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An odometer (total distance recorder) reading is displayed at
the bottom left hand corner of the panel.
Trip Recorder
of the panel.
A trip distance recorder is provided at the top left hand corner
In order to zero the trip display, switch on the ignition, and press for a moment (less than 1 second), the small button on the steering column shroud ahead of the ignition switch. This dual function button also controls the panel illumination - see ‘Instrument & Switch Illumination’.
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Headlamp switch
Parking lamp switch
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Dashboard Switches
Lighting functions are controlled by two push button switches mounted in the dashboard outboard of the steering column. Each switch is pressed once to switch on, and pressed a second time to switch off. A symbol is positioned alongside each switch to indicate its function, and is backlit orange when the lights are switched on.
Parking Lamps Switch
The upper switch functions with or without the ignition, and switches on the front and rear parking lamps, side marker lamps and instrument/switch illumination. A tell tale in the switch button lights up green to indicate when the circuit is active.
Note that the headlamps must be off before the parking lamps
can be switched off.
Headlamp Switch
The lower switch functions with or without ignition, and switches on the headlamps together with the parking lamps, side marker lamps and instrument/switch illumination. A tell tale in the switch button lights up green to indicate when the circuit is active. The steering column lever switch (see later) is used to select high or low beam.
Pressing the switch a second time will switch off the head-
lamps, but leave on the parking lamps.
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Hazard warning switch
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‘Lights On’ Buzzer
If the lights are on when the ignition is switched off, a ‘lights on’
reminder buzzer will sound when the driver’s door is opened.
Hazard Warning Lamps Switch
The hazard warning switch is located in the trim shroud just ahead of the gear lever, and has an icon in the switch button which is back lit when the ignition is switched on. The switch is operative at all times, and when pressed, flashes in unison all the turn indicator lamps, the turn lamps tell tale and the hazard switch icon. Press a second time to switch off.
This switch should be used when the car has to be stopped on the highway in an emergency, or in other situations where a warning to other traffic needs to be relayed. Use of the hazard warning lamps may be subject to local traffic laws, with which drivers should familiarise themselves.
WARNING: If stalled or stopped for emergency repairs, move the car well off the road, switch on the hazard warning lamps and mark the car with other warning devices as available to reduce the risk of a collision.
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INSTRUMENT ILLUMINATION BUTTON
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Instrument Illumination
A small button is provided on the steering column shroud ahead of the ignition switch, by which the brightness of the electroluminescent instrument illumination may be adjusted. To cycle through the range of brightness, press and hold the button, and release at the desired setting.
This dual function button also resets the trip distance recorder
- see ‘Trip Recorder’.
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AUXILIARY POWER SOCKET
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Auxiliary Power Socket
An auxiliary power socket is fitted in the centre trim shroud below the oddments pocket on the rear bulkhead. The socket is operative at all times, and is provided with a protective hinged flap.
The format of the socket allows a standard cigarette lighter element to be used, or other electrical accessories requiring this type of fitting. Maximum current draw should not exceed 15 amps.
WARNING: Do not leave small children unattended in the car since careless interference with the power socket could be dangerous and result in burn injuries or the initiation of a car fire.
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Right turn
Left turn
High beam
Low beam
Flash
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COLUMN SWITCHES & HORN
Headlamp High/Low Beam/Flasher/Turn Indicators
The steering column left hand lever switch controls the headlamps high and low beams, headlamp flasher and turn indicators.
Headlamp High/Low Beam: To switch on the headlamps, press the headlamp switch in the dashboard outboard of the steering column. The left hand lever switch is then used to select high or low beam. High beam is obtained with the lever furthest forward, away from the steering wheel, and low beam with the lever moved back towards the wheel. The high beam tell tale lamp in the instrument panel lights when high beam is operating.
Note that when high beam is selected, the low beam lamps
remain lit.
NOTICE: The headlamps used on the Elise provide a beam pat- tern which differs from regular USA headlamps. Take a moment to familiarise yourself with the spread of light.
Headlamp Flasher: The headlamp flasher is operative at all times. The high beam lamps will light for as long as the lever switch is pulled towards the steering wheel against spring pressure.
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Wiper
Washer
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Turn Indicators: The turn indicators operate only with the ignition switched on. Move the lever down to indicate a left hand turn, and up for a right hand turn. The switch will be cancelled when the steering wheel is returned to the straight ahead position.
For convenience, when signalling a lane change, lightly pressing the switch up or down will allow its return under spring action.
Windscreen Wiper/Washer
The steering column right hand lever switch controls the windscreen wiper and washer, and is operative only with the ignition switched on.
NOTICE: • Never use the wiper on a dry screen. This may overload the
mechanism and/or scratch the screen.
• Ensure that snow is cleared from the windscreen before
operating the wiper.
