Two problems related to headlight switch have been reported for the 2006 Chevrolet HHR. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2006 Chevrolet HHR based on all problems reported for the 2006 HHR.
While driving down the road we had a handful of times where the lights would flicker. We were told we had to replace the headlight/blinker switch as it was faulty due to this vehicle having the "lights- auto on/off" switch located on this. We did, it didn't fix it. We were told loose headlight bulbs. Replaced, still happens. Only now, we have zero dim lights but only headlights if we turn on highbeams (brights). Still, we get the flickering headlights, this doesn't effect the blinker lights, yellow running lights or seem to effect the brake lights. Part of the auto lights deal is when it's dark, it will dim the dash lights so they aren't intrusive to your driving, but if it's broad daylight, they will brighten so your able to see them. I'll start the vehicle, and the dash will be completely dim, so dim you can barely see it. After driving a good length of time (at least 30 minutes!) they'll flash between bright and dim, daylight or dark this happens. This also happens when the headlights go completely out. They claim all fuses are fine and wording harness is fine but, obviously it's not. I have been reading some forums in the chevyhhr. Net and I am not the only person with this issue. This has caused someone to nearly hit me head on as I was trying to move off the road due to my headlights going out, and they were attempting to pass a vehicle, and had to move to my lane to do so! I have children, and after school activities end when the sun is going down/it's dark out so to travel home, the sun is off the horizon and it's pitch black out. This also seems to cause my battery to drain, and need a jump daily. I was told my battery needed replaced, did that still no fix, told it was my alternator, still isn't fixed. Than I was told I must be leaving internal lights on when exiting the car. Something is not right with this vehicle and it is very unsafe!.
When switching headlights to high beams, the auto lights have a tendency to completely turn off - leaving the driver with no ability to see the road. This has happened to me at least 10 times since February of this year (2008). It could easily cause an accident since you cannot see where you are going and in a panic to turn them back on you are all over the road! it is extremely dangerous and extremely frightening!.