Oil Specifications for a Chevy HHR
by John Walker
Compact vehicles gain popularity when gas prices start rising. Chevrolet offers a full compliment of compact cars ranging from basic compacts to sporty models such as the HHR. The Chevrolet HHR, released in 2006, offers a four-cylinder engine with options ranging from 2.0L to 2.4L fuel injection. Chevrolet kept the overall dimensions of each engine the same making routine maintenance on the vehicles easy.
Oil Weights and Amounts
All engine types for the Chevrolet HHR for model years 2006 through 2010 use five quarts of SAE 5w30 oil. Chevrolet recommends a synthetic motor oil for use in the vehicle. With higher mileage engines, you want to use a high-mileage oil or an oil additive to recondition and maintain your engine seals.
Torque and Filter
You torque the engine oil drain plug upon installation to 18 ft-lb of torque. In the absence of a torque wrench, hand-tighten the bolt and then use a socket wrench to turn the bolt three-quarters of a turn further. Chevrolet requires a WIX 57082 oil filter or other manufacturer's equivalent. Excessive driving or high-mileage engines need an extended life oil filter or a high-mileage oil filter.
Additional Recommendations
When changing the oil, check your other fluid levels. Refill any fluids as necessary. The HHR calls for AF6 transmission fluid, DOT-3 brake fluid, and uses generic power steering fluid. Also check your air filter at every oil change. Replace as desired or when you notice excessive dirt or damage on the filter with a WIX 49064 air filter.
