I need to take it to the dealership to get it fix. Just reading some of the responses, MY WARRANTY may not cover this. That sucks. I guess I'm gonna have fork out some money that I don't have. I am really upset about this. Man, the dealership is gonna hear from me. I've always been a FORD person. I should have stayed with FORD.

[Reply]
doyle Reply:
September 22nd, 2011 at 9:45 am
my daughter has a 2009 HHR and her car would not shut off nor could she get the key out. called the dealership and they said it was either a shift lever problem or the module underthe steering colum was bad. first option would cost $450 to repair, second option $350 to repair. called a buddy of mine who works on cars for his living and concentrates on electrical problems. anyway, he came buy and in 7 minutes had the problem solved. it was the ignition switch. when he removed the switch the tumblers were misaligned. he fixed the origional switch and re-inserted it and "bingo" the problem went away. my cost under $50.

[Reply]
doyle Reply:
September 22nd, 2011 at 9:45 am
my daughter has a 2009 HHR and her car would not shut off nor could she get the key out. called the dealership and they said it was either a shift lever problem or the module underthe steering colum was bad. first option would cost $450 to repair, second option $350 to repair. called a buddy of mine who works on cars for his living and concentrates on electrical problems. anyway, he came buy and in 7 minutes had the problem solved. it was the ignition switch. when he removed the switch the tumblers were misaligned. he fixed the origional switch and re-inserted it and "bingo" the problem went away. my cost under $50.

[Reply]
kali Reply:
December 28th, 2011 at 11:10 am
Thank you Julie. After owning my HHR 2009, I want my jeep back too! They make things the way you are supposed to, not with plastic in your shifter! Ught!

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ALEX Reply:
September 13th, 2012 at 11:21 am
HI EVERYONE I HAD THE SAME ISSUE, BUT THE DEALER WILL FIX IT FOR FREE!!! THEY HAVE
EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THIS FOR 100,000 MILES 5 YEARS SO IF YOUR IN THAT RANGE
THEY WILL DO IT FREE . I HAD A BAD IGNITION SWITCH

[Reply]
san Reply:
March 8th, 2013 at 6:18 pm
I just experienced the same problem after years of buying hondas i decided to give Chevy a chance. What a joke. last American car I'll buy. I had Honda fifteen years old no problems close to this. ugh!

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
April 21st, 2011 at 4:20 pm
Hi Julie, Sounds like a nightmare for sure–you're lucky your neighbor knew what to do! We're looking for anyone who's had one of these Chevy HHR ignition problems (or HHR gear shift problems) to send in a video of it–just capture it on your phone and send it over to us at editorial@lawyersandsettlements.com. The more the merrier–as it seems some folks (hello, Chevy) can't quite understand that this really happens without actually seeing it for themselves. Maybe by posting some videos we can get Chevy to actually step up to the plate a bit more and do something about it.

[Reply]
Gloria Reply:
September 16th, 2011 at 10:56 am
Hello, I had this problem happen to me last night as soon as I got home. I too have a 2009 HHR and this is really the first major problem I have come across. Car was running for about an hour before AAA showed up. The AAA guy said that this is a constant problem with HHR and Cobalts. Now I need to take it to the dealership to get it fix. Just reading some of the responses, MY WARRANTY may not cover this. That sucks. I guess I'm gonna have fork out some money that I don't have. I am really upset about this. Man, the dealership is gonna hear from me. I've always been a FORD person. I should have stayed with FORD.

[Reply]
kali Reply:
December 28th, 2011 at 11:10 am
Thank you Julie. After owning my HHR 2009, I want my jeep back too! They make things the way you are supposed to, not with plastic in your shifter! Ught!

[Reply]
ALEX Reply:
September 13th, 2012 at 11:21 am
HI EVERYONE I HAD THE SAME ISSUE, BUT THE DEALER WILL FIX IT FOR FREE!!! THEY HAVE
EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THIS FOR 100,000 MILES 5 YEARS SO IF YOUR IN THAT RANGE
THEY WILL DO IT FREE . I HAD A BAD IGNITION SWITCH

[Reply]
san Reply:
March 8th, 2013 at 6:18 pm
I just experienced the same problem after years of buying hondas i decided to give Chevy a chance. What a joke. last American car I'll buy. I had Honda fifteen years old no problems close to this. ugh!

[Reply]
June 8th, 2011 at 7:39 pm Samantha Says:

I have this problem and it is the most infuriating thing I've ever had to deal with. I took in to the dealer over a month ago (it's been going on for at least 6 mos.) thinking it was just the tumbler in the ignition, so about a what? $80 fix? Nope. Try more like $400-500 as they told me "a part of the gear shift broke and has to be replaced." When I asked the guy at the dealership to explain the problem in more detail he couldn't. However, after doing some research AND seeing this video, but of which sum up the problem as a tiny little switch problem in many Chevy car models, to include my HHR from years 2006-2010. Seriously? They couldn't manage to figure out and fix the problem in 4 years? I live in the desert and am 8 months pregnant, so to have to sit in my car in a parking lot in the hot summer sun fighting with my car is not only embarrassing but a giant pain. If it was a problem due to my error or normal wear and tear I'd have no problem footing the bill, however my car is 5 years old with just over 30,000 miles on it, is maintained regularly and you want me to dish out $500 for a $2.00 piece that your design team screwed up in implementing in the car's overall design???? I'm at the point where I plan on writing to GM and Chevy and telling them that if I could still bend over, I'd do so in order for them to kiss my a**. My poor little Cavalier that I traded in, without even the basic stock radio had less problems than I'm having now with a fully loaded HHR.

[Reply]
July 8th, 2011 at 11:37 am mrsB Says:

I just had the same problem last night with my 2009 HHR and it has just over 30,000 miles on it. Thank you so much for this video. My son and husband are going to attempt to fix it rather than give the stealer $500! I am so disgusted with this car. Last year it was a problem with the brakes overheating that GM wouldn't fix but when I when I looked on the internet here were all these other HHR owners having the same problem. What is it going to take for GM to step up to the plate to fix the problems they created???

[Reply]
August 15th, 2011 at 9:37 am Crystal C. Says:

I agree, had the same problem friday night of course the dealership was closed all weekend! I had to cut the fuel switch and pull the neg. battery cable just to turn it off and on. I’m trying to get an appt today to fix it, if it’s not covered, I’ll be really angry, this is a mechanical error due to poor design, not wear and tear. This the first and probably last GM car I’ll buy if this is how they customer service is. No wonder they needed our money to stay afloat.

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 15th, 2011 at 10:27 am
Hi Crystal, Incredible! We’ve had so many comments about this Chevy HHR problem–if you’d like to submit a complaint, we’ve started accepting them for a lawyer to review–you can fill one out here (it’s free/no obligation): https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…

[Reply]
KWJ Reply:
August 16th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
I am having the same exact problem with my 2006 HHR (Key stuck in the ignition). It started over the weekend, but my brother and my son were able to get the key out. Last night it happened again and I was not able to get the key out. So, I had to leave it in the ignition overnight which drained the battery – so I had to jump the battery this morning to get the car started to go to work. I called the dealership and they cannot get me in until Thursday. So what do I do meanwhile. This is a HUGE inconvenience!

