🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Lada Model: Niva Model Designation: VAZ-2121, VAZ-2123 (and subsequent variants) Production Years Covered By Manual: 1999 onwards Codes Internal Model Codes: VAZ-21213, VAZ-21214, VAZ-2131, Lada Niva 4x4 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: Premium quality, comprehensive resource for Lada Niva owners and mechanics Value Proposition: Save money on repair bills, empower vehicle maintenance and repair Competitive Analysis Differentiation: Superior completeness compared to 'incomplete cheap versions', professional quality Key Features Ease Of Use: Easy to view on PC, Tablet or Laptop Accessibility: Instant download, no shipping costs 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Complete Service and Repair Secondary Coverage: Maintenance, Diagnostics, Troubleshooting, Overhaul Page Count Estimated Page Count: Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as 'complete' and covering A-Z) Manual Type Type: Service Repair Workshop Manual Comparison: Factory Workshop Manual equivalent Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Delivery Method: Instant Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Powertrain: Engine (all aspects including fuel, lubrication, cooling, combustion), Gearbox & Clutch, Transmission System, Drive Axles Chassis And Suspension: Front Wheel and Steering System, Rear Wheel System, Suspension (Front and Rear), Chassis, Frame/Body Panels Braking And Wheels: Braking System, Wheels/Tires Electrical: Electrical System, Alternator/Starter Clutch, Battery/Charging System, Ignition System, Electric Starter, Lights/Meters/Switches, Wiring Diagrams Body And Exterior: Body & Fixtures, Fenders and Exhaust Pipe Procedures Included Maintenance: Periodic checks & Adjustments, Regular Servicing, Fluid Replacements, Filter Changes Repair And Overhaul: Engine Removal and Installation, Component Rebuilds (e.g., cylinder head, gearbox), System Overhauls, Component Replacement Diagnostics And Troubleshooting: Troubleshooting (general), System-specific diagnostics Technical Depth Depth: Comprehensive (from simple to complex repairs, suitable for professional mechanics) Detail Level: Step-by-step instructions, highly detailed exploded pictures & diagrams 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Type: PDF Quality: High Quality, Professional (implied by description) Searchability: Likely searchable text-based PDF Print Quality Printability: Printable (whole document...
High Quality, Professional (implied by description)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text-based PDF
Print Quality
Printability:
Printable (whole document or specific sections)
Binding Type
Type:
N/A (Digital format)
Paper Type
Type:
N/A (Digital format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, naturally aspirated (common variants for 1999 onwards include petrol)
Engine Displacement:
Typically 1.6L (75 hp) or 1.7L (80-84 hp) for models from 1999 onwards, though earlier and later variants exist.
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 75-84 PS (55-62 kW)
Torque Range:
Approximately 125-130 Nm (92-96 lb-ft)
Fuel System
Injection System:
Fuel Injection (Multi-point for later models, replacing carbureted systems)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (Octane rating typically 91-95 RON)
Lubrication System
Oil Type Specification:
API SG/SH or higher; Viscosity SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 (check specific manual for exact recommendation)
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze/coolant (e.g., G11 equivalent or specified Lada coolant)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
4-speed or 5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional
Type:
N/A (Typically manual only for this era Niva)
Features
Drivetrain:
Full-time 4-wheel drive with center differential lock and low-range gearing
Fluid Specification
Gearbox Oil:
API GL-4; Viscosity SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check specific manual for exact recommendation)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
Approx. 3740 mm (3-door), 4050 mm (5-door/Long)
Width:
Approx. 1690 mm
Height:
Approx. 1640 mm
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1285 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Approx. 1700 kg
Towing Capacity:
Varies by market and specific model; consult manual for details.
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Results:
Generally not tested to modern international standards; historical models may have limited safety features.
Active Features
Braking System:
Hydraulic, dual-circuit; Front: Disc brakes, Rear: Drum brakes. Some later models might have ABS.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Standard seatbelts (type and tensioners may vary by market and year)
Airbags:
Optional or standard on some later models (driver airbag typically)
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Features:
Basic, typically includes an AM/FM radio and cassette/CD player. Later models may have more integrated systems depending on market.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Optional on some later models, not standard across all variants.
Connectivity
Features:
Minimal. No Bluetooth, USB, or smartphone integration on base models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 5,000-7,500 km or 6 months (refer to manual for specific interval)
Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000-20,000 km or as needed based on operating conditions.
Spark Plugs:
Inspect/replace every 20,000-30,000 km (depending on type).
Timing Belt:
N/A (chain-driven camshaft on most relevant engines)
Fluid Specifications
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
N/A (typically manual steering on Niva)
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 7.0 - 8.0 Liters (total system)
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, universal joints, suspension bushings, exhaust system corrosion, minor electrical gremlins.
Durability Reputation:
Known for robust off-road capability and mechanical simplicity, but can require frequent maintenance and minor repairs due to material quality and design origins.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
AvtoVAZ (Russia)
Model Evolution
Design Philosophy:
Robust, simple, utilitarian off-road vehicle designed for harsh conditions.
Updates Since 1999:
Introduction of fuel injection, minor interior and exterior styling updates, improved engines (e.g., 1.7i), longer wheelbase variants (Niva 2131).
Production
Origin:
Tolyatti, Russia
Longevity:
One of the longest continuously produced unibody SUVs in the world.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Off Road Capability:
Widely recognized for its exceptional off-road performance and value for money in its class.
Ratings
Customer Satisfaction:
Mixed; highly praised for off-road prowess and simplicity, but criticized for refinement and perceived build quality by some.