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- Bird excrement; highly acidic or alkaline, they can chemically
etch the paint. Wash off immediately.
- Leaves; contain tannic acid which can stain light finishes.
Impact damage; granite chippings thrown up from poor or recently dressed road surfaces can subject the body to severe localised impact, and result in paint chips, especially around the vulnerable frontal panels. Do not follow other cars too closely in such circumstances. For optimum paintwork pro- tection, Lotus recommends the use of a self adhesive film kit which your dealer will be pleased to supply and/or fit.
- Moisture entrapment; Long term use of a non-breathable car cover can trap moisture and/or induce condensation and promote water penetration of the paint film.
Ventilation
Water lying on the paint surface for a lengthy period will even- tually penetrate the paint film. Although the effects will not be visible immediately, a deterioration in the protective properties of the paint film will ultimately result.
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It is not recommended to store a wet car in a poorly ventilated garage. If good ventilation cannot be provided, storage outside on a hard standing or under a carport is to be preferred.
Paintwork Polishing
Eventually some loss of gloss, and an accumulation of traffic film, will occur. At this stage, after normal washing, the appli- cation of a good quality liquid polish will restore the original lustre of the paint film.
Higher gloss of the paint finish, and added protection against contamination, can be obtained by the use of a wax polish. However, this can only be used successfully on a clean surface, from which the previous application has been removed with white spirit or a liquid polish cleaner.
Washing NOTICE: Lotus recommends hand washing of the painted bodywork. The car is a speciality sports vehicle not intended to go through an automatic car wash. Automatic car washing machines and jet wash facilities may have a detrimental effect on the paint film and the soft top. Use of automatic car washes will invalidate the terms of the Limited Warranty.
Many contaminants are water soluble and can be removed before any harm occurs by thorough washing with plenty of lukewarm water, together with a proprietary car wash additive (Household detergent and washing up liquid can contain cor- rosive salts, and will remove wax and accelerate oxidation). Frequent washing is the best safeguard against both seen and invisible contaminants.
Wash in the shade, and use a cotton chenille wash mitt or a sponge rinsed frequently to minimise the retension of dirt parti- cles in the mitt or sponge. Use a straight back and forth washing motion to avoid swirled micro scratches, and rinse thoroughly. In order to minimise degradation from road salt, the underside of the chassis should be rinsed with clean water as soon as possible after driving on treated roads. Many fuel filling stations offer pressure washing facilities ideal for this purpose, but do not use on the painted bodywork or soft top roof.
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Soft Top Roof 1. Careful vacuuming of the soft top before washing may be
helpful in removing excess dust and other foreign particles.
2. Wash in partial shade rather than strong sunlight. 3. Using only clean lukewarm water and a sponge (a chamois or cloth will leave lint, and a brush may abrade the threads), wash the entire soft top uniformly. Do NOT use a detergent, which may affect the waterproofing properties of the material.
4. Rinse the whole car to prevent streaking on the paintwork. 5. Remove surface water with a sponge and allow to air dry in direct sunlight. Ensure that the roof is fully dry before stow- ing, as prolonged stowage of a wet or damp roof will promote rotting of the fabric.
Keeping the soft top clean by regular washing will enhance the life and maintain the appearance of the roof, and facilitate subsequent cleaning. The use of stronger cleansers should be left to professionals experienced in handling this type of fabric as discoloration and degradation of the material may result. The application of wax finishes, dressings or preservatives may cause stains, and should be avoided. Your dealer will be able to advise on current Lotus approved soft top care products.
Windscreen Cleaning
When washing the windscreen, take care to lift the wiper blade only a small distance from the glass in order not to dam- age the wiper arm mechanism. Wash the wiper blade with clean water.
Alloy Road Wheels
It is recommended that the aluminium alloy road wheels are washed with the same preparation as is used to wash the bodywork. Use a brush having only nylon bristles. During the winter months, particularly when salt has been used on the roads for the dispersal of snow and ice, remove all the wheels, and wash thoroughly to remove all accumulated road filth from the wheels and Tires.
Be aware that on cars fitted with optional clear anodised forged alloy wheels (with 7 twin-spokes), the anodised surface finish may be attacked by some proprietary wheel cleaning products. Wash only using hot soapy water or car bodywork shampoo. Advise tire fitting companies accordingly.
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Upholstery Cleaning Cloth Trim: Normal cleaning consists of an occasional light wipe over with a cloth dampened in a mild soap and water solution; it is important that the cloth is only dampened, not soaked. Alter- natively, a proprietary upholstery cleaner may be used.
Leather Trim: The leather should be wiped over occasionally with a cloth dampened in warm soapy water. Use a mild, non-caustic toilet soap or soap flakes. Repeat the operation using a fresh cloth and water only, but avoid flooding the leather. Finish by drying and polishing with a soft dry cloth. The manufacturers of the leather do not recommend the use of any hide 'food', and prohibit the use of petrol or detergents, furniture creams and polishes.
NOTICE: Lotus cars are upholstered with premium quality leather specifically tanned and dyed for automotive use. As a natural material, leather ages in various ways and may, over time, exhibit signs of cracking, scuffing, shrinking, etc. Such wear is not an indication of a defect, but rather the natural maturing of the leather.
Seat Belts Cleaning
The seat belts may be sponged with warm water and should be allowed to air dry naturally before use. Do not use chemical cleaners and never attempt to bleach or dye the webbing.
Footwell Cleaning
Each time the car is washed, the footwell carpet mats should
be lifted and the floor surface cleaned and dried.
