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.

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.

Oils for hypoid gearboxes

Serious specific pressures and significant longitudinal slip cause destruction of the oil film in the contact zone, and this can contribute to the metal of the rubbing surfaces seizing. This disadvantage of hypoid gearboxes is usually eliminated by using high-viscosity oils with special additives that ensure sufficient oil film strength. The gears also receive additional phosphating.

VAZ gearbox oils for hypoid gears contain the same additives, which have a number of important qualities:

anti-wear;
viscosity-temperature;
anti-scuff;
anti-corrosion;
antifoaming, etc.

To increase the strength of the oil film, VAZ oils are supplemented with compounds of phosphorus, chlorine, zinc and sulfur, which at high pressure and temperatures are capable of creating high-strength oxide films.

Also, transmission oils for VAZ contain high-molecular compounds and resinous substances, therefore their viscosity always increases with decreasing temperatures. Against this background, the transmission mechanisms lose power, especially when starting off. Power losses are significant in winter cold, when the viscosity-temperature properties do not meet the necessary requirements. This helps improve gas mileage. To eliminate the deficiency, additional depressant additives can be used. Details about changing the oil in a VAZ gearbox

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.

Performance properties of TM

The API classification shows a comprehensive assessment of the transmission depending on its performance properties and is divided into six categories. Categories are marked with an index, which makes it possible to understand the scope and level of quality of the product. Today, in passenger car transmissions, only two groups of fluids are used – GL-4 and GL-5 (TM-4, TM-5 according to the domestic classification).

GL-4 (or TM-4) - designed for medium-loaded gears . Used in manual transmissions and mechanisms with spiral bevel gears. The operation of such oils can be carried out in hypoid-type transmissions at significant speeds, but small or moderate torques.

GL-5 (or TM-5) - used for heavily loaded gears . Operation of oil with this standard is carried out in hypoid gears at low torques in combination with high speeds, subject to short-term shock loads. This oil contains a large amount of sulfur-phosphorus containing extreme pressure additive.

Also a very common oil is 75W90 marked GL-4/5 ; the presence of two indices indicates use under different load conditions and different types of mechanisms.

MIL specification

In addition to API classification, the American MIL specification . For 75W90, this is MIL-L 2105 A, B or C. Confirms compliance with the specifications of multigrade gear oils , equivalent to API GL-4 or GL-5.

ZF transmission oil quality classifier

Also on the canister of 75W-90 oil you can see the Z classifier - this is a classification system for all types of motor vehicle transmissions . The designation is made by letters and numbers from ZF TE-ML 01 to ZF TE-ML 14.

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.

Lada branded engine oil

You can also find on sale a whole line of branded oils under the Lada brand, which AvtoVAZ recommends for use in its cars. The press release for the Lada line of motor oils states that the manufacturer is Lukoil.

There is no doubt that, under its own brand, the car plant offers oil that meets all approvals for use in its car models.

By the way, any oil for a VAZ engine can be ordered inexpensively on the Avtozapchasti.ru website >>>

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.

Sequence of work

To do this you need to complete the following steps:

First of all, the oil must be warmed to operating temperature. This can be done by driving a few kilometers.
The car needs to be driven onto an overpass or inspection hole and put on the handbrake.
Find the drain and fill holes.
Clean the transmission housing and oil fill and drain plugs using a wire brush and then a rag.
Place a container under the drain hole to drain the used oil.
Using a hex wrench, unscrew the drain plug.
Drain the waste. You should be careful at this point, as the oil is very hot.
Clean the drain plug from dirt and screw it into place.
Carefully inspect the drained lubricant. If there is metal dust in it, then the gearbox requires repair.
Insert the grease gun into the oil filler neck and fill in the required amount of oil. Typically, liquid is added until it begins to flow out of the filler hole.
Screw the oil filler cap into place. The oil change is complete.

The same fluid is poured into the gearbox and rear axle gearbox. Therefore, it is better to change the oil in these units at the same time.

For those cars whose boxes have a dipstick for checking the oil level, the steps are as follows:

Find the drain cover on the gearbox.
Remove the rubber cap from the gearbox and clean it. At the same time, clean the breather, then return the cap to its place.
Place a container for waste fluid under the crankcase and unscrew the drain cap.
Wait until the oil drains completely.
Screw the drain plug into place.
Pull out the dipstick showing the oil level in the gearbox.
Insert a funnel where the dipstick was and add fresh fluid.
While pouring lubricant, you need to monitor the level using a dipstick.
The fluid level should be midway between the minimum and maximum marks.

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.

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).

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.

Rating of the best gear oils with viscosity 75W90

To build a rating of the best oils, you need to navigate among the following indicators:

Viscosity _ The oil must maintain optimal viscosity both at low temperatures and maintain its astringent properties at high temperatures;
Temperature characteristics . Each liquid has its own pour point and ignition temperature, TM should have the largest gap between these indicators;
Critical load . The higher this number, the better the product;
Bully index . Unfortunately, there are no standards for this index, but the higher this value, the better the TM;
Welding load . According to GOST, this value should be no lower than 3,000 H;
Wear indicator . This criterion is determined only for GL-5 class oil; it should be less than 0.4 mm.

The TOP of the best transmission oils does not take into account their cost, but is given based on reviews and comparative tests.

