Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission, Transfer Case, Drive Axles, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Accessory Circuits
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Seating, HVAC System (Heater Core, Air Ducts)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Change, Fluid Changes (Transmission, Transfer Case, Differentials), Filter Replacements (Oil, Fuel, Air), Tire Rotation & Inflation, Spark Plug Replacement, Wiper Blade Replacement
Engine Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Cylinder Head Removal/Installation, Piston & Ring Replacement, Crankshaft & Bearing Service, Camshaft & Valve Train Adjustment/Replacement, Oil Pump & Pan Service, Timing System Service
Transmission Repair:
Transmission Disassembly/Assembly, Clutch Replacement, Transfer Case Service, Drive Axle & CV Joint Service
Brake Service:
Brake Pad & Shoe Replacement, Rotor & Drum Servicing, Brake Fluid Flush & Bleed, Parking Brake Adjustment
Electrical Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Wiring Issues, Component Testing (Sensors, Actuators, Ignition Coils), Headlight/Taillight/Interior Light Repair, Starter & Alternator Service
Body Repair:
Door Panel Removal/Installation, Window Regulator Repair, Hinge Lubrication, Trim Piece Replacement, Bumper & Fender Repair/Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Component Testing Procedures
Rebuilds:
Complete Engine Rebuild Procedures, Transmission Overhaul Specifications, Differential Rebuilds
Specifications:
Torque Values for Fasteners, Fluid Capacities and Specifications, Electrical Component Specifications, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) where applicable
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, Petrol (Gasoline)
Typical Displacement Liters:
1.6L (VAZ-2121), 1.7L (VAZ-21213, VAZ-21214)
Typical Horsepower Range:
70-80 HP (Approx.)
Typical Torque Range:
100-120 Nm (Approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (Early models), Fuel Injection (Later models - VAZ-21214)
Type:
Distributor-based (Early models), Electronic Ignition (Later models)
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or higher (Specific viscosity depends on climate, typically 10W-40 or 15W-40)
Common Engine Codes:
VAZ-2121 (1.6L), VAZ-21213 (1.7L), VAZ-21214 (1.7L MPI)
Type:
4-Speed Manual (Early models), 5-Speed Manual (Later models)
Drive System:
Permanent Four-Wheel Drive with Center Differential Lock
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil, API Service Classification (Specific viscosity typically 75W-80 or 75W-90)
Transfer Case Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil, API Service Classification (Specific viscosity typically 75W-80 or 75W-90)
Type:
GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil, API Service Classification (Specific viscosity typically 75W-90)
Engine Oil Change:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km (3,000 - 5,000 miles) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles)
Transfer Case Fluid Change:
Every 40,000 - 60,000 km (25,000 - 37,000 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 20,000 - 30,000 km (12,000 - 18,000 miles)
Timing Belt Or Chain:
Models with timing chain are generally maintenance-free for the chain itself, but check tensioner. Models with timing belts (less common for Niva, but possible in some variants) would require replacement per manufacturer recommendation (e.g., 80,000-100,000 km).
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Check manual for specific type (e.g., G11 or G12 compatible).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Check manual for exact specification)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch components, wheel bearings, universal joints, exhaust system, ignition components, carburetor (on older models).
Rust Susceptibility:
Can be prone to rust in certain climates, especially on floor pans, sills, and wheel arches.
Greasing Points:
Regularly grease universal joints on driveshafts and suspension components.
