What are the errors?
The airbag warning light once illuminated on the dashboard, and the issue appeared to be centered in the steering wheel area. Forum discussions show this is not an isolated problem but a recurring topic among Largus owners.
During cold starts, the default media system has on occasion hung, particularly in winter. There have also been instances where the rear view camera failed to display an image.
Engine behavior in the 16-valve configuration often includes noticeable jerks and a hesitation during warmup and even after reaching operating temperature. While some customers hoped dealer diagnostics would pinpoint a single cause, several visits have sometimes been required without a definitive fix. Yet the irregular engine behavior did not worsen for six months and did not derail daily use.
How to save money when buying?
A similar warning appeared on three occasions over six months, with engine restarts providing a temporary remedy.
After several thousand kilometers behind the wheel of the Largus FL, the car has earned a reputation as a very budget-friendly option. It offers generous interior space and choices for five or seven seats. Comfort and refinement, whether in driving feel, touch, or acoustics, are modest. The manufacturer opted for cost-saving measures in several areas, which means buyers today get substantial value for a modest price and a legitimate opportunity to customize and improve the package over time.
Purchasing efficiency can improve with configuration choices. For example, the test model Largus Cross rides on 205/55 R16 tires, while a traditional station wagon version uses 185/65 R15. The slightly larger tires help reduce overall running costs, and a ground clearance of 172 mm in the cross variant is ample for rough roads; the cross version offers 200 mm. A saving of around three thousand on a new tire set is achievable.
With the 16-valve engine, long-term ownership may involve a brief reprieve from some adjustments. The Largus line returns with an 90 horsepower eight-valve variant in newer iterations.
Studless winter tires from Michelin X-Ice Snow proved effective, although the brand has since pulled some operations from Russia.
Outlook for Lada Largus
Production of Largus paused temporarily due to component shortages, but the outlook remains positive according to industry sources. AvtoVAZ has initiated anti-crisis grants of roughly 600 units per day and has introduced new models, including the three-door Niva Legend. Plans for the near term include:
- Niva Travel scheduled for August 2022;
- XRAY with localization considerations;
- Vesta expected in the first quarter of 2023, with some discussion about shifting production locations from Izhevsk to Tolyatti.
The first Largus expected to re-enter production could arrive in the summer, but mass production is anticipated in the autumn or early 2023, initially with a 90 horsepower eight-valve engine. A major concern remains ABS availability. The Global Access platform does not offer non-ABS variants, and even connections to the first-generation Logan with non-ABS options do not change the situation. A supplier from China is being explored to navigate potential supply gaps through a full testing cycle.
Budget design elements are common, such as non-welded door seals where seals may protrude. The underbody framing often presents sharp edges where the seat cover is fixed, prompting care during handling.
What about the service?
As part of restructuring after leaving Russia, Renault shifted spare-parts logistics to AVTOVAZ. Unlike Renault, whose sanctioned parts could be restricted, a Russian subsidiary can import these components without issue. Consequently, maintenance and repairs for Renault models are feasible today, mirroring the Largus situation. Note: This section reflects structural changes in parts supply and does not imply current availability of any specific items.
Minimum prices for some spare parts from Lada Largus FL
- Brake pads front 1240 rubles;
- Shock absorber 5600 rubles;
- Hub bearing 2000 rubles;
- Headlight 7000 rubles;
- Windshield 7500 rubles.
In any case, the Largus remains a viable ride when parts and service are accessible.
Alternative to Largus FL in 2022
By mid-2022, the market had few standout new options. The Grant wagon and the Vesta SW offered limited equipment by comparison, while the secondary market presented more possibilities.
Examples include:
- Ford Focus III station wagon with a recent refresh; the line sold in 2019, with options including a 1.6 engine and a robotized or manual gearbox priced against a new Largus;
- Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, and Renault Dokker remain spacious and practical for large families;
- Chevrolet Orlando offers comfort and equipment advantages over the Largus, albeit with an older model year.
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Lada Largus Cross Luxe, 1.6 (106 HP), M5
- Manufacturer — AVTOVAZ;
- Year of issue — 2021;
- In operation — since November 2021;
- Mileage at time of report — 24,000 km.
Readers can pose questions about the operation of each editorial car in the Park ZR section.
- All the details on the new Largus engine are provided in the Driving section and can be read on Viber as well.