Oil in the transfer case, gearbox and axles of the Chevrolet Niva

It is advisable for every car owner to clearly understand that the gearbox requires periodic attention. This primarily applies to the timely replacement of the lubricant of the transmission mechanism. There is a misconception that it is enough to maintain the level of lubrication on the measuring ruler within the normal range, and not worry about anything else.

Any oil has its own service life; it becomes contaminated and can no longer fully perform the tasks assigned to it, namely maintain the normal operation of mechanical parts, preventing their wear. According to the recommendations of experts, every 75 thousand mileage of a car requires filling with new oil.

Transfer case

This is another important transmission unit of the Chevrolet Niva. It includes a range multiplier and a lockable center differential. The transfer case also changes the amount of torque, but not in the same way as the gearbox. In addition, it distributes it between the axles, front and rear, maintaining a 50:50 ratio. The differential is locked to improve maneuverability if road conditions are very difficult.

The transfer case (in the picture its lever is 2) can be switched similarly to a gearbox, only the purpose of the lever shifts is completely different. There is a neutral position (NII–V). There is a high gear (HI) used for normal road conditions, with the differential unlocked. If it needs to be blocked, transmission (HIV) is activated. In difficult areas, the lever switches to LIII if the differential does not yet need to be locked. If it’s really difficult to drive, you need to switch to LIV, blocking the bridges between them. The wheels then rotate at the same speed.

You can switch from the Low position (L - low gear) to the High position (H - high gear) while driving. In this case, you should squeeze the clutch twice, because the transfer case does not have synchronizers. Switching from H to L positions is only possible after the vehicle has stopped. In addition, you cannot lock the differential at high speeds, as you can lose control of the car when cornering. The transfer case uses the same gear oil that is used for the gearbox.

How to check the oil level?

The design of the transfer case does not include inspection windows to check the condition and level of the oil. Control and replacement of fluid is carried out through the filler hole.

To check, you need to place the car on a flat surface, and then unscrew the filler or control bolt using a hex key.

The optimal amount of oil is just below the filler or inspection hole. You can determine whether the fluid needs to be changed visually. To do this, a certain amount of oil is drawn into a syringe with a flexible tube. If the fluid is black, cloudy, or shows signs of wear, it needs to be replaced.

Changing the oil in the transfer case

According to the technical regulations, the oil change in the Niva Chevrolet transfer case is carried out every 50 thousand kilometers. If it is not possible to change the oil in the Chevrolet Niva transfer case within the specified time frame, this may lead to increased wear of parts.

Preparing the car

To change the transfer case oil in a Chevrolet Niva transmission, you need to prepare the following set of tools and materials:

• keys for 12 and 17
• oil
• waste drain container

After this, the Chevrolet Niva is installed on an overpass or lift for work. Before changing the oil in a Chevrolet transfer case, it is better to warm up the engine so that the oil is less viscous and the transmission can be drained to the maximum.

Cleaning the transfer case

Then, using a rag, clean the drain plugs. Unscrew the filler plug, then the drain plug. After this, you need to substitute a container for processing.

Particular attention should be paid to the drain plug. It has a built-in magnet, which collects all metal particles that are formed as a result of friction of parts

They must be removed manually. If there are too many of them, it means that the lid will not last long.

You can wash the crankcase. To do this, screw in the drain plug and pour at least 1 liter of special liquid into the tank volume, then start the engine and let it run for at least 3 minutes. The transfer case must be set to the neutral position

Changing the oil

Then the flush is drained in the same way and new oil is added. After filling, you need to start the engine again for 2-3 minutes. After which its level must be checked. If it is below the minimum mark, then you need to top it up. It is necessary to observe the filling volumes of Niva 21214.

You cannot change the oil in the transfer case of a Chevrolet Niva before the summer or winter season.

Table of filling volumes and filling capacities of Niva Chevrolet:

Fuel tank characteristics

The fuel tank of this model has almost sixty liters, or more precisely 58. On average, per hundred kilometers you have to spend 8-9 liters of AI-95, Premium-95 or AI-92 gasoline. Features of the fuel container:

• the tank is located directly under the rear seat;
• in the upper part there is a small hatch under which the fuel pump is installed;
• The sensor will help determine the level of fuel fluid and the amount of gasoline.