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 16th, 2011 at 4:08 pm
Hi KWJ, File a complaint over at the NHTSA, and while you're at is, as the NHTSA has not yet started an investigation into this –even though there are quite a few folks out there having Chevy HHR problems w/the keys in the ignition, you can also fill out a complaint form here–we're now accepting HHR complaints; complaints will be forwarded to an attorney to review. The form to fill out is here: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…

LAS_Admin Reply:
August 16th, 2011 at 4:08 pm
Hi KWJ, File a complaint over at the NHTSA, and while you're at is, as the NHTSA has not yet started an investigation into this –even though there are quite a few folks out there having Chevy HHR problems w/the keys in the ignition, you can also fill out a complaint form here–we're now accepting HHR complaints; complaints will be forwarded to an attorney to review. The form to fill out is here: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…

KWJ Reply:
August 16th, 2011 at 12:39 pm
I am having the same exact problem with my 2006 HHR (Key stuck in the ignition). It started over the weekend, but my brother and my son were able to get the key out. Last night it happened again and I was not able to get the key out. So, I had to leave it in the ignition overnight which drained the battery – so I had to jump the battery this morning to get the car started to go to work. I called the dealership and they cannot get me in until Thursday. So what do I do meanwhile. This is a HUGE inconvenience!

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 15th, 2011 at 10:27 am
Hi Crystal, Incredible! We’ve had so many comments about this Chevy HHR problem–if you’d like to submit a complaint, we’ve started accepting them for a lawyer to review–you can fill one out here (it’s free/no obligation): https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…

[Reply]
August 17th, 2011 at 6:25 am Jason Says:

2009 HHR, bought it used from a major dealer. Pulled in to work and couldn't turn it off… had to pull the fuel pump thingy out in the fuse box to get the engine to stall before removing the negative lead on the battery to keep the battery from going dead while I worked my shift. If i hadn't had a smart phone with internet access to figure out what to do I don't know what I would have done at 10pm at night with no one to call for help.

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 17th, 2011 at 7:32 am
Hi Jason, We've set up a complaint form that you can fill out for the HHR ignition problems. Folks are also filing complaints with the NHTSA. The form here ( https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form… ) gets reviewed by an attorney (it's free, no obligation). Regardless of who starts looking into this HHR problem "officially", someone has to. This is ridiculous. Not only have you shared your story, but we've had a couple of folks share video clips of the engine not shutting off as it's been happening, but we've also heard from a lot of HHR owners on this post as well http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/blog/maybe-c…

[Reply]
QTT Reply:
February 13th, 2012 at 11:46 am
Same issue this morning when I pulled in to work…..2010 HHR with 52k miles. A coworker found this blog/video clip so I'm at the dealership now. It will cost nearly $400 to fix. When I mentioned the numerous complaints on this blog and asked why a recall hadn't been issued, I was told this isn't a widespread spread problem for HHR's and other vehicles have this issue! Fortunately my extended warranty will cover the repair but the inconvenience and lack of concern about this issue from the service department makes me question GMs commitment to service and customer satisfaction.

[Reply]
zac Reply:
March 28th, 2012 at 8:20 pm
Jason
How did you get back to the battery
I cant seem to find a way to open the lift gate to reattach the battery
Did you replace the shifter?
Is there a temporary alternative till one can be purchased and installed
Any assistance is greatly appreciated

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 17th, 2011 at 7:32 am
Hi Jason, We've set up a complaint form that you can fill out for the HHR ignition problems. Folks are also filing complaints with the NHTSA. The form here ( https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form… ) gets reviewed by an attorney (it's free, no obligation). Regardless of who starts looking into this HHR problem "officially", someone has to. This is ridiculous. Not only have you shared your story, but we've had a couple of folks share video clips of the engine not shutting off as it's been happening, but we've also heard from a lot of HHR owners on this post as well http://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/blog/maybe-c…

[Reply]
QTT Reply:
February 13th, 2012 at 11:46 am
Same issue this morning when I pulled in to work…..2010 HHR with 52k miles. A coworker found this blog/video clip so I'm at the dealership now. It will cost nearly $400 to fix. When I mentioned the numerous complaints on this blog and asked why a recall hadn't been issued, I was told this isn't a widespread spread problem for HHR's and other vehicles have this issue! Fortunately my extended warranty will cover the repair but the inconvenience and lack of concern about this issue from the service department makes me question GMs commitment to service and customer satisfaction.

[Reply]
zac Reply:
March 28th, 2012 at 8:20 pm
Jason
How did you get back to the battery
I cant seem to find a way to open the lift gate to reattach the battery
Did you replace the shifter?
Is there a temporary alternative till one can be purchased and installed
Any assistance is greatly appreciated

[Reply]
August 19th, 2011 at 10:29 am Jim Says:

Same issue. Purchased new. 52344 miles.

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 19th, 2011 at 4:34 pm
Hi Jim, I can't believe how many readers have commented on our HHR posts about this problem with the key getting stuck in the HHR ignition. There have been so many that we've started accepting complaints for an attorney to review–you can fill out a complaint here if you'd like: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…. And, make sure you stop over at the NHTSA website and file a complaint there as well–if they get enough complaints, perhaps they'll start an official investigation on it. Either way, since Chevy doesn't appear to be doing much, it's time get the word out on this.

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 19th, 2011 at 4:34 pm
Hi Jim, I can't believe how many readers have commented on our HHR posts about this problem with the key getting stuck in the HHR ignition. There have been so many that we've started accepting complaints for an attorney to review–you can fill out a complaint here if you'd like: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…. And, make sure you stop over at the NHTSA website and file a complaint there as well–if they get enough complaints, perhaps they'll start an official investigation on it. Either way, since Chevy doesn't appear to be doing much, it's time get the word out on this.

[Reply]
August 23rd, 2011 at 7:48 am Dave Says:

Same isssue last night 2009 HHR 63,000 kms

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 23rd, 2011 at 4:27 pm
Hi Dave, I wish I could say "join the club" and have it be a really great club to join. Unfortunately…. the HHR ignition problem club is a bit of a frustrating downer. So in order to help get the ball rolling here on some possible help for folks, we've started accepting complaints for an attorney to review. You can submit a complaint here: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…. (It's free/no obligation–just fyi). And while you're at it, head over to the NHTSA site and file a complaint there–so far, there's no investigation (hard to believe, but true)–but it's good to officially report the incident there, too. We've had a few complaints here already, and the more the merrier as it shows the lawyer(s) who review the complaints just how large the scope of this thing is.

[Reply]
Julie Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
I have made a complaint with the lawyers and settlements and also filed a complaint with the NHTSA.. I think this is insane that all these people are having the same issues with the igniton and blinkers on the cars and they don't care to take the time to make it right for the hundreds of dollars that are being spent to fix their defect! I sure hope something is done soon cause it is getting old to have to keep manually turning off the blinkers and finding the little button under the steering column to pop my stuck key out of the ignition!

[Reply]
Julie Reply:
October 29th, 2011 at 12:58 pm
I have made a complaint with the lawyers and settlements and also filed a complaint with the NHTSA.. I think this is insane that all these people are having the same issues with the igniton and blinkers on the cars and they don't care to take the time to make it right for the hundreds of dollars that are being spent to fix their defect! I sure hope something is done soon cause it is getting old to have to keep manually turning off the blinkers and finding the little button under the steering column to pop my stuck key out of the ignition!

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 23rd, 2011 at 4:27 pm
Hi Dave, I wish I could say "join the club" and have it be a really great club to join. Unfortunately…. the HHR ignition problem club is a bit of a frustrating downer. So in order to help get the ball rolling here on some possible help for folks, we've started accepting complaints for an attorney to review. You can submit a complaint here: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…. (It's free/no obligation–just fyi). And while you're at it, head over to the NHTSA site and file a complaint there–so far, there's no investigation (hard to believe, but true)–but it's good to officially report the incident there, too. We've had a few complaints here already, and the more the merrier as it shows the lawyer(s) who review the complaints just how large the scope of this thing is.

[Reply]
August 26th, 2011 at 10:19 am Kris Says:

Hey we are having the same problem! I just called and the company said noone has called them and told them about this so they cant do a recall on it till then. 1.800-222-1020 theres the number tell them! HHR06 key stuck and gear shift stuck with the button stuck also.