Windscreen Wiper: The wiper is controlled by the up/down position of the lever switch, which operates as follows: Moved fully down, the wiper is switched off. Move up to the first position for intermittent wipe. The wiper will make one sweep about every five seconds. Select the next position for normal wiper operation. Move fully upwards for quick wipe, to be used only in heavy
rain.
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HORN BUTTONS
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Windscreen Washer: Two windscreen washer jets are provided, one each side of the wiper spindle. Pulling the control lever to- wards the steering wheel will operate both the washer pump and the wiper. When the switch is released, the wiper will continue for a further four sweeps.
Horn
The windtone horn, which functions at all times, is operated by a button, embossed with a bugle symbol, in each of the horizontal steering wheel spokes.
AUDIO EQUIPMENT
Operating instructions for the unit fitted are contained in a separate booklet supplied by the equipment manufacturer. The audio set will operate for convenience without the ignition key, so in order to avoid draining the battery, take care to switch off the set when leaving the car. Aerial: An analogue di-pole type radio aerial is routed inside the front body for optimum performance, and to avoid the vandalism and accidental damage which may occur to external aerials. Speakers: Two rear speakers, with 90W peak, 30W RMS, are mounted at each side of the cabin rear bulkhead trim panel. Front speakers, fitted beneath each side of the dashboard top panel are rated at 105W peak, 35W RMS. Security: Some audio sets feature a removable front panel, and others a programmable security card. For details, refer to the manufacturer’s literature.
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INTERIOR CLIMATE CONTROLS
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HEATING, VENTILATION & AIR CONDITIONING
The small size of the Elise together with the method of construction and emphasis on lightweight, have resulted in heating and a.c. sytems which perform well under non-extreme climatic conditions. In extreme temperatures and humidity the operational limits of the systems may be reached before the desired temperature, or rate of temperature change inside the car is achieved.
The heating and ventilation controls comprise three rotary switches to regulate; heater temperature, fan speed and air dis- tribution. Push button switches are provided for air conditioning and air re-circulation.
Air Conditioning
The left hand push button selects air conditioning, but the following conditions must first be met before the system will operate: • The engine must be running; • A fan speed must be selected; • Ambient temperature must be above 3°C.
With a fully cold temperature setting, refrigerated air will be supplied. For dehumidified warm air, select air conditioning in conjunction with a warm temperature setting.
The tell tale in the switch button will light up blue when the circuit is active. Note that the a.c. will default to ‘off’ when the ignition is turned off.
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Temperature
Fan Speed
Distribution
Air conditioning
Air re-circulation
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Air Re-circulation
The air supply for the interior climate system is normally drawn from both the car interior and from the fresh air intake duct ahead of the engine cooling radiator. When the re-circulation button is pressed, the fresh air intake port is closed down to provide 90% re-circulation air supply to the cabin interior. The re-circulation facility should be used when maximum refrigeration is desired. The tell tale in the switch button will light up blue when the
circuit is active.
Heater Temperature
With the left hand rotary control turned fully counterclockwise, no heating is provided. If cooled air is required, use this tem- perature position in conjunction with air conditioning.
Turning the control progressively clockwise provides in- creasing levels of heat until at the fully clockwise position, maximum heat is supplied.
Fan Speed
The centre rotary switch provides three fan speeds to boost air circulation. Turned fully counterclockwise, the fan is off; Turning the switch progressively clockwise operates the blower fan at increasing speed in three steps.
Note that the fan operates only with the ignition switched on.
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Air Distribution
The right hand rotary control determines the distribution of airflow to the various outlet vents. A few moments should be allowed for the flaps to operate following a new selection:
Face Level:
Turned fully counterclockwise, all airflow is directed to the four face level vents, each of which may be manipulated to adjust volume and direction.
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Footwell:
As the control is turned clockwise from the face level vents symbol towards the footwell symbol, an increasing proportion of airflow is directed towards the footwell vents.
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Demist:
As the control is turned clockwise from the footwell symbol to the windscreen symbol, more airflow is directed to the wind- screen vents. Select a warm temperature setting and a suitable fan speed.
Full Defrost Performance
For maximum defrost performance, turn the distribution knob fully clockwise and select maximum temperature and fan speed.For optimum demisting in ambient temperatures above 38°F (+3°C), switching on the a.c. will help de-humidify the air directed to the screen.
Ventilation Shut-Off
To close off the ventilation, which you may want to do in heavy traffic to reduce fumes coming into the car, select re-circulation, turn off the fan, turn the distribution control fully counterclock- wise to the face level vent position, and manually shut off each of the face level vents.
Engine Bay Ventilation
The engine bay is ventilated via intake ducts in the body sides and engine undertray, with outlet grilles provided in the engine cover and rear valance.