NOTICE: Use only correctly retained Lotus approved carpet mats in the footwells. Floor coverings made from plastic or other non-breathable materials may trap moisture and initiate surface corrosion of the footwell floors. Any damage caused by the use of incorrect mats will not be covered by your Limited Warranty.
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OWNER MAINTENANCE
Remember that fuel consumption and wear and tear of the car are affected considerably by the way the car is driven and maintained. Be sure to carry out the simple maintenance checks detailed below, and to have your car serviced regularly by your Lotus dealer, in order to ensure maximum safety, reliability, longevity and pleasure of ownership.
NOTICE: Failure to follow and comply with the Maintenance Schedule may invalidate the terms of the warranty.
The Lotus Elise has been designed as a road going sports car. It is recognised that owners may wish to use the car occa- sionally on closed circuit tracks to experience the car’s full range of dynamic capabilities. However, use of the car in a competitive manner, including timed runs or laps, is not endorsed by Lotus. Using the car on the track may cause a greater degree of wear and tear on parts and such wear and tear on parts and compo- nents will not be covered by your Limited Warranty.
WARNING: Any type of timed, competitive car use will invalidate warranty and require appropriate levels of expert car prepa- ration and servicing.
WARNING:
• Attempts at car servicing with inadequate knowledge, tools or equipment, could result in car damage as well as endangering you, your passenger and other road users. Consult your Lotus dealer in all cases of doubt.
• Beware of hot surfaces in the engine bay. You could be
seriously burned if you touch a hot engine part.
• Take great care not to drop flammable liquids or objects
onto a hot engine and start a fire.
• Ensure that only Lotus dealers or suitably qualified tech-
nicians work on the airbag system.
• Beware of rotating engine components; to avoid injury, guard against entrapment of tools, body parts and loose clothing.
• The front mounted electric fans can start up and cause injury even when the engine is not running. Keep tools, hands and clothing well away.
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OIL FILLER CAP
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DIPSTICK
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Engine Oil Level Check
WARNING:
if swallowed.
• Engine oil is hazardous to your health and may be fatal
• Use protective gloves to avoid contact with skin as far
as possible and wash thoroughly after any contact.
The engine oil level should be checked regularly, such as every two or three fuel stops, and the oil level maintained near the top mark on the dipstick. It is especially important to keep a check on the oil level during the car’s first 1,000 miles (1,600 km), as both the fuel and oil consumption will be prone to some variance until the engine components have bedded in.
The best time to check the level is when the oil is warm, such as during a fuel stop. Ensure that the car is parked on a level surface and that a few minutes have elapsed since stopping the engine to allow oil to drain back into the sump. If the engine is stopped before reaching normal running temperature, the oil will not drain back so readily, and the dipstick will display an artificially low reading.
Dipstick: The dipstick is identifiable by its yellow loop handle, and is located at the right hand front of the engine. Withdraw the dipstick, and wipe with a paper towel. Replace the dipstick, if necessary feeding the blade into the tube with the towel, before
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pressing firmly to ensure that the handle is fully seated. With- draw the dipstick again to inspect the oil level, which should lie between the two dimples on the end of the stick. The oil level should be maintained at the upper of these two marks in order to provide optimum engine protection.
Topping Up: If topping up is necessary, unscrew the oil filler cap from the left hand end of the cam cover. Add a suitable quantity of the recommended engine oil (see ‘Recommended Lubricants’) taking care not to spill any oil onto engine or electrical compo- nents; use a funnel if necessary.
The difference between high and low dipstick marks is equiv- alent to 1.6 U.S. quarts (1.5 litre). Allow several minutes for the oil to drain through to the sump before re-checking the oil level. Do NOT overfill, or lubrication will be degraded and consump- tion increased as the oil becomes aerated. Refit the filler cap, turning clockwise until secure.
Engine Oil Change
The use of high quality oil, renewed at the specified intervals, is the key to engine longevity and sustained performance. Ad- here strictly to the engine oil and filter change intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule.
For access to the engine sump and filter, the engine bay undertray must first be removed. This is most easily achieved with the car raised on a garage hydraulic lift, or alternatively, parked over an inspection pit.
The drain plug is located at the rear of the sump, and should be removed to drain the sump immediately after a run when the oil is warm and the impurities are still held in suspension. On cars fitted with front mounted oil coolers, it is not necessary routinely to attempt to drain the cooler circuit.
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• Engine oil is hazardous to your health and may be fatal
• Take all suitable precautions to guard against scalding
WARNING:
if swallowed.
from the hot oil.
• Prolonged and repeated contact with used engine oil may cause serious skin disorders, including dermatitis and cancer.
• Use protective gloves to avoid contact with skin as far
as possible and wash thoroughly after any contact.
• Keep out of reach of children.
Allow the oil to drain completely before cleaning the drain plug, fitting a new sealing washer, and tightening securely. Refit the undertray.
Refill with the recommended lubricant (see page 153) via the oil filler on the camshaft cover, to the top mark on the dipstick, allowing several minutes for the oil to drain through to the sump before checking the level. Take care not to overfill. Refit the oil filler cap securely, and check the oil level again when the engine is fully warm (see above).
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SUMP DRAIN PLUG
ohs135
OIL FILTER
ohs129
Oil Filter
The canister type oil filter is vertically mounted at the front of the engine, and is accessible from beneath after removal of the engine bay undertray. The filter should be renewed along with the engine oil, at intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule.
• Engine oil is hazardous to your health and may be fatal
• Take all suitable precautions to guard against scalding
WARNING:
if swallowed.
from the hot oil.
• Prolonged and repeated contact with used engine oil may cause serious skin disorders, including dermatitis and cancer.
