Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2006 Chevrolet HHR
The 2006 Chevrolet HHR has a mixed track record with some key areas of concern, particularly with the steering and electrical system. With several recalls, including ignition and airbag issues, prospective buyers should be cautious. There is limited information on some components, so a thorough check is recommended to ensure a sound purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2006 Chevrolet HHR has 6 NHTSA recall campaigns and 1,006 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #14E021000 Aftermarket Replacement Ignition Switches NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V171000 Key Can Be Removed when Ignition is not Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V047000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V444000 FMVSS 201/STORAGE BIN DOOR NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #08V046000 FMVSS 201/ROOF RAIL AIR BAGS NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #06V417000 LEATHER SEAT COVERS/AIR BAG SENSING SYSTEM NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Steering 458 complaints
- Electrical System 222 complaints
- Structure 119 complaints
- Power Train 82 complaints
- Latches/Locks/Linkages 70 complaints
- Air Bags 63 complaints
Of the 1,006 complaints on file, 47 report a crash and 8 a fire; across all 1,006 complaints, owners report 29 injuries and 4 deaths (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Steering failure
How to check: Turn the wheel fully left and right, listen for noises.
Ignition switch defect
How to check: Check if key can be removed when not in 'Off'.
Airbag malfunction
How to check: Verify airbag warning lights operate as expected.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for unusual engine noises or rough idle.
Red flag: Knocking or inconsistent idle
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Observe dashboard for any warning lights.
Red flag: Persistent warning lights
- 03
City driving
What to check: Check steering response and ease of turning.
Red flag: Stiff or unresponsive steering
- 04
Braking
What to check: Feel for any vibrations or noise when braking.
Red flag: Vibrations or grinding noise
- 05
Highway driving
What to check: Test acceleration and cruise control function.
Red flag: Lags in acceleration, non-responsive cruise control
- 06
Parking
What to check: Engage park and check gear shift ease.
Red flag: Difficulty shifting gears
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition switch been replaced?
- Are there any current recalls outstanding?
- Has the airbag system been serviced?
- Are there any known steering issues?
- Has the car been in any accidents?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle recall history
- Service and maintenance records
- Accident history report
- Title and registration papers
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2006 Chevrolet HHR at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2006 Chevrolet HHR? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.