In many respects, Motul Gear 300 75W90 transmission oil takes first place among all tested. This transmission has the highest protection against scuffing (the index is 60.1), welding, oil film stability without loss of engine power, and an average wear rate (0.75 mm). Although it cannot boast of viscosity characteristics (especially at sub-zero temperatures).

Temperature test of transmission oils 75W90

Second and third places are occupied by transmission fluids from Castrol (Syntrans) and Mobil (Mobilube). Castrol Syntrans Transaxle oil is used in gearboxes, transfer cases and drive axles. It has good low-temperature fluidity, but compared to Mobile, the scuff index is quite high for a liquid of this class, but the wear level is even better than Motul (59.4).

TM Mobil Mobilube can be placed in third place, since it has good test results for the level of protection and wear under high loads, and therefore provides low friction losses at operating temperatures. But, unfortunately, it has an insufficient viscosity index at sub-zero temperatures.

The fourth result when testing transmission oil was shown by Total Transmission SYN FE 75W-90 oil. Reviews about this fluid are also good, although since it is universal - it has API GL-4/GL-5, it will not be suitable for all gearboxes. This TM has a scuff level of 58.8, which is even better than the leader in the rating of gear oils 75W90. But it cannot boast of wear levels and good viscosity in low-temperature tests.

Semi-synthetic gear oil LIQUI MOLY Hypoid-Getriebeoil TDL 75W-90 GL-4/5 also performs well in tests, especially standing out when tested at minus 40; its fluidity at such a low temperature will allow the gearbox and gearboxes to operate without problems. However, other important indicators are at an average level.

synthetic oil ZIC GF TOP 75W-90 in this rating, since there is very little data on its wear and scuffing indicators, although the temperature test passes excellently. This gear oil can be used in manual transmissions (including synchronized transmissions) and drive axles. According to reviews from car owners, it significantly reduces transmission noise, withstands extreme loads and has virtually no drawbacks.

It is also impossible not to pay attention to Transyn 75W-90 API GL 3/4/5 oil from the manufacturer Eurol, since, despite the lack of real temperature tests and a very high level of wear - 0.94, it has a good scuff level - 58.5 and is very popular among car enthusiasts.

As you can see, the range of 75W90 gear oils on the market is quite large and there is always something to choose for your needs and affordable price. But remember that you need to select not because your neighbor advised, but based on the needs of your car’s transmission and the characteristics of the transmission fluid itself.

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.

Synthetic or mineral water

There are no restrictions on the choice of base. From the point of view of characteristics, as well as operational properties, there seems to be no difference. However, using the example of the same motor oils, we know that stable properties are retained for a long time only by synthetic bases, or oils created on the basis of semi-synthetics.

Mineral water works well at medium loads and in temperate climates. In extreme heat, the base quickly “burns out”, ceasing to be a reliable link for additives.

And operation at temperatures of -25°C and below is difficult due to the tendency to thicken in the cold. It is synthetic transmission oils that force you to start the car in winter with the clutch pedal depressed. Otherwise, you can quickly damage the starter.

Synthetics are devoid of these disadvantages, have a longer service life, but the cost is corresponding. VAZ owners often prefer cheaper oils and shorten their service life. The savings are negligible, but there is always fresh oil in the box.

As usual, the truth is in the middle. The best solution is a compromise semi-synthetic. The service life and wear resistance are almost like pure synthetics, and the price is close to mineral water. The same Lukoil TM 4 - 12SAE80W-85 is produced on a mixed basis.

And the price is reasonable, and the characteristics are normal. If you do not trust the domestic oil industry, purchase foreign analogues on the same basis. A little more expensive, and no negative emotions.

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.

How much oil to put in the box

This can be determined experimentally, but you can spoil a certain amount of oil, which, by the way, is not cheap. If the box is completely empty, then it contains exactly 3 liters. But again, this takes into account the fact that the old oil was completely drained.

It should be noted that there is a special dipstick that can be used to check the oil level. To do this, you need to take out the dipstick, it is located near the battery in the engine compartment, and wipe it with a clean rag. After this, it is inserted all the way and taken out again. If the level is between the maximum and minimum marks, then everything is in order, if it is higher or lower, then you need to either drain or add oil.

There are some nuances regarding filling volumes. In particular, it all depends on how many degrees the checkpoint has. If it is a four-speed gearbox, then fill in 3.1 liters, if it is a five-speed gearbox, then fill in 3.3 liters. More detailed information specifically about your case can be found in the service book.

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.

Classification of oils

According to the international API system, gear oils are divided into several categories:

GL-1 - SAE 75W. These oils are suitable for spur, worm, and bevel gears operating at pressures up to 1600 MPa and temperatures not exceeding 90 degrees.
GL-2 - SAE 80W/85W. Suitable for spur and spiral bevel gears. They operate at pressures up to 2100 MPa and temperatures up to 120 degrees.
GL-3 - SAE 90 - similar to the previous one, but withstands up to 2500 MPa and up to 120 degrees.
GL-4 – SAE 140. Designed for various transmissions, including hypoid ones with operating pressures up to 3000 MPa and temperatures up to 150 degrees.
GL-5 – SAE 250. Designed for hypoid gears with pressures over 3000 MPa and temperatures over 180 degrees.
GL-6 – applicable with hypoid gears operating in harsh operating conditions. The oil contains particularly effective anti-wear and extreme pressure additives.

Oil designed for VAZ oil is suitable for front-wheel drive vehicles. Typically, lubricants of classes GL-3 or GL-4 are poured into such boxes.

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.