• Use protective gloves to avoid contact with skin as far
as possible and wash thoroughly after any contact.
• Keep out of reach of children.
Remove the filter by turning in a counterclockwise direction, if necessary using an oil filter wrench, and dispose of safely (see ‘Used Engine Oil’).
Ensure that only a Lotus specified filter is fitted, as parts with identical outward appearance can contain different internal features. Before fitting a new filter, clean the mating face on the engine, and smear the new seal on the filter with clean oil. Add
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oh48e
a small amount of clean engine oil into the filter, screw onto its spigot and tighten BY HAND sufficiently to make a secure seal, typically 2/3 to 3/4 of a turn after the sealing faces have made contact. Overtightening using a filter wrench may damage the canister and/or complicate subsequent removal.
Before refitting the undertray, start the engine and check for oil leaks. Re-check the security of the filter, further tightening by hand if necessary. Check the oil level (see above) when the engine is fully warm.
Used Engine Oil
NOTICE: PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT: Do not pollute drains, water courses or land with oil. Use only authorised waste collection facilities, including civic amenity sites and garages providing facilities for disposal of used oil and used oil filters. If in doubt, contact your local authority for advice on disposal.
Transmission Oil
The transmission should be checked for oil leaks, for the cor- rect oil level, and the oil renewed, at intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule. To check the oil level: - A garage lift or inspection pit must be used. - Remove the engine bay undertray. - Wipe clean the area around the socket headed level plug on
the front face of the transmission end casing.
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Transmission filler/level plug
Drain plug
f131
- Remove the plug, and check that the oil is level with the bottom of the hole. Note that the release of oil trapped by the plug, should not be confused with an indication of correct oil level. If necessary, add only the specified lubricant (see ‘Recom- mended Lubricants’) via the level plug hole until the oil level stabilises at the bottom of the plug hole.
- Refit the level plug with a new sealing washer, and tighten
securely. Refit the undertray.
To renew transmission oil:
• Engine oil is hazardous to your health and may be fatal
• Take all suitable precautions to guard against scalding
WARNING:
if swallowed.
from the hot oil.
• Prolonged and repeated contact with used engine oil may cause serious skin disorders, including dermatitis and cancer.
• Use protective gloves to avoid contact with skin as far
as possible and wash thoroughly after any contact.
• Keep out of reach of children.
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- The hexagon headed drain plug located at the bottom of the final drive casing, should be removed immediately after a run when the oil is warm, taking suitable precautions against scalding.
- Clean the plug, fit a new sealing washer and refit securely. - Refill to the level plug hole as detailed above.
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Air bleed plug
Coolant header tank cap
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Cooling System
The engine cooling system uses a header tank to ensure that the system remains completely filled, and also to accommodate expansion of the coolant with increasing engine temperature. The tank is mounted at the left hand side of the engine bay, and is fitted with a 108 kPa (15 psi) pressure cap to raise the boiling point of the coolant to over 120°C (250°F).
WARNING:
• Do NOT attempt to remove the pressure cap or air bleed plug from the header tank when the engine is warm as serious scalding could result from boiling water and/or steam.
• Coolant is hazardous to your health and may be fatal
if swallowed.
• Keep coolant out of reach of children. • Coolant is hazardous to animals and may be fatal if swallowed. Clean up spilled coolant and do not leave in open containers.
The level of coolant in the translucent header tank will rise as the engine warms up, and fall as it cools down, and under normal circumstances it should not be necessary to add any coolant to the system between services. If overfilled, the excess coolant will be ejected when the engine is warm. If underfilled, overheating may result.
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As a precaution, every week when the engine is completely COLD, and without disturbing the filler cap, check that the level of coolant in the translucent tank is between the ‘FULL’ and ‘LOW’ marks moulded on the front of the tank. If topping up is required, wait until the coolant has fully cooled before turning the cap a quarter turn counterclockwise and allowing any remaining pressure to escape. Only then may the cap be completely unscrewed.
In order to maintain protection from freezing damage and metal corrosion, use only an approved coolant mixture (see below) to top up the tank to the ‘FULL’ mark. Refit the cap, and turn clockwise until the leg on the cap locates in the slot at the front of the tank.
NOTICE: If the cap is removed when the engine is warm, the coolant may boil and a small coolant loss may occur. The com- pletely cold header tank level should be checked at the first subsequent opportunity.
Cooling Fans: Two cooling fans are fitted below the radiator in the air intake duct. The fans are energised at high coolant tem- peratures, or when the air conditioning (if fitted) is selected. The fans will also run if certain types of engine fault are detected, and may operate during a 20 minute period following ignition switch off to prevent ‘hot soak’ boiling. An electric coolant circulation pump may also be heard running during this period.
WARNING: Keep hands, tools and clothing away from the radiator cooling fan area, as personal injury could result from the fans starting up without warning.
At service intervals, the air duct and matrices of the engine cooling radiator, a.c. condenser and oil coolers, should be checked externally for clogging by insects, leaves or other debris, and if necessary, a water jet used to clear the finning. Take care not to damage or distort the delicate finning of the radiator or the cooling performance will be degraded.
Anti-Freeze/Corrosion Inhibitor
It is most important that the correct coolant specification is used in order to inhibit boiling and protect the engine and heat
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exchangers from both frost damage, and metal corrosion. The Elise is factory filled with a 50% concentration of Havoline XLC Extended Life Coolant, which contains Organic Acid Technology (OAT) based corrosion inhibitors to provide long coolant change intervals combined with freedom from environmentally damaging phosphates, silicates and nitrites.