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 26th, 2011 at 11:34 am
Hi Kris, Sorry to hear you've officially joined the HHR key stuck in ignition club… I guess Chevy dealers (where many folks state they had their HHR repairs done for the cars that wouldn't shut off) don't talk to anyone at chevy or gm, huh? yeah, and I've got a bridge to sell you too…

[Reply]
Tammi Reply:
November 6th, 2011 at 9:04 am
Mine is doing the exact same thing!! Did they cover the warranty on yours?

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
August 26th, 2011 at 11:34 am
Hi Kris, Sorry to hear you've officially joined the HHR key stuck in ignition club… I guess Chevy dealers (where many folks state they had their HHR repairs done for the cars that wouldn't shut off) don't talk to anyone at chevy or gm, huh? yeah, and I've got a bridge to sell you too…

[Reply]
Tammi Reply:
November 6th, 2011 at 9:04 am
Mine is doing the exact same thing!! Did they cover the warranty on yours?

[Reply]
August 26th, 2011 at 1:38 pm paulette Says:

Great I just had ignition switch replaced when I could not shut the car off when I got home Saturday night. It was running and running. Lucky it happened when I got home and in my driveway. My husband was able to get it shut off and restart it so we could take it to the dealers on Monday. . Also luck it was still under warranty. From what I am reading this may happen again as the real problem is the gear shift? My warranty is due to run out in November. Do I have to wait till the gear shift is broken to have it replaced? Can this happen again? Are you saying they know that it is not the ignition switch and this will happen again because of the gear shift? I hope that is not the case.
Anyway I was lucky. All I missed was a day of work not any cost. If this is going to happen again cause the real reason is the shift and they know about it isn't that fraud, or negligence on GM's part?
This can be very dangerous too. Time for them to do something about this. Come on GM lets do the right thing.

[Reply]
September 13th, 2011 at 7:30 am Katie Says:

I have 2010 HHR that I purchased just over a year ago. The car has 28,000 miles on it. my husband ran to the store last night and when he came home the key was stuck and the engine was still on. Thankfully we were able to get it to the dealership when it happened and they gave us a rental car. It should be covered under warranty since the warranty we have is 100,000 miles/10 years, bumper to bumper. We will see what happens.

[Reply]
September 20th, 2011 at 3:27 pm Brittni Says:

Just spent nearly $500 to have the entire shifter replaced in my 2006 HHR (75,000 miles). I'm so angry

[Reply]
September 23rd, 2011 at 1:41 pm paulette Says:

Is anyone having problems with the signal?
This just started with my 2009, 27,000 miles. HHR
When I turn right or left the signal does not go off
The blinker just keeps blinking.
Unless I make a very sharp right or left turn,
I have to manually turn it off.
This did not happen until recently, but it is a nuisance.

[Reply]
October 11th, 2011 at 10:18 am P H I Says:

I just bought a 2011 HHR last Wednesday. Yesterday morning it wouldn't start, tried to put in neutral so we could jump the battery- it won't shift into neutral while not running and the key got stuck. The dealer came out to the house , jumped it and took it to run diagnostics. They couldn't find a problem! Dealer told me that this is a design/manufacturing issue with the keys getting stuck. We still have no idea why the battery was dead.
Kudos to Applegate in Flint Michigan but seriously unhappy with these design flaws.

[Reply]
November 5th, 2011 at 11:44 pm Tammi Says:

I appreciate all the comments but no one really tells how to get the car cut off. Ours ran for an hour before we figured out how. You have to pull number 26 in the fuse fox. Then disconnect the negative battery cable. We still can't get the key out. Ours is a 2010…guess I will be calling to get a new part tomorrow.

[Reply]
Sherry Rawlings Reply:
February 21st, 2012 at 9:55 pm
Read the owners manual. It tells you about a place under the steering colum that you pop off a little door and put your finger in to push a button while turning the key to get it out. it works but now I have to take it in for fix. Guess I'll be spendin 500. Ouch

[Reply]
Sherry Rawlings Reply:
February 21st, 2012 at 9:55 pm
Read the owners manual. It tells you about a place under the steering colum that you pop off a little door and put your finger in to push a button while turning the key to get it out. it works but now I have to take it in for fix. Guess I'll be spendin 500. Ouch

[Reply]
November 8th, 2011 at 8:36 pm John Says:

My 2010 Cobalt just did the same thing. To kill it I have dump the clutch and then disconnect the battery. GM said 500 to fix it. This seems to be a major problem that they need to take care of and not me.

[Reply]
November 13th, 2011 at 1:04 am Fredderick W Wansted Says:

My 2004 GMC is really causing me to be disappointed. I have the XUV Envoy, it has the rear door glass that lowers, and a roof that retracts, the tailgate will either swing open or lie down flat like a pickup truck. I have had to have the tailgate switches changed out because I couldn't get the tailgate to open, an expensive and ridiculous repair. Within a year the same problem came back, so I have been too cheap too fix it again. Currently I lower the window and retract the roof to use the compartment/trunk. Now I get to the Key Stuck in ignition, so…. I get in the car the instrument panel says "see manual-Tailgate". The owners manual says to lower window and hold button an extra 2 seconds, then to raise the window and hold an extra two seconds. I did that and the problem didn't go away in fact now the key wont come out of the ignition either. To add more pain to the situation it wont start it, wont shift and the back window is down. for a 40K plus vehicle you certainly expect no problems like these. I love the ride but I hate the frustration. SOS I hate getting ripped off.

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November 13th, 2011 at 3:01 pm Moober Says:

Went out vet day ate @ places, went home hhr 09 was fine. Next morning wife wants hair done. Car wont start with key stuck in ignition and would not start. Also nothing in car worked. Clocks and all electrical out and will not crank at all as in no sound. Next day sunday i get up off @ss unbolted 3 bolts and looked here found how to release key. Did it but solves nothing. Started car by jumping it. Car starts fine but airbag flashes. Drove it around to charge battery but no battery indicater flashes. Turned off car was able to turn it back on and indicater lights are fine. Was freaking out about key stuck in ignition and air bag indicater but all is fine.

Do not tow immidiately, jump it and drive it around. If u have same problem here my be your solution.

Have a nice day

[Reply]
Mark Reply:
December 23rd, 2011 at 10:57 am
It sounds like a relay stays picked up when the key can't be removed. That would run the battery down in a few hours.

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Amanda Reply:
January 11th, 2012 at 3:57 pm
I am having this exact issue right now. I went out to start my car this morning and nothing works at all…and now the key is stuck in the ignition. I tried to jump the battery, but it would not jump. Is there something I need to do to get the battery to take a charge? Do I need to get the key unstuck before I try? I have had no problems with this car before now, and nothing to indicate this was going to happen.

[Reply]
Mark Reply:
December 23rd, 2011 at 10:57 am
It sounds like a relay stays picked up when the key can't be removed. That would run the battery down in a few hours.

[Reply]
Amanda Reply:
January 11th, 2012 at 3:57 pm
I am having this exact issue right now. I went out to start my car this morning and nothing works at all…and now the key is stuck in the ignition. I tried to jump the battery, but it would not jump. Is there something I need to do to get the battery to take a charge? Do I need to get the key unstuck before I try? I have had no problems with this car before now, and nothing to indicate this was going to happen.

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November 22nd, 2011 at 1:16 pm paulette Says:

Guys and gals all of my problems, blinker, and ignition problem were all covered 100% by the warrenty which ends in Nov for me. Guess what I did? Paid for a 3 year, 36,000 mile bumper to bumper 0 deductable warrenty. The problem is not the repair so much as who the heck has time to go to the dealership and deal with a problem on your way to a wedding, broadway play or a day at the beach. This can be a very dangerous situation. Good luck and lets keep the heat up for the car maker.

