Lotus 2005 Elise Owner's Handbook Manual

Download

Page 1

intro18f

oh_croft_InD.indd 1 20/05/2004 07:58:39

Page 2

Publication Part No.A121T0324

Lotus Cars USA Inc.

2236 Northmont Parkway, Duluth, Georgia 30096.

Tel: 770 476 6540 Fax: 770 476 6541

www.LotusCars.com

For North America

OWNER’S HANDBOOK

2005 model year onwards

intro18e

oh_croft_InD.indd 2 20/05/2004 07:58:39

Page 3

CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ..............................................................

2. SAFETY INFORMATION .................................................. 7

3. REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

.................................. 10

4. CAR IDENTIFICATION

....................................................15

5. SEATING & SAFETY REST

RAINTS

Seats .................................................................

Seat Belts .................................................................

Seat Belt Precautions ................................................

Airbag Safety System .....................................................

Airbag Tell Tale ..........................................................

Airbag Deployment ....................................................

Child Restraints ..............................................................

6. KEYS & CAR SECURITY ALARM

Keys .................................................................

Car Security Alarm ..........................................................

Transmitter Fobs .......................................................

Engine Immobiliser ....................................................

Valet Mode ................................................................

Arming the Alarm .......................................................

Disarming the Alarm ..................................................

Emergency Disarming/Mobilising ..............................

Intrusion Sensing ......................................................

Manual Activation of Siren .........................................

Transmitter Fob Battery Replacement ......................

Programming Additional Transmitter Fobs ................

Disconnecting Car Battery ........................................

7. ENTRY & COMFORT

Central Door Locking ......................................................

To Unlock From Outside ............................................

To Lock From Inside ..................................................

To Unlock From Inside ..............................................

To Lock From Outside ...............................................

Lights On Buzzer ............................................................

Interior Rear View Mirror .................................................

Door Mirrors .................................................................

Interior Lamp .................................................................

Sun Visors .................................................................

Door Windows ................................................................

Manual Windows .......................................................

Electric Windows .......................................................

Contents

oh_croft_InD.indd 1 20/05/2004 07:58:39

Page 4

8. INSTRUMENTS & SWITCHES

Ignition Switch/Steering Lock ..........................................

Engine Start Button .........................................................

Warning ‘Tell Tale’ Lamps ...............................................

Bulb Check ................................................................

Turn Tell Tale .............................................................

Seat Belt Tell Tale ......................................................

Brake Tell Tale ...........................................................

Oil Pressure Tell Tale ................................................

Low Fuel Level Tell Tale ............................................

ABS Tell Tale ............................................................

High Beam Tell Tale ..................................................

Airbag Tell Tale ..........................................................

Battery Charging Tell Tale .........................................

Engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp ...........................

Security/RPM Tell Tale ..............................................

Instruments .................................................................

Speedometer .............................................................

Tachometer ...............................................................

LCD Display Panel ....................................................

Fuel Level Display ...............................................

Coolant Temperature Display ..............................

Odometer ............................................................

Trip Recorder .......................................................

Dashboard Switches .......................................................

Parking Lamp Switch ................................................

Headlamp Switch ......................................................

Lights-on Buzzer .......................................................

Hazard Warning Lamps Switch .................................

Instrument Illumination ..............................................

Auxiliary Power Socket .............................................

Column Switches & Horn ................................................

Headlamp High/Low Beam/Flasher/Turn Indicators .

Windscreen Wiper/Washer .......................................

Horn .................................................................

Audio Equipment ............................................................

9. HEATING, VENTILATION & AIR CONDITIONING

Air Conditioning ..............................................................

Air Re-circulation ............................................................

Heater Temperature ........................................................

Fan Speed .................................................................

Air Distribution ................................................................

Engine Bay Ventilation ....................................................

Contents

oh_croft_InD.indd 2 20/05/2004 07:58:39

Page 5

10. DRIVING CONTROLS

Foot Pedals .................................................................

Footwell Carpets .............................................................

Clutch Pedal .................................................................

Footbrake .................................................................

Anti-Lock Brake System .................................................

Parking Brake .................................................................

Gear Lever .................................................................

11. STARTING PROCEDURE & ENGINE BREAK-IN

Starting a Cold or Warm Engine .....................................

Idle Speed .................................................................

Engine Break-In ..............................................................

Engine Special Features .................................................

12. EXTERNAL OPERATIONS

Fuel Requirement ...........................................................

Fuel Filling .................................................................

Front Service Access Panels ..........................................

Engine Cover/Trunk Lid ..................................................

Child Entrapment ......................................................

Removable Roof Concept ...............................................

Soft Top Roof Fitting ..................................................

Soft Top Roof Removal .............................................

Hard Top Roof Fitting ................................................

Hard Top Roof Removal ............................................

13. SERVICING & MAINTENANCE

Bodycare .................................................................

ody Features ........................................................... 93

Paint Care .................................................................

Ventilation .................................................................

Paintwork Polishing ...................................................

Washing .................................................................

Soft Top Roof ............................................................

Windscreen Cleaning ................................................

Alloy Road Wheels ....................................................

Upholstery Cleaning ..................................................

Seat Belts Cleaning ...................................................

Footwell Cleaning ......................................................

Owner Maintenance ........................................................

Engine Oil Level Check .............................................

Engine Oil Change ..................................................

100

Oil Filter ...............................................................

102

Used Engine Oil ......................................................

103

Contents

oh_croft_InD.indd 3 20/05/2004 07:58:40

Page 6

Transmission Oil ..................................................... 103

Cooling System .......................................................

106

Anti-Freeze/Corrosion Inhibitor ...............................

107

Coolant Drain/Reﬁll Procedure ................................

108

Washer Reservoir ...................................................

109

Wiper Blade .............................................................

109

Brake Fluid Reservoir ...............................................110

Brake Pads ............................................................... 111

Brake Pipes and Hoses ............................................112

Air Cleaner Element .................................................113

Auxiliary Drive Belt ...................................................114

Sparking Plugs .........................................................114

14. TIRES & WHEE

Tires ................................................................115

Glossary of Terms ....................................................115

ire Safety ................................................................115

Tire Care ................................................................117

Replacement Tires ...................................................118

Tire Characteristics ..................................................119

Winter T

ires ..............................................................119

Tire Cha

ins .............................................................. 120

Uniform T

ire Quality Grading ................................... 120

Tire Placard

/Label ................................................... 121

Steps

for Determining Correct Load Limit ............... 122

Tire Ma

rkings .......................................................... 123

Tire Inﬂator Aerosol .................................................

124

Wheels ...............................................................

126

Wheel Bolts .............................................................

126

Wheel Alignment & Tire Balance .............................

126

Wheel Replacement ................................................

127

15. ELECTRICAL

Battery ............................................................... 129

Battery Access ........................................................

129

Disconnecting the Battery .......................................

129

Reconnecting the Battery ........................................

131

Battery Charging .....................................................

131

‘Jump’ Starting ........................................................

133

Electrical Accessories ...................................................

134

Inertia Switch ...............................................................

135

Fuses ...............................................................

135

Contents

oh_croft_InD.indd 4 20/05/2004 07:58:40

Page 7

Engine Compartment Fuses ................................... 137

Footwell Sited Fuses ...............................................

138

Headlamp Alignment .....................................................

139

Bulb Replacement ........................................................

142

Headlamp Bulb ........................................................

142

Front Turn Indicator Lamp Bulb ...............................

143

Side Repeater Lamp Bulb .......................................

144

Rear Lamp Cluster Bulb ..........................................

144

High Mounted Stoplamp Bulb .................................

144

Licence Plate Lamp Bulb ........................................

144

Interior Lamp Bulb ...................................................

145

Side Marker Lamp Bulb ...........................................

145

16. LIFTING & TOWING

Towing Eye ............................................................... 146

Towing a Trailer ............................................................. 147

Car Tie-Down ...............................................................

147

Lifting Your Car ............................................................. 148

Fuel Tank Undershi

eld .................................................. 149

17. A

CCESSORIES

Accessories & Modiﬁcations ......................................... 150

Storing Your Elise .........................................................

152

18. RECOMMENDED LUBRICANTS

Engine ...............................................................

153

Transmission ...............................................................

154 Br

akes & Clutch ............................................................ 154

Engine Coolant Additive ................................................

154

19. TECHNICAL DATA ....................................................... 155

20. WARRANTY INDEX ..................................................... 161

21. ALPHABETICAL INDEX .............................................. 188

Contents

oh_croft_InD.indd 5 20/05/2004 07:58:40

Page 8

INTRODUCTION

Congratulati ons on your purchase of a Lotus Elise. Welcome to the Lotus family. The Elise has been designed for the discerning driver, and aims to provide fun motoring from a lightweight, distinctively styled and efﬁcient package.

This handbook has been written for the owner/driver and should be read before using the car, and then stored in the car for ready reference, remaining with the car throughout any subsequent changes of ownership. The content includes

important safety information to protect you from injury,

explanations and instructions for operating the driving controls, owner maintenance requirements, technical speciﬁcations, and an explanation of the warranty. It is not intended to provide all the technical information required for servicing, and should any adjustment become necessary, owners are urged to contact their Lotus dealer. It is a requirement of the warranty, and the responsibility of the owner/driver, to ensure that servicing of the car is carried out at the correct intervals.

