How to Replaced Chevy HHR Front Stabilizer Bar And Links

Question:
I have done a little research and have determined the sway bars need to be replaced. I know sometimes when one thing is replaced it is also recommended that others be replaced at the same time. I am wondering if you could identify any repairs that should be made at the time I replace the sway bars. We have a shade tree mechanic that we have used and are satisfied with his work on simple repairs. Is this a repair that is simple enough for someone to do in our garage or should we be taking it to a shop? --Thank you!

Answer:
See picture below. I am not sure what the problem is on your car, but the only reason that the sway bar would need to be replaced is if is actually broken. There is nothing on the bar that can wear out. It is just a solid piece of steel with no moving parts. A noise in the front end of your HHR would not be caused by the bar, if that is the problem with your car. A clunk noise is usually caused by the sway bar links. A squeak or squawk type sound could be the sway bar bushings on the frame.
But if you are going to replace the bar, then i can give you some instructions:

1. Put the car up on a lift. This i guess answers your last part of the question if you can do it or it or does it need to go to a shop.

2. Remove both front wheels.

3. Remove the lower nut from the stabilizer links. The links bolts to the strut and the bar. This is where you need to determine if the links are worn out or loose. If so, then replace them when doing the stabilizer bar.

4. Put a pole jack under the rear of the frame to support it.

5. Remove the rear subframe bolts. The jack now supports the engine.

6.Lower the jack a few inches. Remove the intermediate steering shaft lower bolt at the steering rack and pry it off. Sometimes they stick due to rust, so you may have to use a little spray and tap it up and off the rack shaft.

7. Lower the frame more.

8. Remove the sway bar bushing brackets. They are on each end. Two 13mm bolts hold each one on.

9. Now you can slide the sway out one of the wheel wells. Install new bushings and slide the new bar in place and re-install everything.

Question: 2007 Chevy HHR I have some questions about my 07 Chevy HHR. The check engine light is on right when i start it up then after i drive a little the traction control light comes on and it shifts really hard. Is it safe to drive until i can get it into the shop. I'm just a little concerned cause i haven't had this car but a few months and its already been in the shop once and I've only made 1 payment on it.
 Answer: Yes, it is safe to drive. Some engine problems that cause a check engine light to come on will also effect the traction control and the shifting. A scan of the computer codes is the first step. Yes, i understand. As long as the engine light is not flashing, you will be fine to drive it until you can get it repaired.

Also i noticed it flashing when i was sitting in a drive thru waiting and it docent seem to shift hard until the TRAC light comes on. And what would cause that all of a sudden?
 A flashing engine light means that the engine has a bad misfire. It is bad enough that it can cause catalytic converter damage. That can be expensive. Getting it looked at soon is best. Yes, traction and shifting can effect each other, which can also be effected by an engine misfire. Could be several things- bad spark plug, ignition coil, ignition module etc.

Ok....since i have you on here i also have some questions about another car. 2003 Ford Focus check engine light diagnostic check says engine running to lean. What does that mean?
 That is caused by vacuum leak, bad O2 sensor, low fuel pressure, or poor fuel quality- too much alcohol.

How can i tell witch one it is and fix it.
 Check fuel pressure with a gauge. Perform a fuel quality test- special tools needed. Spray brake cleaner around engine when running to look for a vacuum leak. The idle will flare up if the spray hit a leak. BE VERY CAREFUL to stay away from spark plug wires- brake cleaner is very flammable.