Segment:
Lightweight sports car, performance-oriented.
Usp:
Renowned for exceptional handling, driver engagement, and minimalist design.
Competitors:
Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000, BMW Z3/Z4, Alfa Romeo GTV, TVR Griffith.
Chassis Technology:
Revolutionary bonded and extruded aluminum monocoque chassis for high rigidity and low weight.
Engine Placement:
Mid-engine layout for optimal weight distribution and handling characteristics.
Aerodynamics:
Focus on aerodynamic efficiency for stability at speed, with the Exige featuring a more aggressive aero package.
Model Years Covered:
1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Variants Covered:
Lotus Elise (Series 1 & Series 2 early), Lotus Exige (Series 1 & Series 2 early)
Estimated Page Count:
Extensive, likely exceeding 1000 pages due to comprehensive nature.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical (Rover K-Series variants), Engine management/ECU, Fuel system, Exhaust system, Cooling system, Lubrication system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Lotus PG1 derivatives), Clutch system, Drivetrain (CV joints, driveshafts)
Chassis And Suspension:
Chassis (bonded aluminum tub), Suspension (double wishbone, coil springs/dampers), Steering system (rack and pinion), Wheel bearings
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics (ABS on later models), Front and rear brake components (discs, calipers), Parking brake
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, Lighting system, Ignition system, Starting and charging system, Instrument cluster, ECU diagnostics, Body electrical components
Body And Interior:
Body panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk lid, Interior trim, Seats, HVAC system (air conditioning, heating, ventilation)
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance checks, Oil changes, Filter replacements, Spark plug replacement, Coolant checks and flushes, Brake fluid replacement
Repair And Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, Transmission overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Brake caliper rebuild, Clutch replacement, Steering rack repair
Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:
Fault code interpretation, Symptom-based troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic procedures for all major systems
Adjustments:
Valve clearances, Throttle cable, Handbrake adjustment, Wheel alignment specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including electrical diagnostics and bodywork repair.
Compatibility:
PC & Mac Compatible (Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT, XP, Vista, 7, 8, etc.)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Quality:
High-quality digital reproduction suitable for printing.
Binding:
Not applicable (Digital Download - PDF format)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (Digital Download - PDF format)
Engine Family:
Rover K-Series
Elise S1 Engine:
1.8L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4
Elise S1 Engine Code:
18K4F
Elise S1 Displacement Cc:
1796
Elise S1 Power Bhp:
118-120 (depending on market/spec)
Elise S1 Torque Lb-Ft:
124
Exige S1 Engine:
1.8L Supercharged Inline-4
Exige S1 Engine Code:
18K4K
Exige S1 Displacement Cc:
1796
Exige S1 Torque Lb-Ft:
148
Elise S2 Engine Early:
1.8L Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (Rover K-Series)
Elise S2 Early Power Bhp:
120
Elise S2 Early Torque Lb-Ft:
121
Exige S2 Engine Early:
1.8L Supercharged Inline-4 (Rover K-Series)
Exige S2 Early Power Bhp:
190
Exige S2 Early Torque Lb-Ft:
170
Elise S1 0 60 Mph Sec:
4.7
Exige S1 0 60 Mph Sec:
4.1
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (95-98 RON recommended)
Injection Type:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for NA, Supercharged with MPI and intercooler.
Gearbox Model:
Lotus PG1 (derived from Rover gearbox)
Optional Gearbox:
None offered during this period.
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch.
Final Drive:
Limited slip differential (LSD) often fitted as standard or option, especially on Exige.
Euro Ncap Rating:
Not applicable for this era/segment of vehicle; crash testing was not standardized as it is today.
ABS:
Optional on early models, standard on later Series 2 and some specific variants.
Traction Control:
Not typically fitted to these early models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard. Passenger airbag optional on some early models, standard on later ones.
Roll Over Protection:
Integrated roll bar structure within the windshield frame and rear hoop, essential for structural integrity.
Head Unit:
Basic integrated radio/cassette or CD player with limited features. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Speakers:
Minimalist speaker setup, often two main speakers in the dashboard or doors.
Cruise Control:
Not typically offered on these models.
Bluetooth:
Not available from the factory.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 12 months or 6,000 miles (10,000 km), whichever comes first.
Major Service Interval:
Typically every 24,000 miles (40,000 km) or 24 months for more in-depth checks and fluid replacements.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG/SH/SJ or ACEA A2-96. Viscosity: 10W/40 (e.g., Castrol Magnatec 10W-40). Check manual for specific grades.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Use a silicate-free type (e.g., Halfords Advanced Coolant or equivalent).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 brake fluid.
Gearbox Oil Specification:
API GL-4 SAE 75W/90. (e.g., Castrol EPX 80W-90 or equivalent - verify exact spec in manual).
Head Gasket Failures:
The Rover K-Series engine is known for potential head gasket failures, often exacerbated by coolant leaks or overheating. Proper maintenance and bleeding are critical.
Clutch Wear:
Can be subject to premature clutch wear due to spirited driving.
Susceptibility To Corrosion:
While the aluminum chassis is inherently resistant to rust, steel subframes and suspension components can be susceptible. Regular inspection and protection are advised.
Founder:
Anthony Colin Bruce Chapman (A.C.B. Chapman)
Philosophy:
"Simplify, then add lightness."
Elise Launch:
Launched in 1996 as a spiritual successor to the Lotus Seven, focusing on pure driving experience.
Exige Launch:
Launched in 2000 as a more track-focused, hardtop variant of the Elise.
Series 2 Introduction:
Series 2 introduced in 2001 with styling updates and chassis refinements.
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, United Kingdom.
Ownership Changes During Period:
Lotus Cars was owned by Bugatti Automobili S.p.A. from 1993 to 1996, and then by Proton Holdings Berhad from 1996 to 2017, covering the entire range of models this manual covers.
Performance Awards:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for class-leading handling and driver feedback. Frequently featured in 'best handling car' lists.
Design Awards:
Praised for its distinctive and timeless styling.
Safety Certification:
Meets all relevant national and international road safety standards for its production period, though specific third-party certifications like Euro NCAP are limited.