There are other Chevrolet Niva filling tanks , many of which are included in various systems.

Replaced engine and transmission oil

Having bought a Chevrolet Niva and driven it for three months (just before winter), I decided to immediately change the oil, although the previous owner claimed that he had changed the oil recently. But why take the risk? It’s better to replace it immediately to be sure. For the heap, I decided to replace the transmission, as they say - just to be sure.

I started looking for information on the Internet and my eyes began to run in different directions - some praise this oil, others - that one, and still others - only the most expensive. In short, for an inexperienced beginner it was a guard.

What was recommended:

Mobile 1 Shell Liquid Molly Castrol

Zeke

Engine

As a result, for the engine I took 4 liters of Shell 10W40 semi-synthetic, the cost is 1150 rubles. For the money it’s quite excellent, and I haven’t heard any bad reviews about the shell, I called a friend, he also advised me to take the shell. As a result, having skated through the winter, I can give my review of this oil:

The maximum was to start without any shamanism at -28, when the frost dropped below 30, I didn’t take risks and didn’t ruin the car, but took a taxi and I advise everyone. Although, if you warm it up at night, you could start it in the morning without any problems, especially since I also bought a more powerful battery.

Update!

Having checked the oil level not long ago, I was shocked - it was almost gone. Fuck, that means the car eats oil, and with bread)) I had to stomp to the store and get another bottle. I took Shell Helix HX7 half blue again, 5W40, like this:

In terms of money it came out with a funnel of 1250:

I took the funnel, because the last time I was tired of pouring without it - when the canister is full, you pour oil on the engine, then it burns and you understand, no ice. And this is simply beautiful, I recommend it. It seems to be for gasoline, but it fits perfectly into the neck of the engine and there is a mesh so as not to fill it with debris.

In principle, I took it to top it up as soon as I bought the car. I drove it for 2 months and then changed to Shell. Why? Well, I don't know, I read the reviews, they say it's shitty oil. In 2 months you won’t really get a feel for whether it’s normal or not. There was nothing suspicious with the car, the engine sound was smooth. Now I drive a Shell - the sensations are identical. Of course, if you drive for 3-4 years on one oil, take the engine apart and look, and then on another and look again, you can see the difference with your eyes)) And so, the main thing is to change it more often and everything will be fine. I change it very often for now)) I’ll take it to the service center and let them find out why the oil is being consumed, because it’s no good buying a 4-liter bottle every six months))

Transmission:

Front axle Rear axle Gearbox

Razdatka

75v90 will be thinner than 80v90, so it is better for winter. The first number is viscosity in summer, the second – in winter. Synthetics are thinner, mineral water is thicker.

Some people pour different oils into axles and gearboxes - thicker ones for axles, thinner ones for gearboxes. Most people don’t give a damn and pour the same into the bridges and boxes - that’s what I did.

If you plan to often cross small rivers in the summer, then synthetics will be greatly diluted with water. Therefore, in such cases - mineral water. You can also put half blue in the box.

For the transmission and gearbox, I filled it with inexpensive TNK 75W90, also semi-synthetic, 4 liters, cost 1170 rubles. (The mineral water becomes tanned, so if for frosts, half-blue will be just right). True, I didn’t fill it myself, but in a workshop. They charged 1200 for the work - changing the oil in the front/rear axles, in the manual transmission and in the transfer case - 300 rubles each. As they say, it’s easy and quick, otherwise I would have spent a lot of time if I didn’t know. And to me time is more valuable than money.

The craftsmen there advised to fill TNK, one Niva, so he says that he constantly pours this and normal. At first I wanted to put something more expensive into the transmission, but then I changed my mind. I drove it for a drive over the winter - everything was a bunch, below -28 I didn’t even try to start it, because I feel sorry for the car. And so - very good. And inexpensive. If it’s more expensive and cooler, then only SHELL SPIRAX is an excellent oil.

Also, was there any parking in terms of GL-4 or GL-5? I did some digging and found out that GL-5 contains some special “extreme pressure” additives, which are very harmful to non-ferrous metals. In general, as I understand it, the GL-5 will be better for the Niva and Chevrolet Niva axles and for the transfer case. I took it))

By the way, I also read that some people add CV joint-4 lubricant to the transmission oil. There are other special additives, the very popular Xado additive.