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DRIVING CONTROLS
Foot Pedals
The clutch pedal, brake pedal and accelerator pedal are ar- ranged in the usual positions, and are grouped closely together for ready access and refined driving technique.
WARNING: Do not attempt to drive the car without suitable narrow soled, flat heeled footwear. Bare feet may inhibit the ap- plication of full pressure to the brake pedal, and adversely affect your control of the car. Bare feet could also suffer burns from sun heated metal surfaces in the car
Footwell Carpets
WARNING: It is essential that any floor covering in the footwell is properly secured. Loose mats can interfere with the opera- tion of the pedals causing possible loss of control and a crash in which you or others could be killed or seriously injured.
The carpets fitted in the footwells of the Elise are secured by two button screws at the rear, and Velcro strips beneath the front edge. Always ensure that the carpets are replaced and secured correctly, and never fit any loose mats on top.
Clutch Pedal
NOTICE: • To avoid unnecessary clutch wear, do not, for more than a few moments, slip the clutch to ‘hold’ the car on a slope; apply the parking brake until ready to drive off.
• The clutch pedal must be fully depressed during each
gear shift.
• Do not drive with the left foot resting on the clutch pedal, as rapid wear of the clutch components can result. A left foot rest is provided for comfort and convenience.
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Footbrake
Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels of the Elise. These are operated by separate front and rear hydraulic circuits, supplied from a tandem master cylinder with vacuum servo. Anti-lock control is provided by a microprocessor based electro-hydraulic unit, integrated into the base braking system.
The braking system is designed to provide good pedal feed- back, with efficient disc cooling to inhibit brake fade. With a new car, or new brake system components, maximum braking efficiency will be achieved if, for the first few hundred miles, needless heavy braking is avoided. Allow the brake pads and discs to ‘bed in’ fully before using the brakes to their full potential. Pedal effort will reduce as the brakes are bedded in, and as they are warmed from cold to normal working temperature. Note that the hard grade pad material may give rise to a certain amount of brake noise under some conditions; such noise is not harmful and does not affect the life or efficiency of the brakes.
WARNING:
• After driving through a ford, or a flooded road, some loss of braking response may be experienced until the brakes have dried out. As soon as it is safe to do so after such an encounter, apply the brakes until normal operation is restored. Failure to do so may result in an accident in which you or others may be killed or seriously injured.
• The brake assistance servo uses vacuum supplied from the engine intake plenum, such that assistance is avail- able only when the engine is running. Never coast down- hill with the engine stopped. If this situation accidently arises, avoid repeated application of the brakes, or the stored vacuum supply will be rapidly used up. Greater pedal pressures will be required. This may adversely affect performance of the brakes which may result in an accident in which you or others may be killed or seriously injured.
Anti-lock Brake System
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) is used to optimise brake performance in extreme conditions and reduce the potential for any wheel to lock up. Under most conditions, the maximum braking force is provided by a wheel which is rotating at about 90% of road speed. Apart from the likelihood of increasing the
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stopping distance, a locked wheel provides little or no steering force, such that with both front wheels locked, movement of the steering wheel has no effect on car direction. With the anti-lock system, even panic braking results in controlled deceleration and the retention of steering response. ABS is especially ad- vantageous when braking on slippery road surfaces and in bad driving conditions, but it is important to realise that the ABS cannot increase the friction level at the road surface, but can only make optimum use of the grip available.
WARNING: When driving in adverse weather, or on poor road sur- faces, always be alert to the possibility of slippery condi- tions and make the necessary allowance for increased stop- ping distances. Failure to do so may result in an accident in which you or others may be killed or seriously injured.
Normal braking, controlled by the pressure applied to the brake pedal, occurs when the road conditions allow for decel- eration to be achieved without danger of wheel lock. The relative speeds of the four wheels are continuously monitored by the ABS when the brakes are applied, and if one or more wheels begin to lock, the brake pressure to that wheel(s) is modulated by the ABS to help keep the wheel rotating and provide the maximum controlled braking force. The wheels may appear to lock momentarily as the wheel speed rapidly changes, and some tire noise (intermittent screeching) may be heard which is normal and will vary with road and tire conditions. Note that the ABS does not function at speeds below 5 mph (7 km/h).
When the ABS is activated, the driver is will feel a ‘pulsing’ sensation at the brake pedal as the fluid pressure is modulated, and also by audible clicking sounds. These signals indicate to the driver that maximum braking is occuring, and that driving style should be modified to suit the conditions.
The minimum stopping distance is achieved by applying the brakes firmly and steadily, and allowing the ABS to modulate hydraulic pressure. The driver should not attempt to emulate this process by ‘pumping’ the brake pedal, as modulation at the pedal will treat all four wheels similarly, rather than the individual wheel control allowed by the electronics.
