Which gear oil is best for VAZ 2106, 2107, 2110, 2114, for Kalina, for Chevrolet Niva, for Priora?

There are often thematic forums on the Internet where disputes between motorists regarding the choice of engine oil do not subside. Some people only pour what is approved by the manufacturer, while other drivers do not adhere to such strict limits. A completely similar situation has arisen around the question of which gear oil is best for a particular car model. We will try to understand this issue in this article.

What do you need to know?

The purpose of transmission oil is approximately the same as engine oil, with minor differences. Such oil should evenly and effectively lubricate the rubbing components of the gearbox. This is needed for additional cooling and reducing the coefficient of friction. Many motorists never change the oil in the gearbox at all, which subsequently leads to the need to overhaul it.

In this article we will look at the line of domestic cars with a manual transmission. An automatic is a different topic for discussion, since everything is arranged differently there, but the oil also needs to be changed. First of all, let’s figure out whether it’s worth following the manufacturer’s recommendations. In addition, we will consider reviews from motorists regarding this or that brand of gear oil. In general, we will try to cover this issue as best as possible.

Rules for pouring oil into the box of a VAZ 2110

In order for the gearbox to last as long as possible, it is necessary to use only certified oils. Know which oil is best to pour into the box of a VAZ 2110. While driving, make only smooth accelerations and move at an optimal speed of 100-120 km/h. If it is not possible to find the required liquid, you should try to find one that is similar in parameters.

The following rules also apply:

1. Attention is drawn to the seasonality of the lubricant. Summer is used in summer, and winter is used in winter. Universally applicable at any time of the year.
2. Before starting work, the engine warms up well so that when draining the waste, all waste particles come out.

Tool preparation

It should be remembered that if the drain plug is located in a convenient place and access to it is open from the inspection hole, then the location of the filler hole is in a less accessible place.

For pouring you will need the following tools and materials:

• wrench with 17mm head;
• clean rags;
• hard, thin wire;
• capacity up to 5 liters;
• funnel or syringe;
• thin hose, up to 30 cm long;
• new oil in the amount of 5 liters.

Draining waste

To change the gearbox oil, it is better not just to start the engine, but also drive it for 5-7 km.

Then the following actions are performed:

1. The car is driven into a pit, overpass or placed on a lift. After this it is silenced.
2. The plug is removed from the breather and cleaned of dirt.
3. The empty container is picked up and brought to the drain plug, which is carefully unscrewed.
4. The oil draining time is up to 15 minutes. You need to wait until the drops stop completely.
5. The cork is washed well and screwed on.

Washing process

It is necessary to clean the box from small metal particles. A special liquid is used for this.

Washing is carried out as follows:

1. The front wheels are hung so that they do not reach the ground.
2. 1 liter of flushing fluid is poured through the neck.
3. The engine starts, the gear is engaged, and this mode is maintained for up to 15 minutes.
4. The car is turned off and the fluid is completely drained.

Adding fresh oil

You can pour oil into the VAZ 2110 box using a funnel, if there is a filler neck, or a syringe with a straw if there is none.

In the first case, you need to follow the following rules:

1. A funnel is inserted into the filler neck.
2. 3.5 liters of oil are poured through it.
3. As soon as it settles, the level is checked with a dipstick.

If there is no filler neck, use a syringe with a tube.

The operating procedure is as follows:

1. A hose is inserted into the control hole and oil is pumped in with a syringe.
2. The procedure is carried out in several stages until the oil reaches the lowest point of the control hole.
3. The plug is screwed tightly.

After filling in fresh oil, you should start the car and drive it for several kilometers. It is necessary that the new transmission substance fills the corners of the box and lubricates all the gears.

Which gear oil is better for VAZ-2107

Most motorists adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations. It is certified transmission oils with the necessary approvals that can ensure long-term and uninterrupted operation of the 2107 gearbox. Among the most popular lubricating fluids, the following are worth highlighting:

• Lukoil TM-5 85w-90.
• TNK Hypoid 80w-90 or 85w90.
• Spectrol 80w-90.

These are not all transmission oils suitable for use in the VAZ-2107 gearbox, but they have been tested and are considered to be of sufficient quality. However, not everyone adheres to these recommendations. Many experienced drivers recommend not to worry too much when choosing a transmission and stick to a more or less affordable option.

Lubricant functions

Content

The VAZ2110 gearbox consists of parts that constantly interact with each other. As a result, they wear out.

To reduce abrasion of elements, transmission oil is filled in, which performs the following functions:

• a certain temperature level is constantly maintained in the gearbox;
• eliminates the risk of rust formation as a result of metal corrosion;
• noise reduction during operation;
• vibration decreases;
• protection against shock loads is provided;
• There is constant washing of working areas due to the washing out of small particles of metal.

It is important to know what kind of oil is poured into the VAZ 2110 gearbox. Each type has its own degree of viscosity. The operating temperature is maintained at 80-120 degrees. In harsh climates, it is difficult to maintain such a temperature with high oil viscosity. This will make the gears difficult to operate.

If failures are observed at the checkpoint, this occurs for the following reasons:

• the amount of liquid substance in it has decreased;
• low-quality lubricant product.

In the first case, it is necessary to constantly monitor the level, and in the second, follow the passport instructions.

Gear oil group

In order to understand in more detail which gear oil is best for the VAZ-2107, it is necessary to consider several important characteristics of the lubricant. In particular, this applies to the group of lubricant compositions, which are:

• GL-4 – oils with a large number of additives. Excellent for use in boxes whose operating modes do not require high torques. There are also oils that, on the contrary, are more suitable for high torques;
• GL-5 is a group of oils intended for hypoid gears. If the car is equipped with a gearbox with a hypoid gear, then only GL-5 can be filled into the gearbox.

It is extremely important to choose the right oil group. This will ensure long-term operation of the gearbox even in difficult conditions. At the same time, do not forget about regular replacement, but we will talk about this a little later.

Manufacturer's choice

We have already listed the brief characteristics, and now you can delve into the choice of oil manufacturer for the Samara gearbox. So, who makes the best gearbox oil for the VAZ 2109?

Domestic manufacturers

So:

• The gearbox oil declared by the plant is TM-4-12. Ideally, you should use it, of course. This oil was specially developed for the gearbox of this particular vehicle.
• Using logic, we come to the conclusion that since it was specially developed, it must be the best. The manufacturer may be different - for example, Rexol.
• For example, the M6z12G1 engine oil used in the VAZ 2109 gearbox falls slightly short of the TM indicators.
• LukOil SAE 15W-40 is also a good competitor to specially developed oil, TM-4-12. The gap from it is only 4%.

Foreign manufacturers

We analyze the oil for the foreign-made VAZ 2109 gearbox:

• The Castrol brand, and more specifically EP-80 and EP-90 oil, which according to the GL-4 class is undesirable for use in Samara gearboxes. Its properties are more suitable for sports gearboxes.
• But the foreign company Valvoline, which produced DuraBlend SAE 75W-90 oil, distinguished itself with good performance for our car. This semi-synthetic oil is in second place, after the recommended domestic oil TM-4-12.
• On the other hand, the same Valvoline, but no longer GL-4, and GL-4/5 is not suitable for high-quality operation of the VAZ 2109 gearbox.

We remember that the presence of extreme pressure additives has a positive effect on the overall performance of the gearbox. However, too much of them contributes to rapid corrosion of metals. This is because extreme pressure additives include sulfur, which corrodes gears.

• From this point of view, motor oils are the best contenders (but we also remember about their other qualities).
• And again, semi-synthetic Valvoline turns out to be close to the standard - TM-4-12. But synthetic, on the contrary, turns out to be the most destructive in this regard.

As for other manufacturers, it is worth paying attention to some points and studying the composition of the oil in detail. Pay attention to:

• Viscosity
• Oil operating temperature – pour point
• Number of additives and their type
• Reviews of other drivers on this oil.

For example, according to reviews from VAZ 2109 owners, the following have good qualities:

• TNK semi-synthetics
• ZIC 75W85 G-FF GL-4

Gearbox oil for VAZ 2109

• Mannol semi-synthetic

Some tips for adding oil:

• Although the stated characteristics of the VAZ 2109 car indicate that the amount of oil in the box is 3 liters, it is necessary to fill in a little more.
• For a 4-speed gearbox you need to fill in 3.3 liters, and for a 5-speed gearbox all 3.5 or even 3.6. This is done so that driving in fifth gear does not strain the car so much.
• A very interesting point is the use of special XADO miracle additives, which are supposedly capable of ridding the gearbox of whining. Observing the reviews of 2109 drivers, you can notice some features.
• XADO additives do not give the desired effect, and at the same time they have an exorbitant price. It will be much cheaper to repair the gearbox yourself or at a service station with replacement of failed parts.
• Check the oil level in the gearbox regularly so that it serves you longer and change the oil on time (70-75 thousand km or earlier if necessary).

About viscosity grade

If we talk about models such as VAZ-2106, 2107, then for these cars they most often choose a lubricant with a viscosity of 75w90. This is a synthetic or semi-synthetic base. This gear oil is excellent for use in harsh weather conditions. The temperature range at which this lubricant can be used is from -40 to +35 degrees Celsius.

In addition, oils with viscosity 75w85 and 80w85 are widely used. These are all-season lubricants that are also excellent for use in low temperatures. It is worth noting that the manufacturer recommends using these viscosity grades. In general, oils such as TNK or Lukoil of the corresponding group and class can be poured into domestic classics.

Differences between transmission and engine oils

What is the difference between motor and transmission oils?

Materials of each of the two types are developed taking into account the conditions in which they will be used.

Engine oils and transmission oils (motor oil and fluid for manual transmissions or automatic transmissions) operate under completely different conditions.

Motor lubricants are exposed to very high temperatures, experience both normal and extreme loads, and interact with fuel combustion products and gases.

Transmission lubricants do not experience such severe temperature changes and do not interact with aggressive environments. However, they have to take on much heavier loads. Taking into account the specifics of the tasks being solved, motor and transmission fluids contain completely different additive packages.

Transmission fluids have a viscosity higher than motor oils. Increased viscosity allows the lubricating film formed by oil on rubbing surfaces to withstand higher loads and provide parts with reliable protection.

Which gear oil is best for Kalina?

Very often there are opinions from motorists that the oil in the gearbox does not need to be changed throughout the entire life of the car. But in reality this is somewhat different. After all, such a composition loses its performance characteristics over time, so it needs to be changed periodically. As for the Lada Kalina car, most owners of this car recommend using TNK TRANS KP Super. Transmission oil from this manufacturer makes the gearbox quieter and gear shifting smoother.

But there are some nuances here too. Firstly, it is advisable to give preference only to original lubricants. Secondly, after a major overhaul or during break-in, you can pour the simplest TAD-17 oil. As for the replacement interval, you should not wait longer than 150 thousand kilometers. If the replacement is made untimely, the service life of the box will decrease. Therefore, it is not recommended to delay this issue.

Replacing transmission material

When using the vehicle continuously, you need to check the level of the transmission fluid every 10,000 km.

According to technical requirements, the replacement of spent substances in the “tens” gearbox must be carried out every 75,000 km. But most car enthusiasts believe that, given the unfavorable realities, a transmission replacement will be needed every 55,000 - 65,000 km.

You can change the fluid yourself. In order for the oil change to be successful, you need to prepare:

• container for draining used lubricant (its volume should be 5 liters);
• open-end or caped wrench (17);
• funnel;
• a special syringe used to fill the transmission;
• a clean rag;
• new lubricant.

Replacement occurs in this order:

• install the preheated “ten” on an overpass or lift;
• pull out the test probe;
• unscrew the drain plug;
• drain the waste into prepared containers;
• clean the hole and plug and screw it back in;
• pour new transmission fluid through the dipstick hole (approximately 3.3 l);
• wait 12–15 minutes;
• check the level to find out how much oil to add.

Having certain skills and abilities will ensure that you can complete the procedure for replacing the transmission in 40–60 minutes. The money saved on service can be spent on higher quality and more expensive gear oil. The owner of the “ten” will be sure that he got into the box.

What and when to pour into the VAZ-2110 gearbox?

The box, which is used in the domestic “ten”, is quite durable and hardy. But this is only subject to proper operation and timely replacement of transmission oil. The most suitable for the VAZ-2110 gearbox can be considered a synthetic base. This is especially true for cars that are operated in extreme conditions. True, synthetics have one drawback, which is their high cost. But, given the replacement interval, you can spend money. As a last resort, it is permissible to use semi-synthetic oils. But you can’t mix synthetics and semi-synthetics. You shouldn't forget about this.

If we talk about which gear oil is best for the VAZ-2110, then the first thing you need to decide on is the viscosity. There are summer, winter and all-season transmission oils. The latter are the most popular due to their versatility. True, the price tag for such a lubricant is a little higher, but it’s worth it. The manufacturer recommends TM-14-2 oil, which is what needs to be poured into the box. There are better analogues, such as Lukoil-Super. True, the base here is mineral, so it is not suitable for gears, but it supports the operation of synchronizers perfectly. Valvoline SynPower is a Dutch synthetic oil. It is expensive, but the performance characteristics are at the highest level.

Checkpoint "Niva Chevrolet"

The domestic SUV is extremely passable and reliable, but requires careful maintenance. In particular, this applies to a manual transmission. It is allowed to use oil of group GL-4/GL-5 or GL-5. For normal operation of the unit, oils with the following viscosity are best suited: SAE 75W-90, 80W-85 and 80W-90. If you comply with all the above requirements, the box will work much quieter and longer.

Among motorists, a rating of proven transmission oils has long been formed. It is best to pay attention to them. If you are asking the question: “Which gear oil is best for the Chevrolet Niva?”, then you should definitely try Eneos 80W90 Gear GL5. This lubricant showed excellent performance at low temperatures, maintaining acceptable fluidity. True, it is sold only in 4-liter cans, which is not very convenient. Also, many motorists advise trying Castrol Syntrax Universal Plus. This is an expensive transmission that provides impeccable softness of gear shifting with a long replacement interval - 300 thousand kilometers.

What is best for the Priora checkpoint?

Approximately 90% of owners of this sedan prefer to pour exactly what the manufacturer recommends. The whole point is that Priora is advised to fill it with Lukoil TM-412. This is a relatively inexpensive, but at the same time high-quality lubricant, which is available in all car dealerships. However, there are many other suitable gear oils. For example, Rosneft, Castrol, Motul, etc. are often used. The last two options are the most preferable. True, their cost is much higher than their domestic counterparts.

It is better not to use mineral-based oils. This lubricant oxidizes much faster and therefore requires more frequent replacement. In addition, there will be uneven wear of the rubbing parts, which will ultimately lead to physical vibrations and deterioration of the operation of the unit as a whole. Therefore, it is advisable to fill in high-quality synthetic all-season gear oil. If you observe the intervals and do not overload the gearbox, then it will work for a long time and properly. Which gear oil is best for Priora? Usually, high-quality TM-412 lubricant is sufficient, but more expensive analogues can also be used.

Conclusion

What can you briefly say about the choice of oil for the VAZ 2109 transmission? The use of motor oil in modern cars is undesirable. In addition, it preserves the synchronizers, but corrodes the gears. Using a special gear oil developed for the VAZ 2109 - TM-4-12 - is the best option. Using other gear oils is quite possible, but the choice must be made wisely. Transmission oil should be taken only of class GL-4 or TM-4 and a viscosity of approximately 75W-90. You should choose the manufacturer for yourself - based on your budget, but not forgetting what is written a little higher. But the bottom line is this: there is simply no ideal oil, such that a car will run on it forever! The engine ruins the gears, the transmission ruins the synchronizers. And yet the special oil TM-4-12 remains the best. When choosing it, the main thing is not to fall for a counterfeit product! Happy shopping and may your VAZ 2109 drive for a long time and not break down!

The best choice for domestic classics

Mechanical gearboxes, which are installed on domestic cars, have several irrefutable advantages. Firstly, this is an extremely reliable unit that does not require expensive maintenance. Even if there is a need for major repairs, it will be relatively inexpensive.

However, regular maintenance should not be neglected. It is advisable to purchase lubricant from trusted places and not skimp. The replacement interval is 3-4 years or 150 thousand kilometers, whichever comes first. This is not motor oil that needs to be changed every 8-10 thousand miles. An excellent choice would be Castrol or Motul. From budget and high-quality, I can recommend.

Reviews from motorists

It is also necessary to pay attention to the opinions of experienced drivers. The fact is that sometimes it is not advisable to buy expensive gear oils, because some domestic ones have no worse performance characteristics. For example, many people ask the question: “Which transmission oil is best for the VAZ-2106?” The manufacturer recommends filling with Rexol T Hypoid or Lukoil TM-5. But motorists do not always pour these exact oils.

This is especially true for drivers who love and care for their cars. In this case, very often preference is given to more expensive foreign analogues, such as Castrol or Shell. Liquid Moly is very popular. Two liters of lubricant costs about 1,000 rubles. It may seem expensive to many, but it's worth it. This is a synthetic transmission that is simply perfect for domestic gearboxes.

Checking the oil level in the gearbox

The transmission fluid is checked every 10 thousand km. Essentially, during periodic maintenance (according to the manufacturer’s regulations).

Before you start checking the fluid level, you need to let the car sit for a while. This will allow the oil to flow down the walls of the gearbox.

To check the lubricant level:

• The key is 17.
• Steel brush and rag.
• A screwdriver or other suitable object for measuring the level.
• A special syringe to add oil if necessary.

Steps to check the transmission level:

• Place the car on an overpass or in a pit (you can use lifts).
• Find the oil filler and drain plugs.
• Using a steel brush and rag, clean the plugs and the crankcase surface around them from dirt.
• Using a 17 mm wrench, unscrew the filler plug.
• Using a screwdriver or similar suitable object, measure the oil level. It should reach the bottom edge of the hole.
• If the transmission fluid level does not meet the required level, the lubricant must be added. This can be done using a special syringe. At this point, you can check the condition of the oil.
• To complete the process, tighten the oil filler plug.

If you notice a strong drop in the fluid level , you need to check the condition of the gearbox seals. Under no circumstances should there be drops of transmission oil on the gearbox housing. At the same time, the presence of oil fogging is quite acceptable and does not indicate damage to the seals. It is imperative to check the fastening of the gearbox housing covers and, if necessary, tighten the nuts. If after all the steps the oil continues to flow, the gaskets and/or seals need to be replaced.

Let's sum it up

So we figured out what kind of oil to fill in different car models. Currently, the choice of gear oils is simply huge. Therefore, you can find a suitable option for both the Niva and the VAZ-2114. What gear oil is best to fill? Definitely original. The fact is that today fakes are quite common. Therefore, you should buy only in trusted places, preferably from a dealer. But this applies to foreign oils. Domestic ones are counterfeited very rarely, due to their low cost.

From all this we can draw a simple conclusion that you just need to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. Especially if you prefer a confident driving style. If the box is regularly subjected to increased loads, then it is advisable to use appropriate oils. In general, the gearbox of domestic cars is very reliable, but do not forget about its maintenance. In this case, you can count on a very long service life of the gearbox. Typically, it lasts about 300,000 kilometers before a major overhaul with moderate driving. If you turn the engine up to 5 thousand revolutions, then you should not expect more than 100 thousand kilometers.

The choice of oil for each car is different

This applies not only to different car brands. Even for different VAZ 2109 vehicles, completely different transmission oil options may be suitable. Let's figure out which oil is best to use in which case.

Engine oil

M6z12G1 is used for the VAZ 2109 gearbox

So:

• What are the benefits of using motor oil in transmissions? The first thing that comes to mind is its price, which is within acceptable limits.
• Analyzing reviews from owners of 2109, you can notice some features. For example, there are a number of cases when a car drove 300-400 thousand kilometers on motor oil poured into the gearbox without the slightest claim for repairs.
• On the other hand, other cases show that the use of engine oil is undesirable, since it leads to rapid wear of gearbox parts, such as synchronizers or gears.
• So how can you determine whether the engine oil is suitable for the gearbox of a VAZ 2109? Again, analyzing the overall picture of the use of such oil, we draw a simple and very important conclusion.

Conclusion! Motor oil can be poured into the VAZ 2109 gearbox only if the car was manufactured before 1993-1995. For cars produced in later years, the use of engine oil in the transmission is highly discouraged.

Transmission oil

There are a great variety of such oils and there is not enough time and patience to consider all specific oils. Therefore, we will consider only categories of oils, and in some cases we will give examples. Go:

• Let us mention the TAD-17 in a little more detail. If anyone doubts that it cannot be used in the VAZ 2109, read below the reasons for this.

Extremely undesirable oil for the VAZ 2109 gearbox

• The viscosity or thickness of TAD-17 oil is very high, which leads to the following problems: the car will not start in winter; extreme pressure additives (which in themselves give a good effect) are contained in very large quantities in the oil.
• A large amount of extreme pressure additives contributes to intensive wear of synchronizers.
• Synthetic oil, it would seem, should be better than others. It is better in thickness, has positive qualities, and has additives. But there is one thing! The use of synthetic gear oil (designated GL-5 or TM-5) is encouraged in sports gearboxes, where the quality of the parts is better, the temperature is higher, and (in some cases) there are no synchronizers.

By the way! By carefully reading the instructions for the transmission oil, you can determine whether it is suitable for your car or not.

• So, in the instructions for GL-5 class synthetic oil it is directly written: “used for unsynchronized manual transmissions.”
• And one more point not in favor of synthetics is its price. The cost of such oil is high, and practicality is not very good - therefore, the use of synthetic oil in VAZ 2109 gearboxes does not make sense.
• And the last option is semi-synthetic gear oil. It is perfectly suited for use in this car.
• The designation of this oil is GL-4.

By the way! The service book for the car indicates the type of oil recommended by the manufacturer. This is exactly GL-4 or TM-4.

• In terms of density, it is better to take the designation 75 or 85. The composition of this oil and its properties are optimal for both gearbox gears and its synchronizers.
• As for the winter period, semi-synthetics will not freeze as much as mineral water, for example. In frosty weather of -25 degrees the car will start, just like in summer.