In general, this is how I changed the oil in my Chevrolet Niva, I’ve been driving it for 4 months in the winter, the flight is normal. True, I didn’t even try to start it in severe frosts, so if you plan to drive at minus -30-40, then fill it with something thinner.

xtreme-trip.ru

The best semi-synthetic motor oil for Chevrolet Niva

First, let's look at synthetic motor oils for the Chevrolet Niva, which are recommended by the manufacturer and have received positive reviews from SUV owners from GM-AvtoVAZ. When compiling this review, our experts also took into account the product characteristics.

For Niva Chevrolet SUVs, you can also use semi-synthetic compounds, which are slightly cheaper than synthetics, but perfectly protect the engine from wear. Here are the best products in this category.

One of the most popular SUVs in the post-Soviet space is the Chevrolet Niva. Motorists appreciate this model for its accessibility, modern appearance, simple design and maintainability.

Many owners maintain their cars themselves, changing engine oil, filters and belts. Therefore, you only have to buy consumables. Lubricants are responsible for the durability of the engine, gearbox and axles. The condition of the rubbing parts depends on their quality.

Also interesting: How to connect fog lights via a relay and a button: diagram

For a domestic SUV, experts recommend purchasing technical fluids with the following set of parameters.

Motor oil can be used in Russian cars as mineral and semi-synthetic, as well as pure synthetics. It all depends on the climate in a particular region, the load on the SUV, and the frequency of replacement. It is best to follow the recommendations of AvtoVAZ, which are indicated in the operating manual. It is not necessary to use original oil; there are worthy competitors that have received approval from leading automakers. A good help when choosing will be to study thematic forums or test results from reputable car portals. Someone has managed to identify the advantages or disadvantages of a lubricant from their own experience. In a real SUV, transmission units are under heavy load. To prevent damage to a critical gear or differential in a deep puddle, the transmission oil should be changed promptly

When selecting, pay attention to temperature restrictions, this is especially important for residents of the northern regions.

Our review includes the best oils for the Chevrolet Niva. When selecting a lubricant, the following criteria were taken into account:

• appointment;
• technical specifications;
• price;
• expert opinion;
• reviews from car owners.

Windshield and brake fluid reservoir

Another filling capacity of the Chevrolet Niva is two glass washer reservoirs, the capacity of which is five and two liters.

This model has two independent braking systems. The working one has a hydraulic drive, the parking one has a mechanical drive. The contours are separated from each other.

The hydraulic drive includes a special tank made for brake fluid. Recommended fluids for pouring into other containers and for lubricating joints:

• DOT-4 brake fluid is suitable for half-liter hydraulic brakes. The product has improved characteristics and has a boiling point of over 235 degrees. Well suited for regions with low ambient temperatures;
• SAEJ1703, FMSS116 are used for the entire hydraulic system and clutch release (0.15 l). The synthetic product provides good lubrication and reduces oxidation at high temperatures;
• tank lid hatch hinges, door and hood locks require VTV-1, FIOL-1 greases. Hinges of steering rods and cardan shafts - ShRB-4, Litin 2, Esma;
• The air conditioner also has two containers. One of them is for oil (0.22 l), the other is for refrigerant (0.650 kg).

Chevrolet Niva reservoirs for refilling liquids and lubricants are quite reliable and convenient when you need to make a replacement.

Various tags and sensors make it possible to carry out control almost immediately, which allows you to avoid an emergency situation.

Which oil to choose

The Chevrolet Niva SUV is a classic all-wheel drive vehicle. Choosing the right oil for the Niva transfer case and axles is a guarantee of long and flawless operation of these transmission mechanisms. Lubricating fluid reduces friction and protects vehicle components from wear, and also increases the service life of the vehicle itself.

For transfer case

The main nuance in the question of which oil is best to use for the Chevrolet Niva transfer case is not so much the manufacturer as the prevention of mixing different compounds.

Based on viscosity characteristics, it is recommended to use the following gear oils: 78W-90, 80W-85, 80W-90.

The oil specification for the Chevrolet Niva transfer case is API GL-4. Purchasing gear oil will not require significant expenses, since the filling volumes are small: about 0.75 - 0.8 liters. When refueling a Chevrolet Niva, visually monitor how much oil is used in the transfer case. It is necessary to monitor the volume so that the next oil change will no longer cause difficulties.