An ABS tell tale lamp in the instrument panel is provided to warn of any problems in the system and to indicate that the
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integral self diagnostics have switched out the anti-lock function. See ‘ABS tell tale lamp’.
WARNING:
• The increased control that ABS provides should not induce you to take more risks with your safety. ABS will not prevent a skid caused by abrupt steering movements, or attempting to corner too quickly.
• Always maintain a safe following distance from other cars relative to the road surface and weather conditions. Obey all traffic laws.
• Risk of accidents due to inappropriate speed cannot be reduced even by ABS. The driver is responsible for the judgement of safe speed.
• The control unit of the ABS is set for standard tire size. If non-standard Tires are fitted, the control unit may mis- interpret the speed of the car, because of the variant data it receives from the wheel speed sensors. Fitting non standard tires would seriously affect the performance of your ABS.
• The amber ABS tell tale in the instrument panel should light for about 4 seconds following ignition switch on, and then go out. If the lamp remains lit, or comes on whilst driving, a fault in the anti-lock brake system is indicated. The base brake system will continue to operate normally, but without ABS. The car can be driven but should be checked and repaired at the earliest opportunity.
• Activation of the ABS will vary according to the level of grip available at the Tires. On dry surfaces, activation will occur only with a high pedal pressure. On slippery surfaces, only a low pressure will be needed.
• On loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, a car with ABS may need a longer stopping distance. Allow a greater distance between cars in these conditions.
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PARKING BRAKE LEVER
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Parking Brake
The parking brake, which operates on only the rear wheels is applied by a hand lever mounted between the seats. A red tell tale icon in the instrument cluster warns of parking brake application (see ‘Tell Tale Lamps’).
The brake should be applied by pulling up the lever with high effort, and engaging the highest ratchet setting attainable. When parking the car on a slope take the additional precaution of leav- ing the transmission in first (facing downhill) or reverse (facing uphill) gear and steering the wheels towards the kerb.
WARNING: If the parking brake is applied when the brakes are hot (e.g. after prolonged or frequent hard use), special care should be taken to ensure that the parking brake is securely engaged in order to allow for any potential brake force reduction as the discs cool. Failure to do so may result in the car rolling away and causing an accident in which you or others may be killed or seriously injured.
To release the brake, pull up the lever, press and hold the release button in the end of the handgrip, and lower the lever fully. Before driving off, always check that the parking brake has been fully released, as confirmed by the tell tale icon being turned off, or damage to the brake system may be caused.
Note that the parking brake uses a cable mechanism to apply the rear brake calipers, and is totally independent of the footbrake hydraulic circuit.
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GEAR CHANGE PATTERN
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Gear Lever
The gear lever is spring biased towards the 3rd/4th gear plane, and must be moved against light spring pressure to the left be- fore selecting first or second gear, or against similar pressure to the right before selecting 5th or 6th speed.
Engaging Reverse Gear: With the car at a complete standstill, pause for a moment with the clutch pedal fully depressed before moving the lever to the left, raising the lift collar beneath the knob, and then further to the left over a spring detent before finally pushing forwards to engage the gear.
When changing gear, it is essential that the transmission is not abused by ‘power shifting’; the clutch pedal must be fully depressed during each gear shift, and the throttle pedal eased during upshifts.
NOTICE: Gearshifting without correct operation of the clutch and throttle controls can result in severe damage to the transmission and engine. Any damage caused by driving in this way will not be covered by the Limited Warranty.
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STARTING PROCEDURE & ENGINE BREAK-IN
WARNING: CARBON MONOXIDE - Be aware of the danger of carbon monoxide! Never run the engine in an enclosed space. The exhaust gases contain carbon monoxide, a deadly gas which is particularly dangerous, as being colourless odour- less and tasteless, its presence is very difficult to detect.
Before starting the engine, always check that the parking brake is firmly applied, the transmission is in neutral, and as an extra precaution, depress the clutch pedal. Switch off any unnecessary electrical loads.
Starting a Cold or Warm Engine The fuel injection and engine management system controls fuel delivery and engine settings under all normal operating conditions.
i) Insert the key into the steering lock/ignition switch and turn to position ‘l’ to unlock the column. Before turning on the igni- tion; if the security tell tale in the tachometer face is flashing, mobilise the engine by pressing once, and for a full second, the larger of the two buttons on the transmitter fob.
ii) Turn the key to position ‘II’ to switch on the ignition, and pause
for a moment to allow the fuel system to prime.
iii) Depress the clutch pedal as a precaution, and without moving the accelerator, press the ‘Start’ button at the left hand end of the dashboard to engage the starter motor. Release the button as soon as the engine starts. Allow a cold engine to idle for 10 seconds before driving off, but if ambient temperatures are below freezing, allow the engine and screen heating systems to warm up for a few minutes before driving.
iv) If the engine fails to start within 15 seconds, stop cranking
and pause for 10 seconds before a second attempt.
v) If further efforts are unsuccessful, contact your dealer or seek
other expert help.