NOTICE: No other type of coolant should be mixed with this OAT coolant.
Havoline XLC may be identified by its orange colouration, and by a label around the header tank filler neck. The 50% concen- tration provides freezing protection down to -40°F (-40°C), and is recommended to be maintained throughout the life of the car. Stronger concentrations should not be used.
In an emergency, if an OAT coolant is not available, the cooling system should be topped up using water only, but the reduction in freezing protection should be recognised, and the concentration corrected promptly. In areas where the tap water is extremely hard (exceeding 250 parts per million), distilled, de-ionised or filtered rain water should be used for the water content of the coolant mix.
The effective level of ethylene glycol (anti-freeze) in the sys- tem may be measured by your dealer using a hydrometer, but in order to ensure that the required level of corrosion protection is maintained, the coolant should be renewed every 4 years.
For coolant capacity, refer to ‘Recommended Lubricants‘
and ‘Technical Data’.
NOTICE: Using an incorrect coolant mixture may result in ex- pensive damage to your engine and/or other car parts caused by overheating, freezing or corrosion effects. This damage would not be covered by your new car warranty.
Coolant Drain/Refill Procedure
The cooling system of the Lotus Elise has been carefully optimised to allow the required cooling performance using the minimum volume of coolant. This provides for high cooling sys- tem efficiency, with quick engine warm up and interior heating. When refilling the cooling system, it is vital to ensure that the correct bleeding procedure is followed, and that no air pockets remain. This operation should be entrusted to your Lotus dealer.
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WASHER RESERVOIR CAP
WIPER BLADE FITMENT
Wiper arm
Retaining tab
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Washer Reservoir
The windscreen washer reservoir is situated at the left hand rear of the engine bay, and should be kept topped up with clean water and a suitable proprietary solvent.
NOTICE: Do NOT use radiator antifreeze in the reservoir as this could seriously damage the paintwork and/or some plastic components.
The washer jets are mounted each side of the wiper spindle, and may, if necessary, be cleared or adjusted using a suitable pin.
Wiper Blade
To replace the single wiper blade, lift the arm away from the ‘screen, swing the blade through 90°, depress the retaining tab and slide the blade down the arm to unhook and release.
When refitting, ensure that the retaining clip is re-engaged
in the wiper arm slot.
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BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR CAP
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Brake Fluid Reservoir
Under normal circumstances, there is no requirement for routine 'topping up' of the brake master cylinder reservoir. A visual safety check is all that is required.
Every week, check the level of fluid in the brake fluid reservoir located in the driver’s side of the front services compartment, beneath the access panel: Without disturbing the filler cap, check that the level lies between the 'MAX' and 'MIN' marks moulded on the translucent reservoir body. As the brake pads wear, the level will drop gradually from the 'MAX' mark towards the 'MIN', but if the level drops rapidly over a short period, have your Lotus dealer investigate without delay. If the level is found to be below the 'MIN’ mark, it is likely there has been some fluid loss, and that air will have entered the hydraulic system. The car should not be driven until the fault has been investigated and rectified. Note that a single reservoir is used to supply both of the independent hydraulic circuits for the front and rear brakes, and also serves the hydraulic clutch release circuit.
If any fluid is to be added, first clean the surrounding area to guard against dirt ingress before unscrewing the reservoir cap.
NOTICE: Spilled brake fluid can seriously damage the car’s paintwork and some plastic compoments, for example, the side marker lamps. Take suitable precautions to protect the paintwork from contamination, and in case of spillage, rinse the affected area with water immediately: DO NOT WIPE.
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Use only a non-mineral type DOT 4 brake fluid from a sealed container marked with a yellow and black (non-mineral) symbol. Do not use DOT 5 silicone fluid, or any fluid which has been exposed to the atmosphere for more than a brief period, or any fluid suspected of being wet, dirty or contaminated. Do not overfill, and replace the cap securely.
Brake fluid, being hygroscopic, absorbs water from the atmos- phere over a period of time, resulting in a lowering of the boiling point of the fluid, and corrosion of the hydraulic system. For optimum safety and brake performance, the brake fluid should be renewed every twelve months by your Lotus Dealer.
WARNING:
• Brake fluid is hazardous to health and may be fatal if
swallowed. Keep out of children’s reach.
• Using the wrong type of brake fluid can damage brake system components and result in brake failure causing a crash in which you and others could be killed or seriously injured. See ‘Recommended Lubricants’.
Brake Pads
The thickness of the brake pad lining material should be checked at every service, and under no circumstances be al- lowed to fall below 0.1 inch (2.5 mm). If the brakes are in very frequent or arduous use, as when driving in mountainous terrain, or on race circuits, it is recommended that they be examined more frequently. The pads should be renewed if of insufficient thickness to ensure safe braking until the next scheduled service.
Note that in order to ensure that brake pads with the correct material specification are used, only genuine Lotus replacement parts should be fitted, and in the interests of safety, pad renewal should be entrusted to your Lotus dealer.
WARNING: Using incorrect brake pads, or pads below 0.1 inch (2.5mm) thickness, may cause a crash in which you or others could be killed or seriously injured.
With a new car, or new brake system components, maxi- mum braking efficiency will be achieved if, for the first few hundred miles, needless heavy braking is avoided, and the brake pads and discs are allowed to ‘bed in’ fully before being used to their full potential (see also ‘Footbrake’).
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Brake Pipes & Hoses
At the recommended service intervals, the brake pipes and flexible hoses should be carefully examined for signs of dam- age, corrosion or perishing, especially in territories where salt is used on the road surface in the winter months.
