Common Issues with Moscvich 408: Troubleshooting Guide

By Brian Wong, Reviewed by: Kurt Niebuhr, Updated on April 18, 2024

1. Introduction

The Moskvich 408 is a classic car that was produced in the Soviet Union from 1964 to 1975. It was one of the most popular cars in the country during its production years and is still beloved by car enthusiasts today. The Moskvich 408 was available as a sedan, station wagon, and pickup truck, and was produced in several different trim levels, including the Standard, Luxe, and Super Luxe.

One of the most common issues with the Moskvich 408 is engine overheating, particularly in the early production years. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including a malfunctioning cooling system, low coolant levels, or a faulty thermostat. It's important to diagnose the cause of the overheating issue quickly to prevent further damage to the engine.

Another common issue with the Moskvich 408 is brake system failure, particularly in the early production years. This could be caused by worn brake pads, a malfunctioning brake master cylinder, or a leak in the brake lines. It's important to regularly inspect the brake system and replace any worn or damaged components to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers.

In terms of the engine, the Moskvich 408 was initially equipped with a 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 45 horsepower. Later models had a slightly more powerful 1.5-liter engine that produced 50 horsepower. The engine codes for the Moskvich 408 were the AZLK-214 and AZLK-215. Common issues with the engine include oil leaks, poor fuel economy, and piston ring wear.

The Moskvich 408 was also prone to electrical system failures, particularly in the late production years. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty alternator, a bad battery, or corroded electrical connections. It's important to regularly inspect the electrical system and replace any faulty components to ensure the proper functioning of the car's electrical systems.

Overall, the Moskvich 408 is a classic car that requires regular maintenance and inspection to ensure its continued functioning. While it may be prone to certain issues, with proper care and attention, the Moskvich 408 can continue to be a reliable and beloved car for many years to come.

2. Common issues by model year

2.1. Early production years (1964-1966)

The Moskvich 408 was first produced in 1964 and had several common issues during its early production years that were primarily related to the engine and braking system.

One of the most common issues during this period was engine overheating. This could be caused by a malfunctioning cooling system, low coolant levels, or a faulty thermostat. It's important to diagnose and repair the issue quickly to prevent further damage to the engine.

Another common issue during this period was brake system failure. This could be caused by worn brake pads, a malfunctioning brake master cylinder, or a leak in the brake lines. Regular inspections and maintenance of the brake system is essential to prevent brake failure and ensure the safety of the driver and passengers.

Carburetor issues were also prevalent during this time. This could be caused by a dirty carburetor, a clogged fuel filter, or a malfunctioning carburetor float. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the carburetor can prevent issues and ensure the proper functioning of the engine.

Other issues during this period included steering and suspension problems, which could be caused by worn or damaged components, and electrical system failures, which could be caused by a bad alternator or corroded electrical connections.

Overall, the early production years of the Moskvich 408 had several common issues related to the engine, braking system, steering and suspension, and electrical system. Regular maintenance and inspection can prevent these issues and ensure the proper functioning of the car.

2.2. Mid-production years (1967-1970)

The Moskvich 408 underwent several changes during its mid-production years from 1967 to 1970, which led to new common issues related to its engine and fuel system.

One of the main issues during this period was related to the engine's piston rings. They could wear out quickly, leading to oil consumption and reduced engine power. Regular engine maintenance, including oil changes and replacing the piston rings when necessary, is crucial to prevent these issues.

Another common issue during this period was related to the fuel system, particularly the carburetor. The carburetor could become dirty or clogged, leading to decreased engine performance and fuel economy. Regular cleaning and maintenance of the carburetor and fuel system can prevent these issues.

Brake system issues remained a concern during this period, but there were also problems with the car's suspension system. Worn or damaged suspension components could lead to an uncomfortable ride, decreased handling, and even tire wear. Regular inspections of the suspension system and replacing any worn or damaged components can prevent these issues.

Electrical system issues were also common during this period. Wiring could become corroded or damaged, leading to problems with the car's lights, signals, and other electrical systems. Regular inspections and maintenance of the electrical system can prevent these issues.

Overall, the mid-production years of the Moskvich 408 had common issues related to the engine and fuel system, as well as continuing issues with the brake and suspension systems and electrical systems. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to prevent these issues and ensure the proper functioning of the car.

