The Lada 4×4 all-wheel drive SUV (VAZ 2121), better known as Niva, has been rolling off the assembly line since 1977. Over the forty years of production, the manufacturer has made virtually no changes to the design of the car. Therefore, the Niva is especially popular among tuning enthusiasts. Thanks to the modern car accessories market, an SUV can be changed beyond recognition: replacing interior and exterior elements, adding new parts, improving the functionality and capabilities of the car.
What can be improved in the Niva 4×4 model
Most representatives of the domestic automobile industry require high-quality improvements, and Niva is no exception.
Tuning can significantly improve many parameters of an SUV, from the interior to pumping the chassis. Changing the suspension helps increase the vehicle's passing ability. You can also change the external design of the body, making it more modern and original. Many people try to increase the power of the power plant by tuning the engine.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQGotPszTO0
Most often, supporters of updates turn to professionals for help, although tuning a Niva 4x4 with your own hands is quite possible. You just have to take into account that remodeling a car will require significant costs and certain skills.
The small SUV went into mass production in April 1977. Today the VAZ 2121 is a passenger car with increased cross-country ability. Available in two body types: a three-door hatchback and a five-door station wagon. It has permanent all-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission.
Two-stage transfer case with center differential lock. High cross-country ability of the car is ensured by significant ground clearance (220 mm). The wheelbase is 2.2 meters. Earlier modifications were equipped with engines based on the engine of the sixth VAZ model.
When new modifications were released, the previous engine was replaced with a more powerful four-cylinder unit producing 81.9 liters. s., having a working volume of 1.69 liters. Average fuel consumption in mixed mode is 10 l/100 km.
Tuning the VAZ 2121 engine involves improving its parameters, in particular, increasing the power of the power plant.
There are two main ways to improve the unit:
- Chip tuning.
- Mechanical modification of the engine.
For injection engines, the first option is best suited. Reflashing the electronic control unit allows you to increase engine power by 8%, reduce fuel consumption and eliminate failures at low speeds. But this will require the help of specialists, because incorrect tuning can lead to a number of problems in engine operation. The second option is possible on any SUV, which determines its popularity.
Engine tuning using mechanical modification is carried out in several stages:
- Carburetor modernization. Here it is necessary to replace the pump accelerator and old jets with an indicator of 2 kam.
- Modification of the gas distribution system by increasing the diameter of the valves and sealing them.
- Installation of a crankshaft with increased stroke.
- Replacing the piston.
- Increasing the cylinder diameter (boring).
A high-quality exhaust system can also increase the efficiency of the power plant by optimizing the process of air supply and exhaust gas removal. To do this, it is recommended to replace the intake and exhaust manifolds with more modern options.
Installing a turbine is the most common way to increase power. It has a fairly simple structure, and its installation does not cause much difficulty. Therefore, such a tuning solution is far from uncommon.
Small but significant changes
The Niva's bumper is most often in good condition, but I still want to transform it. To form new parts, glue them to the base and cover them with paint, you will need fiberglass. It gives the car style and originality, and lasts a long time.
For changes in Niva, set:
- New modern thresholds, especially if they are completely out of order, have begun to rot.
- Radiator grilles to ensure high-quality air flow. In addition, the design of the new grilles has changed significantly, and new technologies have improved quality.
In principle, the owner of the Niva can reinstall them himself, but if original painting or airbrushing is planned in the future, then it is better to entrust the replacement of parts to a specialist, since the design may be deformed.
Refinement of the field
Tuning a car, regardless of its model and year of manufacture, is always better to start with engine modifications. The same applies to the VAZ 2131. Since the domestic SUV is equipped with a reliable power unit adapted for off-road driving, its improvement will not be as dramatic as required by tuning the Niva Chevrolet engine.
However, minor modifications with your own hands will still be required, and the first thing worth doing is installing an oil pressure indicator in the engine. An indicator showing oil pressure is a very useful part that every car should be equipped with. If your Lada 2131 does not have such a useful device, you should immediately begin installing it. Moreover, anyone can install the sensor with their own hands.
