🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Lotus

Model:

Elise / Exige

Applicable Years:

1996-2004

Elise Generation:

Series 1 (1996-2001) & Series 2 (2001-2011, with focus on early models covered by this manual)

Exige Generation:

Series 1 (2000-2001) & Series 2 (2001-2011, with focus on early models covered by this manual)

Chassis Codes Elise:

S1: 111, 111S; S2 (early): 111, 111S, 120, 130

Chassis Codes Exige:

S1: 340R (technical basis); S2 (early): 111, 111S

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Lotus Elise and Exige of this era are renowned for their lightweight construction, pure driving dynamics, and track-focused performance, appealing to enthusiasts and performance car aficionados.

Philosophy:

Lotus vehicles are built around the principle of providing an uncompromised, raw driving experience, focusing on chassis dynamics and driver feedback over outright power or luxury amenities.

Competitors:

Competed against lightweight sports cars and performance coupes such as the Porsche Boxster, Alfa Romeo GTV, and various track-day focused specials. Differentiated by its bonded aluminum chassis and focus on minimalist design and driver feedback.

Unique Selling Points:

Lightweight extruded aluminum chassis, composite body panels, mid-engine RWD layout, exceptional handling and steering feel, naturally aspirated Rover K-Series engines (various configurations), and exclusive British sports car heritage.

📋 Manual Details

Overall Coverage:

Complete service, repair, and maintenance for Lotus Elise and Exige models from 1996 to 2004.

Specific Systems:

Engine, transmission, drivetrain, brakes, suspension, steering, electrical systems, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust, body, interior, and diagnostics.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely extensive, typical for comprehensive workshop manuals, estimated 1000+ pages.

Type:

Professional Workshop Repair Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Availability:

Yes, instant download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanicals (Rover K-Series variants), lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust systems, and clutch/gearbox.

Chassis:

Front and rear suspension (double wishbone, coilover dampers), steering system (rack and pinion), braking system (ABS on some models), wheels, and tires.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, engine management sensors, starter, alternator, battery, and accessory circuits.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal and installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, and HVAC system (where applicable).

Fuel System Detail:

Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump operation and testing, fuel injector cleaning and replacement, fuel pressure regulation.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid level checks and top-ups, spark plug replacement, air filter service.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common faults, electrical system troubleshooting, engine performance issues.

Repair Rebuild:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper servicing, clutch replacement, starter/alternator repair.

Special Procedures:

Suspension alignment, wheel balancing, engine timing adjustment, bleeding brake and clutch systems, airbag system precautions (if applicable).

Engine Management:

Diagnosis and repair of engine control unit (ECU) faults, sensor testing (crankshaft position, camshaft position, throttle position, lambda sensors, etc.), ignition system troubleshooting.

Brake System Repair:

Front and rear brake caliper servicing (piston seals, bleeder screws), disc and pad replacement, brake hose replacement, brake system bleeding procedures.

Suspension And Steering Geometry:

Detailed procedures for checking and adjusting wheel alignment (camber, caster, toe), setting suspension ride height, and replacing steering rack components.

Cooling System Overhaul:

Radiator inspection and cleaning, fan operation and testing, thermostat replacement, heater matrix inspection and replacement.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds. Includes detailed torque specifications and clearances.

Engine Rebuild Detail:

Includes step-by-step instructions for cylinder head removal and gasket replacement, piston and connecting rod removal/installation, crankshaft and bearing checks, valve clearance adjustment (where applicable).

Electrical Diagrams:

Full set of color-coded wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, facilitating accurate troubleshooting and repair of electrical faults.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

High-resolution PDF, viewable on PC, MAC, Tablets, and Smartphones. Searchable text functionality is likely included.

Quality:

Professional quality, featuring clear step-by-step instructions, high-quality images, and detailed wiring diagrams.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital download)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rover K-Series (1.8L DOHC 16-valve inline-4, naturally aspirated and supercharged variants for Exige).

Elise S1 Power:

Typically 118 hp (1.8) to 133 hp (1.8 VVC), with some variants slightly higher.