An alphabetical index is provided at the back of this book to

help you ﬁnd information about any particular feature or topic.

The information and speciﬁcations included in this publica

tion were correct at the time of approval for printing. Lotus has a policy of continuous product improvement, and reserves the right to discontinue or change speciﬁcation, design or equipment at any time without notice and without incurring any obligation whatsoever. You are urged to keep in regular contact with your Lotus dealer to ensure that you may be kept informed of any technical developments which may improve the speciﬁcation, performance or safety of your car.

This handbook covers all Elise models for the North American market, and may include descriptions of equipment and features which are not ﬁtted on your particular car.

Your Lotus is intended to be used safely, in a manner appropriate to the driving conditions and whilst obeying local laws. Any alteration or misuse of the car, or ignoring the instructions in this handbook could result in an accident causing severe or fatal injury.

Introduction

oh_croft_InD.indd 6 20/05/2004 07:58:40

Page 9

Safety Information

To help you make informed decisions about safety, important

safety information is provided in forms including:

• Safety labels on the car

• Safety messages in this handbook are shown as follows:

WARNING:

The hazard and instructions to avoid the hazard are given. If you do not take these instructions you and/or others can be KILLED OR SERIOUSLY INJURED.

Messages prefaced by

‘NOTICE’ are intended to help you avoid damage to yo ur car, othe r pro per t y or th e environment.

Important Safety Precautions

You’ll ﬁnd many safety recommendations throughout this sec

tion, and throughout this manual. The recommendations on this page are the ones we consider to be the most important.

Always Wear Your Seat Belt

A seat belt is your best protection in accidents (including colli

sions). Airbags supplement seat belts, but airbags are designed to inﬂate only in a moderate to severe frontal collision. So even though your car is equipped with airbags, make sure you and your passenger always wear your seat belts, and wear them properly. (See page 18).

Your Car is Not Recommended for Child Passengers

Since all children are safest in the back seat of a car, and your car does not have a back seat, we strongly recommend that you do not carry a child passenger. Children should be carried in the Elise only if they are large enough to be able to use the standard seat belt (see page 26). You should never carry an infant in a rear-facing child seat in this car because the Elise has a passenger airbag which cannot be switched off or disabled (see page 26).

Be Aware of Airbag Hazards

While airbags can save lives, they can cause serious or fatal injuries to occupants who sit too close to them, or are not

Safety Information

oh_croft_InD.indd 7 20/05/2004 07:58:41

Page 10

properly restrained. Children, and short adults are at the greatest risk. Be sure to follow all instructions and warnings in the handbook (See page 21 to 27).

Don’t Drink and Drive

Alcohol and driving don’t mix. Even one drink can reduce your ability to respond to changing conditions, and your reaction time gets worse with every additional drink. So don’t drink and drive, and don’t let your friends drink and drive, either.

Control Your Speed

Excessive speed is a major factor in crash injuries and deaths. Generally, the higher the speed the greater the risk, but serious accidents can also occur at lower speeds. Never drive faster than is safe for current conditions, regardless of the maximum speed posted.

Keep Your Car in Safe Condition

Having a tire blowout or a mechanical failure can be extremely hazardous. To reduce the possibility of such problems, check your tire pressures and condition frequently, and perform all regularly scheduled maintenance (see separate Maintenance Record booklet).

Safety Features

Your car is equipped with many features that work together to protect you and your passenger during a crash. The Lotus Elise has been designed to comply with applicable safety regulations.

The Elise has passive safety features which include:

• A cockpit tub surrounded by substantial chassis side frames.

• Energy absorbing front

composite ‘crash structure’.

• Energy absorbing rear steel

‘crash structure’.

• Side sill foam pads.

• A seat belt mounting frame incorporating a roof hoop

• Extruded aluminium door beams.

• A collapsible steering column.

• Airbags for both driver and passenger. Active safety features include:

• Lap and diagonal inertia reel seat belts with impact sensing pre-tensioners.

Safety Information

oh_croft_InD.indd 8 20/05/2004 07:58:41

Page 11

• Powerful anti-lock four wheel disc brakes.

• High geared responsive steering requiring only small steering wheel movements to alter course

• Exceptional road holding with optimised handling character

istics

You and your passenger cannot take full advantage of these safety features unless you remain sitting in a proper position and always wear your seat belt properly. In fact, some safety features can contribute to injuries if they are not used properly. Drivers should be aware of their own limitations as well as those of the car, and ensure that all road driving is conducted well within both sets of capabilities, particularly on wet roads, or under adverse weather conditions.

Remember: Driving a car requires:

• Care;

• Attention; and

• Sensible judgement.

Be aware that any motor car has the potential to cause death or injury both to its occupants and/or other persons, and must be used only in a responsible and cautious manner. This entire

handbook is ﬁlled with important safety information.

Please

read it carefully.

Remember:

• ALWAYS WEAR YOUR SEAT BELT.

• Never drive while under the inﬂuence of alcohol or drugs.

• Never drive when excessively tired.

• Never use mobile phones, map read or attempt other distract

ing activities whilst driving.

• Always obey all speed and trafﬁc laws and regulations and never drive faster than the posted speed limit or than condi

tions allow.

• Be particularly careful driving on slippery or wet surfaces.

• Familiarise yourself with the car and always drive prudently, being aware of your own limitations and the limitations of the car. Failure to operate the car properly can result in an ac

cident and serious injury.

Safety Information

oh_croft_InD.indd 9 20/05/2004 07:58:41

Page 12

• Follow the Maintenance Schedule and keep the car in good condition.

• Never leave young children unattended in the car.

• Read and take account of all

WARNINGS in this hand-

book.

Owners should note that the only approved extras and modi

ﬁcations are those which are speciﬁed by Lotus and carried out by Lotus or by an authorised dealer. Lotus does not accept any liability whatsoever for defects which arise from extras or modiﬁcations which are not Lotus approved.

WARNING:

Inexpert or unapproved modiﬁcations or additions to the car could adversely affect the handling of the car and the operation of its safety equipment. Ensure only modiﬁ

cations speciﬁed by Lotus are undertaken by authorised dealers. Failure to comply with this may result in a crash in which you and others may be killed or seriously injured.

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS

If you believe that your car has a fault which could cause a

crash, injury or death, you should immediately inform the Na

tional Highway Trafﬁc Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Lotus Cars USA, Inc. 2236 Northmont Parkway, Duluth, Georgia 30096. Tel: 770 476 6540.

If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an inves

tigation, and if it ﬁnds that a safety problem exists in a group of cars, it may order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot become involved in individual problems between you and your dealer, or Lotus Cars USA, Inc.

To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline toll-free at 1 (888)-327-4236 (or 366-0123 in Washington, D.C. area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Washington, D.C. 20590. You can also obtain other information about motor car safety from the Hotline.

Pre-delivery Inspection

Lotus strives at all times to provide the highest level of cus

tomer satisfaction, and to this end, quality assessments are made at several stages of the delivery process from factory to customer. If necessary, repairs and replacements will be made

Safety Information

oh_croft_InD.indd 10 20/05/2004 07:58:41

Page 13

to mechanical components or body ﬁnish either at the factory or dealer premises in order to ensure that the customer receives the car in optimum condition.

Safety Information

oh_croft_InD.indd 11 20/05/2004 07:58:41

Page 14

Engine Exhaust

California Proposition 65 Warning

WARNING:

Engine exhaust, some of its constituents, and certain car components contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

In addition, certain ﬂuids contained in cars and certain products of component wear contain or emit chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.

WARNING:

If you ever suspect exhaust gas is entering the cockpit, do not drive the car until the fault has been repaired.

In particular, running the engine in an enclosed space can let exhaust gas into the car, even more quickly if the interior fan is switched on.

NEVER park in a garage with the engine running.

WARNING:

Engine exhaust can kill. It contains the gas carbon monoxide (CO), which you can’t see or smell. It can cause unconsciousness and death.

You might have exhaust gas entering the cockpit if:

• Your exhaust system sounds strange or different.

• Your car was damaged in a collision.

• Your car was damaged when driving over high points in the road or over road debris.

• Repairs weren’t carried out correctly.

• Your car or exhaust system had been modiﬁed improperly.

Make sure your car is checked by an authorised dealer before

driving it again.

NOTICE: The Elise is ﬁtted with a ‘three way’ catalytic converter in the exhaust system in order to reduce the noxious content of the exhaust gases and comply with emission control regulations. It is essential that ONLY UNLEADED FUEL is used (see ‘Fuel Requirement’). The use of leaded fuel, or lead replacement

Safety Information

oh_croft_InD.indd 12 20/05/2004 07:58:42

Page 15

petrol (LRP), will cause irreversible contamination of the precious metal catalysts and of the exhaust gas sensor used by the computer controlled engine management system.

It is important that the Maintenance Schedule (see separate booklet) is followed at the speciﬁed time and distance intervals (this is a requirement of the warranty), and that the car is kept in proper operating condition. Failure to do so may result not only in a loss of fuel economy and emission control, but may cause damage to the catalytic converter.