Installing the engine oil pressure indicator
To work, we will need spare parts from the VAZ 2106 and a small list of tools:
- “tee” of the oil pressure indicator from the “six”;
- indicator from the same model;
- pressure sensor from VAZ 2106;
- screwdrivers.
First, you need to remove the standard sensor responsible for emergency oil pressure in the Niva 4×4 engine. Instead of the factory part, we install a “tee”, to which we attach the previously removed emergency pressure sensor and the pressure indicator sensor from the “six”. To connect the resulting structure, you do not need to study the diagrams and contact specialists - you can do everything yourself.
The Niva perfectly combines the qualities of an SUV and a family car capable of driving on public roads. This gives impetus to tuning the Niva 4x4 car. As a result:
- the owner receives a car that is distinguished by its uniqueness;
- the performance qualities of the SUV, its cross-country ability and smooth ride are improved;
- improves the appearance of the body;
- The functionality of the interior is improved and the comfort of movement increases.
And also interesting: Tuning NIVA | Technical center NIVA777
It all depends on the owner's goal. Thanks to the strength of the body and the reliability of the chassis components, this car is widely used by athletes. It was used to set many records, including world-wide ones.
The first models had a gasoline engine with a volume of 1580 cm³ and a power of 80 horsepower. Subsequently, factory designers began to use a gasoline engine with a volume of 1690 cm³ and a power of 81.9 horses.
When tuning the Niva engine, the following options are possible:
- installation of a modern injection engine with more power;
- increase in engine displacement;
- vehicle equipped with a diesel engine;
- carrying out technical work on waterproofing attachments;
- protection of the engine compartment from the ingress of water and unwanted natural precipitation.
Engine tuning
A fairly common type of tuning is the modification of the Niva-2131 engine. However, it is worth noting that its improvement will not be so significant, since the car is initially produced with a very powerful unit adapted for off-road use.
Among the small modifications, the most popular is the installation of an oil pressure indicator in the engine. With its help, it will be possible to timely assess the condition of the oil and increase its volume if the situation requires it. The advantage is that you can install the sensor yourself. Have to take:
- indicator tee;
- sensor;
- tools.
First of all, it is necessary to remove the standard sensor, which warns of emergency oil pressure. Instead, a “tee” is installed, and after that the previously dismantled sensor is added. If the car owner does not have certain skills and knowledge, then to connect it is best to contact specialists at a service station.
Interior improvements
Most Niva 2131 4×4 owners do not like the operation of the car’s standard heater. Due to the fact that the car interior is almost constantly cold in winter, many of them resort to solving this issue on their own. Some people change the standard interior trim, choosing modern materials for reupholstery. Others take a simpler route and install a centrifugal fan, which can be “borrowed” from a VAZ 2108.
Modification of the standard stove of Niva 2131
First, to modernize the Lada stove with your own hands, you will need to purchase a “snail” from a VAZ 2108. Then you can start doing the work. We dismantle the upper grille of the Niva’s interior, after which we take the “snail” and cut off all the protrusions from it. You need to make 2 cuts in the upper casing of the SUV. Then we lower the “snail” so that its exhaust is directed downward.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TArQwdGdLTg
The next stage of tuning will be warming up the “snail”. To do this, take a hairdryer and heat the part, after which it must be compressed. To control the stove, you will need to take a 10-position switch from an old radio station. The resulting heating system can be connected to the battery via a separate relay. After this, the interior of your VAZ 2131 4×4 will always have a comfortable temperature.
By upgrading the interior, many car owners try not only to increase the level of comfort of the vehicle, but also to emphasize their individuality. There are many options for improving the interior of your car.
This is the easiest way to tune the interior of a Niva 4×4. With prolonged use of the car, the seat upholstery becomes dirty, wears out and loses its aesthetic appearance. Reupholstery requires a lot of time, certain skills and considerable costs. Today, car shops offer a wide range of car covers made from high-quality materials in various shades, which greatly simplifies the selection of the necessary accessories.