WARNING: An unattended car with a running engine is potentially
hazardous. Turn off the engine before leaving the car.
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NOTICE: The use of wide throttle openings and/or high rpm before the engine has reached normal running temperature will result in premature wear, and should be avoided.
Idle Speed
Engine idle speed is controlled electronically by the engine management computer, and is normally about 850 rpm. A raised idle speed is required under certain operating conditions including the engine warm up phase, when the increased speed helps the catalytic converter to reach operating temperature, as well as inhibiting engine stall. Idle speed will return to normal automatically when the engine has warmed sufficiently.
Engine Break-In
Although the Elise powertrain is built to close tolerances using modern technology, the progressive and sympathetic breaking-in (or bedding-in) of a new engine and transmission remains a major factor in attaining efficient operation with smooth, durable and economic performance to last throughout the life of the car.
NOTICE: Failure to comply with the following break-in provi-
sions could invalidate the terms of the car warranty:
It is important during the car’s early life to limit the workload on the engine and thus control the heat generated within it, which is primarily a function of throttle opening and rpm. However, being too sympathetic on the car will not allow the piston rings to bed in satisfactorily, so a balance of spirited and gentle use is required. For the first 600 miles (1,000 km), use no more than moderate throttle openings (about half of the available accelerator pedal travel) and do not run the engine continuously at engine speeds over 4,500 rpm. Occasional short bursts at wider throttle and higher rpm will be beneficial, as will a constantly changing cruis- ing speed and making full use of the gearbox. Do not allow the engine to labour in too high a gear ratio, but change down and let the engine operate in its natural power band.
When changing gear, use only a light touch on the gear lever. Forcing the change will cause unnecessary wear on the system components and result in higher shift efforts being required. Al- low the brakes to bed-in by avoiding needless heavy braking for the first 100 miles (160 km). Both gearchange and brake pedal
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efforts are likely to reduce during the break-in process.
After 600 miles (1,000 km) have been covered, full throttle and/or maximum rpm may be used for short periods, but not until the first ‘After Sales’ service has been carried out should full car performance be exploited.
Note that various operating parameters are continuously monitored and recorded in the engine electronic controller. This data may be downloaded by Lotus dealers on demand to assist fault diagnosis and identify vehicle misuse.
Tires: New tires also require a short ‘break-in’ period before providing optimum grip.
Engine Special Features
The engine of the Elise is designated VVTL-i for ‘Variable Valve Timing and Lift - intelligent’. Using microprocessor control, the inlet camshaft timing is advanced or retarded according to immediate operating conditions, and the lift of both inlet and exhaust valves is increased at high engine speed. This technol- ogy is used to provide high power output whilst retaining good low speed response.
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EXTERNAL OPERATIONS
Fuel Requirement
USE UNLEADED PREMIUM GRADE GASOLINE. Use only unleaded gasoline meeting ASTM specifications. Use of fuels not meeting ASTM specifications could cause poor performance and increase emissions.
For optimum car performance and fuel economy, the use of super or premium unleaded gasoline, with a minimum octane rating of 91 (RON+MON)/2 is recommended. Where super or premium fuel is not available, the Elise will operate satisfactorily on unleaded gasoline having a minimum rating of 87 (RON+MON)/2, but car performance and economy will be reduced.
Using fuel with a lower octane rating may cause knocking (pinking) which, if severe, can cause serious engine damage. Light knocking may occasionally be heard for short periods when accelerating or driving up hills, and this should cause no concern, although using a lower gear would be advised. If, however, you hear persistent heavy knocking when using the specified fuel, consult your dealer without delay.
The use of good quality fuels containing proper detergent ad- ditives is advised for good performance and emission control.
NOTICE: Do NOT use leaded fuel: damage caused by the use of leaded or other improper fuel is not covered by the New Car or Emission Control System Warranty. The effectiveness of the catalytic converter decreases after as little as one tankful of leaded fuel. Also, the car is fitted with a fuel injection system which includes an oxygen sensor. Leaded fuel will damage the sensor, and cause emission control to deteriorate.
Gasolines Containing Alcohol - Some gasolines sold at service stations contain alcohol although they may not be so identified. Use of fuels containing alcohol is not recommended, unless the nature of the blend can be determined as being satisfactory.
Gasohol - A mixture of 10% ethanol (grain alcohol) and 90% unleaded gasoline may be used in the Lotus Elise. If driveabil- ity problems are experienced as a result of using gasohol, it is recommended that the car is operated on gasoline.