2.3. Late production years (1971-1975)

The late production years of the Moskvich 408 from 1971 to 1975 saw several changes in the car's design, which led to new common issues related to its suspension, brakes, and electrical systems.

One of the main issues during this period was related to the car's suspension system. The rubber bushings that connected the suspension components could wear out quickly, leading to a noisy and uncomfortable ride. Regular inspection and replacement of these bushings can prevent this issue.

Brake system problems remained a concern during this period, but there were also issues with the car's master cylinder. A malfunctioning master cylinder could lead to poor braking performance and even complete brake failure. Regular inspection and maintenance of the brake system, including replacing the master cylinder when necessary, can prevent these issues.

Electrical system issues continued to be a concern during this period, particularly with the car's ignition system. The distributor could become worn or damaged, leading to engine misfires and poor performance. Regular inspection and maintenance of the ignition system can prevent these issues.

Another common issue during this period was related to the car's fuel system. The fuel pump could become clogged or malfunction, leading to decreased engine performance and fuel economy. Regular inspection and maintenance of the fuel system can prevent these issues.

Overall, the late production years of the Moskvich 408 had common issues related to the suspension, brake, and electrical systems, as well as continuing issues with the fuel system. Regular maintenance and inspection of these systems are crucial to prevent these issues and ensure the proper functioning of the car.

3. Issues by engine type

3.1. AZLK-214 engine

The Moskvich 408 was equipped with the AZLK-214 engine, which had its own set of common issues.

One of the main issues with this engine was related to its oil consumption. The engine could consume oil at a relatively high rate, which could lead to decreased engine performance and potential engine damage if the oil level is not regularly checked and topped up.

Another issue with this engine was related to its timing chain. The timing chain could become stretched or damaged, leading to timing issues that could cause engine misfires and poor performance. Regular inspection and replacement of the timing chain can prevent these issues.

Additionally, the engine's carburetor could become clogged or malfunction, leading to poor fuel economy and decreased engine performance. Regular inspection and cleaning of the carburetor can prevent these issues.

The engine's cooling system could also be a concern, as the engine could overheat if the coolant level was not regularly checked and topped up. Overheating could cause engine damage, so regular inspection of the cooling system is crucial.

Overall, the AZLK-214 engine in the Moskvich 408 had common issues related to oil consumption, timing chain, carburetor, and cooling system. Regular maintenance and inspection of these components can prevent these issues and ensure the proper functioning of the engine.

3.2. AZLK-215 engine

In later years, the Moskvich 408 was equipped with the AZLK-215 engine, which had its own set of common issues.

One of the primary issues with the AZLK-215 engine was related to its carburetor. The carburetor could become clogged or malfunction, leading to poor fuel economy, decreased engine performance, and difficulty starting the engine. Regular cleaning and inspection of the carburetor can prevent these issues.

Another issue with this engine was related to its timing belt. The timing belt could become worn or damaged, leading to timing issues that could cause engine misfires and poor performance. Regular inspection and replacement of the timing belt can prevent these issues.

Additionally, the engine's cooling system could be a concern. The engine could overheat if the coolant level was not regularly checked and topped up, potentially causing engine damage. It's important to regularly inspect the cooling system and replace any damaged or worn components.

Furthermore, the AZLK-215 engine could experience oil leaks from the valve cover gasket. This could result in oil loss and decreased engine performance. Regular inspection and replacement of the valve cover gasket can prevent this issue.

Overall, the AZLK-215 engine in the Moskvich 408 had common issues related to carburetor, timing belt, cooling system, and valve cover gasket. Regular maintenance and inspection of these components can prevent these issues and ensure the proper functioning of the engine.

4. Issues by complectation

4.1. Standard model

The Moskvich 408 was available in several complectations, each with its own set of issues. However, the standard model had some common issues that were present across all complectations.

One of the primary issues with the standard model was related to rust. The Moskvich 408 was known for rusting easily, particularly in the wheel wells, doors, and undercarriage. This could lead to structural weakness and decreased safety. Regular inspections and treatment of rust-prone areas can prevent these issues.

Another issue with the standard model was related to the electrical system. The electrical system could be unreliable, with issues such as blown fuses, malfunctioning headlights, and difficulty starting the engine. Regular inspections and replacement of faulty components can prevent these issues.

Furthermore, the brakes on the standard model could be a concern. The brake system could become worn or damaged, leading to decreased stopping power and increased risk of accidents. Regular inspection and replacement of worn brake components can prevent these issues.