As already noted, many people do not like the operation of the stove in the car; it does not heat the interior well enough. One option is to replace the interior trim using modern thermal insulation materials. Another option is to install a centrifugal fan, which is used on the VAZ-2108.
To improve the operation of the stove using the second option, you will need:
- Buy a “snail” from a VAZ-2108.
- Remove the interior grille.
- Cut off the protrusions from the acquired “snail”.
- Lower the part with the exhaust pointing downwards.
- Pass the tube from the “snail” to the air inlet. Air will then circulate through this tube.
- Warm up the device.
Also interesting: Chevrolet Niva suspension: front, rear, device and tuning
You can connect the heating system using a separate relay connected through the battery. Thus, it is possible to achieve a comfortable temperature in the cabin during the cold season.
Despite a wide range of modifications, the Niva's interior requires improvement. When tuning the Niva's interior you need to:
- produce high-quality sound insulation using modern technologies and materials;
- secure the torpedo better, eliminating squeaking when moving;
- improve the interior trim, it is advisable to get rid of the original plastic, which tends to crack;
- A good advantage for the driver will be an armrest, a comfortable steering wheel, and pedal pads.
It all depends on the wishes of the owner. You can improve the heating system and install seat heaters.
Tuning features
Today there are no true car enthusiasts who are indifferent to the Niva, since this car is considered one of the best SUVs in world history. Additionally, it is worth noting that the car occupies one of the leading positions in the ranking of off-road vehicles.
Despite such indicators, the Niva 2131 does not bring any satisfaction to many. Among the disadvantages of this model are the insufficient operation of the heater, the presence of noise in the cabin, as well as other problems associated with the engine and other devices. Tuning will help solve this.
Doing the work yourself
This car is distinguished by its simplicity of design, easy accessibility to all components and mechanisms, as well as its increased reliability.
If you wish, you can do the tuning of the Niva yourself. To do this you will need:
- have your own garage for work;
- purchase the necessary tools, become familiar with the production process that should be performed;
- consult with specialists; advice from a highly qualified specialist can protect you from possible troubles.
By completing modifications to a car on their own, a person can verify the quality of the work performed, receive great pleasure from the achieved result, and save his money.
If you have insufficient experience, you can involve a master in performing important operations, and become his assistant yourself.
In this case, high-quality work will be done at minimal cost to the family budget.
Those who can spend more than ten thousand rubles on tuning a car should consider a way to improve the chassis of the Niva-2131. Such tuning will require a lot of time and effort, but the result will exceed all expectations. The result is a powerful SUV that can cope with any type of road.
First you need to change the standard springs, installing stiffer ones instead. Experts recommend using parts from Volga for tuning. Just before installation, you should shorten the springs by two turns.
As a rule, suspension improvements are performed by professionals in special services. You can do the work yourself, but the procedure will require large physical and financial costs.
The table below shows the most common types of tuning, as well as the minimum price for these works. The cost includes payment for the work of the craftsmen, as well as prices for components.
| Type of tuning | Cost, in rubles |
| Engine tuning | From 15000 |
| Salon tuning | From 2000 |
| Working with the suspension | From 10000 |
| Additional types (replacement of bumper, lights) | From 1500 |
Thus, the choice of tuning the Niva-2131 directly depends on the financial capabilities of the car owner. Improving the five-door Niva will allow you to get a more comfortable and off-road capable car. However, the owner should be prepared for the fact that this will require a lot of effort, time, nerves, and, of course, money.
Also interesting: Installing an alternator belt and air conditioner on a Chevrolet Niva
If the listed budget methods for modifying the Lada 2131 did not seem enough to you, and you can afford to spend several tens of thousands of rubles, then you can pay attention to ways to improve the Niva chassis. Doing them yourself will take a lot of time and effort, but in the end you will get a powerful SUV that can cope with any off-road conditions.