WARNING:

• If the engine malfunctions in any way (e.g by a change in sound) have the fault diagnosed and repaired promptly. Continuing to drive the car with an engine misﬁre could cause the catalytic converter to overheat, with possible heat damage to other car components, and an engine bay ﬁre. Operation of the ‘Malfunction Indicator Lamp’ (MIL) is fully described later in this handbook on page 49.

• DO NOT park or drive the car in areas where combustible material, such as dry grass or leaves, could come into contact with the hot exhaust system. Under certain wind and weather conditions a grass ﬁre could be initiated.

• DO NOT tamper with any electrical components with the battery connected. You could receive an electric shock from the spark plug coils or initiate a car ﬁre.

• DO NOT check or adjust any engine bay equipment with the engine running. Failure to comply with this may result in you or your clothing becoming trapped.

• DO NOT use the car if a fuel leak is suspected, as may be indicated by a persistent smell of fuel. Have the fault diagnosed and rectiﬁed without delay. A fuel leak may result in a ﬁre or explosion.

• DO NOT touch or approach, any part of a hot exhaust system. Failure to comply with this may result in you receiving severe burns.

• DO NOT allow servicing or repairs to be carried out by unskilled persons as this may adversely affect the han

dling and safety features on your car. Lotus dealers have trained staff who are best qualiﬁed to maintain your car to the correct speciﬁcation.

Safety Information

oh_croft_InD.indd 13 20/05/2004 07:58:42

Page 16

NOTICE: DO NOT push or tow start the car; or turn off the ignition at engine speeds above idle; or run the fuel tank dry: Any of these actions may damage the catalytic converter.

Before driving the car:

• Check tires for damage, wear and proper inﬂation.

Under-inﬂation causes increased rolling resistance and uses more fuel. (Please refer to the section in this handbook on tires, page 115).

• Check all windows, mirrors and lights are clear and unob

structed and all lights are correctly working.

• Check that the engine cover and front body access panels are correctly latched;

• Adjust the seat and mirrors, and familiarise yourself with the controls.

• Check all instruments and warning lamps (‘tell tales’) are reading correctly.

• Ensure that both driver and passenger are properly restrained by their seat belts.

Care of the Environment

By virtue of its light weight, simple content, constructional

process and fuel efﬁciency, the Elise has a low environmental im

pact compared with many road cars. All drivers should, however, be aware of the effect of motor car exhaust emissions on the environment and drive in a way which minimises pollution by:

• Anticipating traffic flow to avoid needless acceleration and braking.

• Using the highest suitable gear.

• Switching off rather than idling for long periods.

• Driving off as soon as it is safe to do so; it is not necessary or beneﬁcial to the engine to allow extended idling from cold.

• Having the car serviced regularly as a poorly maintained car will use more fuel; have any engine faults attended to imme

diately.

• Considering the need to use the car for very short journeys.

The emissions produced by an engine are many times greater

when cold than when warm.

Safety Information

oh_croft_InD.indd 14 20/05/2004 07:58:42

Page 17

CAR IDENTIFICATION

The Vehicle Identiﬁcation Number (V.I.N.) is a unique 17-digit

number used to identify the car for warranty, spares order

ing and administrative purposes. For reference, the number may be viewed from outside the car at the left hand bottom corner of the windscreen. The number is also printed on a label stuck to the inside of the chassis sideframe alongside the driver’s seat. It is repeated on the certiﬁcation label on the driver’s door jamb. This label contains tire pressure information.

The chassis frame is stamped with the V.I.N. in the right hand

front wheelarch area, viewable with the front wheels turned to right full lock.

It is essential that the complete V.I.N. is quoted in any corre

spondence concerning the car, or when ordering spare parts.

VIN LABEL ON DOOR JAMB VIN LABEL ON CHASSIS

Car Identification

ohs119a

ohs149

oh_croft_InD.indd 15 20/05/2004 07:58:42

Page 18

Engine Number

The engine number is stamped on the rear end of the cylinder

block, exhaust side, and is followed by ‘2ZZ’.

ohs133ohs104

Car Identification

ENGINE NUMBER

V.I.N ON CHASSIS

oh_croft_InD.indd 16 20/05/2004 07:58:43

Page 19

SEATING & SAFETY RESTRAINTS Seats

On delivery of the car, ﬁrst remove the protective plastic seat covers, if this has not already been done, and dispose of safely.

To adjust the fore/aft position of the driver’s seat, raise the lift bar beneath the front of the seat, and slide to the position required. Ensure that the catch is fully engaged after adjustment by attempting to slide the seat without touching the lift bar. Note that the passenger seat position is ﬁxed and cannot be adjusted, and that the backrest angle of both seats is ﬁxed, and cannot be reclined.

WARNING:

• Sit as far back from the steering wheel as is comfortable, whilst ensuring that full control can be maintained. Sit

ting too close to an airbag can result in serious injury or death if the airbag inﬂates.

• Ensure that your chest is at least 10 inches (250mm) from the steering wheel.

• Do not attempt to adjust the seat position whilst driving as this could adversely affect your control of the car.

• Ensure that no persons or objects will be trapped when adjusting the seat.

Lumbar Support (if ﬁtted): On seats equipped with adjustable

lumbar support, an inﬂator ‘bulb’ (A) and air release button (B)

ohs64 a

SEAT ADJUSTMENTS

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 17 20/05/2004 07:58:43

Page 20

are located at the inboard rear of the seat. To increase lumbar support, squeeze the bulb repeatedly until sufﬁcient support is obtained. To decrease support, press the small black button at the base of the inﬂator bulb.

Seat Belts

Seat belts provide important safety and comfort for both driver and passenger and have proven to be the single most effective safety device in reducing the risk of death or injury in a crash. The seat belts should be worn at all times, no matter how short the journey. This is required by law in most states and in all Canadian provinces. As a reminder, the seat belt tell tale in the instrument cluster will ﬂash until the driver's seat belt is fastened, accompanied for the ﬁrst eight seconds by an audible chime.

Inertia Reel Seat Belts

The standard ﬁtment inertia reel seat belts allow the wearer freedom of movement under normal driving conditions. The belt reel will lock automatically whenever the car is subjected to brak

ing, acceleration, or cornering forces, or on impact in a collision. Reel locking will also occur on steep hills or slopes, or if the car is tilted. In the event of a severe frontal impact sufﬁcient to trigger the airbag system, a pre-tensioning device incorporated into each seat belt assembly will operate to tighten the belt for increased occupant protection.

ohs4 4

SEAT BELT POSITIONING

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 18 20/05/2004 07:58:43

Page 21

To use the belt, sit erect and fully back in the seat before taking the buckle tongue in the outer hand, and drawing the belt through the top slide, pass the belt across the body and push the tongue into the buckle lock at the inboard side of the seat, until a positive ‘click’ is heard. Pull on the belt to check for correct latching and ensure that the belt ﬁts snugly against the body with all the slack taken up by the reel. The belt should be worn low across the front of the pelvis, and across the chest and shoulder.

The belts are released by pressing the red button on the buckle lock, and will retract automatically for tidy storage and to permit easy access to the passenger compartment.

Seat Belt Precautions

WARNING:

• Be sure you and your passenger always wear seat belts and wear them properly. Not wearing a seat belt correctly, increases the chance of serious injury or death in a crash, even with airbags.

• On fastening the seat belt, ensure that no part of the belt is twisted, or is entangled in the door or seat mechanism.

• Seat belts are designed to bear upon the bone structure of the body and should be worn low across the front of the pelvis, and across the chest and shoulder. Wearing the lap section of the belt across the abdominal area must be avoided.

• Improperly positioning the seat belts can cause serious injury or death in a crash. Ensure the seat belts are correctly positioned before driving.

• Pregnant women should always wear seat belts to protect both themselves and the unborn child. The lap belt por

tion of the belt should be kept as low as possible across the hips. Consult your doctor regularly to check if you should drive.

• The shoulder portion of the belt must never be worn beneath the arm, or behind the back.

• Each seat belt assembly is designed for use by one occupant of adult build, and should not be used by children unable to meet the requirements set forth herein.

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 19 20/05/2004 07:58:43

Page 22

WARNING:

• Lotus strongly recommends that you do not carry children as passengers in your Elise.

• Because the Elise is ﬁtted with a non-switchable pas

senger airbag, a rear facing child seat must never be used.

• Never use one belt around two people, or allow a child to be carried on a driver’s or passenger’s lap.

• Refer to Child Restraints section of handbook.

WARNING:

• No modiﬁcations or additions should be made to the inertia reel assemblies or seat belts. Do not attempt to adjust the seat belt tension by altering the mechanism.

• The seat belt should be replaced if webbing becomes frayed, contaminated, or damaged. Inspect regularly.

• It is essential to replace the entire seat belt assembly if it has been used in a severe impact, even if damage to the assembly is not obvious. In situations where the airbags have been deployed, the belt tensioner systems must also be replaced. Seat belt anchorage points must also be rigorously checked.

• Not checking or maintaining seat belts can result in serious injury or death if the seat belts do not work properly when needed. Check the belts regularly and have any problem corrected immediately.

• No one should sit in a seat with an in-operative seat belt.

