Buying a first car or a budget “working” vehicle is always fraught with risks and doubts, especially when the choice falls on affordable domestically assembled models. ZAZ Chance (formerly known as Chance) has become one of the most popular representatives of class B in the CIS countries, offering buyers a compromise between price, size and technical capabilities. Many drivers consider it as an alternative to used foreign cars, but is it worth the candle? In this article we will analyze real operating experience, collecting and systematizing many opinions of those who have already driven tens of thousands of kilometers on this car.
The bulk of reviews agree on one thing: this is a car not for comfort and racing, but for calm movement from point A to point B at minimal cost. ZAZ Chance is based on the Daewoo Lanos platform, but with significant changes in the body design and power units, which makes it a unique product in its price segment. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of this model will help you make an informed decision whether to buy or sell.
Overall impression and body build quality
The first thing that catches your eye when you get to know the car is its appearance, which, despite the age of the platform, still looks current thanks to a more modern design of the front and rear. Owners often note that ZAZ Chance visually it seems larger and more solid than the classic Lanos, which is a definite plus for those who love the feeling of a “big car”. However, behind the glossy façade there are nuances that are best known in advance.
The quality of the paintwork and anti-corrosion treatment causes mixed feelings. On the one hand, the metal of the body seems quite thick, but on the other hand, savings on processing edges and hidden cavities leads to the appearance of “saffron caps” after 2-3 years of operation, especially in regions with a humid climate. Many drivers recommend carrying out additional anticorrosive underbody and arches, since factory protection is often insufficient for our roads.
- 🚗 Pros: Modern design, good body geometry, galvanized elements (in some versions).
- 🔨 Cons: Weak anti-corrosion treatment for hidden cavities, thin metal thresholds, creaky plastic in the cabin.
- 🛡️ Nuances: Build quality may vary from batch to batch, and gaps of uneven width may occur.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a used ZAZ Chance, be sure to check the condition of the sills and the attachment points of the front pillars - these are the first areas susceptible to corrosion, even if the car looks neat on the outside.
The car's interior greets the driver with a spartan environment dominated by hard plastic. Ergonomics here are average: there is enough legroom for the driver, but the high position of the pedals can be tiring on long trips. Noise insulation practically absent as a class, so at speeds above 90 km/h, a conversation with a passenger has to raise your voice. However, for city use and short trips the level of comfort is quite acceptable for the stated price.
Engine: resource, reliability and problems
The heart of the car most often becomes the 1.3-liter MeMZ-307 engine with a power of 70 horsepower. This is a motor that everyone who has encountered the products of the Zaporozhye Engine Plant knows. It is as simple as an ax, and with proper care it can travel more than 200 thousand kilometers before major repairs. However, this unit has its own characteristic features, which cannot be ignored.
The main complaint from owners is with the cooling system and thermostat. The engine is prone to overheating in traffic jams in the summer if you do not monitor the cleanliness of the radiator and the level of antifreeze. There is also a common problem with “triple” at idle, which is usually solved by replacing high-voltage wires or adjusting the valves. Mechanics advise paying attention to cylinder head (cylinder head), which can become deformed when overheated, requiring grinding.
A rarer, but more pleasant version - with a 1.5 engine from the Chevrolet Aveo (F15D3). This motor is much more powerful, quieter and more economical, but its cost on the secondary market is higher, and it is more difficult to find a live copy. If you come across ZAZ Chance with such a unit, it will be an excellent choice, devoid of most of the childhood diseases of the Melitopol engine.
To extend the life of the MeMZ-307 engine, change the oil every 7-8 thousand kilometers, even if the manufacturer claims longer intervals. Cheap oil quickly loses its properties in this engine.
Engine life largely depends on timely replacement of the timing belt. A broken belt on this engine usually leads to bent valves, which turns into an expensive repair. Therefore, you should not delay replacing the timing kit, even if the belt visually looks intact.
Transmission and chassis
The gearbox on ZAZ Chance is mechanical, 5-speed. The car inherited it from Lanos and has established itself as a fairly reliable, although not without its shortcomings, unit. Owners often complain about rough gear shifting, especially when shifting into reverse or first gear when cold. This can be treated by replacing the scenes and using high-quality transmission oils.
The car's chassis is better adapted to our roads than many competitors. The suspension here is soft, but not rolly. The main consumables are stabilizer struts and silent blocks of front control arms, which may require replacement after 30-40 thousand kilometers. Shock absorbers last longer, but their condition needs to be monitored, since a breakdown of the suspension can damage the support cups.