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AIR CLEANER ELEMENT
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Air Cleaner Element
The air filter should be inspected at intervals dependent on the operating conditions. When the car is operated in a relatively clean environment, the element should be renewed at intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule, but where a dusty or smog laden atmosphere prevails, or other factors contribute to filter contamination, more frequent replacement will be required dependent on the level of pollution.
A disposable folded paper type air cleaner element is fitted in a housing at the left hand front of the engine bay. For access to the element, the left hand rear wheel and wheelarch liner must first be removed so this operation is best entrusted to your dealer. Before opening the air cleaner housing, the wheelarch area should be cleaned to reduce the possibility of filter or housing contamination with road dirt.
To open the filter housing, release the two spring clips at the outboard end of the housing, and hinge open sufficiently to allow the element to be removed. If necessary, remove the air intake scroll for improved access.
Clean the inside of the housing, including the joint faces, taking care not to contaminate the ‘clean’ engine side of the as- sembly. Fit the new filter element into position with the shallow side towards the engine, and taking care to ensure that the two hinges of the filter housing are properly mated, and that the filter is seated correctly, close the housing and secure with the two spring clips. Refit the wheelarch liner and rear wheel.
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Auxiliary Drive Belt
A single, multi-rib type auxiliary belt is used to transmit drive from the crankshaft to the alternator, water pump, and (if fitted) air conditioning compressor. The belt is automatically tensioned, and requires no periodic maintenance other than a visual check of its condition. If the belt exhibits any evidence of physical dam- age, cracking, fraying, perishing, abrasion or contamination, it should be renewed. In the case of contamination, the cause must be identified and rectified, and each of the pulleys must be thoroughly degreased before the new belt is fitted.
It is recommended that auxiliary belt replacement be en-
trusted to your Lotus dealer.
Sparking Plugs
The Elise uses a direct ignition system with an individual high tension coil mounted atop each of the four spark plugs and protected by a plastic cover, screw fixed to the engine.
WARNING: The voltages produced with this ignition system can cause serious and potentially fatal injury. Never touch any ignition components when the engine is running or being cranked.
The spark plugs should be renewed in accordance with the Maintenance Schedule, with the gaps set to 0.043 in. (1.1 mm). This operation should be entrusted to your Lotus dealer.
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TIRES AND WHEELS
Tires
Glossary of Terms: Recommended inflation pressure: The cold tire inflation pressure which is recommended for this car and is speci- fied in the ‘Technical Data’ section of this handbook. Cold tire inflation pressure: All tires must be cold, meaning that the car has been stationary for a minimum of 3 hours, or has been driven less than 1 mile. Adjust pressures only in ambient conditions. Maximum inflation pressure: The maximum inflation pres- sure to which the tire should be subjected. For the Elise, use only the recommended inflation pressure.
Lotus engineers have worked with tire manufacturers to produce tire specifications for the Elise which optimise performance on both road and track. To ensure that any replacement tires are to the correct Lotus specification, always refer to your Lotus dealer, who will have the latest recommendations.
WARNING: In order to achieve the optimum handling char- acteristics, the wheel and tire sizes on the Elise are different front and rear. This means that interchanging of wheels and tires between axles is not permissible. Failure to adhere to this requirement will adversely affect the handling of the car and may result in an accident in which you or others could be killed or seriously injured,
The tires should be regularly inspected for signs of cuts, abrasions or other damage, and for any uneven tread wear patterns. Uneven treadwear may indicate that the suspension geometry or dampers require attention from your dealer.
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NOTICE: • On cars used on a race track or in a competitive manner, special vigilance is required due to the severity of tire operating conditions, with careful inspections carried out between sessions.
• Take care when parking to avoid tire contact with high or sharp edged kerbs. Such mistreatment can cause internal damage to the tire structure and this may not be readily apparent. The wheel rims may also be distorted or damaged by careless parking, and result in wheel imbalance or loss of tire pressure. Similar damage may also be caused by potholes, rocks or other highway debris.
WARNING:
• Damage to wheels and tires may cause an accident in which you or others may be killed or seriously injured. If the wheels or tires have been damaged, have them replaced.
• Safety considerations should always be paramount when assessing tire condition and serviceability, and the tires replaced if any doubt exists, or if the legal tread depth limits are approached.
• Poorly maintained and improperly used tires are
dangerous.
• Overloading your tires can cause overheating as a result of too much friction. You could have a blow out and a serious accident in which you could be killed or seriously injured. See ‘Tire Placard La- bel’.
• Underinflated tires pose the same danger as over loaded tires. The resulting accident could cause serious injury, or death. Check all tires frequently and maintain at the recommended pressure. Tire pressures should be checked only when the tires are cold.
• Overinflated tires are more likely to be cut, punc- tured or broken by a sudden impact - such as hitting a pothole. Keep tires at the recommended pressure. Installing improper tires on your car can affect handling and stability. This can cause a crash in which you can be killed or seriously injured.
•
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Always use the size and type of tires recommended in this handbook.
• Using incorrect tires or tires which are excessively worn or improperly inflated can cause a crash in which you can be killed or seriously injured.
• Please note your car is not fitted with a low tire pressure tell tale lamp so it is especially important that you regularly check the tire pressures.
When driving on wet roads, surface water is squeezed out from between the tire and road. However excessive speed or water depth can overwhelm the water clearing capability of the tread and lead to a condition called 'aq- uaplaning' or ‘hydroplaning’, where the tire rides on a film of water and provides little or no grip on the road surface, leading to a loss of control. This condition is more likely to occur with worn tires having little depth of tread, or with incorrect tire pressures. Drivers should keep a vigilant check on tire wear and condition, and moderate their speed in adverse weather conditions.
