No. The 2007 Chevrolet HHR uses hydraulic power steering, not electric power steering.
In the 2007 HHR, steering assistance is provided by a belt-driven hydraulic pump that circulates power steering fluid to assist steering. Electric power steering was not standard on this model year, and GM did not widely offer EPAS for the HHR in 2007. The following details explain how to identify the system and what to watch for in maintenance.
The steering system in the 2007 HHR
The 2007 HHR generally relies on a traditional hydraulic power steering setup. This means a pump driven by the engine, hoses and a reservoir for power steering fluid, and a mechanical steering rack or gear that receives hydraulic assist. There is no built-in electric motor on the steering column or rack to provide assist, which is the hallmark of electric power steering.
How to identify the steering type
Use these checks to confirm whether your HHR uses hydraulic or electric power steering.
- Under-hood pump and reservoir: Look for a belt-driven power steering pump connected to a reservoir labeled Power Steering Fluid. The presence of a fluid reservoir and hoses indicates hydraulic power steering.
- Electrical components: Look for an electric motor or actuator on the steering column or rack and an absence of large hydraulic lines. An electric motor with no significant fluid lines points to EPAS.
- Documentation: Check the owner’s manual or service documentation for the vehicle’s VIN; 2007 HHRs are listed with hydraulic PS in GM literature.
Conclusion: If you see a belt-driven pump with a labeled fluid reservoir, your 2007 HHR uses hydraulic power steering; EPAS would be unlikely unless a dealer retrofit or aftermarket modification occurred.
Maintenance and troubleshooting considerations
Understanding the maintenance needs helps you keep hydraulic PS functioning properly and distinguishes it from EPAS-related concerns.
- Fluid level and quality: Regularly check the power steering fluid level and color. Low or dirty fluid can cause pump noise or reduced assist.
- Leaks and hoses: Inspect for fluid leaks around hoses, the reservoir, and the pump. Leaks reduce hydraulic pressure and steering feel.
- Drive belt condition: Ensure the serpentine belt driving the PS pump is in good condition and properly tensioned; a slipping belt diminishes steering assist.
- Symptom awareness: Whining or groaning from the pump at low speeds, stiffness in steering, or reduced assist can indicate hydraulic pump or fluid issues.
Bottom line: For a 2007 HHR, expect hydraulic power steering with routine fluid and belt maintenance. An electric power steering system would not be standard for this model year without aftermarket modification or dealer-specific retrofits.
Summary
The 2007 Chevrolet HHR does not use electric power steering. It employs a traditional hydraulic power steering system driven by the engine’s belt-driven pump. You can confirm the system type by looking for a hydraulic fluid reservoir and hoses, or by checking the owner’s manual or VIN-specific GM documentation. Regular hydraulic PS maintenance focuses on fluid level, belt condition, and checking for leaks.