For bridges

Choosing the right oil is one of the key conditions for reliable and fully functional drive of the rear and front axles of the Chevrolet Niva during everyday driving.

Reviews

Write your reviews in the comments, we will be grateful

Changing the oil is one of the most common and mandatory maintenance jobs for any car. At the same time, having studied the instructions well, you can easily cope on your own and save on car service services. To do this, we will consider in detail which oil is best to pour when replacing a Chevrolet Niva, not only into the box, but also into the transfer case, as well as axles.

How much oil to pour into the gearbox, axle and transfer case of a Chevrolet Niva

First generation 2002-2020

The Chevrolet Niva first debuted in 1998 as a model called the VAZ-2123 Niva. In fact, it was the successor to the Soviet Niva of 1977. However, AvtoVAZ was unable to establish mass production, as a result of which the rights to use the Niva brand were transferred to the General Motors concern, which helped create the Russian GM-AvtoVAZ joint venture.

Mass production of the Chevrolet Niva crossover started in 2002. In fact, it was a renamed VAZ-2123. The largest restyling of the Niva took place in 2009. Then the car received an updated index 212300-55. In addition, thanks to the efforts of the Italian studio Bertone, the crossover received original bumpers and lighting equipment, as well as massive wheel arches and plastic lining around the perimeter of the body. As a result, the car began to look like a full-fledged crossover for the first time. Off-road qualities have remained at a high level, which allows the Niva to dominate in comparison with more expensive analogues in cross-country ability.

• Transfer case oil: volume – 0.79 liters, tolerance and viscosity: API-GL-3-4; SAE 75W-90
• Rear axle gearbox oil: volume 1.3 liters; front - 1.15 liters; tolerance and viscosity: API-GL-3-4; SAE 75W-90

Choice.

The oil in the Niva Chevrolet box must have certain parameters. They show the freezing level and viscosity of the oil.

In this case, W stands for winter or winter type, which is used at subzero temperatures. SAE is an international classification of oils, according to which every car owner can select the type of product according to specific conditions of use.

In this article we will talk about how to change the oil in the gearbox, transfer case and axles of a Chevrolet Niva. The use of high-quality lubricants for vehicles plays an important role in the operation of any car. The most common process for proper vehicle operation is the oil change process . It is possible to change the oil yourself, without resorting to the help of auto service employees, while significantly saving money.

When is a VAZ 2121 oil change needed?

The quality of the oil used has a great influence on maintaining machine parts in working condition. Darkening of the color of the liquid indicates the presence of harmful combustion products in it, which negatively affect the properties of the oil during operation. Some other factors also influence the increase in the durability of lubricating fluid on a VAZ 2121 car:

• The period of operation of a car with old oil.
• Serviceability of all machine components.
• Type and brand of oil used in the engine.
• Driver qualifications and driving style.
• Season of the year the car is used.
• Frequency of transport operation.
• Fuel quality during engine operation.

Types of oil for VAZ 2121

The type of oil for the VAZ 2121 is selected taking into account the condition of all its elements and components, and the capabilities of its owner are also taken into account:

• Synthetic. The most expensive lubricant with the best protective properties. More than eight thousand kilometers can be driven on it without replacement.
• Mineral. Its price is lower, but the increased viscosity speeds up the frequency of replacement, which must be done with your own hands after approximately 4,000 kilometers of the car.
• Semi-synthetic. Its viscosity is much lower than mineral, and in winter the engine can warm up much faster. Auto parts and components are better protected from mechanical damage.

How to increase coolant durability:

• You need to fill your car with good quality oil.
• When running in a car that has been repaired or a new one, all operations must be performed correctly so that the operating instructions are followed.
• When purchasing a used car, in any case, you need to change the oil on the VAZ 2121. At the same time, the old one is drained, the engine is washed, a new oil filter is installed, and high-quality engine oil is poured into the system.

Tip: There is no need to pour expensive oil into a faulty unit. In this case, it is better to diagnose the node, determine the cause and try to eliminate it.