Tire Care
Wear indicators are moulded into the bottom of the tread grooves at intervals around the tire, indicated by small pointers on the outer tread blocks. The tires should be replaced before being worn to this minimum legal tread depth.
The cold tire pressures should be checked every week, or every 1,000 miles (1,700 km), whichever is the sooner, and corrections made as necessary. See ‘Technical Data’ at the back of the handbook for tire pressures. For track use, tire condition and pressures should be checked be- fore each run. Under-inflation will cause excessive wear, rapid deterioration of the tire sidewalls and heavy steering, whereas over-inflation results in a hard ride and increased susceptibility to tire damage. Both conditions will cause a degradation in the handling qualities.
It is important that the tire pressures are adjusted only when the Tires are cold (when the car has been standing for a minimum of 3 hours, or driven less than 1 mile), as the pressures may increase by 0.3 - 0.5 bar (4 - 8 lb/in²) when the Tires are warmed to normal running temperature.
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Direction of rotation arrow
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Use a good quality proprietary tire pressure gauge and always replace the tire valve dust cap to prevent the ingress of dirt and moisture into the valve, which could cause leakage.
Many fuel filling stations provide tire inflation facilities, which specific usage instructions should be carefully fol- lowed. For tire pressure information, refer to ‘Technical Data’ or the Certification Label on the driver’s door jamb (see page 121).
Replacement Tires
When replacing tires, refer to the ‘Technical Data’ sec- tion in this handbook, or consult your dealer to check the current Lotus specification and recommendations. Do not use tires which differ from these specifications.
WARNING: Note that some tread patterns are directional, so that the tire must be fitted onto the wheel with regard to which side of the car the wheel is to be used. In these cases, a direction of rotation arrow is included in the tire sidewall markings.
When balancing the wheel and tire assemblies, the wheels should be located by the centre spigot hole - NOT by the wheel bolt holes. In order to maintain the correct
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handling feel and minimum steering wheel shake, it is very important that the radial and lateral run out of the Tires are to the high standard required by Lotus Cars. If any difficulty is experienced with replacement Tires, refer to the tire manufacturer.
Tire Characteristics
The Yokohama AD07 or A048 Tires fitted to the Elise are suitable for all normal weather conditions, but are optimised for dry road sports driving. The constructions of both tire types have been specially tailored for the Elise and are identified by the letters ‘LTS’ moulded on the tire sidewalls. Ensure that any replacement Tires are similarly marked. The tire characteristics include good feedback (‘feel’) from the road surface to the steering wheel, a high level of steering linearity and response, and little performance degradation with the high temperatures which may be reached in sports use.
However, tire performance will decrease at low ambi- ent temperatures, resulting in reduced levels of grip and an increased susceptibility to damage from impacts. In these conditions, especially below 15°F (-10°C), it is recommended to fit a car set of the recommended winter Tires (see below).
Winter Tires
If the car is to be used in very cold territories, or driven on snow covered roads, it is recommended to fit a car set of winter Tires developed specifically for such conditions. Lotus approves the use of Pirelli 210 (front) and 240 (rear) Snowsport winter Tires in sizes specified in ‘Technical Data’. These Tires should be fitted on regular Elise wheels.
WARNING:
• Winter Tires are optimised for use on snow covered roads. When used on roads free of snow, winter Tires will produce different handling characteristics and less grip compared with regular Tires.
• When winter Tires are fitted, a maximum speed of
118 mph (190 km/h) must be observed.
• Pirelli Snowsport Tires are NOT suitable for stud-
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ding.
Tire Chains
In extreme weather conditions, Lotus approves the fit- ment of Pewag Neon X3 - NX373 snow chains, used only in conjunction with winter Tires (see above) and fitted only on the rear wheels. Close attention should be paid to the fitting and tensioning instructions supplied with the chains, and the chains should be removed as soon as road conditions allow.
Uniform Tire Quality Grading
Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A
The following information relates to the system de- veloped by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which grades Tires by treadwear, traction and temperature performance (This applies only to cars sold in the United States).
The grades are moulded on the sidewalls of most passenger car Tires. The Uniform Tire Quality Grading system does not apply to deep tread, winter-type snow Tires, space-saver or temporary use spare Tires, Tires with nominal rim diameters of 10 to 12 inches (25 to 30 cm), or to some limited-production Tires.
While the Tires available on Lotus cars may vary with respect to these grades, they must also conform to federal safety requirements.
Treadwear
The treadwear grade is a comparative rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1.5) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of Tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices, and differences in road
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characteristics and climates.
Traction - AA, A, B, C: The traction grades, from highest to lowest are: AA, A, B, and C. They represent the tires ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under con- trolled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked ‘C’ may have poor traction performance.
WARNING: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on braking (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include acceleration, cornering, hydroplaning, or peak traction characteristics.
Temperature - A, B, C: The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire fail- ure. The grade ‘C’ corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car Tires must meet under Federal Motor Car Safety Standard No. 109. Grades ‘B’ and ‘A’ represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.
WARNING: The temperature grade for this tire is established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive load- ing, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.
These grades are moulded onto the sidewalls of pas- senger car tires. All passenger car tires must conform to Federal safety requirements in addition to these grades.
Tire Placard/Label
The tire and loading Information label stuck on the driver’s door jamb specifies the correct size and pres-
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sure of tires to be used on the Elise. It also specifies the total weight the car can carry, called the car capacity weight. This includes the weight of driver, passenger and luggage.
