Katerina Swanson
Fuel leaks are a common issue in Chevrolet HHRs, with many owners reporting leaks in the fuel line. The leaks are often caused by corroding or rusting metal fuel lines, which can lead to strong odours of gasoline, puddles of fuel, and, in some cases, flames. While there have been calls for a recall of the affected vehicles, no official action has been taken as of yet. This article will discuss the steps to fix a fuel line leak on an HHR, including identifying the source of the leak, repairing or replacing the fuel line, and preventing future leaks.
How to fix a fuel line leak on an HHR
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel line leak location | Near the left rear tire, under the car, ahead of the gas tank, near the exhaust pipe/muffler, near the driver's side rear wheel, in the front |
| Cause of the leak | Corroding or rusting metal fuel lines, body clips holding fuel line causing rusting, poor design |
| Solutions | Replacing the entire fuel line, using nylon replacement lines, loosening the gas cap and de-pressurizing the tank |
| Cost | $1500, $600, $300, $230, $700, $2,000 |
| Online resources | LINESTOGO.COM, LINES TO GO.com |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel line leaks are common in Chevrolet HHRs
The cause of these leaks has been attributed to corroding or rusted metal fuel lines. This issue is not unique to HHRs, as similar complaints have been made about Chevrolet Cobalts, which share a build platform with the HHR. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) has received numerous complaints and is investigating the matter, with some calling for a recall of the affected vehicles.
The cost to replace the fuel lines can be significant, ranging from $300 to over $1,500, depending on labour and parts. Some owners have opted for third-party replacement lines to save money, while others have expressed concerns about the safety and design of the vehicles, deeming them a "death trap".
To address the fuel line leak, owners can take their vehicles to a dealership or authorised repair shop for inspection and replacement of the affected lines. Some have shared their experiences and recommendations online, offering advice on parts and repair services. It is essential to prioritise safety and address fuel leaks promptly to mitigate potential risks.
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Leaks are caused by corroding metal fuel lines
The issue of corroding metal fuel lines has been under investigation by the NHTSA, with 208 complaints received from Cobalt and HHR owners. The safety watchdog claims that the leaks are due to the corrosion of the metal fuel lines, which can result in a strong odor of gasoline and fuel leaks from the left rear wheel or driver's side of the vehicle. In some cases, the fuel lines may rust and leak under the left rear wheel or the driver's seat, leading to a constant drip of gasoline.
The cost to replace the fuel lines can vary, with some dealers charging over $1,000 for the parts and labor. However, there are also online options available, such as LINES TO GO.com, where OEM fuel lines can be purchased for a lower price. Some HHR owners have also opted to purchase nylon replacement lines, which can save them money.
It is important to address fuel line leaks as soon as possible, as they can pose a safety hazard. Some mechanics have deemed vehicles with this issue unsafe to drive, and there have been reports of vehicles catching fire due to the leaking fuel.
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Owners have reported strong gas odours
Owners of the Chevrolet HHR have reported strong gas odours, which can indicate a fuel leak. This issue has been reported across multiple model years, including the 2006, 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011 Chevrolet HHR. The fuel leak is often caused by corroded or rusted metal fuel lines, which can be located near the left rear wheel, the driver's side rear, or just ahead of the gas tank.
In some cases, the strong odour of gasoline was noticed while driving or after filling up the tank. Owners have also reported seeing fuel dripping from the fuel lines or puddles of fuel left on the ground or in the driveway. This issue is not unique to the Chevrolet HHR, as similar fuel leak concerns have been raised for the Chevrolet Cobalt, which shares a similar build platform.
The cost to replace the fuel lines, including labour, can vary significantly, with some owners reporting quotes of around $1,000, while others have been charged nearly $2,000. However, it is important to note that this issue has been investigated by the NHTSA due to safety concerns, and some owners have expressed their desire for Chevrolet to reimburse the expense of replacing the fuel lines.
To address the fuel leak, some owners have opted to purchase nylon replacement lines, which can be significantly more affordable than the cost of replacing the metal fuel lines through a dealership. This temporary solution allows owners to continue driving their vehicles while waiting for a more permanent fix.
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Gas leaks can be dangerous and cause fires
A gas leak from a vehicle may be indicated by a strong and unusual gasoline odour, abnormally rapid fuel usage, the presence of gasoline puddles under the car, a rough idle or the engine struggling to start. If you suspect a gas leak, it is important to address it immediately to prevent potential safety hazards. In some cases, a leaking fuel line can be a simple fix, such as repairing or replacing the rubber components. However, if the leak is due to corroded or rusted metal lines, it may be more extensive and require professional assistance.
If you own a Chevrolet HHR, it is particularly important to be vigilant about gas leaks as there have been numerous complaints and investigations regarding this issue. The NHTSA has received over 200 complaints from owners of the 2008 and 2009 Chevrolet HHR, with some reports of strong odours of gasoline and visible fuel leaks. In some cases, the fuel lines were found to be rusted and in need of replacement. This issue may be due to the location of the gas lines near the exhaust pipe, which can cause early corrosion due to heat and moisture.
To fix a fuel line leak on an HHR, you may need to replace the entire fuel line. This can be costly, with estimates ranging from $1,000 to $1,700. However, there are also nylon replacement line kits available online that can save you money. It is important to address the leak as soon as possible to prevent any safety hazards and further damage to your vehicle.
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Replacement lines can be purchased online
If you are uncomfortable with fixing the fuel line leak on your Chevy HHR yourself, you can always take it to a mechanic or a dealership. However, this can be quite expensive, with some dealerships charging up to $1,754 for the replacement of fuel lines.
If you are looking for a more affordable option, you can purchase replacement lines online. One option is to purchase a kit online, which can save you hundreds of dollars compared to buying a new set of fuel lines from a dealership. For example, one user reported that they were quoted a high price for a new set of fuel lines from GM, but instead, they found a cheaper option on eBay, which they said would save them hundreds of dollars.
Another option is to purchase OEM fuel lines from websites such as LINESTOGO.com, which offer fuel lines specifically for the Chevy HHR. This option can also be significantly cheaper than going through a dealership, with some users reporting prices as low as $159 for the fuel line and $230 for installation.
When purchasing replacement lines online, it is important to make sure that you are buying the correct parts for your specific vehicle. It is also a good idea to research the reputation of the seller or website to ensure that you are getting quality parts.
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Frequently asked questions
You may be able to see fuel dripping or forming puddles underneath your car. You may also be able to smell gas when you get out of your car or while driving.
You should get your car to a mechanic or dealership as soon as possible. Fuel leaks are dangerous and can cause fires.
Fuel leaks in HHRs are often caused by corroded or rusted metal fuel lines. This has been a common issue in HHR models from 2006 to 2011.