Care should be taken to avoid contamination of the webbing

with polishes, oils or chemicals and particularly battery acid. Use only a mild detergent to clean the webbing, never use bleach or dye, and allow the belt to dry fully before using the car. Ensure that the buckle mechanism is kept free of dirt contamination as disassembly for cleaning is not possible.

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 20 20/05/2004 07:58:44

Page 23

Airbag Safety System

Your car has airbags. One airbag for the driver, and

another for the passenger.

The car is also equipped with shoulder and lap belts. Airbags

are supplementary restraints to the seat belts.

In the event of a moderate to severe frontal collision, airbags provide occupant protection additional to that provided by the lap and diagonal seat belts. Both driver and passenger must wear the seat belts at all times, whether or not an air bag is provided, in order to minimise the risk of severe injury or death, no matter how short the journey. An occupant who is properly restrained by a seat belt, will be in the best position for full effectiveness of the airbag in the event of airbag deployment.

The airbag system is designed to inﬂate when the car is involved in a frontal, or near frontal collision, and the force of impact is sufﬁcient to warrant additional occupant protection.

The driver's airbag is housed in the centre of the steering wheel,

and that for the passenger in the dashboard. When triggered by an electronic crash sensor, each air bag inﬂates in a fraction of a second to provide protection for the occupant’s upper body, and then deﬂates very rapidly to minimise any obstruction to the driver.

Some parts of the system are designed to operate only once, and need replacing after air bag inﬂation with new components, before being ready for another deployment.

Remember that the seat belts, when correctly worn, provide

Seating & Safety Restraints

w53b

AIRBAG INFLATED ON IMPACT

oh_croft_InD.indd 21 20/05/2004 07:58:44

Page 24

the primary crash protection to the occupants, especially in collisions below the actuation threshold of the airbag system, and during types of accident which do not cause airbag deploy

ment. Therefore, both driver and passenger must always wear seat belts (in most states, and all Canadian provinces, the law requires the use of seat belts). See the earlier pages on ‘Seat Belts’.

WARNING:

• You can be killed or seriously injured in a crash if you aren’t wearing your seat belt - even with airbags. Wearing your seat belt during a crash helps reduce your chance of hitting things inside the car or being ejected from it. Airbags are designed to work with seat belts, but don’t replace them. Airbags are designed to deploy only in moderate to severe frontal and near frontal crashes.

They aren’t designed to inﬂate at all in rollover, rear or

low-speed frontal crashes, or in many types of side im

pacts. Both driver and passenger should wear a seat belt properly to minimise the risk of severe injury or death in the event of a crash.

• Airbags inﬂate with great force, in a fraction of a second. If you’re too close to an inﬂating airbag, as you would be if you were leaning forward, you could be killed or seriously injured. Seat belts help keep you in the correct position before and during a crash. Always wear your seat

Seating & Safety Restraints

w53b

AIRBAG DEFLATED AFTER DEPLOYMENT

oh_croft_InD.indd 22 20/05/2004 07:58:44

Page 25

belt, even with airbags. Sit as far back from the steering wheel as is comfortable, whilst ensuring that full control can be maintained.

• Airbags plus lap-shoulder seat belts offer the best protection for adults, but not for young children and infants. Neither the car’s seat belt system nor its airbag system is designed for them. Young children and infants need the protection that a child restraint system can provide. See later section on ‘Child Restraints’.

• If an object is between a person and an airbag, the bag might not inﬂate properly or it might force the object into that person causing death or serious injury. The path of an inﬂating airbag must be kept clear. Don’t put anything between an occupant and an airbag, and don’t attach or put anything on the steering wheel hub or on or near any passenger dashboard air bag covering.

• Do not lean against the inside of the doors; always hold the steering wheel by the outer rim; never rest your hands on the airbag panel.

• Never transport heavy objects on or in front of the pas

senger seat.

• Give your passenger all of the information in this sec

tion.

• Do not attempt to de-activate the airbags, or make any other changes to the wiring or components of the airbag system. Do not undertake any wiring for electrical ac

cessory equipment in the vicinity of the airbag wiring harnesses. Doing so may disable the airbag system, or cause its unintended deployment.

• Adjust the driver’s seat to ensure that your chest is at least 10 inches (250mm) from the steering wheel.

• If the airbag trim cover on the passenger side of the dash

board is accidently knocked off, the passenger airbag will not operate correctly. Improper protection could result in death or serious injury to a passenger in a crash. Do not attempt to reﬁt or repair the trim cover, but have the fault rectiﬁed immediately by your dealer.

Airbag Tell Tale

There is an airbag warning light (‘tell tale’) on the instrument panel which shows the airbag symbol. The system checks the following airbag electrical circuits for malfunction:

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 23 20/05/2004 07:58:45

Page 26

• Drivers airbag circuit;

• Passenger airbag circuit;

• Seatbelts pre-tensioner circuit;

• Internal componentry of the sensor and diagnostic module.

As a bulb and circuit check, the tell tale will light brieﬂy when the ignition is switched on, and then go out. If the lamp lights at any other time, a fault in the airbag system is indicated, which should be rectiﬁed without delay by your Lotus dealer.

WARNING:

If the airbag tell tale does not light up as the ignition is turned on, or remains lit for more than a few seconds, have the fault rectiﬁed immediately by your dealer. Ignoring the tell tale can result in serious injury or death if the airbags do not inﬂate when needed.

Airbag Deployment

If a crash or collision causes the airbags to inﬂate, you may see what looks like smoke, but is actually powder from the airbag surface used to aid smooth deployment. Although the powder is not harmful, people with respiratory problems may experience some temporary discomfort. If this occurs, get out of the car if possible as soon as it is safe to do so.

After airbag deployment, the airbags, seat belt tensioners and electronic control unit must be replaced by a Lotus dealer or other suitably qualiﬁed organisation.

Component parts of the airbag system are located in various sites around the car. Any technician working on the car should be advised that the car is ﬁtted with airbags to allow suitable precautions to be taken.

WARNING:

• For up to 20 seconds after the ignition has been turned off and the battery disconnected, an airbag can still inﬂate if improper servicing occurs. You can be injured if you are close to an airbag when it inﬂates.

• Airbag system components should be serviced only by an authorised Lotus dealer. Do not work on the airbag system yourself.

• The disposal of used airbag units is subject to stringent

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 24 20/05/2004 07:58:45

Page 27

regulations, and should be handled only by your dealer.

• If you sell your Lotus, notify the purchaser that the car is equipped with airbags, and refer them to ‘Airbag Safety System’ in this handbook (safety and disposal rules).

• Further information on the airbag system can be found on stickers on the sun visors.

• For important recommendations on the use of child restraints, please refer to ‘Child Restraints’ in this hand

book. Never use a rear facing child seat in your Elise.

• A crash can damage the restraint systems in your car. A damaged restraint system may not properly protect the person using it, resulting in serious injury or even death in a crash. To help make sure your restraint systems are working properly after a crash, have them inspected and any necessary replacements made as soon as possible.

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 25 20/05/2004 07:58:45

Page 28

Child Restraints

WARNING:

Lotus strongly recommends that children are not car

ried in the Elise due to the risk of death or serious injury if the child is too close to the dashboard when the airbag inﬂates.

Accident statistics show that children are safer when properly restrained in the back seats of cars, an option unavailable on this model. In addition, your car is equipped with a passenger’s airbag which poses serious risks to children - particularly infants and small children. If, nevertheless, a child is to be carried in the car, the following notes are provided for guidance:

When a child is of a physical size whereby the standard ﬁtment lap and diagonal seat belt will ﬁt satisfactorily, with the belt positioned over the collar bone and against the centre of the chest, the standard seat and seat belt should be used. If the belt touches or crosses the child’s neck, the child should NOT be carried in the Elise.

WARNING:

• Children should not be carried in the Elise unless they are large enough to be able properly to use the standard seat belt without any child seat or booster seat.

• Child restraint systems (other than belt positioning booster seats) are designed to be secured in the car seat by the lap belt portion of the lap/shoulder belt. READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS THAT ACCOMPANY THE CHILD RESTRAINT OR BOOSTER SEAT.

• Infan ts who are unab le to sit up by themse lves, unsupported, should NOT be carried in the Elise.

• Never put a rear-facing child seat in the passenger seat of the Elise. If the airbag inﬂates, it can hit the child or the back of the child seat with enough force to kill or very seriously injure an infant.

• There is no provision on the Elise to switch off or disable the passenger airbag.

WARNING:

Children who are not properly restrained can be killed

or seriously injured in an accident.

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 26 20/05/2004 07:58:45

Page 29

Behaviour: It is essential that the behaviour of any child travelling in the car is such that they remain correctly seated and belted, and it is the responsibility of the driver to ensure that this occurs.

The following wording has been included to comply with National Highway Trafﬁc Safety Authority requirements, however;

WARNING:

Lotus strongly recommends that you do not ﬁt any type

of child seat into the Elise due to the risk of death or seri

ous injury if the child is too close to the dashboard when the airbag inﬂates.

Procedure for Proper Fitment of Forward-Facing Child Seat

Automatic Locking Retractor: The safety belt for the passenger’s seat is equipped with an automatic locking retractor that must be used for securing a forward-facing child restraint sy

tem. When activated, this retractor allows you to securely fas

ten the child restraint system.

