Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car
Competitors:
Porsche Boxster, Honda S2000, BMW Z3, Mazda MX-5
Design Philosophy:
Lightweight construction, pure driving experience, minimal driver aids
Chassis Technology:
Extruded aluminum monocoque chassis
Applicable Years:
2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Engine:
Full engine overhaul, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling, fuel, exhaust
Transmission:
Gearbox removal, installation, servicing, clutch system
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, wishbones, geometry adjustment
Brakes:
Brake system overhaul, hydraulic components, caliper servicing, bleeding, parking brake
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, instrumentation, ECU diagnostics
Bodywork:
Body panel removal, fitting, structural components, accident repair guidance
Interior:
Interior trim, seats, dashboard, HVAC system
Wheels Tires:
Wheel and tire specifications, fitment, balancing, and pressure recommendations.
Steering:
Steering rack inspection, servicing, and alignment procedures.
Climate Control:
HVAC system components, operation, and servicing.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, general servicing
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic guides, common problems and solutions, fault finding
Assembly Disassembly:
Detailed instructions for component removal and reinstallation
Diagnostics:
Includes diagnostic procedures for engine management, fuel systems, and electrical faults, leveraging on-board diagnostics (OBD) if applicable for the era.
Painting Refinishing:
Guidance on body panel preparation and painting.
Product Supplies:
Lists recommended products and supplies for maintenance and repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, with detailed diagnostics
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.
Torque Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications for all critical fasteners.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, Mid-engine, Rear-wheel drive
Engine Code:
Rover K-Series (KV6 variants also exist for some models, but S1 typically uses K20)
Displacement:
1796 cc (1.8 Litre)
Horsepower Hp:
118 hp (standard), 135 hp (Rover 200 series engine in some variants)
Torque Lb-Ft:
122 lb-ft (standard), 150 lb-ft (higher output variant)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (RON 95 recommended)
Cylinder Head:
Lotus-designed K-Series, often with Variable Valve Lift (VVL) on higher output models
Crash Test Ratings:
Not typically rated by mainstream agencies due to low production volume and niche market. Emphasis on occupant protection within a stiff monocoque.
ABS:
Optional on some models, generally not standard on early S1s.
Traction Control:
N/A (Not fitted on S1 models)
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard; Passenger airbag optional/not fitted depending on market and year.
Seatbelts:
Four-point racing harnesses or three-point inertia reel seatbelts.
Rollover Protection:
Integrated rollover hoop within the windshield frame and behind the seats.
Oil Change:
Every 12,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter:
Check every 12,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 24,000 miles or as per manual recommendation for K-Series plugs.
Engine Oil:
Castrol EDGE Professional A5 0W-30 or equivalent API SL/ACEA A3/B4 rated synthetic oil.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water. (e.g., Paraflu UP).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (e.g., Castrol RESPONSE DOT 4).
Gearbox Oil:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
Head Gasket:
K-Series engines are known for potential head gasket failures if overheating occurs or if not properly maintained. Use of the correct coolant and oil is critical.
Gearbox Synchromesh:
Some owners report notchy gear changes, especially when cold, which can be improved with correct fluid and driving technique.
Chassis Corrosion:
While the aluminium monocoque is corrosion-resistant, subframes and suspension components can be susceptible to rust if not treated.
Founder:
Anthony Colin Bruce Chapman
Design Philosophy Heritage:
Lightweight, handling, aerodynamics (Massive reduction, aerodynamics, simplicity)
Predecessor:
Lotus Elan (M100)
Successor:
Lotus Elise S2
Manufacturing Location:
Hethel, Norfolk, United Kingdom