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Methanol - Do not use gasolines containing methanol (wood alcohol). Use of this type of alcohol can result in car performance deterioration and damage to critical parts in the fuel system. Fuel system damage and car performance problems, resulting from the use of gasolines containing methanol, may not be covered by your car warranty.
Fuels Containing MMT - Some North American fuels contain methylcyclopentadienyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT), which is an octane enhancing additive. Such fuels may damage the emission control system and are NOT recommended.
Diesel - The Lotus Elise will not operate on diesel fuel.
Fuel Filling
WARNING:
• Gasoline and its attendant fumes are highly explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel. Before stopping at a filling station, switch off mobile phones and other electronic equipment, ensure that all cigarettes are extinguished and that no naked flames or other potential ignition sources are present. Switch off the engine before refuelling.
• Remove the filler cap slowly to allow any pressure to bleed off gradually. Hasty removal may result in a small amount of fuel spray with a possible health or fire hazard.
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FUEL FILLER FLAP & CAP
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Filler Cap: The fuel filler cap is located in the right hand rear quarter panel, concealed beneath a spring loaded flap.
To remove, pull open the flap and turn the cap anticlockwise. As the cap is turned, any slight pressure differential between the tank and atmosphere will be released, and a brief hiss may be heard, which is completely normal. Note that the cap is tethered by a short strap to protect against loss.
To refit, place the cap into the filler neck and turn clockwise until the ratchet mechanism clicks several times. Push the flap closed.
Filling Procedure: Insert the pump nozzle fully into the neck, and fill until the auto-shut off mechanism is triggered. Do not attempt to ‘brim’ the tank to the top of the filler neck, as expansion of the fuel due to temperature change (cold underground fuel storage) may cause flooding of the fuel tank breather system charcoal canister, or spillage of fuel.
The useable fuel tank capacity is 10.6 U.S. gall. (40 litres).
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REMOVING ACCESS PANEL
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Front Service Access Panels
The front body has two removable access panels to allow servicing of the brake/clutch fluid reservoir and main fusebox.
To remove an access panel: Use the hexagonal key supplied in the car tool kit (in the battery cover rear pocket), to release the single threaded fastener securing the outboard corner of the panel, and withdraw the panel from the two locating holes in the front body spine.
Guard against the lightweight panel being blown away and
damaged by a strong wind.
To refit a panel: Hook the extended lip on the front edge of the panel beneath the rear edge of the louvre panel before engaging the two locating pegs on the inboard side of the access panel with the holes in the front body spine. Fit the single screw at the outboard corner of the panel into the captive nut in the body, taking care not to cross-thread or overtighten the screw. Re-stow the hexagonal key in the tool kit.
WARNING: Ensure the access panels are refitted and properly se-
cured before driving.
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REAR LID RELEASE
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Engine Cover/Trunk Lid
rear luggage compartment.
The engine cover/trunk lid provides access to the engine and
To open the lid: Insert the key into the lock and turn clockwise. When released, a spring plunger will lift the lid sufficiently to allow it to be raised fully by hand. Support the lid by engaging the prop provided on the trunk bulkhead, in the slotted plate adjacent to the latch mechanism.
WARNING:
• When using the rear luggage compartment, beware of any hot surfaces exposed in the engine bay. Touching hot surfaces could cause serious burns.
• Before closing the lid, ensure that no persons or objects
will be trapped. If necessary, protect and/or secure heavy objects as required.
•
To close: Stow the support prop in its bulkhead clip, and, keeping fingers well clear of entrapment, and ensuring that no obstruction is present, lower the lid. Fully engage the latch mechanism by pressing down on the lid just forward of the key lock, NOT at the extreme rear end of the panel.
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EMERGENCY RELEASE HANDLE(viewed from lid underside)
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WARNING: The maximum weight of goods which may be carried in the trunk is 110 lb (50 kg). Exceeding this limit can overload the Tires and affect the handling of the car, and result in a crash in which you or others could be killed or seriously injured. Refer also to the ‘Tires’ section in this handbook.
Child Entrapment
If a child should become trapped in the rear luggage com- partment, an emergency internal release handle is provided to facilitate their escape.
To release the latch, pull the fluorescent handle on the un-
Parents should decide if their children should be shown how
derside of the lid.
to use this feature.
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REMOVABLE ROOF CONCEPT
The Lotus Elise has been designed to exploit the pleasures of open top motoring, the better to enjoy exposure to the natu- ral environment, without the restrictions and confinement of a cockpit roof.
In order to provide some weather protection to the occupants and car interior, and allow the continued enjoyment of the car in unfavourable weather conditions, a simple hard or soft top roof may be fitted. The constant changing of loads and strains to which a car is subject to when driving on roads, and the tolerances required to allow for repeated removal and refitting of the roof, means that minor wind noise, and seepage at joints between the roof, body and doors cannot be completely sealed in certain areas. Therefore small leaks are considered normal for this model.