Activating the Automatic Retractor:

1. Pull the passenger seat safety belt completely

out. At this

point, the locking mechanism is activated.

Place the forward-facing child seat in the passenger seat,

using the safety belt to secure the child seat,

following the

instructions that come with the child seat

3. Insert the safety tongue into the buckle and make sure that it is properly latched.

4. Allow the safety belt to retract until it is tight on the child seat.

You may further tighten the belt by pulling on it to allow more of

it to retract. Check to make sure the child seat is secured, and that the belt is snug and will not pull out.

Releasing the safety belt and child seat:

1. Unbuckle the safety belt.

2. Remove the child seat.

3. Make sure that the belt has fully retracted. At this point the automatic locking feature is disengaged.

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 27 20/05/2004 07:58:46

Page 30

Seating & Safety Restraints

oh_croft_InD.indd 28 20/05/2004 07:58:46

Page 31

KEYS & CAR SECURITY ALARM

Keys

A single mechanical key operates the manual door locks

(see also ‘Doors’ and ‘Central Door Locking’), combined igni

tion switch/steering lock, and engine cover. The head of the key incorporates a push button activated key hole light to facilitate operation in the dark.

A duplicate key is supplied with the new car and, on receipt, should be separated and kept in a safe place for use in an emergency. The mechanical key code is printed on a plastic tab which should be removed from the key ring and the number recorded safely with the car documents. This number will be required when ordering a replacement, or any additional keys from your dealer. Ensure that a spare key is available at all times to guard against becoming stranded.

WARNING:

Never leave the car unattended with the key in the igni

tion switch, especially if unsupervised children and/or animals are in the car. Dangers can arise from window operation and other electric controls. If the engine is running, operation of the car’s controls could cause an accident and result in death or serious injury.

ohs149

Keys & Car Security Alarm

MECHANICAL KEY

Push button

Keyhole light

oh_croft_InD.indd 29 20/05/2004 07:58:46

Page 32

Car Security Alarm

The Lotus Elise is ﬁtted with a Cobra 8186 immobiliser/alarm

which includes the following features:

• ‘Dynamic coding’ of the transmitter fobs; Each time the trans

mitters are used, the operating frequency is random changed to guard against unauthorised code copying.

• Automatic (passive) engine immobilisation to prevent the engine from being started without the transmitter fob.

• Sensing switches on doors, front body access panels and the engine cover, meaning the alarm sounds if someone tries to force entry.

• Personal protection by ‘on demand’ activation of the siren.

• Selectable cockpit intrusion sensing using a microwave sensor.

• Self powered siren to maintain protection if the car battery is disconnected.

Transmitter Fobs

Two transmitter fobs are provided with the car to operate the immobiliser/alarm system. The two transmitters should be kept separate, and a replacement obtained immediately after any loss to ensure that a spare is always available.

Each individual alarm system has a unique serial number and an owner’s Personal Identiﬁcation Number (PIN), both of which are printed on a code card supplied with the car. In order to allow replacement transmitters to be ordered, it is essential that these numbers are recorded and kept safely with the car documents. If the code card is not available on receipt of the

oh102

Small button

Keys & Car Security Alarm

COBRA TRANSMITTER FOB & CODE NUMBERS

Push button

Fob tell tale

S/N 99999999

PIN CODE = 9999

oh_croft_InD.indd 30 20/05/2004 07:58:46

Page 33

car, enquire with the dealer immediately.

Engine Immobiliser

In order to provide a measure of car security, independent of any driver action, the system will ‘passively’ immobilise the engine’s cranking and running circuits after the ﬁrst occurring of the following: i) Four minutes after switching off the ignition; ii) Two minutes after a mobilising command (see below); or iii) One minute after switching off the ignition and opening the

driver’s door.

The immobilised state is indicated by the security tell tale in

the tachometer upper face ﬂashing continuously.

To mobilise the engine, press once, and for a full second, the larger of the two buttons on the transmitter fob. The security tell tale will be extinguished.

Valet Mode

If leaving the car for servicing or parking, the passive immobil

isation feature may be switched off by switching on the ignition and pressing the transmitter small button. Two beeps will conﬁrm

‘valet’ activation, repeated as a reminder when the ignition is

switched off. The security tell tale will remain off.

At the next arming command, the valet mode will be switched

off, and normal immobilisation resume.

ohs127a

Keys & Car Security Alarm

Tachometer Security/RPM tell tale

oh_croft_InD.indd 31 20/05/2004 07:58:47

Page 34

Arming the Alarm

Remove the ignition key, close (and lock) both doors, and check that the engine cover and front body access panels are secure. The roof may be either closed or open. Press once, and for a full second, the larger of the two buttons on the trans

mitter fob (on cars with central door locking, this action will automatically lock both doors - see later). This command will be acknowledged by:

- 2 ﬂashes of the hazard warning lamps;

- Continuous ﬂashing of the security tell tale.

Check that these indications occur. If not, press the button a second time, as the ﬁrst press may have only switched off the passive immobilisation (see above).

Note that if the system is armed when a door or engine cover/ front access panel is not fully closed or if the interior lamp is in the ‘off’ position, a continuous buzz will be heard as warning.

If still open after expiry of the arming period, (see below) the alarm will be armed with that switch group (both doors, or front/rear access lids) excluded from the circuit.

After arming the system, the engine is immediately immo

bilised, but a period of approximately 45 seconds must elapse before all functions and sensors become fully active. After this time, the alarm will be triggered by any of the following actions:

- Interruption of the car battery power supply.

- Energising the ignition circuit (‘hot wiring’).

- Opening a door;

- Opening the engine cover or a front access panel.

- Movement detected within the cabin.

When the alarm is triggered, the hazard warning lamps will ﬂash and the electronic wailing siren will sound for a period of approximately 30 seconds before closing down and resetting, ready for any further triggering input. If a trigger is continuously present, the alarm will repeat after a short delay, and continue in this sequence for about 10 cycles.

To silence the siren when triggered, press once, and for a full second, the larger button on the transmitter fob. This will not affect the status of the alarm which will remain armed.

Keys & Car Security Alarm

oh_croft_InD.indd 32 20/05/2004 07:58:47

Page 35

Disarming the Alarm

To disarm the alarm, press once, and for a full second, the larger button on the transmitter fob. This command will be acknowledged by:

- 1 ﬂash of the hazard warning lamps;

- Extinguishing of the security tell tale. If the alarm had been triggered during the last armed period,

the disarm command will be acknowledged by the hazard lamps ﬂashing 4 times, and the buzzer sounding 4 times. The security tell tale will then ﬂash a code to indicate the triggering source:

- 1 pulse ﬂashing: door, engine cover/boot lid or body front access panel.

- 2 pulse ﬂashing: movement detected in cabin by microwave sensor.

- 4 pulse ﬂashing: tampering with ignition circuit.

- 6 pulse ﬂashing: interruption of battery supply.

The coding will be deleted when the ignition is next turned

on.

Emergency disarming/mobilising

If the transmitter fobs are lost or damaged, the alarm system

owner’s unique PIN may be used to disarm the alarm and/or mobilise the engine provided that access is available to the cabin. Follow the transmitter fob programming instructions (see page 18) from step 3.

Keys & Car Security Alarm

oh_croft_InD.indd 33 20/05/2004 07:58:47

Page 36

Intrusion Sensing

A microwave sensor is mounted behind the cabin rear bulkhead trim panel, and is able to detect substantial physical movement within the cockpit, and trigger the alarm. Microwave transmissions are blocked by metal objects, so it is important not to shield the signal by placing such items on the bulkhead ledge.

If desired, the alarm may be armed without the intrusion sensor or battery interruption circuits being active by arming the system in the usual way with the transmitter larger button, and within 20 seconds, pressing the smaller button twice.

Manual Activation of Siren

To enhance personal security, with the system in a fully armed state (after 45 second arming period), the siren may be manually triggered by pressing the transmitter smaller button. The siren will sound and the turn lamps ﬂash for 15 seconds. To stop the siren, press either of the two transmitter buttons.

ohs120

Keys & Car Security Alarm

Microwave sensor

oh_croft_InD.indd 34 20/05/2004 07:58:47

Page 37

Transmitter Fob Battery Replacement

The transmitter fobs will normally operate within a range of 5 metres from the car, but this may be reduced by the presence of other radio signals in the vicinity. A small LED tell tale on the transmitter fob will ﬂash whilst the button is held down to indicate correct operation, but if the lamp ﬂashes irregularly or only once, transmitter battery replacement is required.

The transmitters are powered by a long life 3V Lithium battery, type CR2032, which with normal use should last for 3 years. To ensure continuity of operation, it is recommended to renew the batteries every 12 months:

- Using a small screwdriver, prise open the case in the areas marked ‘open’.

- Remove the old battery and wait for 10 seconds before insert

ing the new battery with +ve sign uppermost, and holding the battery only by the periphery.

- Align the locating studs, and ﬁrmly press the case together.

- The transmitter should now operate normally, but may require re-synchronisation with the control unit.

Transmitter Re-synchronisation

If at any time the transmitter does not function, and the battery

is known to be good, carry out the following re-synchronisation procedure:

- Stand close to the car and hold down both buttons on the transmitter until the LED on the fob is extinguished (approx.

