DriveTech

2006 Certified Used HHR from Lake Chevrolet is as good as new

I can't begin to tell you how much I like road testing certified used cars and trucks. Once a car or truck gets a few thousand miles on it, the true vehicle appears. Now you know what it really is, although how it was driven and taken care of has a lot to do with the outcome.

This gold 2006 HHR looked brand new and costs less than a similarly equipped 2007 Chevrolet HHR. It has only 22,456 miles on it but I heard a distracting rattle when I hit the roa,. At first I thought the technician who performed the 100 point-plus certification inspection missed a big one.

I pulled over to the side of the road, put on my old service manager diagnostic hat and set out to find that annoying little rattle. I started by checking the rear license plate and, sure enough, it was on with just two loose screws. I broke out my little tool kit to tighten the screws and got back on the road in pure silence.

This 2006 HHR is the LT model, which was the top of the line vehicle in 2006. In 2006, you had your choice of engines. This model came with the 2.4-liter front wheel-drive four-cylinder backed by the optional new four-speed automatic transmission. It came loaded with a top-of-the-line sound system with XM Radio capabilities.

There's plenty of power inside as well, including power sunroof with shade, as well as power windows and door locks (if you can't find the power window controls, they're at the bottom of the center dash). It even came with upgraded alloy wheels (which really made it stand out in a crowd), all the windows have factory tint and the interior looked as if it was first owned by a family without kids.

Seating is very comfortable with each front seat occupant getting their own armrest, which is great for long trips. Another neat feature is the passenger seat back folds forward into a worktable or a lunch counter (for those special occasion). There are storage nets in the back of the driver and front passenger seats.

The certified used car certification not only means it gets a thorough inspection, but all service bulletins are performed, as well as any outstanding recalls. If a certified GM technician finds anything questionable, it's repaired or replaced and if for some reason it looks as if it missed its' last scheduled service, then that's performed as well.

Plus, the vehicle gets a complete detail inside and out, so when you walk up to a GM certified used vehicle, you won't be able to tell if it's new or used. Once you purchase a certified used vehicle, GM puts an additional three months or 3,000 miles comprehensive limited warranty on the car as an added bonus. An extended GM warranty is also available. You can go to www.gmcertified.com for more information on certified used vehicles from GM.

I really like the way I fit in the HHR. It drives like a vehicle I could own. The HHR has only been out for a year and the public response has been great. If I were in the market, I would look for a certified used HHR because it just makes good sense. If you just have to have a new vehicle - no problem, but at least put the certified program on your list when you're shopping for a new or used vehicle.

It wouldn't hurt to take a leisurely ride up to Lake Chevrolet in Lake Elsinore. The folks at Lake Chevrolet really want your business and they will make the drive worth your while.

The HHR wasn't the only certified used vehicle on the lot, so stop by to see if your dream vehicle is there. Give Lake Chevrolet a call at (951) 674-3116 or go to www.lakechevrolet.com for more information.

Next week, either a Nissan from Quality Nissan or a Hyundai from Heller Hyundai.