Elise S2 Power:

133 hp (1.8), 155 hp (1.8 VVC), 160 hp (1.8 Supercharged).

Exige S1 Power:

177 hp (1.8 Supercharged) to 190 hp (1.8 Supercharged VVC).

Exige S2 Power:

177 hp (1.8 Supercharged), 190 hp (1.8 Supercharged VVC), 218 hp (2.0 Supercharged).

Injection Type:

Multi-point fuel injection (MPI) and Lotus Electronic Active Management (EAM) with multi-point injection.

Kseries Variants:

Rover K16 (1.8L), K16 VVC (Variable Valve Control), 18K4C (Supercharged) for Elise/Exige in this period.

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox Type:

5-speed manual transaxle (PG1).

Optional Gearbox:

No commonly documented automatic or alternative manual options for this specific period and models.

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated, single dry plate clutch.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3744 mm (Elise S1/S2)

Width:

Approx. 1690 mm (Elise S1/S2)

Height:

Approx. 1115 mm (Elise S1/S2)

Curb Weight Elise:

Approx. 700-850 kg (depending on model and specification)

Curb Weight Exige:

Approx. 800-950 kg (depending on model and specification)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Notes:

Designed with a focus on lightweight and handling; crash safety is addressed through the integral safety cell of the chassis and composite body crumple zones. Official Euro NCAP ratings for this early period may be limited or non-existent for such low-volume sports cars.

Active Safety:

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) available on some later models and variants. Lightweight construction inherently aids maneuverability.

Passive Safety:

Roll-over hoop/structure integrated into chassis, three-point seatbelts, lightweight composite body panels, driver's airbag (optional/standard on later models).

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic audio systems common for the era, often single-DIN head units with optional CD players or radio. Limited integration with external devices.

Driver Assistance Features:

Limited by modern standards. Focus on pure driving experience means minimal electronic aids, with ABS being a notable exception on some models.

Connectivity Options:

Minimal connectivity. Auxiliary input for audio devices might be present on some aftermarket or later factory units.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 6,000-10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first.

Major Service Interval:

Major services often include timing belt (if applicable to the specific K-Series variant) and other component checks at intervals like 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil Spec:

Refer to manual: commonly SAE 10W-40 or 10W-50 fully synthetic engine oil, e.g., Castrol Edge or equivalent meeting API SN/CF and ACEA A3/B4.

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, typically a pink or orange OAT (Organic Acid Technology) type, e.g., Havoline XLC or G12 equivalent. Capacity ~5.5 liters.

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 high-performance brake fluid.

Gearbox Oil Spec:

Refer to manual: typically a GL-4 or GL-5 synthetic manual transmission fluid. Capacity ~2.2 liters for PG1 gearbox.

Clutch Fluid Spec:

DOT 4 brake fluid (often shared with brake system).

Common Problems:

Head gasket failures (especially on early K-Series without upgraded sealing), coolant leaks, minor electrical gremlins, wear on suspension bushings, clutch slave cylinder leaks, and potential corrosion on subframes if not properly maintained/protected.

Air Conditioning Maintenance:

If equipped, maintenance of the A/C system, including refrigerant recharge and leak detection, is covered.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Lotus Cars, founded by Colin Chapman, is synonymous with innovative engineering, lightweight construction ('Simplify, then add lightness'), and exceptional handling. The Elise and Exige are direct descendants of this philosophy.

Elise Evolution:

The Elise (Series 1) debuted in 1996, replacing the Elan and Esprit in spirit. The Exige, based on the Elise, was introduced in 2000 as a more track-focused variant with a fixed roof. Both saw significant updates with the Series 2 introduction in 2001, though this manual covers the transition and early S2 models.

Manufacturing Location:

Hethel, Norfolk, England.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

The Elise and Exige have consistently been praised by automotive journalists and publications for their exceptional handling, purity of driving experience, and innovative design. Many 'Best Sports Car' or 'Driver's Car' accolades across various automotive media.