10 seconds).

ohs102

Keys & Car Security Alarm

Transmitter casing

Transmitter body

Battery

oh_croft_InD.indd 35 20/05/2004 07:58:48

Page 38

- Release both buttons; the fob tell tale should come on constantly.

- Press the larger button for one second (the fob tell tale will ﬂash). Synchronisation is complete.

Programming Additional Transmitter Fobs

Two transmitter fobs are provided with the new car. If one

transmitter is lost or damaged, a replacement should be ob

tained immediately from your dealer, and programmed to the car alarm controller using a functioning transmitter fob and the system owner’s unique Personal Identiﬁcation Number (PIN). Up to 4 transmitter fobs can be matched with the alarm system, but all fobs must collectively undergo the single programming operation:

1. Press, simultaneously, both buttons on a transmitter fob until the fob tell tale stops ﬂashing (approx. 10 seconds). On release of the buttons, the fob tell tale will light.

2. Repeat operation (1) for ALL the transmitter fobs required to operate the system.

3. Turn the ignition on and off 3 times within 7 seconds; the security tell tale in the tachometer will light for 3 seconds.

4. Enter the PIN: Immediately the tell tale goes out, switch ON the ignition and count the number of security tell tale ﬂashes until equal to the ﬁrst number of the PIN, then turn the ignition OFF, then back ON again.

5. Repeat operation (4) for the remaining 3 digits of the PIN, remembering to turn the ignition OFF and back ON after each code number.

Note: If at any time a mistake is made when entering the

PIN, turn the ignition OFF for 10 seconds and re-commence entering the PIN.

6. If the PIN is correct, the security tell tale will be lit. Test op

eration of each transmitter fob.

Disconnecting the Car Battery

If the battery is to be disconnected, refer to the ‘Battery’

section later in this handbook which includes the following precaution:

- Before disconnecting the battery, ensure that the alarm system is disarmed and mobilised.

Keys & Car Security Alarm

oh_croft_InD.indd 36 20/05/2004 07:58:48

Page 39

ENTRY & COMFORT

WARNING:

• In very hot/cold territories, or under conditions of extreme solar heating, be aware of exposed metal surfaces in the cabin. Take suitable precautions to guard against burn injuries from hot or cold metal.

• Unlocked doors can be dangerous. Young children who get into unlocked cars may be unable to get out. Always lock your car whenever you leave it.

Central Door Locking (CDL)

The central door locking (CDL) operates on the driver’s and passenger’s doors in conjunction with the security alarm system. For full details of the alarm system, see page 30.

To unlock from outside:

To unlock the doors from outside, press once, for a full second, the larger button on the transmitter fob. The alarm will be dis

armed and both doors unlocked. Press the exterior lock button and pull open the door using the ﬁngergrip below the button. If the door is swung fully open, a spring detent mechanism on the hinge will aid restraint of the door for convenience whilst entering or exiting the car, but the door should be manually held in windy conditions, or if the car is parked on a slope.

From inside the car, pull the door ﬁrmly shut using the recess

provided at the top of the door trim panel.

WARNING:

Before closing a door take care to ensure that no persons

or objects will be trapped to avoid injury or damage.

To lock from inside:

If it is desired to lock the doors from inside the car, for example to deter highjack attempts, press the right hand side of the CDL rocker switch on the front of the gear lever shroud to lock both doors with or without the ignition switched on. Alternatively, the doors can be locked individually by depressing the button at the rear end of each door sill.

WARNING:

Whether locked using the rocker switch or sill buttons,

Entry & Comfort

oh_croft_InD.indd 37 20/05/2004 07:58:48

Page 40

the doors will be ‘deadlocked’ meaning that the interior door release handles will not open the doors. In order to get out of the car in an emergency when the doors are locked see the section below ‘to unlock from inside’.

To unlock from inside:

To unlock both doors from inside, press the left hand side of the rocker switch on the front of the gear lever shroud, or raise the sill button on each door. Note that in the event of a car col

lision which causes the safety inertia switch to be tripped, the doors will automatically be unlocked.

Pull the release handle at the front of the door and push open. Shut the door from outside by using ﬁrm hand pressure towards the rear of the door.

WARNING:

Before closing a door take care to ensure that no persons or objects will be trapped to avoid injury or damage.

To lock from outside:

To lock the car from outside, remove the ignition key, close

both doors and check that the engine cover and front body ac

cess panels are secure. Arm the security alarm by pressing once, for a full second, the larger of the two buttons on the transmitter fob. This action will both arm the alarm and electrically lock the driver’s and passenger’s doors.

ohs122ohs140

Entry & Comfort

Interior CDL switch

Door sill button

oh_croft_InD.indd 38 20/05/2004 07:58:49

Page 41

Notes:

• In the event of a ﬂat car battery, the CDL will not operate. The doors can be unlocked from outside only after opening the engine cover and restoring power to the battery by substitution, re-charging or ‘jumping’ to a second battery. The doors cannot be unlocked using the mechanical key if the CDL was used to lock the car.

• To lock the car with a ﬂat or disconnected car battery, or if the transmitter fob is disabled, use the mechanical key in each exterior door lock button and turn anticlockwise to the vertical position to disconnect each release button from the latch. This technique does not ‘deadlock‘ the interior release handles, but does allow continued key access to the car until restoration of battery power.

Note that a door locked with the mechanical key cannot be

unlocked using only the transmitter fob.

• To deadlock the car i.e. disable interior release handles, with a ﬂat car battery, or without the use of the transmitter fob or mechanical key, close and lock one door using the sill but

ton, and for the second door, hold the exterior release button pressed in and depress the sill button before closing the door. Access is now available only by using the transmitter fob after restoration of car electrical power.

ohs97b

ohs103

Mechanical locking Interior release handle

Entry & Comfort

Lock

Unlock

oh_croft_InD.indd 39 20/05/2004 07:58:49

Page 42

ohs149

Night Day

‘Lights On’ Buzzer

A ‘lights on’ reminder buzzer will sound if the lights are on, the

ignition is switched off, and the driver’s door is then opened.

Interior Rear View Mirror

The mirror can be dimmed to reduce headlamp glare from following cars by turning the lever on the underside of the mirror towards the left. Turn towards the right for daytime use.

Door Mirrors

Rear view mirrors are ﬁtted on both driver’s and passenger’s doors, and may be adjusted manually by direct manipulation of the mirror housing. Note that the passenger side mirror glass is convex to provide a wider ﬁeld of vision.

A spring detent mechanism allows the complete mirror to swing forwards or backwards on accidental contact to reduce possible damage.

WARNING:

The passenger side convex mirror makes objects seem smaller and farther away than when viewed through a ﬂat mirror. Take care to judge distances and speeds correctly. If you move into a lane on your right when the car behind is too close, you could cause a collision and a crash. Check your interior mirror or glance over your shoulder before changing lanes.

Entry & Comfort

MIRROR DIMMER

oh_croft_InD.indd 40 20/05/2004 07:58:49

Page 43

ohs99

Interior Lamp

The interior lamp is located centrally in the rear bulkhead trim

panel, and incorporates a three position rocking lens:

• Lens rocked upwards; lamp is switched off. NOTICE:

Use this position only temporarily as required. Arming the security alarm system with the lamp switched off may exclude the doors from activating the alarm.

• Lens central; lamp is switched on with or without ignition. NOTICE: To guard against ﬂattening the battery, take care

not to leave the lamp on when parking the car, or to switch it on accidentally when using the storage space behind the seats.

• Lens rocked downwards; a courtesy mode applies, where the

lamp is switched on whenever a door is opened, and goes out when both doors are closed. This is the normal position and should be used whenever leaving the car.

Sun Visors

To help reduce sun glare, pivoted visors are provided for both driver and passenger. Swing down the visor from the windscreen header rail as required.

Entry & Comfort

INTERIOR LAMP SWITCHING

oh_croft_InD.indd 41 20/05/2004 07:58:50

Page 44

Door Windows

In frosty or icy weather conditions, the windows may become frozen to the weatherstrip seals. Use a windscreen de-icer spray to free the glass before operating the windows.

WARNING:

• Before closing a window, always check that no persons or objects will be trapped; incautious window operation could be dangerous, especially to children. Ensure that any passenger is also made aware of this danger.

• To guard against incautious electric window operation, do not leave small children unattended in the car with the ignition key in position.

• Do not leave children or animals in a parked car with the roof and windows closed, in hot weather conditions as they may suffocate and/or experience heat exhaustion.

Manual Winders:

Each door window may be raised or lowered by the winder

handle near the front of the door.

Electric Windows:

On cars so equipped, switches for the electric window op

eration are mounted in the front of the door trim panels, and are operative only with the ignition switched on. To help locate the switches in the dark, an illuminated dot is provided in the ‘up’

Entry & Comfort

ohs124

Illuminated dot

Window up

Window down

oh_croft_InD.indd 42 20/05/2004 07:58:50

Page 45

button which glows amber when the lights are switched on.

To lower a window, switch on the ignition and press the lower, domed end of the switch in the relevant door. Release the switch to stop window movement. To raise a window, press the upper, dished end of the switch.