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November 27th, 2011 at 12:20 pm sue Says:

My 2009 HHR would not turn off at 5:00 pm, Thanksgiving night, and 90 miles away from home. I drove it to the nearest dealer after arriving home and don't know how much this is going to cost. After reading the other readers' comments, I will be prepared for nothing less than $500 to fix. This also sounds to me like a defect in these vehicles. My son-in-law has a 2007 HHR that had the same problem. How do I make my voice heard?

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December 9th, 2011 at 10:17 pm ali Says:

I'm having the same problem, my key is stuck in the ignition and I can't turn it off. I can't find the release button, can anyone help me.

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December 10th, 2011 at 10:59 pm mcb123 Says:

Me too!!!! 2010 HHR with 18,000 miles on it, stuck in the driveway running and couldn't get the key out. The dealerships all closed at 5pm so I am stuck without a car until Monday. I pulled the fuse for the fuel pump which shut off the car…..and then after about a half hour of searching for my battery (which is in the trunk) disconnected the negative terminal!!! This is so disgusting to read all of these and see year after year nothing is done about it. Something has to be done.

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December 23rd, 2011 at 11:01 am Mark Says:

I watched the first 3 minutes of the video. Being an engineer, the first thing I thought of after he said that the switch on the gear shifter assembly activates a solenoid to release the key when the shifter is in park was to save me some money by getting into the steering assembly and find the solenoid attached to the ignition switch. I would then get rid of the latch so that the ignition switch can be turned freely at all times. I'm not stupid like our federal government thinks I am, so I would not have to worry about turning the car off and removing the key while driving down the road. My solution would cost you nothing but some time and will last forever.

[Reply]
Bobby Brooks Reply:
July 2nd, 2012 at 6:51 pm
Mark could you please explain to me exactly what you did .

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sherry Reply:
September 25th, 2012 at 9:26 pm
Mark,
My son is very mechanically inclined and he found the button in the stearing column that releases the key after it got stuck. He was thinking of just permanently pushing the latch in so it never locks. Will this damage anything else in the car. He doesn't have a lot of money for a whole new shifter assembly. Being an engineer I figure you will know. Thanks for any help you can give me.

[Reply]
san Reply:
March 8th, 2013 at 6:33 pm
Mark that sounds great, I assume you were succesful. So how can i do this?

[Reply]
Bobby Brooks Reply:
July 2nd, 2012 at 6:51 pm
Mark could you please explain to me exactly what you did .

[Reply]
sherry Reply:
September 25th, 2012 at 9:26 pm
Mark,
My son is very mechanically inclined and he found the button in the stearing column that releases the key after it got stuck. He was thinking of just permanently pushing the latch in so it never locks. Will this damage anything else in the car. He doesn't have a lot of money for a whole new shifter assembly. Being an engineer I figure you will know. Thanks for any help you can give me.

[Reply]
san Reply:
March 8th, 2013 at 6:33 pm
Mark that sounds great, I assume you were succesful. So how can i do this?

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December 26th, 2011 at 4:43 pm Cathy Says:

It is the day after Christmas and we called the Dealership were we bought it Denny Menholt who is suppose to have the friendlist auto repair dept and the lady was very rude, so here we are in the garage pullings things apart. I am ssick of rip of companies

[Reply]
December 26th, 2011 at 4:50 pm Cathy Says:

We all need to call GM and complain I will never buy a Chevy or GMC

[Reply]
TAK Reply:
January 23rd, 2012 at 6:53 pm
Call and complain but don't tell them you will never buy another GM product – they won 't have any incentive to fix it. Tell them you are disappointed and never expected a GM car to act this way.

[Reply]
TAK Reply:
January 23rd, 2012 at 6:53 pm
Call and complain but don't tell them you will never buy another GM product – they won 't have any incentive to fix it. Tell them you are disappointed and never expected a GM car to act this way.

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December 27th, 2011 at 11:32 am Jennifer Says:

Just happened to my 2009 HHR Christmas Eve. Ironically I had the 2006 Cobalt which power steering kept going out trying to kill me on the interstate so I am well prepared to handle GM's B.S. I recorded the entire fiasco and will post the video on youtube on the next day or so. I'll return to share the link with all the frustrated GM owners out there. Shame on GM for not recalling cars with issues- this is quite the habit they've developed so on blast they shall go….

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December 29th, 2011 at 7:18 pm jerry Says:

I have a 2010 HHR that is the shop now!! Get this going out of town 6 hrs away get to the hotel and guess what will not shut off!! Have to remove the fuel pump relay and unhook the battery no way to ride now. Have to cut vacation short to take the car to have fixed before having to return to work!! I have always bought chevys but I have a chevy truck the gauge dont work!! I think I will look at ford next time.I know my friends are going to rag me but what the hell at least the car will get me home!! CHEVY needs to think hard about using CHEAP PARTS>>>><>>>

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December 29th, 2011 at 10:34 pm John Says:

Wow I can't believe how many people had the same problem as me. It just happened to me tonight. I drove over an hour to a wedding reception and when I parked my car I could not get the key out or turn the car off. I did the same thing, I pulled out the fuse to kill the engine then disconnected the battery. If there are all these problems with these cars they should at least have a TSB for it. This is ridiculous. Now to see how much the dealer I bought it from wants to fix it. Mine is a 2009 HHR with 57k miles.

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January 3rd, 2012 at 4:56 pm disgusted Says:

same problem with a 2009 HHR, wouldn't turn off with the key stuck in ignition. triple a said that they wouldn't tow it since it was "running", had to pull the fuel fuse to turn it off since when we pulled the battery cables it still kept running. finally, got triple a to come and pick it up since now it wouldn't "run", hid the fuel fuse in the glove box and the tow guy tried repeatedly to get it to turn over. chevrolet charged $300.00 saying that it wasn't covered in the warranty! had no other problem but this with the vehicle but definately think that this should be a recall!

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January 7th, 2012 at 10:02 pm Gng4life Says:

This just happened to me tonight. I have a 2009 HHR LS and it's been running for about 5 hours now. I can't find the switch in the column like he was saying in the video and definitely nothing that is easily depressed. I might try the gear shift replacement since I don't want to pay $500 to replace the lock. Anyone have any advice about the switch in the steering column to release the key? It is in the on position and can't get it to turn in the off direction at all. Thanks

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January 13th, 2012 at 8:12 am Donna Wheeler Says:

Same problem! I stopped last night to put gas in my 2010 Chevy HHR and the key was stuck in the ignition and the vehicle running. I thought I was alone in this. I mean how often can this possibly happen? Obviously quite often. This is utterly ridiculous. If this has been going on for this long and this often, Chevy should have already done a recall. I cannot believe how negligent they have been in dealing with this problem. I have always loved Chevrolet but now I think I will change my preference. I will never buy another Chevy. I am now going to have to use the money for my daughters b’day party to fix my car. I am pissed!!!!

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
January 13th, 2012 at 9:01 am
Hi Donna, Sorry to hear about your Chevy HHR ignition problem–unfortunately, we're approaching 200 comments on our site related to this fiasco. If you'd like an attorney to look into the matter (some are at present), you can submit a complaint on this form: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form… Chevy really needs to step up to the plate on this, and they haven't. No one should have to take money they've earmarked for their daughter's birthday and use it to fix Chevy's screw up.

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
January 13th, 2012 at 9:01 am
Hi Donna, Sorry to hear about your Chevy HHR ignition problem–unfortunately, we're approaching 200 comments on our site related to this fiasco. If you'd like an attorney to look into the matter (some are at present), you can submit a complaint on this form: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form… Chevy really needs to step up to the plate on this, and they haven't. No one should have to take money they've earmarked for their daughter's birthday and use it to fix Chevy's screw up.

