
Black plate (11,1)Chevrolet HHR Owner Manual - 2011
To open a rear door while the security lock is on, do the
following:1. Unlock the door using the remote keyless entry transmitter, the power door lock switch, or by lifting
the rear door manual lock.
2. Open the door from the outside.
To cancel the rear door security lock, do the following: 1. Unlock the door and open it from the outside.
2. Insert the key into the lock below the rear door security lock label and turn it to the vertical
position.
3. Repeat the steps for the other lock.
Lockout Protection
If you press the power door lock switch when the key is
in the ignition and any door is open, all the doors will
lock and the driver's door will unlock. Be sure to remove
the key from the ignition when locking your vehicle.
The lockout protection can be overridden by pressing
and holding the power door lock in the lock position for
three seconds.
Rear Side Cargo Door
The rear side cargo doors can be opened by pressing
the buttons located on the driver and passenger sides
of the instrument panel, or by using the Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) transmitter. See Instrument Panel
on
page 1‑2, and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System
Operationon page 3‑4for more information.
To use the buttons on the instrument panel, the driver
side door must be unlocked.
Push the door to close.
Liftgate
To lock the liftgate from the outside, press the lock
button on the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter.
To unlock the liftgate with the RKE, press the unlock
button twice within five seconds. For more information,
see Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System Operation
on
page 3‑4. You can also use the power door lock
switch to lock and unlock the liftgate.
3-11

Black plate (18,1)Chevrolet HHR Owner Manual - 2011
The system will arm after either of the following occur:
.30 seconds after all the doors are closed.
.60 seconds with any door open.
Press the lock button on the RKE transmitter a second
time, while all the doors are closed, to immediately arm
the system. The system still arms in 60 seconds if a
door is open. When the open door is closed, it
also arms.
The security light turns on to indicate that arming has
been initiated. Once the system is armed, the security
light flashes once every three seconds.
If the security light flashes twice per second, a door
is open.
Locking the vehicle with the manual lock knobs on the
doors will not arm the system.
Disarming the System
Disarm the system by doing any one of the following:
.Press the RKE transmitter unlock button.
.Turn the ignition on.
Once the system is disarmed, the security light stops
flashing.
How the System Alarm is Activated
If the system is armed, it can be activated by either:
.Opening the driver's door or tailgate. This causes a
10 second pre-alarm chirp followed by a 30 second
full alarm of horn and lights.
.Opening any other door. This immediately causes
a full alarm of horn and lights for 30 seconds.
When an alarm event has finished, the system re-arms
itself automatically.
How to Turn Off the System Alarm
To turn off the system alarm, do one of the following:
.Press the lock button on the RKE transmitter. The
system will then re-arm itself.
.Press the unlock button on the RKE transmitter.
This will also disarm the system.
.Insert the key in the ignition and turn it on. This will
also disarm the system.
How to Detect a Tamper Condition
The content theft security system alarm was previously
activated if three chirps sound when you press the lock
or unlock buttons on the RKE transmitter.
3-18

Black plate (19,1)Chevrolet HHR Owner Manual - 2011
PASS-Key®III+ Electronic
Immobilizer
See Radio Frequency Statementon page 8‑17for
information regarding Part 15 of the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) rules and Industry
Canada Standards RSS-210/220/310.
PASS-Key®III+ Electronic
Immobilizer Operation
Your vehicle has PASS-Key®III+ (Personalized
Automotive Security System) theft-deterrent system.
PASS-Key
®III+ is a passive theft-deterrent system.
The system is automatically armed when the key is
removed from the ignition.
You do not have to manually arm or disarm the system.
The security light will come on if there is a problem with
arming or disarming the theft-deterrent system.
When the PASS-Key
®III+ system senses that someone
is using the wrong key, it prevents the vehicle from
starting. Anyone using a trial-and-error method to start
the vehicle will be discouraged because of the high
number of electrical key codes. When trying to start the vehicle if the engine does not
start and the security light comes on, there may be a
problem with your theft-deterrent system. Turn the
ignition off and try again.
If the engine still does not start, and the key appears to
be undamaged, try another ignition key. At this time,
you may also want to check the fuse, see
Fuses and
Circuit Breakers
on page 6‑101. If the engine still does
not start with the other key, your vehicle needs service.
If your vehicle does start, the first key may be faulty.
See your dealer who can service the PASS-Key
®III+ to
have a new key made. In an emergency, contact
Roadside Assistance. See Roadside Assistance
Program
on page 8‑6, for more information.
It may be possible for the PASS-Key
®III+ decoder to
“learn” the transponder value of a new or replacement
key. Up to 10 keys may be programmed for the vehicle.
The following procedure is for programming additional
keys only. If all the currently programmed keys are lost
or do not operate, you must see your dealer or a
locksmith who can service PASS-Key
®III+ to have keys
made and programmed to the system.
See your dealer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key
®III+ to get a new key blank that is cut
exactly as the ignition key that operates the system.
3-19

