Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (power steering, steering column, rack and pinion).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 2006 Chevrolet HHR owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated that the power steering warning light was illuminated, and the steering wheel was difficult to maneuver. The contact stated that the failure recurred while driving at various speeds and while idling. The contact stated that the failure occurred at least once every hour. The contact learned that the electronic power steering gear needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 46,973.
The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated that the vehicle was parked with the key locked inside. The locksmith assisted the contact with entering the vehicle. The contact stated that it was difficult to pull out of the parking space due to a loss of power steering functionality. The vehicle was driven to a local mechanic but was not repaired due to the cost. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 146,000.
The contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel seized, with the power steering warning light illuminated. The contact stated that the steering wheel became difficult to turn. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure recurred. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 240,000.
While driving in town lost the power steering on a turn making it difficult to steer and control the car. Self explanatory for keeping control of the car. Not sure what the problem is for sure the motor or other components. There was a vehicle safety recall but I was not notified that my vehicle may have been included. Problem still exists. No inspections as no accident occurred. Got a chime when unit failure immediately when it got disabled. No warning or message before or prior to failure.
while driving the car after a few miles, the door locks start going up and down, the power steering light comes on and is hard to steer, the check engine light comes on, the speedometer stops working and the tach malfunctions. the car surges while moving foward. if you shut the car off it will reset itself. once you start the car again it starts to malfunction again. one gararge owner did some tests but didn't fix the problem
While replacing 3 motor mounts, engine oil pan,transmission oil pan, also CV axles, wheel bearings needed replaced. When i got my car back the power steering wasn't working. My mechanic said there was a recall for my year, make and model for the power steering assist. I haven't gotten this fixed yet due to lack of funds . I am filling this out to see if is recalled.
Power steering cuts off and very hard to steer until you turn off vehicle and turn back on but then will go out again while driving .This is very un safe when my wife is driving Kids to school.I have read that 2009-2011 has same issue and have been recalled why isn't this one if it's same problem .
The (EPS) system in my 2006 Chevy HHR has experienced multiple malfunctions. The power steering suddenly cuts out without warning while driving at both low and high speeds, making it extremely difficult to steer, especially when attempting to turn or change lanes. This failure happens intermittently, and the EPS motor is suspected to be the root cause. I have replaced fuses and relays, but the issue persists. This system is available for inspection upon request. This malfunction poses a severe risk to my safety and the safety of others. When the power steering fails, it becomes nearly impossible to turn the vehicle, which is especially hazardous during routine maneuvers such as lane changes or turns at intersections. The sudden loss of steering capability, especially at higher speeds, has left me vulnerable to potential collisions. …
Tl* the contact owns a 2006 Chevrolet HHR. The contact stated that the instrument panel shorted intermittently and caused electrical failures within the vehicle. The contact mentioned that the steering wheel was extremely tight and intermittently locked without warning. Upon using the cigarette lighter, smoke emitted inside the vehicle indicating that there was an electrical fire with the wires. The fire extinguished without having to contact the fire department. The vehicle was not inspected and diagnosed. The vehicle was included in NHTSA campaign numbers: 14V171000 (electrical system) and 14V047000 (air bags, electrical system) but was unable to determine when the recall repair would be performed. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
7/29/14 steering wheel locks up -11-28-14 steering wheel locks up. December 22 2014 steering wheel locks up again while my son was making a left turn,crashed,and hit an electrical pole, bust his lip and hit his head. State farm ins co total the car. January 2015 got a letter from GM stated that this 2006 HHR May be equipped with powering steering loss. July 2014 GM said this loss was not due the loss of my son accident, clearly it was and refuse to pay for any damages. I have yet to hear about this problem with those cars. I want my son compensated for this loss. What should I do?
Steering complaints in other HHR years
Frequently asked questions
How common are steering problems on the 2006 Chevrolet HHR?
NHTSA has 458 complaints about the steering of the 2006 Chevrolet HHR, 46% of the model year's 1,006 complaints. The component named most often is electric power assist system (7 mentions).
Is there a recall for 2006 Chevrolet HHR steering problems?
No. NHTSA lists no steering recall for the 2006 Chevrolet HHR, though it has 5 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 2006 Chevrolet HHR steering problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 78,000 miles, and 6% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 19 crashes, 1 fire and 6 injuries to steering problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.