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January 23rd, 2012 at 7:00 pm TAK Says:

Folks, this key thing is a real problem. This is an election year – do you have time to write 3 letters to the federal government? 1 each to your 2 senators, and 1 to your Congressman. Trust me – this works! I have gotten so many things done with a NICE letter to my rep asking for help. I got my passport when the government was shut down, I got my disability insurance reinstated, there's more, lots more. Don't email, write. Ask for help. Ask them to speak with GM and issue a recall. Tell them it's not safe, that if you can't shut it off, or in my case, start it (it's locked up) in a dangerous area, what is going to happen to you? GM doesn't want a call from a congressional staffer, let alone from multiple offices. This works, just takes a few minutes. You can google their addresses. We can get it done – power to the (HHR) people!

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
January 24th, 2012 at 12:02 pm
Hi TAK–agreed. And there's another way to be heard: submit a complaint for an attorney to review. Class action lawsuits only happen when there's an actual class. And this "class" is starting to look like one hell of an overcrowded class room! Seriously, Chevy needed to step up to the plate a long time ago. (btw, those dealing with an HHR lemon can submit a complaint here: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…

[Reply]
LAS_Admin Reply:
January 24th, 2012 at 12:02 pm
Hi TAK–agreed. And there's another way to be heard: submit a complaint for an attorney to review. Class action lawsuits only happen when there's an actual class. And this "class" is starting to look like one hell of an overcrowded class room! Seriously, Chevy needed to step up to the plate a long time ago. (btw, those dealing with an HHR lemon can submit a complaint here: https://www.lawyersandsettlements.com/submit_form…

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February 13th, 2012 at 11:41 am Ralph, W Says:

What a shame. I've always bought foreign cars because of their reliabailty. However; this time i wanted to support anything American, so i bought the Chevy 2010 HHR. It currently has 46,000 miles. Saturday, Feb 11, 2012 1 went to do a ible study at a work release prison camp, and the car would not turn off. I had to cancel the meeting, and drive the car back home. I took off the battery cable, but i took off the red one (positive), and the next day the battery was dead. I also forced the key out of the ignition. Just wondering–for all these years the US have been making cars. Why can't they make a car free of such major defects? This truly puzzles me. I am now driving around in my 1995 Nissan pickup that has almost 200,000 miles, and NO major PROBLEMS. Except it has no A/C. Or i borrow my son's 2006 KIA with 80,0000 miles, and NO PROBLEM. Shame on US for being such losers, in an Industry that we invented.

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February 23rd, 2012 at 9:19 am Kathryn Says:

Well, I must be an official member of this club now. This too happened to me last night. I came home from the grocery store, my child in tow, almost 8pm, and my 2008 HHR would not shut off. I thought I was going mad. I put the car in reverse, put it back in park, drove it around, parked it again, wiggled the shifter knob, etc, to no avail. Being a single parent, with no family within a 800 mile radius and knowing nothing about cars, I was scared, clueless and frustrated. I have owned this car for almost a year. I bought it GM certified with a warranty (thank goodness). I got in touch with the dealership. Of course the service department was closed but sales was open. I drove the car 25 minutes away to the dealership. Some sales guys tried to fool around with it and of course, the key was stuck. The sales guy told me that this happens a lot with HHR's and Colbolts. Then, why the heck hasn't it been recalled?!?!? They were able to disconnect the hose from the throttle body. I was stranded with no transportation and was pretty lucky that a neighbor stepped in to help us. Once I got home I started researching this and I can not believe how common this is. What if I would have been traveling and needed to stop for the night, or gas up or any number of things?

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February 23rd, 2012 at 10:25 am anna Says:

Same problem. $170.

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March 3rd, 2012 at 4:21 pm Dan, Says:

i own a 2010 hhr with same prob. car has 40.000 miles. just want to say thanks for the video it does help but i am going to try and by pass this switch. if i get the job done i will repost results, thanks again…

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March 9th, 2012 at 10:29 am Charlie Says:

I have a 2010 HHR same problem. Wife came home last night key was stuck in ignition engine still running. I disconected switch engine dies reconnect switch and I can start engine and drive car. Car has 53,000 miles on it.

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March 9th, 2012 at 7:53 pm Janelle Says:

My Husbands 2010 HHR is in the shop as I type this and I am furious after reading all of these posts. I can't believe this has not been addressed with chevy and am not looking forward to the $750 bill to repair this and the grinding that has been occuring in the front end for awhile now!

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March 9th, 2012 at 10:56 pm deborah Says:

same thing happen to me i have had to get my key out using the manual button inside the steering column for over a year now i think i am going to buy an after market shifter i found that is suppose to be a better part than the original one was. going to try to put it in myself…..

[Reply]
deborah Reply:
March 10th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
update on my post i put some duck tape depressing the release button inside the steering column working like a charm!!

[Reply]
arlyn Reply:
March 30th, 2013 at 1:32 pm
Do you still have the duck tape on the manual button??

[Reply]
arlyn Reply:
March 30th, 2013 at 1:32 pm
Do you still have the duck tape on the manual button??

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marlene Reply:
April 1st, 2012 at 10:01 pm
Hi,debrah i m having the same problem with my 2006 hhr. I been looking on the web for a shifter can't find a site to buy one. can you give me the site or the auto place where you purchase yours. I m very piss with all the things thats going wrong with my car. I been reading everyone complaint about there hhr. GM need to do something about this fast. I m hoping to hear from you soon.

sign…..marlene

[Reply]
deborah Reply:
March 10th, 2012 at 4:28 pm
update on my post i put some duck tape depressing the release button inside the steering column working like a charm!!

[Reply]
marlene Reply:
April 1st, 2012 at 10:01 pm
Hi,debrah i m having the same problem with my 2006 hhr. I been looking on the web for a shifter can't find a site to buy one. can you give me the site or the auto place where you purchase yours. I m very piss with all the things thats going wrong with my car. I been reading everyone complaint about there hhr. GM need to do something about this fast. I m hoping to hear from you soon.

sign…..marlene

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March 10th, 2012 at 8:03 pm Mark Says:

Happened just tonight. sitting in the garage waiting for monday to take it to the shop.

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March 13th, 2012 at 2:14 pm Kenny Says:

just paid almost $500 for same problem as every other post here – GM is not customer friendly, to say the least…need to get this issue on the news!

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March 17th, 2012 at 11:10 pm Todd Says:

2009 with the key stuck in and not able to shut off. Wow GM should be recalling this part.

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April 3rd, 2012 at 5:34 pm oliver Says:

How in the hell is this problem still happening? There is a Strattec ignition that solved the same problem with the Focus in 2004.

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April 5th, 2012 at 4:05 pm suzanne Says:

same issue right this minute that is why i am checking to see if there is a recall???????? 37,000 mile's wtf!!!!!

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April 17th, 2012 at 5:43 pm Barbara Says:

Husband took my car today, called me at work to tell me could not get key out of ignition and car would not turn off. I have a HHR 2009 w/ 60,000 miles. He had to take a pair of vice grips and break the key off.. Gmc should have a recall for this defect.. I don't feel I should have to pay for something that is obvious a defect on HHR models.. Also when I first got the car the battery went dead for no apparent reason at that time was under warranty and they came out a gave me hot shot.. that happen twice.. I also had a problem in the past with key being stuck in ignition and not being able able to start but after fooling w/it a couple minutes was able to start..

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April 17th, 2012 at 10:59 pm Mark B, Says:

I am 250 miles away from home on a business trip. Cannot shut off car…key stuck in ignition. Missed my meeting, and who knows how many sales. Now I'm reading that in addition to losing my business opportunities… GM's poor engineering becomes their business opportunity? The bail-out failed. GM should have been allowed to go under. This is bullsh!t. My tax dollars have been wasted…again. We need to learn how to accept mediocrity from our nation's businesses and it's politicians.