Black plate (20,1)Chevrolet HHR Owner Manual - 2011
To program the new key:1. Verify that the new key has a
1stamped on it.
2. Insert the already programmed key in the ignition and start the engine. If the engine will not start, see
your dealer for service.
3. After the engine has started, turn the key to LOCK/ OFF, and remove the key.
4. Insert the key to be programmed and turn it to the ON/RUN position within five seconds of the original
key being turned to the LOCK/OFF position.
The security light will turn off once the key has
been programmed.
5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 if additional keys are to be programmed.
If you lose or damage your PASS-Key
®III+ key, see
your dealer or a locksmith who can service
PASS-Key
®III+ to have a new key made.
Do not leave the key or device that disarms or
deactivates the theft deterrent system in the vehicle.
Starting and Operating Your
Vehicle
New Vehicle Break-In
Notice: The vehicle does not need an elaborate
break-in. But it will perform better in the long run if
you follow these guidelines:
.Do not drive at any one constant speed, fast
or slow, for the first 500 miles (805 km). Do
not make full-throttle starts. Avoid
downshifting to brake or slow the vehicle.
.Avoid making hard stops for the first
200 miles (322 km) or so. During this time the
new brake linings are not yet broken in. Hard
stops with new linings can mean premature
wear and earlier replacement. Follow this
breaking-in guideline every time you get new
brake linings.
.Do not tow a trailer during break-in. See
Towing a Trailer (Automatic Transmission)
on page 5‑31or Towing a Trailer (Manual
Transmission)
on page 5‑37for the trailer
towing capabilities of your vehicle and more
information.
Following break‐in, engine speed and load can be
gradually increased.
3-20

Black plate (43,1)Chevrolet HHR Owner Manual - 2011
The driver side floor mat is held in place by a
button-type retainer.
Removing and Replacing the Floor Mat
1. Pull up on the rear of the mat to unlock andremove.
2. Reinstall the floor mat by lining up the floor mat openings over the carpet retainers and snap into
position. 3. Make sure the floor mat is properly secured and
verify that it does not interfere with the accelerator
or brake pedals.
Rear Storage Area
The vehicle could also have two rear storage areas that
can be used for small items.
3-43

Black plate (44,1)Chevrolet HHR Owner Manual - 2011
Rear Compartment Storage Panel/
Cover
The vehicle could have an adjustable panel/cargo cover
feature. The panel/cargo cover can be adjusted into
four positions.
To use the panel in the lowest position:
The panel can be used in this position if additional
space above the panel is needed. Cargo can be placed
on top of the panel in this position.1. Insert the front corners of the panel into the lower guides.
2. Slide the panel forward.
3. Press down on the back of the panel to lock it in place.
{WARNING:
If you were to carry things on the adjustable panel
when it is in the upper (cargo cover) or center
positions, during a sudden vehicle movement or a
crash, those things could be thrown around in the
vehicle. You or others could be injured. When it is
in the upper or center position, always secure any
cargo on the floor beneath the panel/cover.
3-44

Black plate (46,1)Chevrolet HHR Owner Manual - 2011
Roof Rack System
The vehicle may have a roof rack system.
{WARNING:
If something is carried on top of the vehicle that is
longer or wider than the roof rack—like paneling,
plywood, or a mattress— the wind can catch it
while the vehicle is being driven. The item being
carried could be violently torn off, and this could
cause a collision, and damage the vehicle. Never
carry something longer or wider than the roof rack
on top of the vehicle unless using a GM Certified
accessory carrier.
For vehicles with a roof rack, the rack can be used to
load items. For roof racks that do not have crossrails
included, GM Certified crossrails can be purchased as
an accessory. See your dealer for additional
information.
Notice: Loading cargo on the roof rack that weighs
more than 75 kg (165 lbs) or hangs over the rear or
sides of the vehicle may damage the vehicle. Load
cargo so that it rests evenly between the crossrails,
making sure to fasten cargo securely. Notice:
Loading cargo directly on the roof of the
vehicle may cause damage to the vehicle and would
not be covered under warranty. Do not place cargo
on the roof the vehicle.
To prevent damage or loss of cargo when driving, check
to make sure crossrails and cargo are securely
fastened. Loading cargo on the roof rack will make the
vehicle’s center of gravity higher. Avoid high speeds,
sudden starts, sharp turns, sudden braking or abrupt
maneuvers, otherwise it may result in loss of control.
If driving for a long distance, on rough roads, or at high
speeds, occasionally stop the vehicle to make sure the
cargo remains in its place.
Do not exceed the maximum vehicle capacity when
loading the vehicle. For more information on vehicle
capacity and loading, see Loading the Vehicle
on
page 5‑22.
Convenience Net
The vehicle may have a convenience net. The metal
rings in the cargo area can be used to attach the
convenience net for several uses. The net can be used
to attach items secured to the floor, to the rear liftgate or
liftgate glass. The net is not for larger, heavier loads.
3-46

Black plate (1,1)Chevrolet HHR Owner Manual - 2011
Section 4 Instrument Panel
Instrument Panel Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3
Hazard Warning Flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Horn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Tilt Wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Turn Signal/Multifunction Lever . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Turn and Lane-Change Signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Headlamp High/Low-Beam Changer . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Flash-to-Pass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Windshield Wipers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Windshield Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
Rear Window Wiper/Washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Cruise Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-8
Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
Wiper Activated Headlamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Headlamps on Reminder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Daytime Running Lamps (DRL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Automatic Headlamp System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Fog Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Instrument Panel Brightness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Dome Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Entry/Exit Lighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Reading Lamps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-14
Electric Power Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Battery Run-Down Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Accessory Power Outlet(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-15
Ashtray(s) and Cigarette Lighter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-17 Climate Controls
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Climate Control System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-18
Outlet Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-20
Passenger Compartment Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-21
Warning Lights, Gauges, and Indicators . . . . . . . .4-22
Instrument Panel Cluster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-23
Speedometer and Odometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-24
Safety Belt Reminders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-25
Airbag Readiness Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-26
Passenger Airbag Status Indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-27
Charging System Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28
Up-Shift Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-28
Brake System Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-29
Antilock Brake System (ABS) Warning Light . . . 4-30
Enhanced Traction System (ETS) Indicator/ Warning Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-30
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)/Traction Control System (TCS) Indicator/Warning
Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-31
Engine Coolant Temperature Warning Light . . . . 4-32
Engine Coolant Temperature Gauge . . . . . . . . . . . 4-32
Tire Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33
Malfunction Indicator Lamp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-33
Oil Pressure Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-36
Security Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-36
4-1