Entry & Comfort

oh_croft_InD.indd 43 20/05/2004 07:58:50

Page 46

oh33e

Key insert/remove

Column unlocked

Ignition auxilliaries

Position not used

INSTRUMENTS & SWITCHES

Ignition Switch/Steering Lock

The switch/lock is located on the right hand side of the steer

ing column. I Insert the key into the slot, and turn clockwise to position ‘I’

to unlock the steering column. If the key is reluctant to turn, wiggle the steering wheel to ease the load on the steering lock.

II Turn to position ‘II’ to switch on the ignition and operate aux-

iliary equipment.

III This spring loaded position is not used on the Elise. The engine

start function is controlled by a ‘Start’ button at the left hand end of the dashboard (see below).

B To remove the key, turn fully counterclockwise to ‘B’ and

withdraw. The steering column lock will be activated when the key is withdrawn but may not engage until the steering is turned and the mechanism is aligned.

NOTICE: DO NOT leave the ignition switched on for long periods without the engine running. Although the engine ignition system itself draws no current when the engine is stopped, a battery drain will occur through other circuits even when auxiliary equip

ment is not being used.

For security reasons, and to guard against battery drain,

always remove the key when leaving the car.

Instruments & Switches

oh_croft_InD.indd 44 20/05/2004 07:58:50

Page 47

WARNING:

• Do not push or tow the car unless the key is ﬁrst used

to unlock the column and is then left in the lock. With

drawing the key will cause the steering to lock.

• Never remove the key from the ignition switch or turn off

the ignition while the car is moving. Withdrawing the key will cause the steering to lock and may cause an accident resulting in serious injury or death.

• To reduce the risk of theft, or danger to a child remaining

in the car, always remove the key when leaving a parked car.

Engine Start Button

An engine start button is located at the left hand end of the dashboard, alongside the lighting switches, and is backlit when the ignition is turned on.

The button is operative only with the ignition on, and engages the engine starter motor for as long as the button is pressed. Release the button to stop engine cranking.

For the correct engine starting procedure, refer to later sec

tion ‘Starting Procedure’.

NOTICE: Pressing the start button when the engine is running may damage the starter mecha

ohs147

Engine start button

Instruments & Switches

oh_croft_InD.indd 45 20/05/2004 07:58:51

Page 48

Passive Ilisation: The start button will operate only when the security tell tale in the tachometer face is out. If the tell tale is ﬂashing, the engine is immobilised; Press once, and for a full second, the larger of the two buttons on the trans

mitter fob. The security tell tale will be extinguished. For further information see ‘Car Security Alarm’.

WARNING ‘TELL TALE’ LAMPS

A block of tell tale lamps is incorporated into the instrument cluster to provide you with important information concerning the operation of your Elise.

Bulb Check

In order to check that the warning systems are operative, all the tell tale lamps (except the ‘security’ tell tale; see Car Se

curity Alarm section) should light for about 6 seconds following ignition switch on. If any lamp should fail to light, it is possible that the bulb or warning circuit may be faulty; see your dealer without delay.

Turn Tell Tale

When the left hand or right hand turn indicators are operating, this green tell tale ﬂashes in unison. A clicking sound may also be heard. If the tell tale fails to light, or ﬂashes at an unusual or irregular rate, check the operation of the turn indicator lamps immediately.

m252a

Instruments & Switches

TELL TALE LAMPS

oh_croft_InD.indd 46 20/05/2004 07:58:51

Page 49

Seat Belt Tell Tale

The red seat belt tell tale is provided as a reminder that both driver and passenger should always wear the seat belts, no matter how short the journey. The lamp will ﬂash until the driv

er’s seat belt is fastened, accompanied for the ﬁrst 8 seconds by a buzzer.

Brake Tell Tale

This tell tale will glow red with the ignition switched on whenever the parking brake is applied. Driving the car with the brake not fully released will cause overheat damage to the rear brakes. Each time the parking brake is released, check that the tell tale is extinguished.

With the parking brake released, if the tell tale should light

at any time after the six second check period, stop the car im

mediately, as the circuit has detected a dangerously low level of brake ﬂuid in the master cylinder reservoir, possibly caused by a hydraulic leak in one of the separate front or rear brake circuits. In the event of a leak there is a danger that air may enter the hydraulic system and cause spongy operation and extended pedal travel. The divided brake circuit should ensure that emergency braking remains, but the car should not be driven until the fault has been identiﬁed and rectiﬁed.

WARNING:

If the tell tale remains lit when the parking brake has been released, the footbrake may not be working properly. Stop the car immediately it is safe to do so, and do not continue until the fault has been rectiﬁed. Continuing to drive could cause a crash and result in death or serious injury.

Oil Pressure Tell Tale

This red tell tale warns of low engine oil pressure. The lamp will be lit whenever the ignition is on and the engine is stopped, but should go out as soon as the engine is started. If the lamp fails to go out after engine start up, or comes on when the engine is running, stop the engine immediately and do not restart until the cause has been investigated and rectiﬁed.

Instruments & Switches

oh_croft_InD.indd 47 20/05/2004 07:58:52

Page 50

WARNING:

Continuing to run the engine with the oil tell tale lit could cause major engine damage or seizure, resulting in loss of car control and a crash. You or others could be killed or seriously injured.

Low Fuel Level Tell Tale

When only a single segment of the fuel gauge bar graph remains, representing approximately 1.3 U.S. gall. (5 litres), this amber tell tale will ﬂash. Refuel at the next opportunity.

ABS Tell Tale

This amber tell tale should light for about four 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 nor

mally, but without the anti-lock feature. The car can be driven but should be checked and repaired at the earliest opportunity.

High Beam Tell Tale

This lamp glows blue whenever the headlamp high beams

are operating.

Airbag Tell Tale

The airbag safety system has a self-diagnostic feature which lights the red tell tale if a fault is detected. As a bulb and circuit check, the tell tale will light for about six seconds following ig

nition switch on, and then go out. If the lamp remains lit, or comes on at any other time, a fault in the airbag system is indicated, which should be rectiﬁed without delay.

WARNING:

If the airbag tell tale is lit, the airbags may not inﬂate correctly in a crash, or may inﬂate without warning. To help avoid injury to you or others, have the airbag system repaired as soon as possible.

Battery Charging Tell Tale

This red tell tale will light whenever the ignition is on and the engine is stopped. If it lights any time that the engine is running, the battery is not being charged, which may be due to a broken auxiliary drive belt, or an electrical fault. A broken drive belt

Instruments & Switches

oh_croft_InD.indd 48 20/05/2004 07:58:52

Page 51

will also disable the engine coolant pump and result in rapid overheating; stop the engine as soon as it is safe to do so, and summon assistance. If the drive belt is intact and the cooling system unaffected, it may be possible in favourable daylight conditions, to drive a short distance to a repair facility, but do not, under any circumstances, allow the battery to become completely discharged by continuing to drive.

Engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp

The engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is provided to

warn the driver that the engine management system has de

tected a fault which may result in increased noxious emissions from the exhaust. In order to minimise emissions and potential engine damage, various operational limitations may automati

cally be applied. i) If the MIL lights continuously whilst driving, immediately reduce

speed and adopt a moderate driving style. Seek dealer advice without delay and avoid all unnecessary journeys.

ii) If the MIL ﬂashes, an engine misﬁre has been detected which

is likely to cause overheat damage to the catalytic converter. Slow down immediately and be prepared to stop.

- If the MIL then stops ﬂashing, and is lit continuously, proceed

with caution and seek dealer advice.

- If the MIL continues to ﬂash, stop the car as soon as it is safe

to do so, and switch off the engine. Seek dealer advice.

NOTICE:

Continuing to drive the car with a ﬂashing MIL may

cause overheat damage to the catalytic converter, possible en

gine damage, increased emissions, and impaired fuel economy and driveability.

In order to comply with emissions regulations, data regarding

activation of the MIL is recorded in the engine electronic control

ler, and may be downloaded by Lotus dealers.

Security/RPM Tell Tale

The security tell tale is located at the top of the tachometer

display, and indicates the status of the immobiliser and alarm.

• Tell tale out; engine is mobilised, and the alarm is off.

• Tell tale ﬂashing; engine is immobilised, or alarm is armed and engine immobilised.

For full details of the car security system, refer to the earlier

section ‘Car Security’.

Instruments & Switches

oh_croft_InD.indd 49 20/05/2004 07:58:52

Page 52

Note that the tell tale also functions as a high engine speed

(rpm) warning - see ‘Tachometer’.

NOTICE: The car is not ﬁtted with a low pressure tell tale. You should check the tire condition and pressure regularly. See section in the handbook on tires which speciﬁes tire care and pressures.

Instruments & Switches

oh_croft_InD.indd 50 20/05/2004 07:58:53

Page 53

INSTRUMENTS

Speedometer

This instrument displays road speed in MPH, with a second

ary scale in km/h.

Tachometer

The tachometer indicates engine speed in revolutions per minute. The engine management system limits the maximum continuous engine speed to 80 00 rpm once normal running temperature has been reached. Very short bursts up to 8500 rpm are allowed during maximum acceleration through the lower gears.

A 6000 rpm limit is imposed on a cold engine in order to

reduce possible damage from a harsh driving style.