• You will need to change the oil on your VAZ 2121 if it has been rarely used. The reason for this is the formation of condensate, which deteriorates the properties of the liquid after mixing, which entails accelerated wear of rubbing parts.
• A sharp start or accelerated acceleration of a car increases the wear of elements.
• Compliance with seasonal use has a beneficial effect on the durability of the lubricating fluid - different types in summer and winter.
• Preservation of oil properties depends on the fuel used. Residues that are not completely burned contaminate the engine lubricating fluid.

Cooling system

The cooling system here is liquid, closed type. This includes a radiator, pump, sensor. thermostat, fan, expansion tank, hoses, etc. The capacity is 8 liters.

The expansion tank is located next to the brake booster. Installed markers allow you to quickly determine the fluid level. It is important that everything is completely sealed, so the inlet and outlet valve monitor and regulate the pressure.

The tubular-plate radiator is made of aluminum and has plastic tanks. Coolant Antifreeze A-40 M for this system is poured through the expansion tank.

Important! It is also recommended to use antifreeze containing ethylene glycol, which also prevents the formation of rust.

Preparing for replacement

If you want not to resort to such radical measures as repairing the gearbox, you should constantly monitor the level and condition of the oil in the Chevrolet Niva gearbox. If you notice that the liquid substance has changed color (darkened) or smell (unusual, foreign), you need to change the oil urgently. A good liquid substance that does not yet require replacement will be transparent and viscous. To check, you can rub a drop of liquid with two fingers, thus you can determine the presence of oxol and its condition. The manufacturer of the Chevrolet Niva car says that the gearbox oil should be changed every 45 thousand km - it is worth listening to these indicators.

What kind of oil to pour

Before we tell you how to do the replacement, you will need to buy new transmission fluid. Currently, it is very difficult to choose a suitable substance as the choice is too large, there are many manufacturers, and the difference between their products is insignificant. How to choose the best transmission fluid that will be of good quality and affordable price?

Synthetic oils

The first thing you need to do is identify the climatic conditions, for example, if you live in an area where winters are cold (22-25 degrees), then it will be better for your car to use 5W-40 synthetic oil. Such a substance will not freeze due to the fact that it is very liquid. With mineral oils things are different. In terms of characteristics, they are significantly inferior to synthetics, but their price is more reasonable. We would recommend that you fill the Chevrolet Niva gearbox with synthetic transmission fluid. Synthetics lubricate the engine well, which extends its service life, saves fuel and increases engine power.

Why change the oil

Transmission fluid needs to be replaced in a timely manner, because the service life of the gearbox depends on it. Under favorable conditions, the oil will last for a long time, but negative climatic factors make you think about a shorter fluid change interval.

Each gear oil has a specific service life. The higher quality the oil, the longer it will last - this is a simple rule. But if you follow it, you won’t be able to save on lubricant. On the other hand, it is better not to skimp on gearbox oil, otherwise you may face irreversible consequences, including failure of the entire transmission unit. This, by the way, is what supporters of the manufacturer’s requirements fear, who advise using only the original product. But there are also many opponents of this statement, who prefer analogues that today offer a decent level of quality and are no worse than the original lubricants.

The recommended oil change interval for the Chevrolet Niva manual transmission is 75 thousand kilometers. Under unfavorable conditions, the replacement frequency is reduced to 40-50 thousand kilometers.

Functioning of the checkpoint

The Niva Chevrolet gearshift mechanism is five-speed mechanical. Its main function is to change the torque transmitted from the engine to the wheels. The manual transmission has a three-shaft design. Unfortunately, the Niva Chevrolet gearbox, having a complex design, often fails. It should be noted that its repair is quite expensive.

Therefore, it is important to periodically check the lubricant level and change the oil in the gearbox on time.

For this purpose, transmission fluid of API GL-4 standard with viscosity of 75W-90 and 80W-90 is used. They are produced by both domestic manufacturers (TNK and Lukoil) and foreign ones - Shell, Mobil, Castrol, Total, ZIC, Motul. Of all the above, the French lubricant Motul Gear 300 75W-90 showed the best performance in terms of protection against scuffing, film stability on contacting surfaces, and anti-wear characteristics.

In second place was Castrol Syntrans Transaxle 75W-90 transmission fluid, third was Mobil Mobilube 75W-90 oil. All of them can operate at temperatures from -35 to +35°C, ensuring easy gear shifting and stable operation of the manual transmission

The price of these products is quite high, so it is worth paying attention to the domestic semi-synthetic transmission made by Lukoil - TM-4 75W-90. It is not much inferior to foreign competitors, but at the same time it is much cheaper and better adapted to low temperatures

The manufacturer also allows the use of transmission fluids of viscosity 80W-90 and 80W-85.

It should be remembered that you cannot fill the gearbox with API GL-5 standard transmission oil. In terms of its performance, it seems to be better - it can operate at high speeds and loads, as well as high temperatures. But it contains sulfur-phosphorus extreme pressure additives, a large amount of which can simply “kill” the gearbox synchronizers. They contain bronze, not durable steel. A large number of such additives are contraindicated for her. Therefore, compositions of the GL-5 standard should be poured into axles and gearboxes.

What to choose for bridges

In most cases, the oil chosen for axles is the same as for the transfer case. Their full compliance guarantees you high functionality of all components of the transmission during active daily use of the car. Most car enthusiasts agree that you should only buy proven lubricants. These include products from the following brands:

• Castrol;
• Lukoil;
• Liqui Moly;
• Mobil;
• Shell;
• Elf;
• ZIC.

This is a list of the most popular and widely used brands. Their products are used by a huge number of car enthusiasts with different experience levels. When purchasing, be sure to check the compatibility of the viscosity and chemical composition with the oil already used in the gearbox.

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Changing oil in transmission units

Before starting work, you need to stock up on a sufficient amount of transmission.

Each of the units holds the corresponding volume:

• Gearbox - 1.6 l;
• Transfer case - 0.79 l;
• The front and rear axles are 1.15 and 1.3 liters, respectively.

You can immediately buy 5 liters of 80W-90 transmission that meets the GL4/GL5 quality standard. It is suitable for all transmission units.

It is also necessary to stock up on flushing oil, which allows you to get rid of oxidation products and decomposition of lubricant components.

Changing the gearbox oil

To carry out the work you will need:

• wrench 17;
• container for collecting waste;
• hexagon 12;
• funnel;
• clean rag.

The transmission is replaced on an overpass or inspection pit. Otherwise, it will be difficult to get to the drain plug on the Chevy Niva gearbox. Order of operations:

• Warm up the engine to operating temperature. In this case, the oil will have proper fluidity and will completely drain from the crankcase.
• Place a container for collecting waste under the gearbox drain hole.
• Use a rag to clean the areas around the drain and fill plugs.
• Using a 17mm wrench, unscrew the oil filler plug. This will allow air to enter the gearbox housing.
• Use a hexagon to unscrew the drain plug.
• Wait for the entire transmission to drain from the crankcase.
• Use a rag to clean any chips from the magnetic drain plug.
• Fill in a liter of flushing oil.
• Start the engine and let it run for 3-5 minutes. At this time, you can change gears by squeezing the clutch.
• Stop the engine and drain the flushing oil.
• Tighten the drain plug.
• Using a funnel, pour new transmission oil into the drain hole.
• Screw in the filler plug.
• Start the engine and let it run for 5 minutes.
• Stop the engine and check the oil level. If necessary, top up the transmission.

Video instructions for changing the oil in the Shnivy gearbox:

Replacing the transmission in the transfer case

In addition to the keys, rag and waste container listed in the previous section, you will need a refill syringe. The oil in the transfer case is changed when the engine is warm. There is no need to change the transmission oil on a street overpass in the cold - the fluid will quickly cool down, thicken and not completely drain from the transfer case.

Replacement procedure:

• Place the machine on an inspection pit or overpass.
• Inspect and, if necessary, clean the ventilation valve.
• Clean the box around the plugs.
• Place the waste container.
• Unscrew the filler and drain plugs.
• Drain the transmission.
• Clean shavings from the magnet.
• Screw in the drain plug.
• Using a filling syringe, fill the transmission into the transfer case.
• Screw in the filler plug.

Replacement in Chevrolet Niva axles

Considering the location of the filler holes, you need to unscrew the plug with a socket head and a wrench, and not with a regular wrench. Otherwise, the set of required tools and materials is the same as that needed to change the oil in the transfer case:

• 3 liters of gear oil;
• hexagon 12;
• rag;
• refill syringe;
• container for processing.