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April 19th, 2012 at 12:32 am jen Says:

ugh same problem here. taking it to the dealership tomorrow. i hope to goodness it wont cost 500$ to fix. i dont even like this car to begin with. and to the other person with the signal problem~ same problem here. i took it in to the dealership 3 times to have it fixed while it was still under warranty but they could not reproduce the problem. now the warrantry is expired. sweet. 2010 40,000 miles.

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April 21st, 2012 at 11:44 am Edwin Says:

I have a Chevy Cobalt 05 with 57,000 miles, and last night on my way to the store the shifter handle thingy broke. So now, my key is stuck in the ignition. Very annoying, First GM car, and probably, Well most likely the last one. This sucks,its on the weekend and of course, the dealer is closed! haha. So I am suffering all weekend with my car like that. I gotta wait and see what happens.

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April 22nd, 2012 at 12:27 pm Crandall Says:

Ican't shut the damned thing off. 38000 miles ,out of warrenty and it is a piece of crap. Also have the brake issue too. Should have gone with Chrysler. What ever happened to one of our best cars for years?

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April 25th, 2012 at 11:09 pm Jack Luber Says:

I thought iI was losing my mind. My 2010 HHR is running right now. I filled the tank so it wouldn't run out of gas overnight. I was in the car business for 25 years, so if my local dealer won't fix it, I will stand in the middle of their showroom and cause a scene.

[Reply]
Ed Reply:
May 2nd, 2012 at 12:20 pm
Jack, GM issued a recall about 2 weeks ago, Ign switch is coverd now.. good luck

[Reply]
Ed Reply:
May 2nd, 2012 at 12:20 pm
Jack, GM issued a recall about 2 weeks ago, Ign switch is coverd now.. good luck

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May 4th, 2012 at 9:13 pm deborah Says:

25995462 control, this is replacement part for aftermarket shifter suppose to be better than the old one can be ordered at gm parts direct you might have to email them for the new parts number

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May 4th, 2012 at 11:19 pm Leialunee Says:

Well, Now I am a member of this not so elite club of HHR owners. Went out with the family tonight got home and my key would not turn the ignition off and my HHR was running. Thank God my husband was home tonight and was able to up do the battery cable and shut it down. This is not the first problem I have had with my 2009. It spent the first 3 months at the dealers while they tried to find out why the day after I brought it home is would not start, they gave it back after they couldn't find any problmes 3x and then finally it messed up again on them and they replaced the entire wiring harness. I will NEVER buy a chevy vehicle again.

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May 22nd, 2012 at 5:13 pm Jeff Says:

I just got a letter in the mail today program 12045, Chevy is going to fix it for free until May 31, 2014. I never had a problem like this, but called and had them order the part today. If you paid for repair there is a course of action to take. good luck

[Reply]
Bobby Brooks Reply:
July 2nd, 2012 at 6:42 pm
yea i was wondering when to i would get mine when did you receive this letter Jeff

[Reply]
Bobby Brooks Reply:
July 2nd, 2012 at 6:42 pm
yea i was wondering when to i would get mine when did you receive this letter Jeff

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May 24th, 2012 at 9:08 pm ellen Says:

Sitting on my front porch waiting for my husband to get home to disconnect my battery to my 2009 HHR. I can still drive it, just can't get the freakin key out. Can't believe there hasn't been a recall on this problem. Thankful it waited til I got home though.

[Reply]
June 2nd, 2012 at 10:53 am Greg Says:

Same thing happened to me, key got stuck in the ignition as well, luckily I just popped the clutch and car shut off. Unfortunately the key was in the on position so the battery died. Chevy dealer came and towed it to the dealership said the problem was not a warranty issue, said my key chain was probably to heavy thats why it happened, $355.00 dollars later. Yesterday got a letter in the mail saying there was a design issue and that I would be fully reimbursed for the repairs. Said I would get a check in 1-2 weeks. We will see.

[Reply]
June 4th, 2012 at 8:22 am wilfredo Says:

i have had problems with the ignition on my 2006 hhr.the car has 55000 miles, and i had the problem around 10000 miles ago,also i just paid $388.00 to get my power steering motor replaced. gm recalled thpontiac g4,55,6 , the cobalt, saturn ion, but they failed to recall the hhr wicth it has the same problems. why they did not recall the hhr is beyond me. it seems to me that gm should do something about this problems. they need to put up or shut up.

[Reply]
June 12th, 2012 at 9:44 pm tuesdai Says:

my hhr just done the same thing tonite key stuck wont turn off this is messed up that it has not been recalled i cant pay that to get it fixed

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June 13th, 2012 at 1:33 pm Rickey J Says:

Just had my 2009 Chevy HHr at the Chevy dealer for service. Their is a recall for key stuck in the ignition. Call your local Dealer.

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June 18th, 2012 at 10:00 am Bob Says:

Had the same prob. with my 2009 HHR paid $258.00 to have the ignition switch changed, it worked fine. I recieved a letter about the problem from GM and filled out the form for re-inbursement, took the form to the dealer and was told that they would have to install yet another switch ( at no cost to me ) so I said fine. this was 1 week ago, My wife just called me and said the she removed the keys, got out of the car and locked the doors and realized that the car was still running. I have had the ignition problems, air bag problems, bad struts, and the signal lights now are acting up.

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June 23rd, 2012 at 12:49 pm ROLLIE Says:

MY WIFE HAS A 2008 HHR, WHICH WE BOUGHT NEW. HAS 40,000 MILES ON IT. SHE PUT CAR IN GARAGE AND TURNED OFF AND SHUT THE CAR DOOR, WITH HER PURSE INSIDE, WITH THE EXTRA SET OF KEYS IN IT AND THE OTHER KEYS IN IGNITION AND STARTED ON THE OTHER SIDE TO GET GROCERIES OUT AND SHE HEARD A LOWD CLICK AND ALL THE DOORS LOCKED. WE CALLED THE 800 NUMBER FOR ONSTAR, WHICH WE DID NOT RENEW THE SUBSCRIPTION ON, AND THE ONE ANSWERED SAID HE COULDN'T UNLOCK BECAUSE WE DIDN'T RENEW, BUT HE WOULD SEND SOMEONE OUT TO GET UNLOCKED. I ASKED HIM HOW MUCH AND HE SAID $150. I TOLD HIM TO FORGET IT, SO I CALLED OUR LOCAL POLICE AND THEY UNLOCKED CAR FOR FREE. HAS ANYONE ELSE HAD THIS PROBLEM, OF DOORS LOCKING?

[Reply]
June 25th, 2012 at 8:51 pm Bob Says:

Had same problem car not turning off today on my 2008 HHR 53000 miles. I went right to dealership they looked to see if there where any recalls they said there wasn't any.The dealership called to tell me that it was a bad ignition cylinder and the total cost would be $525.00. I said i wil be calling 1-800-222-1020 to talk to chevy directly to get reimbursed. I called she asked me what my VIN number was i gave it to her. She said my car had a special policy on it and the repair would be covered 100%. She called the dealership for me and when i picked it up i paid nothing. I think Chevy knows theres a problem but they don't want to issue a recall. They just want to see if you go the extra mile and call and complain then they will pay for it.

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June 27th, 2012 at 7:44 am Elle Says:

Mine is a 2011, and I am as we speak waiting for the dealer to come pick it up to repair. It only has 11,000 miles and is under warranty, thank goodness! So, should I be making sure they replace the ignition, or the gear, or what? I don't want to have to deal with this again.. Thanks!

