TextHow Chevy HHR Key Systems Evolved
Pre-SS Models
A remote head key with a B111PT Circle Plus transponder chip and GM Passlock II immobilizer. Standard blade, three buttons, CR2032 battery. Programming is done on-board, which means no expensive dealer software needed.
SS Performance Models
A remote head key with the same B111PT Circle Plus chip as the base models. GM kept the Passlock II system across the lineup, so the turbocharged SS uses the exact same key and programming procedure. The blade just needs to be cut before programming begins.
Panel Van Models
A remote head key with the B111PT Circle Plus transponder, identical to the passenger versions. The Panel model added keyless entry remote availability, but the core transponder system stayed the same Passlock II setup. Nothing changed under the hood security-wise.
Facelift Models
A remote head key still running the B111PT Circle Plus chip on Passlock II. Chevy refreshed the exterior but left the immobilizer alone. These later models are known for ignition switch wear, which can cause security light issues that look like a key problem but are not.
Which Key Does Your HHR Use?
Your key has a standard metal blade with a chunky plastic head that holds the transponder chip and remote buttons. No flip mechanism, no push-button start.
Same physical key as the base model. The SS badge does not change the key type. Three buttons for lock, unlock, and trunk or panic.
Identical key to the passenger HHR. Standard blade, B111PT chip inside the head, and a CR2032 battery powering the remote buttons.
The refreshed HHR kept the same key design. If your key has a thick plastic head with three buttons and a standard blade, this is what you have.
HHR Key Cost Breakdown
Price includes key blank, cutting, transponder programming, and remote sync, all done on-site.
EZ Car Keyz vs. the Dealer
We bring the shop to your driveway. No tow truck, no waiting room.
Skip the Dealer - Call (805) 790-8162Common HHR Key and Ignition Problems
All Keys Lost Programming Failure
If your 10-minute relearn never clears the security light, a weak car battery or worn cylinder is throwing off timing. The 10-minute, 30-second cycles need tight windows; low voltage stalls it. We carry the tools on-site when DIY is not cooperating.
Ignition Switch Failure
The HHR ignition switch wears out and causes no-starts and security lights that look like a key problem. Sits in the steering column, needs 7mm screws and T15 Torx to replace. Stuck in Simi Valley or Oxnard? Call (805) 790-8162 before assuming a new key.
Transponder Chip Recognition Loss
When your HHR stops recognizing its key: was the battery recently disconnected? The Passlock II system on 2006-2011 HHRs loses transponder memory after a disconnect. Your B111PT chip is fine; an on-board reprogram fixes it in 30 minutes.
Can You Program an HHR Key Yourself?
Yes, if you have at least one working transponder key. Insert the working key, turn to ON, wait 10 minutes for the security light to go out, then swap to the new key and repeat. You can add up to four keys this way. But you need the new key cut to your blade code first, and the timing has to be exact.
You can program the keyless remote buttons yourself without any special tools. Hold the driver door unlock switch, cycle the ignition ON and OFF twice within 15 seconds, then press lock and unlock on the new remote for 15 seconds. The doors will lock and unlock to confirm. This only programs the remote buttons, not the transponder chip.
How It Works
Call or Text Us
Reach us at (805) 790-8162.
We Drive to You
Wherever you are in Ventura County, from Camarillo to Moorpark, we come to your location.
Cut, Program, and Test
We cut your new B111PT transponder key on-site, run the Passlock II programming procedure, sync your remote buttons, and test everything before we leave.
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Did You Know?
Back in 2006, Chevrolet built the HHR with a Passlock II immobilizer that uses a 30-minute on-board programming ritual to learn new keys. The procedure erases every previously programmed key and starts fresh, which was unusual for its era. Most GM vehicles at the time required dealer tools for all-keys-lost situations, but the HHR kept it simple with just a key, an ignition, and a lot of patience.
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