Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2009 Chevrolet HHR
The 2009 Chevrolet HHR has been recalled for issues primarily related to its electrical system and steering. Persistent problems with the ignition switch and electrical steering pose significant concerns. While some of these issues can be mitigated by recalls, buyers should confirm recall work is done.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2009 Chevrolet HHR has 5 NHTSA recall campaigns and 508 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 #14V153000 Sudden Loss of Electric Power Steering NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #14V047000 Ignition Switch may Turn Off NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #09V073000 SHIFT LEVER INDICATOR/FMVSS 102 & FMVSS 114 NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Electrical System 151 complaints
- Steering 127 complaints
- Air Bags 104 complaints
- Fuel/Propulsion System 69 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 25 complaints
- Structure 21 complaints
Of the 508 complaints on file, 20 report a crash and 7 a fire; across all 508 complaints, owners report 25 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Ignition switch malfunction
How to check: Ensure ignition stays in position when started
Loss of power steering
How to check: Check steering ease at low speeds
Airbag system defects
How to check: Confirm airbag recall completion
Transmission lever issues
How to check: Test smooth gear shift and park engagement
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Initial start
What to check: Turn key and ensure firm ignition hold
Red flag: Key detaches or feels loose
- 02
Low-speed maneuver
What to check: Check ease of steering effort
Red flag: Heavy steering requires effort
- 03
Highway acceleration
What to check: Listen for transmission issues
Red flag: Rough or erratic shifting
- 04
Full stop
What to check: Ensure vehicle stays in park securely
Red flag: Vehicle rolls after parking
- 05
Turning corners
What to check: Monitor steering responsiveness
Red flag: Lag or resistance when turning
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the ignition switch recall been completed?
- Are there any unresolved steering issues?
- Has the airbag recall been addressed?
- Have there been transmission problems?
- Any recent repairs or replacements made?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall completion confirmation
- Service and maintenance records
- Vehicle title and registration
- Accident history report
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2009 Chevrolet HHR at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2009 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.