[Reply]
Elle Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 11:23 am
Ok, so I just got a call from the dealer that they replaced the "lock cylander".. We'll see. The dealer actually came to my work and picked my car up, and are going to drop it back off within an hour. They also did an oil change, tire roation, and took care of one other small issue (replaced the Chevy 'bowtie' on the back of the vehicle because it was a bit 'off'). All within three hours. I would say that is fantastic customer service, the best I've probably ever had – assuming the fix for the ignition problem is permanent! In case you are in the Detroit metro area the dealer is Matthews Hargreaves Chevrolet in Royal Oak – they are fantastic! Good luck with this, everyone..

[Reply]
Bobby Brooks Reply:
July 2nd, 2012 at 7:26 pm
They should be replacing the gear shift Ellie this is the main cause of the problem

[Reply]
Elle Reply:
July 19th, 2012 at 9:51 am
Update: I got the car back after the first round, and they had replaced the lock cylander. A couple of days later, same problem. I took the car in again and you were right, Bobby, they then replaced the gear shift. They said it was not going into 'park' completely and that was the cause of the issue. It has not had the problem since.

[Reply]
Elle Reply:
July 19th, 2012 at 9:51 am
Update: I got the car back after the first round, and they had replaced the lock cylander. A couple of days later, same problem. I took the car in again and you were right, Bobby, they then replaced the gear shift. They said it was not going into 'park' completely and that was the cause of the issue. It has not had the problem since.

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Elle Reply:
June 27th, 2012 at 11:23 am
Ok, so I just got a call from the dealer that they replaced the "lock cylander".. We'll see. The dealer actually came to my work and picked my car up, and are going to drop it back off within an hour. They also did an oil change, tire roation, and took care of one other small issue (replaced the Chevy 'bowtie' on the back of the vehicle because it was a bit 'off'). All within three hours. I would say that is fantastic customer service, the best I've probably ever had – assuming the fix for the ignition problem is permanent! In case you are in the Detroit metro area the dealer is Matthews Hargreaves Chevrolet in Royal Oak – they are fantastic! Good luck with this, everyone..

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Bobby Brooks Reply:
July 2nd, 2012 at 7:26 pm
They should be replacing the gear shift Ellie this is the main cause of the problem

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July 2nd, 2012 at 1:14 pm Bobby Brooks Says:

I had this problem as well but easier way to turn it off is to remove the steering wheel cover and look for a
green electrical connection under the steering wheel disconnect that and it will turn off

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July 6th, 2012 at 8:45 am rachael Says:

this may not be a recall but i just had it happen to me and its what they call a policy, if it locks up or whatever they will fix it, its not a safety issue to its not something they will replace unless there is an issue, i am taking mine to it today so lets hope i dont get robbed!

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July 29th, 2012 at 1:12 pm Christine W. Says:

My 2010 Chevy HHR did this exact same thing yesterday. It has 31K on it. In my book that means it isn't even broken in. I was so freaked out and had to try with three guys (my father and two AAA tow truck guys) to remedy the problem so I could get it to the dealership. I put it in park and then the key wouldn't budge with the engine on (and a full gas tank too). We spent 30 minutes in 107 degree heat trying to get it to shut off. I finally drove it to the dealer, pulled the fuse to shut her down and left it for them to deal with on Monday. The tow truck drivers said they had seen at least 4 cars just like mine, same year and model, 2010 HHRs, same problem in our area of Northeast TX.

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July 30th, 2012 at 10:28 pm CJ Strehle Says:

I guess the problem STILL isn't fixed. 2011 HHR, got in my car, drove to the grocery store, and couldn't turn off the key! It is a manual trans, so just applied the brake, and let out the clutch. Killed the engine, will call the dealer tomorrow, and have them fix it. WHY can't GM fix problems that have been occurring for years?????? No wonder they discontinued it, could fix even that small of a problem after YEARS of problems…………

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August 20th, 2012 at 3:47 pm Amanda M. Says:

I have a 2006 HHR. 1. My ignition sticks to the point I can’t turn off the engine. 2. Or the engine will shut off but the gear shift will not go into park, running my battery dead. 3. AND my gear shift can be pushed out of drive while driving. I just emailed the owner center in hopes for replacement. My husband found the tumbler under the steering wheel to get the ignition to release. This is ridiculous……

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william f. Reply:
August 23rd, 2012 at 8:40 pm
i'm reviewing the statements here looking for a solution for myself just happen to me came home from store and parked and key was locked had to pull fuse for fuel pump and disconnect the battery my hhr is a 2010 when i put it in park i can feel the selenoid in the colum retracting but i can not find that release button they talk about i folded my rear seat down to make access to battery easier so i can get into the rear door i'll probally end up getting the shifter and doing it myself gl with yours

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william f. Reply:
August 23rd, 2012 at 8:40 pm
i'm reviewing the statements here looking for a solution for myself just happen to me came home from store and parked and key was locked had to pull fuse for fuel pump and disconnect the battery my hhr is a 2010 when i put it in park i can feel the selenoid in the colum retracting but i can not find that release button they talk about i folded my rear seat down to make access to battery easier so i can get into the rear door i'll probally end up getting the shifter and doing it myself gl with yours

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August 24th, 2012 at 8:43 pm Tom Says:

I am having the same problems as the rest of the hhr owners. My mechanic told me that of all the customers of his that own these cars, I am the only one that is having problems with this thing. After reading most of the posts, I have concluded to myself that it isn't me. But instead, it's this piece of shit that I bought that is nickel and diming me to death way more than my Saturn ever did in the 11 years that I had it. As long it is some what safe to drive, and I can pay it down enough…it's history!

Also maybe the mechanic should go too!!!

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September 5th, 2012 at 8:06 pm Unhappy with HHR Says:

Just bought my car a week ago. It had to go back to the dealership for some touch up body work. The employee backed the car up, shifted it into park and then found that he could not turn the ignition off and the ignition was lodged into the On position with the car running. It was then driven to another dealership who found out that GM had done a recall on the tumbler. So… now it is fixed, hopefully. I am worried as a family member had a Dodge years ago with the same problem. The ignition switch/ tumbler was changed out and afterwards it was nothing but a nightmare of problems with the ignition so she finally got rid of the car. I hope that the same thing does not happen to this. Right now I am frustrated and feeling that I should not have gotten rid of my Buick.

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September 9th, 2012 at 11:25 am Angel Says:

Just went to get gas and couldn't get the key to move or engine to turn off – had to gas up with it running! As a woman alone with an infant in the car, Thank God for my smart phone and all you folks posting some "quick" fixes to put my mind at ease that I wasn't the only one!
When I got to my inlaws, I was able to pull the fuse for the transmission/engine console and the engine cut off. Key is still stuck so had to pull fuse for lights and disconnect battery cable also. VERY INCONVENIENT!!
Not happy to hear this isn't covered under warrenties but I am going to try nonetheless. More pissed to be losing the time from work to fix something so ridiculous! I do not have time or patience for this. STEP UP, GM!

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September 13th, 2012 at 7:00 pm DONALD Says:

i have 2010 HHR which would not shut off when i arrived home from a hard day of work. I read owner bible and found plunger to hold, no luck, key will still not turn. I had to pull fuel pump fuse and disconnect neg on battery. lucky for me I still have COERAGE.

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September 19th, 2012 at 4:35 pm Lew Morrison Says:

My wife own a 2009 HHR, the paint is pealing of the hood, I took it to the 'Rydell' Chevy dealer in Northridge CA and ask them why the paint was pealing off on top of the hood, the body shop supervisor said he didn't know, but he would call GM to see if they would take care of it. On Monday, 9/17/12 he called and said that they would pay half of the cost to repaint the hood, but my wife would pay the other half. I told him that the factory had produced a lousy paint job on the car and it was getting worse each month. that I didn't think it was fair for them to ask us to pay for a lousy paint job from the factory.
On Tues, 9/18.12, he called back and said that since I didn't agree to pay half, we would half to pay all of the cost. The car has a major poor paint job, and GM is refusing to take care of the problem

g

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September 24th, 2012 at 7:50 am Lindsey Says:

This happened to me last night, my brother being mechanically inclined followed me to the local Chevy dealer and unhooked the battery and pulled the fuse to the fuel pump to shut the car down. My local dealership is fixing it free of charge per a special provision through GM. If you’re dealership is charging you that’s a problem! Although inconvenient and odd, this is the only issues I have ever had with my HHR, I still love the car.

