Seats tore at 50,000.
The transfer-case self destructed at 100,000.
The timing chain needed replacement at 110,000.
Other than that the vehicle has been totally reliable other than the usual maintenance.
Since I have owned this vehicle the entire car has been great, it can always be counted on to get you where you need to go no matter what happens. They are obviously below par compared to other cars of the same year, but all in all can't be beat for a cheap 4x4, think of them as an ATV with a heater. I have 7 of these in my "collection" and just can't part with them.
Great Review! I fully agree about the total reliability of the Niva. I had a `92 1.6 Niva, which, apart from normal maintenance items, never missed a beat. My current Niva is a 1997 1.7L model, with the face lifted interior and re-designed tail gate. It is as good as my first one. Starts first thing every morning, and has never failed me. I do my own servicing, and parts here in Australia are plentiful and inexpensive. If you get stuck for parts, contact Lada Parts Australasia Pty. Ltd. 42 Aerodrome Road, Caboolture, Queensland, 4510, Australia. They have a huge stock of Niva parts. I have been using them for quite a number of years, and have always found their service to be tremendous. Re- the timing chain you mentioned, it is important to adjust it every 10,000 kms.- as you would know anyway. The transmission can be a bit problematical with some Nivas. I think it is good practice to add a bit more gear oil to the housing than indicated in the manual- e.g. I put 1.8 L into the gearbox- to ensure adequate lubrication- especially for the 5th gear. With regard to the seats, the 1.7 seats are better- they allow much easier access for rear seat passengers. If you find a good 2nd hand set of the newer seats- they are definitely worth the money. ENJOY your Niva- one of the world`s best kept secrets! Cheers!
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