Also to be found on the driver’s door jamb is the Cer- tification label (‘Manufactured by Lotus Cars Ltd.’) which stipulates the Gross Car Weight Rating (GVWR). The GVWR includes the weight of the car, occupants, fuel and luggage. Never exceed the GVWR or the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) for either the front or rear axle. The maximum load which may be carried in the rear luggage compartment is 110 lb (50 kg). Note that the Elise is not designed to tow a trailer, and no such attempt should be made.
WARNING: Do not exceed the GVWR, or front or rear GAWR. Exceeding these limits may cause unstable handling or car or tire damage which could cause a crash in which you or others could be seriously injured or killed. The Elise should never be used to tow a trailer.
Federal Motor Car Safety Standards require Lotus to in- clude the following verbatim statement in this handbook:
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit: 1) Locate the statement “The combined weight of
occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX pounds” on your car’s placard.
2) Determine the combined weight of the driver and pas-
senger that will be riding in your car.
3) Subtract the combined weight of the driver and pas-
senger from XXX kilograms, or XXX pounds.
4) The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity. For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. passengers in your car, the amount of available cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 - 750 (5 x 150) = 650 lbs.)
Note: Maximum load to be carried in the Elise rear lug-
gage compartment is 110 lb (50 kg).
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5) Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded on the car. That weight may not safely exceed the available cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.
6) Your Elise should never be used to tow a trailer
In the case of the Elise:
• The combined cargo and luggage load capacity is 551
lb (250 kg).
lb (50 kg).
• The maximum load in the luggage compartment is 110
• The maximum combined weight of the driver and pas-
senger is 441 lb (200 kg).
WARNING: Exceeding any of the above loadings may cause unstable handling or car or tire damage which could cause a crash in which you or others could be seri- ously injured or killed.
Tire Markings Designation: Example; Yokohama Advan A048 195/50 R16 84W Yokohama = manufacturer. Advan A048 = tire model. 195 = nominal section width in mm. 50 = height of tire cross-section expressed as percentage of width. R = radial construction. 16 = rim diameter in inches. 84 = load capacity index, indicating the load in kg the tire can carry at the speed corresponding to the speed rating. W = speed rating indicating the speed (in this case 168 mph) at which the tire can carry the load corresponding to the load capacity index.
Tire Identification Number: On the left hand sidewall as fitted to the car. Commences with DOT (Department of Transportation) followed by a two digit manufacturing plant code, a two digit tire size code, a three digit tire construction code, and a four digit date code for the week and year of production.
‘LTS’ : Indicates Lotus specific construction.
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Uniform Tire Quality Grading Standard: Example; Tread- wear 60 Traction AA Temperature A. See page 120
Other tire markings are self explanatory.
Tire Inflator Aerosol (if fitted)
In order fully to exploit the benefits of light weight, and to maximise stowage space, the Elise has no provision for spare wheel carriage or lifting jack. A temporary puncture repair facility is provided in the form of a tire inflator aerosol which is mounted in spring clips at the extreme right hand front corner of the rear luggage compartment. If possible avoid driving on a deflated tire, or irreparable damage to the tire may be caused.
When the aerosol is connected to the tire valve, and the button pressed, a mixture of liquid latex and propellant is injected into the tire, such that the solidifying latex is forced into the puncture site at the same time as the tire is inflated, effecting a temporary repair and enabling the car to be driven at low speed to the nearest tire repair facility.
WARNING:
• Use of the aerosol does not constitute a permanent repair, but is designed to allow the car to be driven to the nearest tire repair facility. At the earliest op- portunity, the tire should be either professionally repaired or replaced dependent on the severity of the damage.
• Until the tire is repaired or replaced, the car should be driven in a moderate manner, not exceeding 30 mph (45 km/h).
• Do not use the aerosol for large holes or repairs, or when the tire sidewall has been damaged, or if the tire has been displaced from the rim.
• For safety reasons, the aerosol should at all times be carried only in the designated secure stowage position. Never carry loose in the passenger com- partment.
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TIRE INFLATOR AEROSOL
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Directions for use of the aerosol: Before using, carefully read all the instructions on the canister, or on any literature accompanying the product. The following instructions ap- ply to the use of Holts Tireweld:
1. Remove the object causing the puncture, and position the wheel with the puncture site lowermost. Deflate tire fully.
2. Shake the can vigorously. In cold conditions, warm the can using the car's heater outlets, or by body warmth. 3. Screw the aerosol tube onto the tire valve, remove the cap, hold the can upright and press the button until the tire is firmly inflated.
4. Immediately drive for 6 - 12 miles (10 - 20 km) (or to the tire repair facility if nearer) in a moderate manner and not exceeding 30 mph (45 km/h), to allow the sealant to spread. Then check and adjust the tire pressure as necessary.
5. Have the tire professionally repaired or replaced at the earliest opportunity, and until such time, limit speed to 30 mph (45 km/h) with a moderate driving manner. Note that some tire repairers may make an additional charge for cleaning the sealant off the tire before repair, and that any subsequent repairs may not be guaranteed.
6. Renew the puncture repair aerosol.
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Wheels
Ensure that only original equipment, or Lotus approved wheel and tire combinations are fitted. After the car has been used on track, or in competition conditions, the wheels should be removed and thoroughly inspected for damage.
WARNING: After striking a pothole or kerb, the wheels should be removed and the wheel and tire thoroughly inspected for damage. Renew the wheel and/or tire if necessary. Safety considerations should always be paramount and new parts fitted in any cases of doubt.