Improvements to the Niva chassis
The first step that experts advise should be replacing the standard Niva 2131 springs with stiffer ones. For tuning, parts from the Volga, previously shortened by 2 turns, are suitable. It is worth noting that the parts along with installation will cost the VAZ owner almost 15 thousand rubles. If you do the work to improve the off-road performance of your car yourself, you can save money, but you will have to work with the car all day.
The second stage of tuning will be the installation of additional shock absorbers, with the help of which the range of operating modes of the Niva 2131 4×4 chassis will increase several times. It’s worth warning right away that it is strictly not recommended for beginners to take on such work. Specialists will ask for at least 20 thousand.
Optional equipment
Its installation is especially popular among lovers of off-road, active lifestyle and travel.
List of equipment for tuning:
- kenguryatnik;
- winch;
- towbar;
- expedition trunk;
- roof rails;
- expedition ladder;
- shorekel (prevents water from being sucked through the filter when overcoming deep fords).
Not all equipment provides exceptional benefits. For example, when choosing a shorekel, you should remember that lengthening the intake tract makes it difficult for oxygen to enter the combustion chamber and increases the load on the piston group. The useful cross-section of the shorekel should be as large as possible. And the kanguryatnik, popular among car enthusiasts, fulfills its real purpose only on frame cars, transferring the load from the impact to the frame. This effect will not work on Niva.
Remodeling the stove and airflow
To increase the operating comfort of the vehicle in winter, many Niva owners resort to modifications to the interior heater, trying to increase the performance of the stove and improve airflow.
There are several options for improving the heating system:
- Modernization of air ducts. The idea is to increase the tightness of the connections. It is necessary to coat problem areas well with silicone glue.
- Replacing the old fan with a new, more powerful one.
- Installation of a larger diameter tap. This will speed up the spread of liquid in the radiator.
Watch the video that shows the modernization of the stove.
Typical radiator malfunctions
There are two main radiator malfunctions:
- Clogged grille and radiator tubes.
- Radiator leakage.
Since the Niva is often operated in difficult road conditions, the likelihood of contamination of the grille from dusty outside air is very high. Clogging of the cells reduces the heat transfer area of the radiator, and as a result leads to a decrease in the heat released from the air ducts into the passenger compartment. In such cases, the stove radiator is dismantled and washed under high pressure.
Clogged radiator tubes are also common. If the outlet pipe is barely warm or cold, then the radiator tubes are clogged. This happens for various reasons, including the entry of foreign objects into the cooling line during repair work. In such cases, the tubes themselves are also washed. To do this, it is not necessary to remove the heater radiator. It is enough to separate the radiator pipes from the cooling system and supply water under pressure into one of the radiator pipes.
Illustrative examples
There are a large number of Niva tuning videos where you can get step-by-step instructions for performing the work. This will allow:
- perform all planned work technically correctly;
- avoid possible difficulties;
- save significant money.
This opportunity to get a clear example will be of great help in planning appropriate improvements.
Niva is an amazing car with excellent technical characteristics.
In some respects, this SUV outperforms renowned foreign cars of this class, while its cost is significantly lower. Experiment and enjoy the work done!
Tuning compositions
The machine model itself allows it to be constantly improved. Those who like to experiment are not afraid to implement the most daring ideas, thanks to which the 5-door Niva can withstand tuning a large number of times. The main thing is to entrust it to an experienced master and calculate the finances.
Many Nivas, unfortunately, are already outdated and morally, but still faithfully carry their owners. And the owners spare no expense to technically transform the car with additional functions.
In order for the 5-door Niva to have decent and high-quality tuning, you should turn to the services of the car market. But you should make a decision carefully, deciding in advance what you will need, and only then purchasing the appropriate parts.