NOTICE:

• The use of wide throttle openings and/or high rpm before normal running temperature has been reached will result in premature wear and should be avoided.

• Do not run the engine continuously at its maximum speed, or allow overspeeding to occur on the overrun by downshift

ing prematurely, as the high engine loads imposed could result in catastrophic failure.

A red tell tale lamp in the top of the tachometer face lights at

high rpm (dependent on gear engaged) to warn that maximum

Instruments & Switches

ohs127a

Tachometer Security/RPM tell tale Speedometer

oh_croft_InD.indd 51 20/05/2004 07:58:53

Page 54

engine speed is being approached. When exploiting full acceleration, gearchange upshifts should be made immediately the tell tale comes on.

Note that this lamp also functions as a security system tell

tale (see ‘Car Security’).

Recalibration of the speedo and tacho needle zero positions will occur during a 3 second period following ignition switch on, but if a needle becomes ‘stranded‘ outside of the re-calibration range, the following procedure should be followed: With the car stationary;

• Open driver‘s door;

• Press and hold trip reset button on steering column shroud;

• Turn on ignition.

LCD DISPLAY PANEL

A liquid crystal display (LCD) panel is provided below the instruments in order to display fuel level, coolant temperature, total mileage and trip functions. The panel is blank until the ignition is switched on.

Fuel Level Display

An indication of the level of fuel in the tank is displayed in the form of a bar graph at the right hand top of the LCD panel in the instrument cluster. When completely full (approximately

10.6 U.S. gall. {40 litres}), the display will show 6 black segments. As the fuel level falls, a white band will extend from the right to represent the empty proportion.

Instruments & Switches

m253

Trip distance

Proportion of fuel remaining

Odometer Coolant temperaure

oh_croft_InD.indd 52 20/05/2004 07:58:53

Page 55

When only a single segment remains, representing approximately 1.3 U.S. gall. (5 litres), the amber low fuel tell tale will ﬂash. Refuel at the next opportunity.

NOTICE: Do not allow the tank to run completely dry, as this may damage the catalytic converter and fuel pump. This may affect the terms of your warranty.

Coolant Temperature Display

The engine coolant temperature will be displayed at the bot

tom right hand corner of the panel as soon as the temperature reaches 162°F. The running temperature will ﬂuctuate a cer

tain amount as the operating conditions change, and during periods of idling or in heavy trafﬁc, the temperature may rise to over 212°F, with the cooling fans switching on at half speed at approximately 208°F and at full speed at approximately 217°F.

The temperature display will ﬂash at temperatures over 226°F

to prompt closer monitoring by the driver of high temperatures.

The pressurised cooling system has a boiling point of over 248°F.

If the temperature approaches this level then the driver should be concerned. If this should occur, allow the engine to idle for a few minutes whilst monitoring the temperature, and if it continues to rise, switch off and seek qualiﬁed assistance.

NOTICE: After a heavy snowfall, ensure that the radiator cooling outlet grilles in the front body are cleared of snow before driving the car, or overheating may occur.

Odometer

An odometer (total distance recorder) reading is displayed at

the bottom left hand corner of the panel.

Trip Recorder

A trip distance recorder is provided at the top left hand corner

of the panel.

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’.

Instruments & Switches

oh_croft_InD.indd 53 20/05/2004 07:58:53

Page 56

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.

Instruments & Switches

ohs147

Headlamp switch Parking lamp switch

oh_croft_InD.indd 54 20/05/2004 07:58:54

Page 57

‘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.

Instruments & Switches

ohs140

Hazard warning switch

oh_croft_InD.indd 55 20/05/2004 07:58:54

Page 58

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’.

Instruments & Switches

ohs102aINSTRUMENT ILLUMINATION BUTTON

oh_croft_InD.indd 56 20/05/2004 07:58:54

Page 59

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.

Instruments & Switches

ohs144

AUXILIARY POWER SOCKET

oh_croft_InD.indd 57 20/05/2004 07:58:54

Page 60

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 pattern 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.

Instruments & Switches

ohs32

Flash

Right turn

Left turn

High beam

Low beam

oh_croft_InD.indd 58 20/05/2004 07:58:55

Page 61

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.

Instruments & Switches

ohs33

Washer

Wiper

oh_croft_InD.indd 59 20/05/2004 07:58:55

Page 62

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.

Instruments & Switches

ohs150

HORN BUTTONS

oh_croft_InD.indd 60 20/05/2004 07:58:55

Page 63

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.

Heating, Ventilation & A.C.

p98b

INTERIOR CLIMATE CONTROLS

oh_croft_InD.indd 61 20/05/2004 07:58:56

Page 64

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.

Heating, Ventilation & A.C.

p99

Temperature Fan Speed Distribution

Air conditioning Air re-circulation

oh_croft_InD.indd 62 20/05/2004 07:58:56

Page 65

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.

p100

Heating, Ventilation & A.C.

oh_croft_InD.indd 63 20/05/2004 07:58:56

Page 66

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.

p100

Heating, Ventilation & A.C.

oh_croft_InD.indd 64 20/05/2004 07:58:56

Page 67

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.

p100a

Heating, Ventilation & A.C.

oh_croft_InD.indd 65 20/05/2004 07:58:57

Page 68

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.

Driving Controls

oh_croft_InD.indd 66 20/05/2004 07:58:57

Page 69

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

Driving Controls

oh_croft_InD.indd 67 20/05/2004 07:58:57

Page 70

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

Driving Controls

oh_croft_InD.indd 68 20/05/2004 07:58:57

Page 71

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 misinterpret 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.

Driving Controls

oh_croft_InD.indd 69 20/05/2004 07:58:57

Page 72

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.

Driving Controls

ohs138

PARKING BRAKE LEVER

oh_croft_InD.indd 70 20/05/2004 07:58:58

Page 73

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.

Driving Controls

ohs15a

GEAR CHANGE PATTERN

oh_croft_InD.indd 71 20/05/2004 07:58:58

Page 74

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.

Starting & Engine Break-In

oh_croft_InD.indd 72 20/05/2004 07:58:58

Page 75

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

Starting & Engine Break-In

oh_croft_InD.indd 73 20/05/2004 07:58:59

Page 76

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.

Starting & Engine Break-In

oh_croft_InD.indd 74 20/05/2004 07:58:59

Page 77

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 75 20/05/2004 07:58:59

Page 78

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 76 20/05/2004 07:58:59

Page 79

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).

ohs101a

FUEL FILLER FLAP & CAP

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 77 20/05/2004 07:59:00

Page 80

ohs93

REMOVING ACCESS PANEL

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 78 20/05/2004 07:59:00

Page 81

Engine Cover/Trunk Lid

The engine cover/trunk lid provides access to the engine and

rear luggage compartment.

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.

ohs92a

REAR LID RELEASE

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 79 20/05/2004 07:59:00

Page 82

ohs148

EMERGENCY RELEASE HANDLE(viewed from lid underside)

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

derside of the lid.

Parents should decide if their children should be shown how

to use this feature.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 80 20/05/2004 07:59:00

Page 83

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 81 20/05/2004 07:59:00

Page 84

b332

FITTING ROOF STAYS

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, withdraw 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.

External Operations

Arrows point forward

Rear end keyway

oh_croft_InD.indd 82 20/05/2004 07:59:01

Page 85

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.

External Operations

ohs111

FITTING SIDERAIL

Spigot pin

Spring loaded pin

oh_croft_InD.indd 83 20/05/2004 07:59:01

Page 86

ohs149

RELEASING ROOF SIDE RAIL

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 84 20/05/2004 07:59:01

Page 87

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 85 20/05/2004 07:59:01

Page 88

b330

FRONT SPIGOT BRACKET

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 86 20/05/2004 07:59:02

Page 89

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.

FITTING REAR HOOK BRACKET

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 87 20/05/2004 07:59:02

Page 90

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 88 20/05/2004 07:59:02

Page 91

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.

WINDSCREEN HEADER TRIM

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 89 20/05/2004 07:59:02

Page 92

b331

WINDSCREEN HEADER TRIM

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 90 20/05/2004 07:59:03

Page 93

3. Using the special tool supplied, slacken the Torx screw securing each front corner spigot bracket to the roof, but do not

yet remove the screws.

b330

FRONT CORNER SPIGOT BRACKET

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 91 20/05/2004 07:59:03

Page 94

ohs149

REAR HOOK BRACKET

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.

External Operations

oh_croft_InD.indd 92 20/05/2004 07:59:03

Page 95

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.

Servicing & Maintenance

oh_croft_InD.indd 93 20/05/2004 07:59:03

Page 96

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.

- 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.

Servicing & Maintenance

oh_croft_InD.indd 94 20/05/2004 07:59:03

Page 97

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.

Servicing & Maintenance

oh_croft_InD.indd 95 20/05/2004 07:59:04

Page 98

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.

Servicing & Maintenance

oh_croft_InD.indd 96 20/05/2004 07:59:04

Page 99

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.

Servicing & Maintenance

oh_croft_InD.indd 97 20/05/2004 07:59:04

Page 100

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.

Servicing & Maintenance

oh_croft_InD.indd 98 20/05/2004 07:59:04

Lotus 2005 Elise Owner's Handbook Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual