Chevrolet HHR: How to Remove the Bumpers

The Chevrolet HHR is a compact car produced from 2005 to 2011. The model combines retro design elements with modern technology, creating a unique appearance. Designed under the direction of renowned designer Bryan Nesbitt, who was inspired by the classic 1949 Chevrolet Suburban, the HHR became one of the most unusual cars in General Motors' lineup.

Production Years and Model Code

Production of the Chevrolet HHR began in 2005 at the Ramos Arizpe plant in Mexico and continued until 2011. In 2006, the model went on sale in the U.S. and later appeared in several other countries, including Canada and Mexico.

The model code—HHR—stands for "Heritage High Roof," referencing its retro style and practicality. Within GM, the car was based on the Delta platform, which was also used for the Chevrolet Cobalt and Pontiac G5.

Model Description

Design

The Chevrolet HHR stood out among other compact cars due to its unusual appearance. The short hood, vertical front end, rounded shapes, and high roof echoed classic Chevrolet models from the 1940s–1950s. Despite its retro styling, the HHR featured modern touches, including a chrome grille and distinctive headlights.

Body and Layout

The car was offered in two body styles:

• 5-door hatchback – The main variant, featuring a spacious interior and large trunk.
• Panel Van (2007–2011) – A commercial version without rear side windows, designed for cargo transport.

The HHR's interior was simple yet functional. The dashboard and center console had a clean design, while the high roof provided extra passenger space.

Technical Specifications

The Chevrolet HHR was equipped with several engines:

• 2.2 L Ecotec LE5 (149 hp) – The base naturally aspirated engine, paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
• 2.4 L Ecotec LE9 (175 hp) – A more powerful option available from 2008.
• 2.0 L Turbo LNF (260 hp) – A turbocharged version for the sporty HHR SS (2008–2010).

The suspension featured an independent MacPherson strut setup at the front and a semi-independent torsion beam at the rear. The HHR wasn’t known for exceptional handling but provided a comfortable ride in urban conditions.

Trim Levels

• LS – Base version with air conditioning, power accessories, and a basic audio system.
• LT – A more upscale trim with improved interior finishes and additional features.
• SS – A sporty version with a turbocharged engine, reinforced suspension, and exclusive design elements.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Open the hood.
2. Unscrew the four bolts in the gap between the headlights.
3. Turn the wheels left or right, depending on which side you’re starting with.
4. In the wheel arches, remove two push-pins and unscrew one bolt on each side that secures the fender liners.
5. Remove the push-pins (inserted from bottom to top) that hold the lower part.
6. Release the clips in the fenders and near the headlights (pull the corners outward). If they don’t budge, gently pry the tabs with a flathead screwdriver (be careful not to damage the paint).
7. Slide the bumper forward (ensure you don’t tear any wires).
8. Disconnect any electrical connectors (if present).

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

1. Open the trunk lid.
2. Unscrew one bolt on each side inside the trunk opening.
3. Remove two push-pins at the bottom (inserted from bottom to top).
4. In the wheel arches, remove three push-pins on each side.
5. Unscrew one bolt on each side (fastened from bottom to top) securing the corners to the fenders.
6. Release the clips in the fenders (pull the corners outward). If the clips won’t release, use a thin flathead screwdriver to press the tabs through the gap between the bumper and fender.
7. Pull the bumper backward (ensure you don’t tear any wires).
8. Disconnect any electrical connectors.

Interesting Facts About the Chevrolet HHR

• Design by the Creator of the Chrysler PT Cruiser
  Bryan Nesbitt, who designed the Chrysler PT Cruiser, also worked on the HHR. Both cars share retro styling, but the HHR has more angular shapes.
• Panel Van Cargo Version
  In 2007, a commercial Panel Van variant without rear side windows was introduced, marketed as an alternative to minivans and small cargo vans.
• HHR SS – A Sleeper Hot Hatch
  The SS version with a 2.0 L turbo engine (260 hp) accelerated from 0–100 km/h in 6.3 seconds—an impressive feat for a compact car at the time.
• Popularity with Postal Services
  In the U.S., the HHR Panel Van was used by postal services due to its compact size and spacious interior.
• Comparison with Competitors
  The HHR was often compared to the Chrysler PT Cruiser and Scion xB but lagged in sales due to less recognizable branding.
• Discontinuation
  In 2011, GM ended HHR production due to declining demand for retro-styled cars and a shift toward more modern models.

Conclusion

The Chevrolet HHR is a polarizing yet memorable car that stood out from competitors thanks to its retro design. Despite modest sales, it left its mark on GM’s history as one of the last experiments with classic styling. Today, the HHR attracts collectors, especially in SS trim, while its practicality makes it a decent choice among used cars.