Mirrors and glass
Replacing standard mirrors is not only a desire to improve the appearance of the car, but also to increase traffic safety by increasing visibility. For greater comfort, electrically adjustable mirrors are installed. This allows you to adjust them if necessary, even while driving. Mirrors of various shapes can become a distinctive feature of the car and emphasize its individuality.
You can enhance the tuning effect by using side and rear windows. Various tinting, especially with a spray effect or mirror, will best complement the appearance of the SUV.
Read news about the new Niva
- The modernized Lada Niva Legend (4x4) 2021 was shown on the Internet
- Lada 4×4 Bronto - sales stopped, new details » Lada.Online - all the most interesting and useful about LADA cars
- Description of the instrument panel Lada 4×4 (VAZ 2121, 2131) » Lada.Online - all the most interesting and useful about LADA cars
- Chevrolet Niva gasoline consumption per 100 km
- Buy LADA (VAZ) 2131 (4×4) 2022 in Rostov-on-Don, low price for Lada 2131 (4×4) 2022 on the Avto.ru website
- Fuses Niva 21214 injector «
- The new large Lada 4×4 Niva “Bigster” 2021-2022 based on the Dacia Bigster was shown for the first time. The SUV has changed beyond recognition
- New Niva Chevrolet Lux 2022 - review of GLC equipment
The engine compartment needs to be protected
"Niva" can cross many hard-to-reach areas and overcome areas with large amounts of water. Then it will be necessary to install a snorkel - permanent or removable, which is done privately. This type of tuning will help you overcome water obstacles, while liquid will no longer be able to get into the engine, and it will not even overheat significantly. With this tuning, filter contamination is reduced.
To protect the engine compartment from corrosion, it must be protected from moisture and dirt. The following measures will help:
- the drainage pipe is extended;
- a seal and an air intake are installed on the hood;
- The side members are protected using plastic or rubber plugs.
Exhaust system upgrade
Oddly enough, even upgrading the exhaust system can increase engine power. At the same time, we note one important point - the load value does not increase. Among the features of such work, we note the following points:
- In most cases, tuning the exhaust system involves installing modern exhaust and intake manifolds.
- Due to their special design, the collectors make the flow of air and exhaust gases freer. Therefore, resistance is reduced and efficiency is significantly increased.
- In some cases, a resonator from the muffler is installed. Due to it, the process of removing gases is simplified, and the sound of the car is improved.
In addition, the muffler can be moved further to the rear axle. This also reduces resistance in the exhaust system and increases efficiency.
Expert opinion
Anton. When I bought the Niva for fishing trips, I was initially pleased; it couldn’t be compared to my sedan in terms of cross-country ability. But after some time I realized that due to insufficient power, I still needed to look for easy ways. Friends advised us to modernize the engine or install a new one. There was no money for a new one, but I was able to modify the already installed one.
Victor. VAZ is not famous for its engines, and Niva is proof of this. Almost all installed models have very low efficiency, reliability, and wear resistance. Many people talk about high maintainability, why would it be if the design did not fail so often. Therefore, I installed a different engine on my Niva and did not regret the choice.
Alexei. Niva is Niva: noisy, does not stand well on the highway, there is no comfort, but off-road you feel comfortable. I began to modernize mine gradually, and it came down to the engine. What can we say: there is a lot of work, almost everything requires improvement, it is not a fact that the tuning performed will lead to the desired result.
Maksim. I did the tuning myself. I started with the simplest thing - replacing consumables with better ones, then it came to more complex work. Of course an increase of 30 hp. cannot be called significant, but it also allowed me to feel more confident on the road surface.
A little about the winch!
Don't touch the Chinese! Never! If you install it, then use a cool device or don’t install anything at all! This is auto law! Try ordering a mechanism from home-grown private owners whose hands grow in the right place and who know all the features of our roads, or rather the lack thereof. The metal must be of very high quality both for the mechanism itself and for the cable. The winch, like vodka, must be fearless and active, and not slow down. The winch should be just a real bodybuilder with a capacity of about three tons. The cable is at least 8 mm.
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