Problems · by component

2009 Chevrolet HHR fuel/propulsion system problems

69 owner complaints to NHTSA about the 2009 Chevrolet HHR cite fuel/propulsion system, 14% of all 508 complaints for this model year.

Complaints
69
14% of all complaints
Crashes
0
Reported by owners
Fires
0
Reported by owners
Injuries
0
Reported by owners
01 —Owner reports

What owners say about the fuel/propulsion system

Verbatim from NHTSA complaints, newest first
“The contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated that there was a fuel leak near the driver's side rear door. The contact stated that the TPMS, ESC, and check engine warning lights were illuminated. The contact researched online and determined that the failure was related to NHTSA Action Number: PE20011 (FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER, FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). The contact called the local dealer and was informed there were no recalls on the VIN. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 136,440.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Oct 31, 2024Fuel system, gasoline, Fuel system, other, Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11622868
“last week we noticed gasoline showing up on the ground in front of the rear driver side tire. I looked underneath and found a pipe that seems to be corroded. I looked online and found that many people have the same problem, so I haven't had it checked at a dealership. The pipe continues to leak after you walk away and I'm afraid someone will discard a cigarette near the vehicle, or worse. We are generally home, and can be reached for inspection.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Oct 24, 2024Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11621763
“I was backing my car out of the garage and I noticed a line of liquid on the ground, indicating a leak. I immediately stopped the car, got out and took a look. I traced the leak back to the drivers side at the rear, just before the tire. I could see fuel dripping down from under the car. The exhaust pipe right near the dripping was also wet. I could smell gas and I confirmed that was what was dripping by smelling a drop after I let it fall on my finger. Definitely gasoline. After the dripping stopped, I pushed the car back into the garage. I used a QuickJack to raise the car to get a better look at the area where the leak was coming from. There was massive corrosion/rust of the metal lines in the area. The leak was easily found by just looking for where the lines were wet. Even though fuel was no longer dripping (the engine was off so there was no fuel pressure anymore), there was still wetness from the gas leaking through the rusted area. I will not drive the car again until the leak has been repaired. Considering the fact that the exhaust pipe had also gotten wet from the leak, the chance of a fire was VERY LIKELY. I consider myself very lucky to have found…”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Jul 1, 2023Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11529905
“Fuel line has rusted and is leaking gas under the left rear wheel, near the tail pipe. First noticed by smell while driving, then witnessed gas leaking upon exiting the vehicle at home. Have not had vehicle serviced as I will have to have it towed due to safety concerns. Please continue the investigation into this issue as it is potentially life threatening and the number of complaints are concerning. The vehicle is available for inspection.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Apr 10, 2023Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11516374
“Fuel Smell / Leak. Car developed a gas smell while driving and after getting out of the car a small amount of gas poured out in front of the passenger door on the drivers side. I was told my gas line has rusted through and will need to be replaced.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Aug 26, 2022Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11481388
“Fuel line corroded and ruptured at the fuel line heat shield area along the car by the drivers side just in front of the back wheel. It was leaking profusely, especially when under pressure as when the engine is on. Went through a half tank of gas in 24 hours. Strong smell and huge, huge fire danger. I found many such reports of the exact same issue from many other HHR owners. Took to Belle Tire in Petoskey Michigan for repair and they told me it's a very common problem with Cobalts and HHR's from the mid to late 2000's. Parts were only inspected by the repair garage. There were no warning lights. Found out by smell and sight and reduced engine performance.”
Owner complaint to NHTSAFiled Dec 18, 2021Fuel/propulsion systemODI 11444259

Showing 6 of 69 reports. Read every report on NHTSA.gov.

Data from NHTSA Complaints API (owner reports, unverified) · synced Nov 10, 2026NHTSA vehicle page

Complaints are unverified owner reports to NHTSA and are not normalized for sales volume. One complaint can cite several components.