NOTICE: Do not take the car through an automatic car wash. The soft top may suffer damage by the brushes or suffer leaks due to the high pressure water streams directed in areas which would not apply in normal driving conditions.
WARNING: The soft or hard top roofs should be removed only whilst the car is safely parked. Do not attempt to remove the soft or hard top roof whilst the car is in motion.
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FITTING ROOF STAYS
Arrows point forward
Rear end keyway
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Soft Top Roof - Fitting
WARNING: Do not attempt to fit the soft top roof whilst the car is in motion. This could cause a crash in which you or others could be killed or seriously injured.
1. From its stowage bag in the rear luggage compartment, with- draw the roof assembly and support stays. Lower both door windows, or open both doors.
2. Insert the two, identical, roof support stays, with the arrows pointing forwards, into the slots above the rear window, and in the windscreen header rail. Note that the slots are keyed to allow fitment of the stays in only the correct orientation.
3. Lay the soft top roof across the centre of the roof space with
the arrows on the side rails pointing forwards.
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FITTING SIDERAIL
Spigot pin
Spring loaded pin
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4. Roll out the left hand side of the roof, and engage the spigot pin on the front and rear end of the rail, into the uppermost slot in the latch blocks at the front and rear of the roof aperture.
5. Ensure that the tensioning cables at the front and rear edges of the roof canopy are correctly located in the channels be- tween the seal and body before rotating the left hand side rail downwards. Ensure that both spring loaded pins ‘click’ into their ramped slots indicating that latching is complete. Pull up on the side rail to check security.
6. On the right hand side of the car, repeat steps (4) and (5) for
the second side rail.
NOTICE: Engaging the left hand roof side rail first, will minimise the possibility of the canopy tensioning cable adjusters causing damage to the roof seals.
WARNING: Before driving check that the roof is secure by pulling upwards on each end of both side rails. An inproperly fitted or insecure roof could cause serious injury or death to car occupants or other road users.
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RELEASING ROOF SIDE RAIL
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Soft Top - Removal
WARNING: Do not attempt to remove the soft top roof whilst the car is in motion. This could cause a crash in which you or others could be killed or seriously injured.
1. With the car stationary, open both doors or lower both door
windows.
2. On the inside face of the right hand roof side rail, locate the two latch release levers: Pull the two lever handles towards each other to release the side rail latches (press down on the side rail if necessary to relieve the load on the latch pins), and rotate the rail upwards to release the canopy tension.
3. Repeat step (2) for the left hand side rail.
NOTICE: Releasing the right hand roof side rail first, will minimise the possibility of the canopy tensioning cable adjusters causing damage to the roof seals.
4. Free the front and rear tensioning cables from the gutters be- fore carefully rolling up each side of the roof canopy towards the centre. Lift the roof assembly off the car, and pack in the roof bag.
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5. Unhook the two roof stays and pack in the roof bag. Stow the
bag in the rear luggage compartment.
NOTICE: If the roof is not fully dry, it should be stowed for no longer than 1 or 2 days before unrolling or refitting and allowing to air dry completely. Prolonged stowage of a wet or damp roof will promote rotting of the fabric.
HARD TOP ROOF
NOTICE: • The hard top roof has been designed to provide a seasonal, rather than single trip option. Some owners may prefer to entrust the fitting and removal of the hard top roof to their dealer.
• When stowing the roof off the car, care should be taken to avoid damage to the roof corners; e.g. use a suitable soft floor covering on which to stand the roof. Note that there is no provision for on-board hard top roof stowage.
• Fitment or removal of the hardtop is made considerably easier
with the assistance of a second person.
• Use only the ‘Torx’ tool supplied in the car tool kit (in the battery cover rear pocket), to tighten or release the roof fixing screws.
• The hardtop roof fixings are tethered to the roof panel to guard
against their loss.
WARNING: Take care to avoid trapping hands or fingers when fitting
or removing the hard top.
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FRONT SPIGOT BRACKET
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Hard Top - Fitting 1. Open both doors, and preferably with the aid of an assistant, lower the roof onto the car holding aside the loose tethered fixings to avoid their entrapment or their causing paint damage. Position the rear edge of the roof first before locating the front edge against the windscreen header rail.
2. Locate a front spigot bracket into its latch plate lower slot (lifting the roof slightly to allow this) and retain to the roof with the Torx bolt. Use only the special Torx tool supplied in the car tool kit (stowed in the battery cover pocket), and do not fully tighten at this stage.
3. Repeat step (2) for the opposite front spigot bracket.
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FITTING REAR HOOK BRACKET
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4. Engage a rear hook bracket with the lower tongue on its rear latch plate, and retain to the roof with the Torx bolt. Use only the special tool supplied, and do not fully tighten at this stage. Ensure that the hook is fully located onto the tongue.
