Buy Chevrolet HHR Engine Timing Chain Kits

A timing chain kit keeps the Chevrolet HHR's 2.2- and 2.4-liter Ecotec engines breathing in sync. Unlike rubber belts, the steel chain runs inside the motor, bathed in oil, and can last well past 120 k miles when the guides, tensioner, and sprockets are healthy. Rattles on a cold start, dashboard codes like P0016/P0017, or a "whine" under load mean that the chain may be stretched and should be changed soon to avoid bent valves-because both engines are interference designs. Simple oil changes with the correct viscosity, listening for noises, and replacing worn parts promptly can help the HHR run smoothly for years. (chevyhhr.net, NHTSA, CarGurus, YouTube)

A timing chain kit (also called a timing set or cam chain kit) bundles the chain, tensioner, guides, and sprockets that keep the crankshaft and camshafts turning together. Steel links resist heat and last longer than a rubber belt, while proper oiling reduces wear. Wikipedia explains how timing chains work (Wikipedia), and MotorTrend compares chain strength to belts for racing engines. (MotorTrend)

All North-American HHRs (model years 2006-2011) use Ecotec engines with timing chains-no belts to swap. The 2.2 L (VIN F, X) and 2.4 L (VIN B) share nearly identical chain layouts, but the 2.4 adds a balance-shaft chain. The HHR Network notes owners typically service the chain around 120,000-150,000 miles. (chevyhhr.net)

The chain links the crank to twin cams and the balance shafts (2.4 L), ensuring valves open and close at the right instant. Oil-fed variable valve timing (VVT) phasers on each cam fine-tune power and efficiency; a sluggish chain upsets that timing. Cloyes stresses that clean, correct-weight oil is vital for chain tensioner and VVT health. For background on VVT basics, see the Variable Valve Timing article.

• Cold-start rattle from the passenger side means the tensioner is losing pressure. (chevyhhr.net)
• Whine at idle or cruise can point to a balance-shaft tensioner that has ratcheted out. GM's PIP3535C bulletin details the fix.
• Check-engine codes P0016/P0017 show cam/crank correlation off-often chain stretch. (YouTube)
• Stall/no-start or metallic knock after a loud snap suggests the chain jumped teeth or broke.

GM never published a strict mileage interval, but techs on HHR forums advise inspection every 90 k miles and replacement by 150 k miles, sooner if the engine is noisy or oil changes were skipped. (chevyhhr.net) Good quality 5W-30 synthetic oil reduces chain wear, according to BobIsTheOilGuy users. (Bob Is The Oil Guy)

Most kits include:

• Primary timing chain (148 links)
• Balance-shaft chain (2.4 L)
• Hydraulic tensioner(s)
• Upper & lower chain guides (nylon/steel)
• Crank & cam sprockets
• Oil jet/nozzle and hardware

The Cloyes step-by-step video shows the complete layout for 2.0/2.2/2.4 Ecotec engines. Watch the tutorial .

• Deactivate the tensioner after timing marks align; premature release can bend valves. Melling's how-to video demonstrates the sequence .
• Torque examples (verify for your year): cam sprocket bolts 63 N·m + 30°; chain guide bolts 15 N·m; oil-sprayer plug 90 N·m. (JustAnswer)
• Use GM sealant on the timing-cover corners to prevent leaks.

Both Ecotec sizes are interference engines. If the chain slips, pistons can bend valves and crack guides, leading to costly top-end repairs. Owners on CarGurus and the Cobalt SS forum confirm valve damage after chain failure. (cobaltss.net)

• Oil care: Follow the owner's manual 5W-30 spec; dirty or wrong-viscosity oil hampers the tensioner. (Cloyes, Bob Is The Oil Guy)
• Listen often: A three-second cold-start sound check can save hundreds in repairs. (chevyhhr.net)
• Address codes early: Swapping a stretched chain is cheaper than replacing a head after interference. (YouTube)

Old chains and steel guides are fully recyclable. Drop the metal parts at a local scrap-metal facility and dispose of used oil per community rules to keep waterways clean.

Q: What is inside a timing chain kit?
A: A primary chain, balance-shaft chain (2.4 L), guides, tensioner, sprockets, and small hardware like seals and the oil sprayer. (YouTube)

Q: How long can the original chain last?
A: Many HHR owners report 120-150 k miles before noise appears, though clean oil can stretch life further. (chevyhhr.net)

Q: Can I drive with a rattling chain?
A: It's risky; if the chain jumps teeth, the Ecotec's interference design can bend valves and stall the engine. (JustAnswer)

Q: What codes point to chain problems?
A: P0016 and P0017 (cam-crank correlation) often signal a stretched chain or faulty tensioner. (YouTube)

Q: Does the HHR use a belt instead?
A: No. Every HHR shipped with a metal timing chain, which is one reason the model's maintenance schedule lists no routine belt change. (Wikipedia)

Q: Is the 2.2 L also interference?
A: Yes. Forum threads confirm bent valves after chain failure on the 2.2 Ecotec, just like the 2.4. (cobaltss.net)

Q: How do I quiet a startup rattle?
A: Replace the tensioner and check guide wear; thicker oil only masks the noise briefly.

Q: What oil helps chains last?
A: High-quality 5W-30 synthetic keeps the chain lubricated and tensioner happy, says Cloyes and oil experts. (Cloyes, Bob Is The Oil Guy)

Q: Are special tools required?
A: A holding tool for each cam, a crankshaft pin, and a torque-angle gauge are strongly recommended for accurate timing. (YouTube)

Q: Where can I find a step-by-step video?
A: This YouTube guide walks through chain inspection and common pitfalls on Ecotec engines.

With these insights, vehicle owners and DIYers can confidently service or shop for a Chevy HHR engine timing chain kit and keep the trusty crossover on the road.