At a local car dealership, a manager advised a prospective buyer to bend the gear lever of a Lada Niva Legend SUV so it would not sit against the center console. A video of the encounter circulated on the Telegram channel Moscow Live [Moscow Live Telegram].
In the clip, the buyer explains that the lever strikes the panel and prevents smooth gear engagement, including in the third gear. The manager brushes off the concern, insisting that bending the lever a touch is a common practice and that drivers do it all the time. This exchange highlights how informal, on the spot fixes can emerge in budget car ownership, especially when space and layout constraints push people toward quick, makeshift solutions. [Moscow Live Telegram]
From the video, the three‑door Niva Legend shown appears to carry a modern multimedia setup, yet the overall footprint of the display and controls leaves little room for precise gear shifting. The standard configuration in many trims includes only an audio system and an antenna. Additionally, the center console in the video looks modified beyond the factory design, suggesting aftermarket changes that alter ergonomics and may affect safety and long-term reliability.
There have been reports in the community about Lada owners, particularly those with Vesta and XRay models, installing air deflectors sourced from Volkswagen Passat to improve cabin climate. The practice reflects a broader trend of adapting parts from other brands to enhance comfort, even when the fit is not guaranteed by official compatibility.
Proponents of the idea reportedly purchased specific grooves from the Passat B8, as well as rear passenger air deflectors, to fit into the interior of the Lada. These add-ons are intended to influence airflow patterns and create a more comfortable environment for occupants, especially on longer drives or in varying weather conditions.
Once installed, the deflectors allow airflow to be directed toward the body or the face, and the climate control system is described by some as improving the cooling of air reaching the rear seats. The modification, while seemingly practical, also raises questions about warranty coverage, long‑term durability, and whether these DIY changes comply with safety standards in different markets. [Moscow Live Telegram]
Earlier reports have noted windshield defects in the Lada Vesta lineup, drawing attention to reliability concerns within the brand family and reminding readers that modding vehicles can intersect with broader quality issues. This context underscores the importance of weighing comfort gains against potential risks and legal considerations when exploring interior alterations. [Vesta windshield issue]