5. Repeat step (4) for the opposite rear hook bracket.
6. Push the roof fully forwards before tightening the front spigot brackets using only the special Torx tool supplied. Hold each rear hook bracket in alignment whilst tightening the single fixing screw for each bracket. Do not overtighten.
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REAR CORNER COVER PANEL
7. Fit the trimmed cover panels to each rear corner of the roof, noting that the panels are handed for left and right sides. Press the panels firmly into position fully to engage the ‘Velcro’ fixing patches.
WARNING: Do not drive the car with the cover panels removed. Injury could result from contact with the roof brackets in a car collision.
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WINDSCREEN HEADER TRIM
8. Using the special tool provided, install the windscreen header cover panel by locating first with the central screw, and then by the outer screws before tightening in the same order.
WARNING:
• Do not drive the car with the trim cover panels removed. Injury could result from contact with the roof brackets in a car collision.
• Before driving check that the roof is secure by pulling upwards on each corner in turn. If any upward movement is evident, check the correct fitment of all mounting brack- ets. An insecure or incorrectly fitted roof could cause death or serious injury to other road users or a crash in which you or others could be killed or seriously injured.
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WINDSCREEN HEADER TRIM
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Hard Top - Removal
WARNING: Do not attempt to remove the hard top roof whilst the car is moving. Serious injury or death could result from an unsecured roof panel.
1. Open both doors.
2. Using the special tool supplied, release the three Torx screws securing the windscreen header trim panel, and remove the panel.
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FRONT CORNER SPIGOT BRACKET
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3. Using the special tool supplied, slacken the Torx screw se- curing each front corner spigot bracket to the roof, but do not yet remove the screws.
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REAR HOOK BRACKET
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4. Pull off the trim cover from each rear corner of the roof panel and remove the screw securing the hook bracket to the latch plate at each rear corner.
5. Remove the two front corner bracket fixing screws and lift the front edge of the roof slightly to release the front brackets from their latch plate slots.
6. With the aid of an assistant, lift the roof from the car taking care to restrain the tethered brackets to avoid damaging the paintwork.
7. If storing the roof vertically, take care to avoid damaging the
panel corners by using a protective floor covering.
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SERVICING AND MAINTENANCE
BODYCARE
Body Features
Lotus are among the world leaders in the field of automotive composite moulding design and manufacturing techniques. Composite materials have major advantages for specialist car bodies, and these brief notes introduce some features of the construction and service properties of automotive composite bodies.
The manufacturing process enables the thickness of com- posite mouldings to be varied in order to provide efficient structures of high strength and low weight. Composites will not corrode, so the strength of composite components is retained regardless of age, unless physical damage is sustained. On the Elise, the body construction utilises several mouldings to form a single unit for the whole of the nose and front wings, and a second unit for the whole of the rear body aft of the doors. These two moulded assemblies are fixed using threaded fasten- ers to permit easy removal for access to chassis or powertrain components, or to allow simple and economic accident repair. Other composite mouldings include the door shells, sills, front access panels, windscreen frame and rear bulkhead, some panels being bonded to the aluminium alloy chassis with an elastomeric adhesive.
Several different processes are used to manufacture the various panels depending on the functional requirements, with the main outer panels using an injection compression mould- ing technique which eliminates the ‘gelcoat’ used on the outer surface of conventionally manufactured composite panels. This process provides considerably increased resistance to surface damage from minor knocks, where a conventional composite panel would suffer cracking of the gel coat, or a steel panel be- come dented. If severe damage is caused to a composite panel where the underlying structure is broken, repairs may take the form of panel replacement, or of panel repair using techniques where new composite material is integrated with the old to result in undiminished panel strength.
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NOTICE: The Elise is not equipped with conventional separate shock absorbing bumpers, so extra care should be taken when parking to guard against body damage. The Lotus Elise does not offer the same kind and degree of impact resistance or energy absorption afforded by conventional U.S. bumper sys- tems. Care is also required, due to the low ground clearance, to guard against car underside damage caused by ramps, kerbs and road humps.
Paint Care
The acrylic enamel finish of the Lotus Elise is extremely resistant to all normal forms of atmospheric attack. Following the simple maintenance procedure summarised below will help retain the gloss, colour and protective properties of the paint throughout the life of the car. However, car finishes are not im- mune to damage and amongst the more common causes of deterioration are:
- Atmospheric contaminants; dust, soot, ash, and acidic or
alkaline aerosol mist can chemically attack paint.
- Abrasion; blowing sand and dust, or a dirty washing cloth. - Tree sap and insect fluids; can form a water-insoluble polymer
that adheres to the paint.