Wheel Bolts
The wheel bolts used on the Elise are of a special design to suit the small diameter fixing tunnels in the wheel centres. The bolts have a 10 spline socket head, for which a special extension tool is supplied with the car. A 17mm a/f deep socket and 1/2 inch square drive wrench should be applied to the extension tool, with a tightening torque of 77 lbf.ft (105 Nm) required.
To protect against wheel theft, one of the four bolts securing each wheel is key coded, and requires a corresponding coded socket wrench and 1/2 inch square drive extension. Rotate the coded socket until full engagement with the bolt head is ensured and take care to maintain the extension tool perpendicular to the wheel face before applying release torque.
NOTICE: It is not recommended to use hammer action air tools on the coded bolts - use only manual tools.
Both the standard extension and coded socket tools are stowed in the car tool kit, and should remain with the car at all times to ensure that servicing may be performed. The key code included in the tool kit should be recorded and kept safely with the car documents, in case a replacement socket tool needs to be ordered.
Wheel Alignment and Tire Balance
The wheels on your car were aligned and balanced carefully during the manufacture of your car to give you the longest tire life and best overall performance.
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Standard wheelbolt
Standard tool
Coded wheelbolt Coded tool
17mm socket, extension & torque wrench
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Scheduled wheel alignment and balancing are not required. However, if you notice unusual tire wear or the car pulling to one side or the other, the alignment may need to be reset. If you notice the car or steering wheel vibrating when driving on a smooth road, the wheels may need to be re-balanced.
Wheel Replacement
Replace any wheel that is bent, cracked, badly corroded or otherwise damaged. If the wheel bolts come loose after having been correctly fitted, the wheel and bolts should be replaced. If the wheel leaks air, have it replaced. See your Lotus dealer if any of these conditions should arise.
Ensure that only Lotus approved wheels and wheel bolts
are used.
WARNING:
• Using incorrect, or non-approved replacement wheels or wheel bolts could be dangerous. It could affect the brak- ing and handling of your car, or cause tire deflation, and result in a crash in which you or others could be killed or seriously injured. Always use Lotus approved wheels and wheel bolts.
• Putting a used wheel on your car is dangerous. It may have been subjected to a heavy impact and suffered structural damage which cannot be seen. It could break and cause a crash in which you and others could be killed or seriously injured.
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NOTICE: Using incorrect wheel/tire equipment can also cause problems with wheel bearing life, brake cooling, speedo and odometer calibration, headlamp aim, ground clearance and tire clearance to the body.
WARNING: Dirt or corrosion on a wheel or hub mounting flange or wheel bolts, can result in the wheel bolts coming loose. The wheel could come off and cause a crash in which you and others could be killed or seriously injured. Thoroughly clean these components or fit new Lotus approved replace- ments before fitting a wheel.
Never use oil or grease on the wheel bolts or hub threads. If you do, the bolts could come loose and the wheel could come off, causing a crash in which you and others could be killed or seriously injured.
Using incorrect wheel bolts, or the wrong tightening torque could cause the bolts to come loose and the wheel to come off, resulting in a crash in which you and others could be killed or seriously injured. Use only the correct Lotus approved wheel bolts tightened to 77 lbf.ft (105 Nm).
NOTICE: Improperly tightened wheel bolts, or dirt on the wheel to hub mounting face can cause brake pulsation and judder, and damage the brake discs. To avoid expensive brake repairs, ensure complete cleanliness on assembly and tighten the wheel bolts in a diagonal sequence to the correct torque.
For advice and information on lifting the Elise, refer to ‘Lifting
Points’ on page 148
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ELECTRICAL
BATTERY
WARNING:
POISON/DANGER - CAUSES SEVERE BURNS KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN. • Contains sulphuric acid - avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing. If in contact with skin or eyes; flush with copious amounts of water. Remove contaminated clothing. Seek immediate medical attention. If ingested; seek immediate medical attention. Do not induce vomiting or give fluids to drink.
• Batteries produce explosive gases. Keep sparks, flames and cigarettes away. Ventilate when charging or using in enclosed space. Always shield eyes when working near batteries.
RISK OF SHORT CIRCUIT AND FIRE • Observe all warning notes on the battery. • Disconnect the battery during all work on the electrical
system.
• Do not lay tools or other metal objects on the battery as they could cause a short circuit across the battery terminals.
Battery Access
The ‘maintenance free’ battery is located at the left hand front of the rear luggage compartment. No routine inspection or topping up of the electrolyte is required, but at intervals specified in the Maintenance Schedule, the battery terminals should be checked for security and condition, and protected with petroleum jelly.
For access to the terminals, first unclip the battery cover from the floor and ease the cover from around the left hand rear corner of the battery.
Disconnecting the Battery
WARNING: Failure to follow the correct battery disconnection pro-
cedure detailed below could result in serious burns.
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Battery clamp
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If the battery is to be disconnected, the following precautions
should be taken: i) Ensure that all electrical loads (e.g. lights) are switched off. If the car is fitted with security coded audio equipment, check that the code is available for entering after battery reconnec- tion.
ii) Wait for at least ten seconds after switching off the ig- nition to allow the engine management system to adjust the setting of some components ready for re-starting.
iii) Ensure the alarm is disarmed. If the battery is disconnected
when armed, the alarm will be triggered.
iv) Disconnect the negative (earth; black; ‘-’) battery cable first,
and re-connect last.
WARNING: If the battery positive terminal is inadvertently earthed (e.g. when using a spanner) whilst the negative terminal is still connected, the resultant short circuit with heavy sparking and current flow could cause serious burns.
To remove the battery, pull off the breather pipe (if applicable), release the single screw securing the clamp bracket at the base of the battery, and manoeuvre the battery from the base retaining shoe.
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