The procedure for replacing the transmission in the front and rear axles looks like this:

• Drive the car onto an inspection hole or overpass.
• Clean the oil drain and fill plugs, as well as the axle housing near them, with a rag.
• Place a waste container under the drain hole.
• Unscrew the drain plug one by one.
• Wait until the oil stops leaking.
• Screw in the drain plug.
• Fill the transmission into the bridge using a filling syringe.
• Screw in the filler plug.

Changing transmission oil does not require special skills and abilities. Even a novice driver with no car repair experience can perform this operation. You just need to follow the instructions described above and be sure to fill the transmission with the appropriate viscosity and quality.

Lubrication system

The Chevy Niva lubrication system itself is also combined. The oil pump supplies oil under pressure to the bearings, crankshaft, and drive helical gear. Some parts are lubricated by splashing. Characteristics of containers requiring lubrication:

• engine lubrication capacity is 3.75 l;
• It is better to use synthetic and semi-synthetic SUPER oil. Its viscosity class: from -25 to +30, +35 - 5W30, 5W40; from -15-+45 — 15W 40; from -10-+45 — 20W 40;
• Transmission oils from Lukoil TM-4 are made on a mineral (80W 85, 80W-90) and semi-synthetic base (75W-90) and are off-season, high-quality, as they use additives from the world's best manufacturers. They are needed for gearbox housings (1.6 l);
• the same oil is used for the transfer case (0.79 l);
• for the front (1.15 l) and rear (1.3 l) axles use 80W 90 and 85W 90;
• the power steering needs 1.7 liters of Pentosin Hydraulic Fluid CHF115;
• The hydraulic front shock absorber (0.15 l) and rear shock absorber (0.215) are filled with Slavol-AZh or GRZh-12 ​​operating fluid.

Tips and summary

This class of car is intended mainly for off-road driving. This is characterized by its connection of the box to all-wheel drive. The car behaves well in overcoming various off-road obstacles in various weather operating conditions. These factors greatly influence the transmission design as a whole. To maintain the reliability and efficiency of the transmission, it is necessary to take a responsible approach to the choice of oil. The quality of the gearbox directly depends on the quality of the selected oil. Only the correct grade of oil should be used. If you fill in oil with a lower class, loads expressed in temperature changes or overcoming serious off-road conditions can damage the transmission.

To prevent this, you should carefully follow the following recommendations:

• it is necessary to study all operating instructions provided by the car manufacturer;
• do not chase the price of lubricants. For the most part, the high price of oil does not depend on its high quality. This often happens due to brand recognition. The more popular it is, the higher the price of the product provided;
• Follow the rules and terms for changing the oil. This will extend the life of the box and make the ride more comfortable;
• If the car was purchased secondhand, it already has a high mileage. You need to pay attention to this and change the oil more often than usual;
• It is necessary to frequently monitor the oil level, checking it a couple of times a week, to prevent its level from dropping, which can cause serious problems with the transmission.

The gearbox design in the domestic Chevrolet Niva car does not have any complex technical details. The car has proven itself to be good in terms of performance and transmission quality. There are no complaints about the cost and timing of the service. By carrying out the required repairs and replacement of consumables according to the regulations, the car will last a long time and will bring driving pleasure to its owner.

Classification according to the API system

In addition to viscosity, gear oils are also classified according to the generally accepted API system. This system divides lubricants into groups depending on the conditions of use and type of design, and also assigns each a letter designation in the form GL and numbers from 1 to 5. The larger the number in the designation after the letter, the more stringent the conditions for using gear oils.

Chevrolet Niva is a car designed for complete off-road use, as a result of which the vehicle's transmission is subject to maximum overloads. If you fill this car with transmission oil with a low API service class, then at the first serious load there is a high probability of damaging the car’s gearbox or axle.

To summarize, let's conclude what kind of oil to fill in the Chevrolet Niva transmission

. First of all, the viscosity of the product must correspond to the temperature regime of the region where it will be used. According to the API system, oil for Chevrolet Niva is suitable with a marking of at least GL 4.

Changing the oil is one of the most common and mandatory maintenance jobs for any car. At the same time, having studied the instructions well, you can easily cope on your own and save on car service services. To do this, we will consider in detail which oil is best to pour when replacing a Chevrolet Niva, not only into the box, but also into the transfer case, as well as axles.