☑️ Checking the chassis
| Suspension element | Average resource (km) | Symptoms of wear | Approximate cost of replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stabilizer links | 20 000 - 30 000 | Knock on small bumps | Low |
| Front arm silent blocks | 40 000 - 60 000 | Vehicle pulls, uneven tire wear | Average |
| Shock absorbers | 60 000 - 80 000 | Body rocking, oil drips | High |
| Ball joints | 50 000 - 70 000 | Creaking, knocking when turning | Average |
It is important to note that spare parts for the chassis cost pennies and are available at any auto parts store. Maintenance does it ZAZ Chance very cheap compared to foreign cars. You can replace all suspension components and get a virtually new car feel for a minimal amount of money.
Fuel consumption and efficiency
The issue of engine appetite worries every owner of a budget sedan. Real fuel consumption of ZAZ Chance with a 1.3 engine depends on many factors: driving style, engine condition, season and fuel quality. In the combined cycle, the figures usually range from 7.5–8.5 liters per 100 kilometers.
In city mode, especially in summer with the air conditioning turned on (if there is one), consumption can increase to 9-10 liters. On the highway at a speed of 90-100 km/h the car consumes about 6.5-7 liters. These are average figures for class B, but given the low engine power, sometimes you have to “push to the floor” to overtake, which instantly increases consumption.
Fuel saving secrets
To reduce consumption on a ZAZ Chance, it is important to monitor the tire pressure (at least 2.2 atm), change the air filter on time and not overload the trunk. The installation of gas equipment (gas equipment) also saves fuel, which is very popular among owners of this model.
Many owners install 4th generation gas equipment, which allows them to reduce fuel costs by almost half. The MeMZ-307 engine tolerates operation well on gas, although the service life of the spark plugs and exhaust valves is somewhat reduced. For commercial use or high mileage this is the only reasonable way out.
Typical malfunctions and “childhood diseases”
Like any budget car, ZAZ Chance has a number of characteristic problems that you need to be aware of. Most often, owners are faced with failure of sensors in the electronic engine control system (EMS, IAC). The car may stall at traffic lights or “float” in revolutions. Replacing these sensors solves the problem, but they can fail with alarming regularity.
Another common problem is electrical. Oxidation of contacts, humming of the generator, failure of power windows - all this occurs quite often. The quality of the wires and connectors used leaves much to be desired, so when buying a used copy, you should carefully check the operation of all electrical equipment.
⚠️ Attention: A common cause of engine starting problems is poor ground contact. Check and clean the battery terminals and major body ground points before replacing the starter or battery.
Corrosion is also not asleep. In addition to the thresholds mentioned, the bottom, arches and even elements of the exhaust system can rust. The exhaust system on Chance is a consumable item that can burn out in 2-3 years, especially if the car is used for short trips, when the condensate does not have time to evaporate.
Cost of ownership and final verdict
To summarize, we can say that ZAZ Chance — this is a car of extremes. On the one hand, it offers incredibly low cost of ownership, cheap parts and ease of repair. On the other hand, it requires patience from the owner, a willingness to put up with the lack of comfort and constant attention to the technical condition.
This car is ideal as a first car for learning to drive, temporary transport or a workhorse for driving around the city. If your priorities are the reliability of a Toyota or the comfort of a Mercedes, then the Chance will disappoint you. But if you want a simple tool to move around that you don't mind leaving under the house and can easily be fixed in the garage yourself, then this is a great choice.
ZAZ Chance is a rational choice for those who value practicality and low cost of ownership above comfort and brand prestige.
By buying this car, you are buying not just a means of transportation, but a certain philosophy of saving. With proper maintenance and timely elimination of minor faults ZAZ Chance is capable of faithfully serving its owner for many years, remaining one of the most affordable cars on the market.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What is the real service life of the ZAZ Chance 1.3 engine?
With timely oil changes (every 7-8 thousand km) and timing belt, the MeMZ-307 engine is capable of traveling 200-250 thousand kilometers before the first major overhaul. The key is to avoid overheating and use quality oil.
Is it worth taking a ZAZ Chance with a mileage of more than 100,000 km?
Buying a car with such mileage only makes sense if the previous owner kept a service history and overhauled the engine or changed the main components. Otherwise, get ready to invest in the engine, gearbox and suspension, which can amount to up to 50% of the cost of the car.
Why does the idle speed fluctuate on the ZAZ Chance?
The most common causes: dirty idle air control (IAC), faulty throttle position sensor (TPS), air leaks in the intake manifold, or dirty throttle valve. Diagnostics and cleaning or replacement of components is required.
What oil is better to fill in the ZAZ Chance engine?
The factory recommends oils with a viscosity of 10W-40 or 5W-40 with API SJ/SL approval or higher. For used engines, it is better to use semi-synthetic 10W-40, as it is less prone to waste in worn-out MeMZ engines.