Finally, fuel economy could also be a concern with the standard model. The Moskvich 408 was not known for its fuel efficiency, and owners may experience higher fuel costs than with other vehicles. However, regular maintenance of the engine and fuel system can improve fuel economy and prevent related issues.

Overall, the standard model of the Moskvich 408 had common issues related to rust, electrical system, brakes, and fuel economy. Regular maintenance and inspection can prevent these issues and ensure the safe and efficient functioning of the vehicle.

4.2. Luxe model

The Luxe model of the Moskvich 408 was a more luxurious version of the standard model and featured additional amenities. However, this model also had its own set of issues.

One of the primary concerns with the Luxe model was related to the suspension system. The suspension system was not always reliable and could be prone to damage or wear. This could lead to decreased ride quality, decreased handling, and increased risk of accidents. Regular inspection and replacement of worn or damaged components can prevent these issues.

Another issue with the Luxe model was related to the electrical system. The Luxe model featured more electrical components than the standard model, and the additional features could put a strain on the electrical system. Issues such as blown fuses, malfunctioning lights, and difficulty starting the engine could occur. Regular inspection and replacement of faulty components can prevent these issues.

Furthermore, the brakes on the Luxe model could be a concern. As with the standard model, the brake system could become worn or damaged, leading to decreased stopping power and increased risk of accidents. Regular inspection and replacement of worn brake components can prevent these issues.

Finally, fuel economy could also be a concern with the Luxe model. The additional amenities and heavier weight of the vehicle could lead to decreased fuel efficiency, resulting in higher fuel costs. Regular maintenance of the engine and fuel system can improve fuel economy and prevent related issues.

Overall, the Luxe model of the Moskvich 408 had common issues related to suspension system, electrical system, brakes, and fuel economy. Regular maintenance and inspection can prevent these issues and ensure the safe and efficient functioning of the vehicle.

4.3. Super Luxe model

The Moskvich 408 Super Luxe was the highest trim level available for the model, and it was introduced in the mid-1960s. It featured several upgrades over the standard and Luxe models, including more luxurious interior materials, chrome accents, and additional features.

One common issue with the Super Luxe model was related to the electrical system. The wiring harness and connections were known to be problematic, resulting in electrical issues such as intermittent loss of power to certain components or complete electrical failure. It was essential for owners to regularly inspect the wiring harness and connections for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.

Another issue that was commonly reported by Super Luxe owners was related to the suspension system. The Super Luxe was equipped with a softer suspension setup compared to the standard and Luxe models, which provided a smoother ride but could result in excessive body roll and poor handling, particularly when driving at higher speeds. Owners who frequently drove their Super Luxe at higher speeds or on winding roads often sought to upgrade their suspension system with stiffer springs and shocks to improve handling.

Finally, some Super Luxe owners reported issues with the engine performance. While the AZLK-215 engine was generally reliable, some owners reported that the engine lacked power and struggled to maintain speed on inclines or at higher speeds. This issue could be related to several factors, including worn or dirty fuel injectors, clogged air filters, or a malfunctioning carburetor. Regular maintenance and inspection of the engine components were essential to ensure optimal performance.

Overall, the Moskvich 408 Super Luxe was a well-regarded model among Moskvich enthusiasts, but like any vehicle, it had its share of issues that owners needed to address. Regular maintenance and inspection of the electrical system, suspension, and engine were critical to keep the Super Luxe running smoothly and performing at its best.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, the Moskvich 408 was a popular car in the Soviet Union during its production years from 1964 to 1975. Despite being a reliable and sturdy vehicle, it had its fair share of issues and problems that were common by model year, engine type, and complectation. Early production years had issues with the carburetor, engine overheating, and poor braking systems, while mid-production years saw improvements in the brake systems and electrical wiring. Late production years had issues with the clutch, suspension, and body corrosion.

The AZLK-214 and AZLK-215 engines also had their own set of issues, with the AZLK-214 being prone to valve and timing chain problems, and the AZLK-215 having issues with the carburetor and fuel pump.

Different complectations of the Moskvich 408 also had their unique problems, with the Standard model having basic features and minimal issues, the Luxe model having electrical and fuel system issues, and the Super Luxe model having problems with the body, suspension, and electrical wiring.

Overall, the Moskvich 408 was a well-liked car in the Soviet Union, but it had its share of problems that needed attention and maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

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