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September 25th, 2012 at 1:16 pm bertha Says:

I have the same problem with my 2006 hhr, i got the key out, the switch is messed up now you can just put any key in the switch part way and the car will crank. dealer said it will cost 500.00 to be fixed.

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October 4th, 2012 at 4:24 pm Ana Says:

I have a 2006 HHR as well and my key keeps getting stuck too and its embarrassing. Not to mention that I have two toddlers that I have to keep with me in the car until I get the key out of the ignition.

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October 23rd, 2012 at 9:33 am chris Says:

I have a 2006 HHR with 114,000 miles on it and last night my key got stuck like everyone else mentioned. Lucky for me I had my smart phone on me and was able to access the internet to get the information and the you-tube video of how to remedy it, if only temporarily. I removed the small access panel on the bottom of the steering column and pressed in the small white plastic button to release my key. Now being an engineer and a teacher of engineering, I know there is a way I can keep this button pushed in at all times and not damage the car further, but I will have to wait till the week end to take apart the steering column cover to get to it, I will re-post when I have a more permanent solution, Aloha

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November 17th, 2012 at 12:33 pm Kimberly Says:

Having the same problem with HHR 06 key getting stuck have to put a finger in the steering column to push a release switch…. Ok now why would they add this feature… they know there was a design or manufacture problem… Now both front door interior door handles are broken and they say you have to replace the whole panel…. We had a 06 Monte and had the same problem with the key…. Never will we buy a Chev again…..

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November 24th, 2012 at 8:32 am Jenna Says:

My 2009 HHR just had this happen on Thanksgiving.I could not turn off my car or get the key out. I really feel like Chevy should stand behind it's product and fix this.

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November 24th, 2012 at 10:32 pm Tracey Says:

Well, just happened to me. 2009 Chevy HHR…ran up to the grocery store on a Saturday night and it would not turn off! Drove around and tried again….and again, to no avail! Went home and my neighbor disconnected my battery and a fuse. Chevy has not solved this design problem?! Really?! Wow. Never agin.

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December 24th, 2012 at 9:24 pm Helen Says:

I have a 2009 HHR, it is Christmas Eve, and I just had this problem. Driving from Philly to Atlanta, it happened at a rest area just north of Charlotte. Fortunately I had just fueled up, but had to make it down to Atlanta hoping I had enough gas to make it. Now I am carless in Atlanta (a city known for its crappy public transpo) on Christmas Eve, HOPING that they can fix my car on Weds, given that I have to be back at work on Friday (and have to leave Thursday). I am absolutely HORRIFIED that Chevrolet isn't taking care of this issue, when they -obviously- know that there is a major major design flaw.

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January 12th, 2013 at 10:45 pm Glenn Says:

Yes, Yes my 06 HHR did the same thing. I'm either going to bypass the microswitch in the shifter assy, or make the latch in the column inactive. The I'm going to send the dealership in Chatham Ontario a link to this forum, so they'll know how to properly respond the their many other HHR customers. But unlike most of you, I love my HHR. I load it up with more than 1000 lbs., and it doesn't complain, and I can carry 5 passengers fairly comfortably, and I get 34 mpg constantly. So if the ignition is the only problem, suck it up…..

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Janice Luippold Reply:
January 21st, 2013 at 9:14 am
Call 866-790-5600 there is an extended warranty regarding this problem GM dealer should fix your car free.

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Janice Luippold Reply:
January 21st, 2013 at 9:14 am
Call 866-790-5600 there is an extended warranty regarding this problem GM dealer should fix your car free.

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January 20th, 2013 at 11:45 am Janice Luippold Says:

Our 2009 HHR would not shut off and key could not be removed. Went to a dealer this past Satruday afternoon(1/19/2013)when it happened but repair department was closed. Gave me a loaner and are going to attempt to repair it Monday. According to sales people at the dealer they had never heard of this problem. All made honest attemps to get the key out to no avail. Evidently they don't go on line and read comments about their product. Calling GM tomorrow and inquiring about their admission regarding this being a manufacturing error. How do we get together for class action if they do not own up to this???????

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January 21st, 2013 at 9:12 am Janice Luippold Says:

1/21/13 8A.M. Additional info folks. Just called GM @866-790-5600 and spoke to a very genial representative who informed me there was an extended warranty on my 2009 HHR regarding the problem with the key getting stuck and the car not shutting off. She called the dealer who has my car and he was aware of the extended coverage. So all of you with this problem try calling this number and ask about this. They are going to fix it at no cost to me.

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January 30th, 2013 at 5:37 pm shonta Says:

i have the same problems and it driving me crazy bout ready to give up but i love my car.

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February 3rd, 2013 at 6:55 pm Jan Says:

This happened to my 2010 HHR last night. I called a friend and my nephew and they came over and finally got it cut off by pulling some fuses. They took the cable off of the battery then we realized it was in the way of my garage door closing. We went to put it in neutral and it wouldn't go. We needed to hook the battery back up. Guess what?!! We couldn't get the hatch up because it is electrical! It's a good thing that I have a battery source that is used to jump off a car. We hooked that up to the terminals under the hood to get the hatch back up. After coming online and seeing how to access the button under the steering column I tried that today. It still won't release the key. I hooked the battery back up and when I do it pushes the plunger on the button down. I still can't get the key out. I guess I'll drive it to the dealership tomorrow to be repaired. Good thing I'm personal friends with the dealership owner,.

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March 21st, 2013 at 11:05 am Cheryl Brown Says:

Awesome… Today, same issue… Called 8667905600 and it is covered! My car is an HHR2010. They called a tow service at there cost to have it towed and fixed. Tow service said they will try to jump stay it if that doesn’t work, then they will have it towed at no cost to me! I live thus site. STILL missing a days work though…

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April 28th, 2013 at 3:56 pm John Says:

It's Sunday afternoon and all the dealers are closed. My 2010 HHR with 51,000 miles has a key stuck in the ignition and I cannot turn the key to the "off" position…so there I am with a car running and no way to turn it off. I found the plunger but that trick didn't work. So, I took the shroud off the steering column and unplugged the power to the ignition…it shut power off to the ignition and shut down the engine. Key is still stuck though. I'll be able to drive it to the dealer tomorrow (just plug the ignition back up and car starts) but sure don't look forward to dropping $500 on a GM induced design problem. This sucks.

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April 28th, 2013 at 5:28 pm andrea williams Says:

my 2008 HHR key got stuck in my switch April 28, 2013 in my driveway. My husband could not get the key out of the ignition I will be calling the 800 number and the dealer tomorrow.

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May 15th, 2013 at 2:40 am Lee Ledgerwood Says:

2007 HHR ignition problem happened today. Battery dead, key stuck in ignition, can't move shift lever, only good thing is the car is at home. Calling the 800 number in the morning, this is rediculous with all these issues a recall should have been made,

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May 21st, 2013 at 11:02 pm JanetDryden Says:

I just got home from a long trip and put the key in and my car is dead. I cannot get the key out of the ignition now. Not sure what to do.

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JanetDryden Reply:
May 21st, 2013 at 11:03 pm
My car is a chevy hhr lt 2008.

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JanetDryden Reply:
May 21st, 2013 at 11:03 pm
My car is a chevy hhr lt 2008.

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