HHR2165VKA
Maybe a 2011 model?
I found the bushings on the axle were tight. I got them working with penetrating oil. I don't get how they worked forward, but zippo pulling it backwards.
Is this a common problem? This is the first time I've seen it. I haven't worked on this stuff much since 9 years ago. Maybe they weren't old enough then to have the problem yet?
I would guess the oil will now attract dirt, and it should be disassembled and done right. That'll be up to the owner, a friend.
I only work on friends and neighbors stuff nowadays.