🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Lotus

Model:

Elise

Year:

2001

Chassis Code:

Series 2 (S2)

Vin Start Digit:

S2 1213

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Lotus Elise 2001 is positioned as a lightweight, pure sports car focused on driving dynamics and handling. This manual caters to enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking to maintain and repair this unique vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competes with other minimalist sports cars focusing on driver feedback. This manual provides the specific technical insights needed to keep the Elise in optimal performance condition, distinguishing it from generalized sports car repair guides.

Key Features:

This factory service manual offers detailed, manufacturer-verified information, crucial for preserving the integrity and performance of the Elise's advanced composite chassis and lightweight construction. It's the definitive resource for accurate repairs.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Comprehensive repair and maintenance for Lotus Elise 2001

Page Count:

Approximately 800-1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory service manuals)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed Book (likely spiral-bound or perfect-bound for durability)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical, Engine control systems (ECU), Fuel system, Cooling system, Ignition system, Lubrication system, Exhaust system, Transmission (gearbox), Drivetrain, Clutch, Suspension (front and rear), Steering system, Brake system (hydraulic, ABS), Electrical system (wiring diagrams, components), Bodywork (chassis, panels, interior), HVAC system, Wheels and tires

Procedures Included:

Routine maintenance, Inspection procedures, Component removal and installation, Disassembly and assembly, Troubleshooting guides, Diagnostic procedures, Repair techniques, Adjustments, Specifications and tolerances, Torque values, Wiring harness repair, Lubrication schedules, Fluid capacities and types

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds, detailed electrical troubleshooting, and body repair.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (Printed)

Print Quality:

High-quality paper and printing for durability and clarity of diagrams. Typically includes glossy pages for photographs and schematics.

Binding Type:

Likely spiral-bound or heavy-duty perfect-bound to lay flat on workbenches.

Paper Type:

Durable, possibly coated paper stock to withstand workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

Rover K-Series (KV6 variant)

Engine Displacement:

1.8 Liters (1796 cc)

Engine Configuration:

Inline 4-cylinder, Mid-engine, Rear-wheel drive

Performance Horsepower:

Approx. 135 hp @ 6000 rpm (standard naturally aspirated)

Performance Torque:

Approx. 121 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (standard naturally aspirated)

Fuel System:

Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI) - Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Ignition System:

Electronic Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or Coil-on-Plug (COP)

Cooling System:

Pressurized liquid cooling system with electric fan and coolant reservoir.

Engine Management System:

Lotus/Rover MEMS (Multi-point Engine Management System) or similar ECU, with OBD-II diagnostics.

🔧 Transmission

Standard:

5-speed Manual Transaxle

Optional:

N/A for 2001 model year Elise

Features:

Lightweight, close-ratio gearbox designed for sporty driving. Hydraulic clutch actuation.

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL4 or GL5 Synthetic Gear Oil (specific viscosity to be confirmed in manual, often 75W-90)

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate, diaphragm spring clutch

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Approx. 3790 mm (149.2 in)

Exterior Width:

Approx. 1718 mm (67.6 in)

Exterior Height:

Approx. 1173 mm (46.2 in)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2300 mm (90.6 in)

Weights Curb:

Approx. 725 kg (1598 lbs)

Weights Gross Vehicle:

Approx. 975 kg (2149 lbs)

Interior Seating Capacity:

2

Cargo Capacity:

Minimal, primarily a small front trunk and rear cubby space behind the engine.

🛡️ Safety Features

Ratings:

Not typically rated by major consumer safety organizations due to its specialized nature and low production volume. Focus is on occupant protection through chassis design.

Active Features:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) on some models/markets.

Passive Features:

Reinforced composite passenger cell, driver and passenger airbags, three-point seat belts.

Braking System:

Four-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front and solid rear rotors. ABS available.

Tire Specifications:

Front: 175/55 R16, Rear: 225/45 R17 (common specification, variations exist)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100 mm

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic infotainment typically includes an AM/FM radio with CD player. Audio systems were often aftermarket or dealer-optional.

Driver Assistance:

Limited driver assistance features typical for the era. ABS and Traction Control (if equipped) are the primary electronic aids.

Connectivity:

No advanced connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB ports. Basic analog controls for all functions.

Lighting:

Halogen headlamps. Manual specifies bulb types and replacement procedures.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Change:

Every 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. Check manual for specific recommendation.

Service Intervals Air Filter:

Check at 10,000 miles, replace as needed or every 20,000 miles. Consult manual.

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, dependent on plug type. Refer to manual for specific part number and interval.

Fluid Specifications Engine Oil:

5W-30 or 10W-40 Synthetic Oil (API SJ/SL, ACEA A3/B3 or higher, consult manual for exact spec for K-series engine).

Fluid Specifications Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Pink or orange long-life coolant is often specified. Check manual.

Fluid Specifications Brake Fluid:

DOT 4 High Performance Brake Fluid (check manual for specific type and replacement interval).

Fluid Specifications Clutch Fluid:

DOT 4 Brake Fluid (shared system with brakes on many models, confirm with manual).

Known Issues:

Head gasket failures on K-series engines are a known potential issue, often exacerbated by overheating or poor maintenance. Corrosion on early chassis components, electrical gremlins (particularly related to age/mileage), and clutch slave cylinder issues can occur.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The Rover K-Series is an interference engine. Timing belt replacement is critical, typically every 5 years or 60,000 miles. Consult manual for exact interval and procedure.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Lotus Cars is renowned for its philosophy of 'performance through lightness' and its pioneering work in chassis technology and motorsport. Founded by Colin Chapman.

Model Evolution:

The 2001 Elise represents the second generation (Series 2), introducing a revised chassis, updated styling, and minor powertrain refinements over the original Series 1. It continued to embody the core Lotus principles.

Production:

The Elise Series 2 began production in 2001. The 2001 model year specifically utilizes the Rover K-Series engine before the transition to Toyota powertrains in later years for many markets.

Manufacturing Location:

Hethel, Norfolk, United Kingdom

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Elise range consistently receives accolades for its handling and driving experience from automotive publications worldwide. Specific awards for the 2001 model year might vary but generally reflect its critical acclaim as a pure sports car.

Ratings:

Praised for its 'best handling car' attributes by numerous automotive journalists and publications upon its release and subsequent reviews.